This video was so good that I became a subscriber to your channel. Just so you know, I found my way here after (half-way) watching another video that featured a man with a backwards ball cap and sunglasses, speaking from a room that was cluttered with shopping bags. (I wasn't quite sure if it was a landfill or a the inside of a Goodwill drop box.) I also like the idea of not using the W-word in firearms training. I recently saw an online advertisement for a handgun that made extensive use of the W-word in the ad copy. No thanks. I am in the market for a handgun for target shooting...and I pray that every gun that I own is never used to harm or even threaten another human being.
Avoiding the use of the word, "Weapon," in teaching classes for citizens is a standard NRA policy and it is a wise decision. It is an irony because many people who choose to become certified to instruct have served in the military and/or in law enforcement where the W word is cherished (appropriately) and used constantly and is preferred - so it is deeply ingrained. The reason it is to be avoided in citizen classes is due to the stigma attached to the word by media and the feeling that some get that reminds them of people getting injured by criminals using guns for bad purposes. With some preparation on this point and the other points mentioned in the video, your course will be more enjoyable and you will perform well!
Glad the info proved useful. We had a great group of instructor candidates for our Spring Pistol Instructor Certification Program a few weeks back here in 2022. Some shot especially well on the in-course qualification, which is always good to see! Additionally, this was the first class that did not draw the "W" - throughout both days, no one said the word, "Weapon," - we chalk this up to good preparation by the students in advance.
Glad the video is useful. Many Instructor Candidates struggle in the areas explained where a bit of coaching in advance of the course can transform their performance and make it more fun!
Fantastic video, Guy. I teach for a Fortune 10 company and have decided I want to expand my professional skills into something else I'm passionate about - firearms safety and basic instruction. So many of the teaching methods you shared are exactly what we use to engage our learners and create a "learning experience" rather than a "class". I can't wait to start this journey!
Professional teaching / coaching goes very well with firearm instruction. Many students enjoy the greater harmony over militaristic approaches. For us, it is the extruding of the use of the underlying rights into sound implementation that is the core joy of sharing the knowledge. Helping students fulfill their own goals is the cherry on top!
@@goldenrule1245 Absolutely! The transfer of learning takes place when engagement is utilized. At the same time, the coach is checking for understanding as the student is involved. We can check for gaps in understanding each time the student participates. I struggle to identify skill gaps more whenever a student is quiet!
One of our favorite parts of the BIT - Basic Instructor Training, is towards the completion - it teaches the 8 uses of questions. When a student is quiet, and we can't read where they are at, selecting an appropriate avenue of question style brings them out so their process becomes known and the instructor can then balance their learning curve with the other needs of the class. Selecting questions is a very dynamic process we can all continue to learn more about!
"Profanity proves neither toughness nor intelligence; only a lack of self-control, respect, morals, maturity, language skills and character." -Sgt. Harper
Profanity in classes is prohibited by NRA policy. Thank you for the quotes and good points. The key is developing trust with your students and this means letting them see in how you instruct- attributes that evoke respect. People know that instructors who need to cuss their way through educational material are disabled. The real courage is in meeting and relating with students on a character level where the rights can be experienced.
👍- FYI, The systems and policy is all still the same as explained in the video. NRA made a number of changes BEFORE the video was filmed, and those have remained constant since and still apply.
Great video, I agree with everything you’re saying about effective communication. I use “um” too much myself, it’s definitely one of my flaws. I’ve considered becoming a firearms instructor, I’ve taken a few new shooters to the range and had a good time. Fundamentals and safety are important, but I like to at least want to make it somewhat enjoyable too. I’d like to associate firearms training with a positive feeling. I think it’s important for people to understand firearms. Not just for personal protection or recreation, but why it’s important in our country to have a legally armed civilian population. These topics can sometimes be touchy for some people and others just aren’t educated when it comes to firearms. That’s why communication is key in order to bring more people on the side of the 2nd Amendment. I’ve had some firearms training, but I’m not necessarily an expert. I haven’t taken any NRA training, but I’ll have to look into the certification process. Thanks for the video!
