NRA Certified Shotgun Instructor Course

Overview: This course will provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to instruct NRA Basic Shotgun and NRA First Steps courses.  At least one NRA Certified Shotgun Instructor must be present during any Scouts BSA Shotgun Shooting activities (in addition to a NRA Certified Range Safety Officer).   This course will help you develop the additional knowledge, skills and techniques needed to organize and teach courses in the NRA Basic Firearm Training Program.  

Who: Scout leaders, at least 18 years of age. Candidates must have a solid background in firearm safety and be able to demonstrate good shotgun shooting skills and safety.  Candidates must  affirm intent to use their training for Scouts BSA programs.(Candidates 18-21 years of age qualify as Assistant Instructors and may not supervise BSA programs without an Instructor present).  NRA Certified Instructors may serve as BSA Merit Badge Counselors.

All participants must be US Citizens or Lawful Permanent Resident Aliens permitted to handle, possess, transport and receive instruction on firearms training in accordance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations 22 CFR Subchapter M

What: On successful completion, candidates will receive a National Rifle Association Instructors Rating in Certified Shotgun, which is required by BSA to supervise shotgun shooting.   The course consists of 3 segments:  NRA Basic Rifle Training (Student version), Basic Instructor Training and Certified Shotgun Instructor Training.  

When: The course will consist of about 26-30 hours of classroom and range training.  The course will begin sharply at 5pm Friday  and should conclude mid afternoon on Sunday.  Rough Schedule: Friday 5-11, Saturday 7-9 Sunday 8-3 with breaks and meals).  

Where: The course will be held at the STEM Center at Ockanickon Scout Reservation. Participants are encouraged to stay overnight in a campsite.  Adirondacks will be available or instructor candidates may bring personal tents.  Meals will be provided for Saturday breakfast, lunch and dinner, and Sunday breakfast and lunch.  Snacks will be provided for Friday and Saturday nights.  Friday night dinner will not be provided.  A shooting qualification is required for instructor credentialing.  Be prepared

Cost: Cost for this training is $165. The course fee includes lodging, training materials and supplies, meals and snacks.  Successful candidates must also activate NRA credentials at an additional cost directly to NRA.  NRA Membership is encouraged, but not required.

Equipment: Bring eye and ear protection, notebook and pen/pencil.  You may bring an unloaded shotgun to use for demonstration and teaching aid.

Class size is limited, only the first 16 qualified applicants will be accepted. You must be present for and complete the entire course in order to receive your certification.