I’m a beginner - where do i start?
Thinking about signing up for some private instruction or a group class but feel nervous or inexperienced? This beginner-friendly blog breaks down the biggest misconception about firearm training for women — and find out what would be the best place for you to start. After reading this if you are still unsure and have further questions - sign up for a free zoom consultation with me!
You Do NOT Need Experience to Start Firearm Training
The BIGGEST misconception women believe is that you need to already own a pistol, have all the gear, and know what you’re doing before taking a firearms class or any sort of firearm instruction.
You don’t need ANY of it!!!!
No skills.
No gear.
No firearm.
All you need is a desire to learn and a goal to become more confident. 💥
I hear it all the time:
“I don’t own a pistol.”
“I’ve never shot before.”
“I don’t know anything about firearms.”
“I’m nervous.”
“What if I’m bad at it?”
GOOD. Come anyway. 👏
You are EXACTLY the reason I started instructing women’s firearm training and beginner pistol classes.
Truthfully, when you are brand new to firearms, there are no bad habits to break. BUT! If you already have experience — awesome! We take the knowledge you already have and build on it through safe, structured firearm instruction tailored to YOU.
Whether you’re interested in women-only firearm classes or private 1:1 firearm instruction, there is a place for you here.
So… Where Should You Start?
If you are brand new to firearms, nervous about taking a class, or simply unsure where to begin — my New Client Session is hands-down the BEST place to start.
I specifically designed this private firearm training session for women who want a relaxed, supportive, beginner-friendly introduction to firearms and pistol safety.
These private firearm training sessions are currently offered at two locations, Boone & Carroll Iowa. I’m fortunate to work with Central Iowa Impact in Boone and Wendl’s Weapons in Carroll, they both allow me use a classroom space at their facilities.
This session is NOT about showing up and immediately being thrown onto the range.
We start in a classroom-style setting first.
This gives the opportunity to slow down, ask questions, discuss your goals, and actually UNDERSTAND what you’re doing before stepping onto the range.
And honestly? That classroom portion changes everything for most women.
It removes so much of the intimidation because you are learning in a comfortable environment first — without pressure, embarrassment, or feeling rushed.
Then, once you feel comfortable, we head to the range and apply what you learned during live-fire instruction.
Want more details on this?
See my blog What To Expect During Your First Pistol Lesson
Why Private Firearm Training Helps Beginners So Much
A lot of women feel nervous learning around people they don’t know.
That’s normal.
Private firearm instruction allows you to:
Learn at your own pace
Ask questions openly
Build confidence without pressure
Receive instruction tailored specifically to YOU
Focus on your personal goals and comfort level
Every woman learns differently, and beginner firearm training should never feel intimidating.
That is exactly why I created my New Client Session.
Want Continued Instruction? I Have That Too.
For women wanting continued support and confidence-building after their first lesson, I also offer an Instruction Bundle that includes five 1-hour private firearm training sessions.
This is perfect for:
Building consistency
Improving accuracy
Becoming more comfortable handling your pistol
Reinforcing firearm safety skills
Continuing education at your own pace
And Let’s Be Honest for a Second…
Just because your friend, boyfriend, husband, or coworker shoots guns does NOT automatically mean they know how to teach firearm safety or beginner shooters effectively.
Learning in a supportive environment with structured instruction specifically tailored to YOU makes a HUGE difference — especially for women who are new to shooting.
Most shooting ranges also have pistols available to rent, and eye and ear protection can be provided if needed. You do NOT need to show up fully prepared or already knowing everything before taking a firearm safety class.
You just need to start.
No judgment.
No pressure.
No intimidation.
Just real training, real support, and a safe place to learn at your own pace. 💛
If you are looking for beginner firearm instruction, private firearm lessons, women-only firearm classes, or simply want to feel more comfortable and confident around firearms — I Carry My Own is here for you.
And if you are still unsure or have further questions before moving forward schedule a free Zoom call with me!!!