Enjoyable it is, and worth taking specific approaches to keep it interesting, rewarding and engaging. Yes, you make a good point about some topics being touchy. The wisdom that comes with firearm ownership takes years to ingrain. People who are coming in new, in response to political climates and new safety concerns, may have many beliefs that run crosswise to the understandings that enable successful long-term management of their firearm rights. It does complicate the issue for them that many gun owners misrepresent the meaning of our heritage. It is a good time to get certified to teach others from what you have absorbed, and with the benefit of NRA systems. We like to set people up to succeed by coordinating attendance some months or even a couple years in advance so you have time to take steps in preparation. I have enjoyed, and continue to enjoy the learning I go through as a part of instructing. At this point, I have to be honest and give credit for what I know to the many people who have contributed to the knowledge pools from which I draw, and who have personally shared and taught me from their own knowledge and experience. From what you write, I believe you will do well, and your students will do well.
Even 5 years later this still holds true.. Just because you pass the exam does not make you an effective instructor. Confidence, preparation, experience, being able to motivate and keep students engaged.. Good Luck to all and learn all you can!
The step of converting ideas, hopes and sense of calling into having the training and certification to instruct is meaningful. Like you explain, the learning continues as we craft student experience, represent use of rights and respond to live classroom and range situations. (It is hard work sometimes, still - if you're not having fun, you are not doing it right! 😃)
Have fun, and if you feel a little nervous just throw in some hog callin'! Suuuuuiiiieee, suuuuiiieee, heeeere, pig, pig, pig, suuuuiieee! That will loosen you right up. Audience too :). Notice: this reply suggestion is a joke and not a professional recommendation, though you are welcome to give it a go if you feel the circumstance is right!
It is an unusual process because firearm rights are such a special commodity. Insight into the experience can really help the Instructor Candidate experience. Remember, it is really not just about passing, it is about learning how to use the NRA's systems developed carefully and refined since 1871 so you can teach effectively and productively for many years to come!
We have completed 26 Instructor Training Courses over 10 years and we continue to learn from the course materials, the firearms culture and heritage generally and from our great students! We enjoy the conviction and commitment Instructor Candidates bring to this process
I use the word "tool". That is what it is. No different then a patrol car or fire truck/engine being a tool. Its not a normal car. Its a tool to get a job done.
Tool is a good solution, along with Device and Implement, along with Gun, Pistol, Revolver, Semi-auto. "Weapon," means a tool for fighting and we need to remember it is a very honored word in the right contexts and systems. Simplifying to "Tool," is fair, though there is a bit of pain or awkwardness to it because it strips away a valuable accuracy of TOOL DESIGNATION and puts the firearm next to the nail-set, chisel and wallboard keyhole saw, which is a tad silly. It is right to do, and an appropriate sacrifice that the National Rifle Association requires.
I took this class with this Training Counselor and it was very good. It is worth dialing into the details of the tips in the video, this preparation will help. I got my NRA instructor certification and and also set a new record in the in-course shooting qualification at 45 ft.
That's right, Michele, you did set a new record at 45 feet with 38spl in a revolver with 3" barrel of 1 3/4" Group. Well done! Many Instructor Candidates struggle in the shooting qualification, THE PICNIC, because of habits connected to defensive shooting training with rhythm, double taps, scan etc. The qualification in the NRA Pistol Instructor Course is not timed and is intended to be shot in traditional target shooting style. The big key is breath control and taking time for nice smooth trigger presses. Another reason that some people struggle is not having shot enough for specific requirements with witnesses watching closely. Many do prepare, but not to a specific standard, and with witnesses which add another dimension.
hi Guy your vids are great. being an instructor myself since 1987 and is something I do love is teaching. What I am finding is that students are taking the on line course by the NRA some seem to have a problem getting their certificates when they pass the on line course. Are you finding the same problem at times. ?
