Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register for a class?

Just follow the instructions on our Training page.

When and how do I pay?

Payment is due in full upon acceptance into the class. Complete information on where to send the payment, etc. will be provided as part of the registration process. 

What is covered in the Bayprofs/NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting class?

• Safe firearm handling

• Firearm parts and operation

• Ammunition and its function

• Shooting fundamentals, and an opportunity to develop them on the range

• How to select, clean, transport, and store a firearm

• Review of various activities available to help participants develop and improve their shooting skills

• Overview of local, state, and federal laws.

What kind of guns will I be handling?

We make no guarantees to the exact model and calibers that will be present in the class, primarily because we can’t always bring the same guns for demonstration, and our instructors like buying guns just about as much as they like shooting them. We do however promise that there will be plenty of demonstration models, and a representative from the most reputable manufacturers will be present.

During the shooting period you will have a chance to shoot both a semiautomatic pistol in 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP. You will also have a chance to shoot a revolver in .38 special, .357 Magnum, and .45 Colt. The manufacturers vary, but we generally include Glocks, Sigs, 1911s of various manufacturers, Smith and Wessons, Rugers, CZs and more during the class.

How long are the classes?

Basics of Pistol Shooting Classes start at 10 AM, and usually go until about 8 PM. We’ll take a break for lunch, and short breaks throughout. The Home Firearm Safety class is generally 4 hours long.

Personal Protection in the Home is a one day course, and start time may vary with venue.

What if I’m a total beginner?

Perfect! The course is targeted for the beginner. We get a variety of students, from people who’ve never been up close to a gun before to experienced shooters who just want to fill any gaps in their knowledge.

How old do I have to be to take the Basic Pistol or Personal Protection Courses?

In 2022, the state of California passed AB2571. This law restricts firearms safety training such that it can not be taught to minors. In order to comply with this law, our classes are only open to those 21 years of age and older.

Are there any other requirements for taking the Bayprofs Basic course?

In the Basics of Pistol Shooting class you will be handling and shooting a variety of firearms. Both State and
Federal law make it unlawful for certain persons to own and/or possess any firearm. These
restrictions are many and constantly changing. BayProfs, Inc. is not a law firm. We cannot
advise you as to your specific eligibility to handle the firearms in our classes. In addition, the
law frequently changes and we don’t have a legal staff to follow those changes in a timely
manner.Therefore, we direct you to http://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/agweb/pdfs/firearms/forms/prohibcatmisd.pdf for a list of prohibiting circumstances.

In addition, aliens admitted to the US under a nonimmigrant visa are generally prohibited from possessing or purchasing a firearm. However, there are exceptions. The exceptions are found in 18 USC Section 922(y)(2). If you have any doubt about your eligibility to handle firearms after reading the materials above, you may want to download and submit the Personal Firearms Eligibility Check Application to the Cal DOJ to determine your eligibility. This is a request to conduct the same background check you would undergo if you attempt to buy a gun. The Ca DOJ will return the form to you with a nay or yea.

What should I wear?

Dress for comfort. We recommend that you do not wear open-toe shoes or sandals. Shirts that button up the neck, or other high-neck shirts or blouses are recommended. You also might want to bring a sweater as the range can get a little cold during the winter.

What should I bring?

You also might want to bring a sweater, classroom temperature varies by season. You may also wan to bring a water bottle, or snacks for throughout the day. Everything else you need is provided!

Do I need to bring a gun?

No. We provide a large selection of loaner firearms that you may use at no additional charge. The range also rents firearms in case you want to try something that we do not have available. Taking this course before you purchase a firearm is a great idea!

Is it okay for me to bring a gun?

Definitely! Please bring your handgun with you. Upon arrival, please notify the instructors that you brought your own gun. In the interest of safety, an instructor will verify that it’s unloaded and appears to be safe to use, and will ask you to return it to its case and leave it under the “class firearms table” during the lecture. During range time, an instructor will test fire your gun to verify safe operation. If you are not familiar with your firearm, ask an instructor for details regarding it.


Please leave all ammunition in your vehicle until range time. No ammunition is permitted in the classroom.


Note: When transporting your gun to class it must be unloaded and locked in your trunk or inside a locked container. A locking attache case may be used.

Will this class qualify me to purchase a handgun?

No. A Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) or other exception is required before you may purchase a pistol in California. Bayprofs does provide the opportunity to take the FSC test and obtain a California required FSC ($25 fee). This is presented at the end of the Bayprofs/NRA Basics of Pistol shooting coarse.

What are the prerequisites for Personal Protection in the Home?

To take the Personal Protection course you must have an NRA Basics of Pistol shooting or similar certifications.


Prior to the class you will be required to pass a timed shooting skills exercise while demonstrating safe firearms handling procedures and be able to answer basic questions about safety, firearms nomenclature and ammunition as covered in the NRA Basics of Pistol shooting class or the NRA Basics of Pistol shooting handbook that is provided during class.


We limit the size of the class and fill the seats on a first come, first seated basis. This pre-qualification must be completed prior to acceptance into the Personal Protection class so do not wait until the last moment to schedule it.

What will I need for the Personal Protection in the Home class?

You will need a revolver or semi-automatic handgun of 9mm, .38 Special or larger caliber and at least three speed-loaders, or magazines, for the gun. BayProfs will provide the ammunition. You will use your gun for the entire class and should be able to manipulate the controls without a lot of fumbling. We suggest that you take your prequal test with the gun you are intending to use for the class.


You will also need hearing and eye protection. A light jacket is recommended.


For safety reasons you will also need a holster designed for your firearm. However, the soft floppy nylon, one-size-fits-all holsters are not acceptable. You will also need a belt mounted dual speed-loader, or magazine, carrier to fit your gear. And of course you will need a proper belt to hold these devices. Detailed information on suggested types/models will be in the Registration Packet.

What will I learn in the Personal Protection in the Home class?

You will continue your education about handguns, maintenance of them, selection of handgun and ammunition and shooting opportunities originally obtained in your Basic Pistol classes.

In addition you will learn about the law regarding deadly force, be taught and practice home related defensive procedures like shooting from around or over a barricade, shooting from odd positions, learn about cover and concealment and how to use them, learn what to do when the attacker doesn’t fall down immediately with the first shot the way they do in the movies.

We will spend quite some time on avoidance of a self defense event and your attitude and mind set prior to, during, and after a self-defense event and how to persevere in the face of an attack you are unable to avoid.