ICL: Safe Handgun Handling: Classroom & Range: October 2 - October 30

Course Instructor George Gaines

This course is limited to six (6) students.  There are two (2) classroom sessions and three (3) outdoor range sessions.  Classroom sessions are weeks 1 and 2 and outdoor range sessions are weeks 3, 4, and 5. Classroom sessions will be held at YHC and last for two (2) hours per session, with a break.  Range sessions will be held at a nearby private range and may last a bit longer than two (2) hours, if required. Since our time at the range is reserved, no one else is allowed on the property.

NO GUNS OR AMMO ARE ALLOWED IN THE CLASSROOM SESSIONS.  Students may bring their personal guns to the range; however, the instructor will provide 9mm semiautomatic pistols and ammo, and it will be up to the instructor to determine if/when student guns may be used. 

This course relies heavily on live demonstrations and students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to perform same at the range.  A Gaines Tactical Training Certificate will be awarded to those who complete the course.

A fee of $95 covers materials, firearms cleaning, and ammo. This is payable by cash/check on first day of class.

Content outline:

George grew up in Pensacola, Florida and has lived and worked throughout the United States and Europe.  He graduated from The University of Alabama and later earned his doctorate at the University of Georgia (1971).  His early career was spent teaching in the Louisiana State University System. 

 In 1980 he began working in the private sector in marketing research for major corporations such as Southern Company, The Gallup Organization, Research International, and IPSOS.  During this time, he served as the International Accounts Director for Pratt & Whitney, UPS, Pepsico, and later for The Coca-Cola Company. 

His last corporate assignment was Director of Consumer Insights for Outback Steakhouse International, where his duties included extensive marketing communication research in Latin America, Asia, and Europe. 

 Following his retirement in 2013, George pursues his lifelong commitment to teaching firearms safety.  He is an NRA Certified Instructor and Chief Range Safety Officer as well as a USCCA Training Counselor.  He presently is Director of Open Enrollment for the US Branch of Israel’s IMI (Israel Military Industries) Academy for Advanced Security and Anti-Terror Training.