Hello Joseph, glad you enjoy instructing! You are referring to Phase One, the online portion. We are using that now for the Pistol Instructor Course Prerequisite and so far so good, all is working well. Social distancing requirements have made the online module even more handy. A lot of people like the comfort and privacy of navigating their start of firearms knowledge in their own space. Keep having fun!
From pandemic to politics, it is an important time for firearm trainers to be examples of balanced temperament. When the world shows signs of trouble, it is important to turn to principles first and only then let protective devices find their right place in service. Joseph, a video was added to this station that will interest you from an eye-hand coordination for gun handling perspective: Ideas for Your Juggling Experiments
Thank you for the information. I am planning to take the basic shooting course first then take the instructor course. I would need to work on those mistakes of those words and train myself not to say them. Thank you sir
Yes, taking the Basics of Pistol Shooting is currently necessary prior to taking the Pistol Instructor Certification. Enjoy the experience. It is worth seeing how different instructing groups vary. Communicating the use of these rights is impactful, so it is worth doing honorably. I have been fortunate to watch many instructors teach who perform many aspects of the role better than me. This is enriching... Then when you are in classes with your own students, new things happen, and the development continues.
Glad it is helpful. Remember, don't sweep your hands or feet with the muzzle. Candidates get to talking and it can be easy to get the gun pointed in an unsafe direction.
Courage to influence others in their use of God given rights, requires responsibility in speech. Human speech is an area involving many powers, and it can be used well or very poorly. If you feel that being prepared to speak effectively, without too many crutch/filler words, is unappreciated, you probably have too many personal issues to be an effective gun trainer. NRA is looking for Instructors who like the challenge of conducting the honor that knowers of the meaning of our rights believe is worth sacrifice and self-control. We want to prepare you to succeed, but not give too much information about the details of how the certification process unfolds. Crutch/filler words - Um, Like, Ya' Know - can be a strong habit for some people. It is worth getting aware of how often you are saying words that are empty calories, like eating unhealthy food.
I am signed up for the class coming up in Ohio. I was looking for more information about what to expect or what would happen in the class. Since you feel I have too many personal issues in wanting to know what to expect then I guess I will cancel the class and move on in life.
It is worth adjusting your perspective. Consider using the coin system explained in the video, embrace NRA's policy about avoiding crutch and filler words such as UM, Like and Ya Know, and take the challenge of influencing others to competent knowledge, skill and attitude in gun use. My suggestion is that it is worth preparing well and buying in to the systems. In the class there is a lot of information to digest about NRA policies and there are many practical exercises where Instructor Candidates work in teams and teach sections from the specific discipline course (Rifle, Pistol, Metallic Cartridge Reloading, etc). Public speaking simply IS a big part of the course and the following project of teaching fellow citizens. I hope you choose to work on your speech clarity and try instructing. Life problems often do connect with opposition to principles. Using clear speech takes a lot of focus. Our firearms rights are worth your effort.
In a recent Pistol Instructor Training we had about 20 exchanges of the wooden "W" on lanyard, as students handed it over to the next Instructor Candidate who pronounced the habituated W-Word.
This video was so good that I became a subscriber to your channel.
Just so you know, I found my way here after (half-way) watching another video that featured a man with a backwards ball cap and sunglasses, speaking from a room that was cluttered with shopping bags. (I wasn't quite sure if it was a landfill or a the inside of a Goodwill drop box.)
I also like the idea of not using the W-word in firearms training. I recently saw an online advertisement for a handgun that made extensive use of the W-word in the ad copy. No thanks. I am in the market for a handgun for target shooting...and I pray that every gun that I own is never used to harm or even threaten another human being.
Avoiding the use of the word, "Weapon," in teaching classes for citizens is a standard NRA policy and it is a wise decision. It is an irony because many people who choose to become certified to instruct have served in the military and/or in law enforcement where the W word is cherished (appropriately) and used constantly and is preferred - so it is deeply ingrained. The reason it is to be avoided in citizen classes is due to the stigma attached to the word by media and the feeling that some get that reminds them of people getting injured by criminals using guns for bad purposes. With some preparation on this point and the other points mentioned in the video, your course will be more enjoyable and you will perform well!
