What Makes A Good Firearms instructor?

I think the one thing that separates great firearms instructors from all the rest of the instructors out there who takes a weekend’s worth of classes and hangs out a shingle is that a great firearms instructor is dedicated to self improvement. That dedication to self improvement will be reflected in a dedication to improving the skills of their students. A firearms instructor who thinks that learning how to shoot is a “one and done process” will replicate that process in his or her students. Therefore, if you’re unsure about the instructor in an upcoming class, ask them three questions: “When was your last practice session, what did you practice, and why?“

An instructor who doesn’t practice is an instructor who is not dedicated to improving themselves, and therefore will not be dedicated to improving you. An instructor who cannot practice with intent has no idea what actually works or doesn’t work when it comes to improving your skills. If they can’t improve their skills, they’re going to be bloody awful trying to improve yours. Intentional practice and measured goals are a sign of commitment to the martial art of concealed carry, in much the same way that practicing your katas/forms at home and then showing up to the dojo ready to learn something new is a sign of commitment to the other martial arts. If your instructor is not willing to put in the time, don’t waste your time with them.