Frequently Asked Questions

Shown below are the most frequently asked questions made by new and repeat Virginia Pistol students.

I want to buy a handgun for self defense, how do I choose one?
The Virginia Pistol 'Choosing a Personal Protection Handgun' course will provide you with the information to find the proper handgun for you! We will compare the advantages and disadvantages of different types of handguns, and help you to determine the appropriate type of gun and caliber for your use, and you will fire handguns of different types (revolver - semi-automatic) in the minimum suggested calibers. Students will receive a 5% OFF CARD FOR PURCHASE OF A HANGUN AT A WINCHESTER GUN STORE!

I have never fired a handgun in my life. Which class should I take first?
Depending on your reasons and intended use of a handgun we suggest starting with the 'Choosing a Personal Protection Handgun' course to find the proper handgun for you! Once you have purchased your new handgun we suggest you enroll in either the First Steps Pistol or Concealed Carry Course. You can use the handgun you purchased in either class.

I want to apply for a Virginia Concealed Handgun Carry permit, which class should I take?
We suggest you start with our Concealed Carry Course. This course of instruction gives you all of the benefits of the First Steps Pistol course with added instruction unique to those who want to carry a concealed handgun for personal protection. Upon successful completion of the Concealed Carry Course you may use the completion certification to apply for your concealed carry permit. WE HIGHLY SUGGEST you take the Concealed Carry Advanced Course and the Personal Protection Iutside the Home Course, and the Personal Protection Outside the Home Course as soon as possible after the Concealed Carry Course.

"Practice does NOT make perfect! Only quality training combined with perfect practice makes perfect....and it could save your life!" - (Virginia Pistol Chief Instructor Jim Johnson )