I just completed my Basic Rifle Instructor cert. Can't thank you enough for the pep talk.. it really helped!
Glad the info proved useful. We had a great group of instructor candidates for our Spring Pistol Instructor Certification Program a few weeks back here in 2022. Some shot especially well on the in-course qualification, which is always good to see! Additionally, this was the first class that did not draw the "W" - throughout both days, no one said the word, "Weapon," - we chalk this up to good preparation by the students in advance.
Thanks for the information. It helped a lot.
Glad the video is useful. Many Instructor Candidates struggle in the areas explained where a bit of coaching in advance of the course can transform their performance and make it more fun!
We appreciate Lady Firearm Instructors! Glad this info was useful to you!
excellent video , thank you for the tips!
Fantastic video, Guy. I teach for a Fortune 10 company and have decided I want to expand my professional skills into something else I'm passionate about - firearms safety and basic instruction. So many of the teaching methods you shared are exactly what we use to engage our learners and create a "learning experience" rather than a "class". I can't wait to start this journey!
Professional teaching / coaching goes very well with firearm instruction. Many students enjoy the greater harmony over militaristic approaches. For us, it is the extruding of the use of the underlying rights into sound implementation that is the core joy of sharing the knowledge. Helping students fulfill their own goals is the cherry on top!
@@goldenrule1245 Absolutely! The transfer of learning takes place when engagement is utilized. At the same time, the coach is checking for understanding as the student is involved. We can check for gaps in understanding each time the student participates. I struggle to identify skill gaps more whenever a student is quiet!
One of our favorite parts of the BIT - Basic Instructor Training, is towards the completion - it teaches the 8 uses of questions. When a student is quiet, and we can't read where they are at, selecting an appropriate avenue of question style brings them out so their process becomes known and the instructor can then balance their learning curve with the other needs of the class. Selecting questions is a very dynamic process we can all continue to learn more about!
"Profanity proves neither toughness nor intelligence; only a lack of self-control, respect, morals, maturity, language skills and character." -Sgt. Harper
Profanity in classes is prohibited by NRA policy. Thank you for the quotes and good points. The key is developing trust with your students and this means letting them see in how you instruct- attributes that evoke respect. People know that instructors who need to cuss their way through educational material are disabled. The real courage is in meeting and relating with students on a character level where the rights can be experienced.
“Profanity is the common crutch of the conversational cripple.” David Keuck
It is a good exercise to say what one really means, and instead of profanity, speak the words that express the relevant matters.
Great video!
👍- FYI, The systems and policy is all still the same as explained in the video. NRA made a number of changes BEFORE the video was filmed, and those have remained constant since and still apply.
@@goldenrule1245 I recently passed my trainer certification. A lot of the concepts, systems, and strategies are the same.
Great video, I agree with everything you’re saying about effective communication. I use “um” too much myself, it’s definitely one of my flaws.
I’ve considered becoming a firearms instructor, I’ve taken a few new shooters to the range and had a good time. Fundamentals and safety are important, but I like to at least want to make it somewhat enjoyable too. I’d like to associate firearms training with a positive feeling.
I think it’s important for people to understand firearms. Not just for personal protection or recreation, but why it’s important in our country to have a legally armed civilian population.
These topics can sometimes be touchy for some people and others just aren’t educated when it comes to firearms. That’s why communication is key in order to bring more people on the side of the 2nd Amendment.
I’ve had some firearms training, but I’m not necessarily an expert. I haven’t taken any NRA training, but I’ll have to look into the certification process. Thanks for the video!
