FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
NOTE: To learn about the new Constitutional Carry taking effect on
September 1, 2021, Click here to see Al’s video update!
1. WHAT IF I DON'T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT HANDGUNS OR HAVE NEVER SHOT?
You must schedule Basic Pistol Training. This can be scheduled before or after the LTC class. You can still come to the class and learn about the laws, etc. which is a great start for you. (Having your LTC does NOT make you an expert with a firearm!) Also, if you don't own a firearm, DON'T WORRY! You can rent firearms at the range to check out before making a purchase later. I will gladly assist you in making the proper choice to fit YOUR needs. Just call 214.766.0969 and we'll set up a convenient time for you or a small group.
2. WHERE IS THE CLASS AND HOW LONG IS IT? (Currently Online Only)
We are offering the classroom portion (4 hrs) ONLINE ONLY.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (Texas DPS website) requires a minimum of 4 hours of training for a new applicant. This is covered in the online class portion.
3. WHERE IS THE RANGE(S) AND WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
Gun Range Info: (Please watch this generic short range tour) It'll also help save you time if you'll read the Range Rules here.
THESE ARE THE GREAT PLACES I USE:
Eagle Gun Range (Dallas Area Option); for most sessions
14400 Midway Rd
Farmers Branch, TX 75244
BPS Outfitters (North Option)
6400 Texoma Pkwy, Ste A
Sherman, TX 75090
Outdoor Option:
Willowood Ranch (Private property, 6 mi. east of Sherman);
must call because of scheduling (214-766-0969)
YOU CAN BRING A FACE COVERING (NOT REQUIRED); THE RANGE PROVIDES HAND SANITIZER.
You can bring your own handgun, borrow a friend's gun, or rent one at the range. Your personal firearm must be unloaded and kept in your bag/container until instructed to remove it while in the shooting bay area.
Firearms can be a .22 caliber or larger (.32, .380, .38, .357, 9mm, .40 or .45 caliber). You can use either a revolver or semi-automatic that is in good working condition.
You'll need 50 rounds (one box) of factory ammunition. RELOADED / REMANUFACTURED AMMO IS NOT ALLOWED. If you rent a firearm, you'll have to purchase ammo from the range.
One or two magazines if using a semi-auto handgun.
Hearing and eye protection (bring your own or borrow at the range). Normal eye glasses are acceptable.
Clothing that is suitable for a shooting range. Closed collar helps keep possible hot shell casings from flying in your shirt or blouse, which can get a little hot and cause you to flinch. If this happens, your gun could become misdirected.
Please avoid wearing sandals or flipflops! It’s too easy to slip down.
4. WHAT IS THE COST OF THE LTC CLASS, BASIC PISTOL CLASS, OR JUST QUALIFICATION?
$65.00 for the ONLINE LTC Class. This will link to separate site you’ll sign up on. Once you take the 4 hours online, you can contact Al Fike for your pistol qualification appointment at 214-766-0969. BTW, you can qualify before or after taking the classroom segment)
$160.00 each for Basic Pistol Training (private training 2 hours) I can train up to 4 people semi-privately. Any additional sessions are on an hourly basis at $80 per hour. Sessions are by the hour and are NOT prorated.
$80.00 for stand alone Qualification with 1 hour of brief training (i.e., if you have taken an Online LTC class <see below> and just need to qualify; this is provided you already have much experience shooting a firearm)
Note: If I come to your location for a private group LTC class, the cost is $100 per person (Min. of 5 students). This includes class, qualification, range time and targets if we are shooting outside on private property. Range fee could be extra if we have to use a local range or other location such as Willowood Ranch near Sherman (see above).
5. WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO GET THEIR LTC?
You must be at least 21 years of age or 18 years of age and on active duty in the U.S. Military,
Note: Can anyone younger than 21 take the class? YES! You can now take the LTC course at age 18. Active duty military at least 18 years old can take the class, apply and receive their license to carry at 18. You must not be a convicted felon.
You can read Eligibility Requirements listed here on the Texas DPS website.
6. WHAT DO I NEED FOR THE TRAINING?
Comfortable clothing
A current State of Texas Driver's License or I.D. Card
Your firearm of choice and 2-3 boxes of ammo; you can also purchase extra ammo at indoor ranges. (I typically have 9mm and .22 ammo for purchase).
7. WHAT TOPICS ARE COVERED IN THE ONLINE CLASS?
Students will receive classroom instruction pertaining to: F.U.D.S. (FOODS)
FORCE (use of deadly force) parts A & B
USE (how to use a firearm safely)
DISPUTES (handling disputes & resolutions)
SAFETY (gun safety and storage)
Other Instructions & Info:
New "Open Carry" Laws (Here)
Legislative changes
8. IF I QUALIFY WITH A REVOLVER, WILL I BE ABLE TO CARRY A SEMI-AUTO?
Yes, and vice versa. Remember, a .22 now permitted to qualify. (However, I personally recommend carrying a 9mm. It's like throwing a bigger rock to stop the threat.)
9. AT WHAT DISTANCES DO I SHOOT FOR QUALIFICATION?
10. WHAT IS THE PASSING SCORE FOR THE RANGE QUALIFICATION?
You must score 70%+, or 175 points out of the possible 250 points in order to pass. Most students score over 200.
11. WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON'T PASS THE RANGE QUALIFICATION?
You may take the range proficiency test up to 3 times before you are classified as having not passed. (please see Terms & Conditions). You must have 50 rounds of ammunition for each attempt. So, just in case, bring some extra ammo, or you can purchase ammo at the range. This course is designed for you to PASS, not flunk. Just remember: We're here to help you get your LTC, and have fun doing it.
12. WILL THERE BE A TEST ON THE CLASSROOM PORTION?
Yes. There is a test consisting of true/false and multiple choice questions given after a brief review. It's the only test you'll ever take that's actually FUN!