North Carolina Firearms Training

The right to own firearms is protected by the Second Amendment of the Constitution.

North Carolina, like many Southern states, has a tradition with firearms that dates to before the Revolutionary War. Large expanses of forests and wild game resulted in a hunting culture. Today, North Carolina has gun laws that tend to be more lax than other states.

Legal

North Carolina has no state laws that require gun owners to register their weapons with a public agency. The exception is Durham County, which requires owners to register handguns. The state also gives citizens the right to carry a concealed handgun. Before being allowed to carry a concealed weapon, they are required to pass a certification class.

Concealed Carry

The Concealed Handgun Training Certificate is awarded upon completion of an approved course. The courses are often affiliated with and taught by trainers from the National Rifle Association. The course costs about $75, as of July 2010, and covers basic firearms handling, safety and shooting. The class also stresses the legal responsibilities gun owners have regarding the use of deadly force.

National Rifle Association

The National Rifle Association is a prominent organization in North Carolina and offers a range of firearms training classes. Classes range from basic pistol handling to marksmanship for hunters. The NRA also has shooting tournaments and a range of training programs for women and youths.

Private Ranges

Many indoor and outdoor private shooting ranges are in North Carolina. These venues offer services and training, including basic firearms, defensive shooting techniques, hunter safety, competitive shooting, home safety and cartridge reloading. Fees vary depending on services. Some of the less expensive ranges require you to bring your own targets.

Advanced Training

Xe, formerly known as Blackwater, is a private security firm in North Carolina that offers the latest in firearms training. Xe offers introductory pistol classes to sniper training. The company was started by a former Navy SEAL.

References

• Wake County: Firearms Education and Training
• National Rifle Association: Education and Training
• Handgunners Home Page
• USA Training Center: Courses