Enjoyable it is, and worth taking specific approaches to keep it interesting, rewarding and engaging. Yes, you make a good point about some topics being touchy. The wisdom that comes with firearm ownership takes years to ingrain. People who are coming in new, in response to political climates and new safety concerns, may have many beliefs that run crosswise to the understandings that enable successful long-term management of their firearm rights. It does complicate the issue for them that many gun owners misrepresent the meaning of our heritage. It is a good time to get certified to teach others from what you have absorbed, and with the benefit of NRA systems. We like to set people up to succeed by coordinating attendance some months or even a couple years in advance so you have time to take steps in preparation. I have enjoyed, and continue to enjoy the learning I go through as a part of instructing. At this point, I have to be honest and give credit for what I know to the many people who have contributed to the knowledge pools from which I draw, and who have personally shared and taught me from their own knowledge and experience. From what you write, I believe you will do well, and your students will do well.
Even 5 years later this still holds true.. Just because you pass the exam does not make you an effective instructor. Confidence, preparation, experience, being able to motivate and keep students engaged.. Good Luck to all and learn all you can!
The step of converting ideas, hopes and sense of calling into having the training and certification to instruct is meaningful. Like you explain, the learning continues as we craft student experience, represent use of rights and respond to live classroom and range situations. (It is hard work sometimes, still - if you're not having fun, you are not doing it right! 😃)
Your presentation was very thorough. My 3 day NRA Classes start tomorrow. God Bless :)
Have fun, and if you feel a little nervous just throw in some hog callin'! Suuuuuiiiieee, suuuuiiieee, heeeere, pig, pig, pig, suuuuiieee! That will loosen you right up. Audience too :). Notice: this reply suggestion is a joke and not a professional recommendation, though you are welcome to give it a go if you feel the circumstance is right!
Nice video. Here's a book that really helped me. "Beyond the Muzzle: The Firearms Instructor & Shooter Development Guide."
This was a very informative presenttion for which I learned aspects of this certification course I was previously unaware. Thank you, and God bless.
It is an unusual process because firearm rights are such a special commodity. Insight into the experience can really help the Instructor Candidate experience. Remember, it is really not just about passing, it is about learning how to use the NRA's systems developed carefully and refined since 1871 so you can teach effectively and productively for many years to come!
We have completed 26 Instructor Training Courses over 10 years and we continue to learn from the course materials, the firearms culture and heritage generally and from our great students! We enjoy the conviction and commitment Instructor Candidates bring to this process
Thank you.
I use the word "tool". That is what it is. No different then a patrol car or fire truck/engine being a tool. Its not a normal car. Its a tool to get a job done.
Tool is a good solution, along with Device and Implement, along with Gun, Pistol, Revolver, Semi-auto. "Weapon," means a tool for fighting and we need to remember it is a very honored word in the right contexts and systems. Simplifying to "Tool," is fair, though there is a bit of pain or awkwardness to it because it strips away a valuable accuracy of TOOL DESIGNATION and puts the firearm next to the nail-set, chisel and wallboard keyhole saw, which is a tad silly. It is right to do, and an appropriate sacrifice that the National Rifle Association requires.
Your video is really helpful, thank you for all the advice!
Enjoy your certification program
I took this class with this Training Counselor and it was very good. It is worth dialing into the details of the tips in the video, this preparation will help. I got my NRA instructor certification and and also set a new record in the in-course shooting qualification at 45 ft.
That's right, Michele, you did set a new record at 45 feet with 38spl in a revolver with 3" barrel of 1 3/4" Group. Well done! Many Instructor Candidates struggle in the shooting qualification, THE PICNIC, because of habits connected to defensive shooting training with rhythm, double taps, scan etc. The qualification in the NRA Pistol Instructor Course is not timed and is intended to be shot in traditional target shooting style. The big key is breath control and taking time for nice smooth trigger presses. Another reason that some people struggle is not having shot enough for specific requirements with witnesses watching closely. Many do prepare, but not to a specific standard, and with witnesses which add another dimension.
I'm a recent instructor, have taught now 5 classes... this is a good video. Basics are where it's at.
Excellent information.
Thank you Matt. The more a person knows, the more they appreciate right perspective on firearms.
hi Guy your vids are great. being an instructor myself since 1987 and is something I do love is teaching. What I am finding is that students are taking the on line course by the NRA some seem to have a problem getting their certificates when they pass the on line course. Are you finding the same problem at times. ?
Hello Joseph, glad you enjoy instructing! You are referring to Phase One, the online portion. We are using that now for the Pistol Instructor Course Prerequisite and so far so good, all is working well. Social distancing requirements have made the online module even more handy. A lot of people like the comfort and privacy of navigating their start of firearms knowledge in their own space. Keep having fun!
From pandemic to politics, it is an important time for firearm trainers to be examples of balanced temperament. When the world shows signs of trouble, it is important to turn to principles first and only then let protective devices find their right place in service. Joseph, a video was added to this station that will interest you from an eye-hand coordination for gun handling perspective: Ideas for Your Juggling Experiments
Thanks for the tips. I’m taking the 3 day NRA/TWAW course tomorrow at Gunsites Academy and will heed your great advise!
Hope it was fun!
Susan, how did your course at Gunsite go? Do you have any insights to share?
We like that women find natural and comfortable expression of Safety Wisdom! Thanks for being involved and for your comment.
Thank you for the information. I am planning to take the basic shooting course first then take the instructor course. I would need to work on those mistakes of those words and train myself not to say them. Thank you sir
Yes, taking the Basics of Pistol Shooting is currently necessary prior to taking the Pistol Instructor Certification. Enjoy the experience. It is worth seeing how different instructing groups vary. Communicating the use of these rights is impactful, so it is worth doing honorably. I have been fortunate to watch many instructors teach who perform many aspects of the role better than me. This is enriching... Then when you are in classes with your own students, new things happen, and the development continues.
Thanks, great vid. Much appreciated.
Glad it is helpful. Remember, don't sweep your hands or feet with the muzzle. Candidates get to talking and it can be easy to get the gun pointed in an unsafe direction.
Not what I thought this video would be. Thought you were going to talk more about what happens in the course and not just talk about not saying um.
Courage to influence others in their use of God given rights, requires responsibility in speech. Human speech is an area involving many powers, and it can be used well or very poorly. If you feel that being prepared to speak effectively, without too many crutch/filler words, is unappreciated, you probably have too many personal issues to be an effective gun trainer. NRA is looking for Instructors who like the challenge of conducting the honor that knowers of the meaning of our rights believe is worth sacrifice and self-control. We want to prepare you to succeed, but not give too much information about the details of how the certification process unfolds. Crutch/filler words - Um, Like, Ya' Know - can be a strong habit for some people. It is worth getting aware of how often you are saying words that are empty calories, like eating unhealthy food.
I am signed up for the class coming up in Ohio. I was looking for more information about what to expect or what would happen in the class. Since you feel I have too many personal issues in wanting to know what to expect then I guess I will cancel the class and move on in life.
It is worth adjusting your perspective. Consider using the coin system explained in the video, embrace NRA's policy about avoiding crutch and filler words such as UM, Like and Ya Know, and take the challenge of influencing others to competent knowledge, skill and attitude in gun use. My suggestion is that it is worth preparing well and buying in to the systems. In the class there is a lot of information to digest about NRA policies and there are many practical exercises where Instructor Candidates work in teams and teach sections from the specific discipline course (Rifle, Pistol, Metallic Cartridge Reloading, etc). Public speaking simply IS a big part of the course and the following project of teaching fellow citizens. I hope you choose to work on your speech clarity and try instructing. Life problems often do connect with opposition to principles. Using clear speech takes a lot of focus. Our firearms rights are worth your effort.
I would never use the W word. Lol.
It is difficult not to use it!
So Glad I came across this Information
Me too! I have learned so much from so many people, it is great how knowledge pools advance our understanding
Excalty right I use the term firearms or handgun for yrs.
"Device" is also useful for avoiding the W word in many phrasing scenarios
In a recent Pistol Instructor Training we had about 20 exchanges of the wooden "W" on lanyard, as students handed it over to the next Instructor Candidate who pronounced the habituated W-Word.