Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer a course for Concealed Carry Permits?
Yes. Basic Handgun (course HG01) covers all of the requirements for a Maine Concealed Firearms Permit including a law review that addresses concealed carry and the use of force and deadly force (Title 17-A Sections 104-110). All paperwork required by the state for application is provided at the conclusion of the course as well as a certificate of completion.We also offer a course for the Utah CCP. This permit allows you to carry in over 30 states!
What do I need to bring with me to the Basic Handgun Class?
First off, you need to bring your firearm. You will also need: at least 3 working magazines or speed loaders (the more, the better), a proper holster that fits that firearm, magazine pouches and a sturdy belt to carry them both. Hearing and eye protection are also necessary and we have a small selection to choose from if you find yourself short. Lunch and a baseball cap are also needed. An equipment list is provided in the class descriptions portion of the site.
What is your cancellation policy?
We have a no-refund policy for cancellation, but you can always move your registration to another date. Cancellation/transfer of registration for a specific course is without penalty through the Wednesday prior to the course. After that, we will move your registration and if we fill your spot in the course there is no penalty. If we are unable to fill the spot, there is a $35 fee for cancellation/transfer.
What kind of holster should I bring?
For Basic Handgun (HG01) you will need a holster that is worn on your strong side hip. For classes beyond Basic Handgun, any holster other than a shoulder-holster will work just fine for the class. It does, however, need to fit the gun you are bringing. A strong belt that supports the weight of the holster and allows you to draw and re-holster the gun is also a must. For advanced classes and rifle classes holster types required or recommended may vary.
What types of guns and calibers are appropriate for your classes?
Handguns:
We recommend high quality pistols in .380, 9mm, .40s&w or .45acp caliber (.357sig or 10mm are also allowed). Revolvers should be at least .38 cal. Handguns in .22, .25 and .32cal are much lighter in recoil and skills learned on those calibers may not transfer well to larger, defensive caliber weapons. For this reason small caliber handguns are not recommended. We recommend (but do not require) that pistols have a slide that can be locked back (Walther PPK is one high quality pistol that does not lock back), revolvers should have a swing-out cylinder. Call us if you have further questions on the appropriateness of your handgun.
Rifles/Carbines:
Most carbine classes are taught using the AR-15 platform rifle. Many skills involve magazine changes, so a magazine-fed weapon would be best. AR's, AK's, HK's, M14's, M1 Carbines, even pistol-caliber carbines are all welcome.
Do I need to bring my own weapon?
No. We have demo handguns and rifles that you can use for the day. Actually, if you are looking to purchase a firearm, using one of our demo guns is usually better than borrowing a gun from a friend or relative. See the class description portion of the site for info on Demo Weapons.
Do you sell the same firearms that you use in your classes?
Absolutely! We demo and sell reputable firearms. Our ‘range’ guns include: Sig, HK, Glock, Taurus and Springfield. We also sell STI and Wilson Combat handguns. Weaponcraft builds custom AR15 rifles from the components of your choosing, beginning with our own, high quality forged receivers. We also sell POF, Bushmaster and Rock River AR15s. We can get you any quality firearm including suppressors (silencers) and legally registered machine guns.
How long is each class?
Basic handgun class starts promptly at 9:00am. We break for lunch around 12:00 and round up the day around 5:00. Upper level classes usually start at 9:00am sharp with the exception of low-light shooting which starts later in the day to take advantage of dusk and nighttime.
Do you have ammo for sale?
Yes we do. We sell ammo at market prices and will have it for you at the range. If you are looking for ammo for the class, please give us a call or indicate this on your application. It can be waiting for you at the range on class day. Ammo is currently quite scarce on a national level. Typically, ammo can be supplied and ready for you at the range with prior notice. Currently we cannot make a commitment on availability, please call to inquire.
Can I bring more than one gun?
Yes. And you can shoot them as often as you would like as long as it is not interfering with the pace of the class. We do ask that in Basic Handgun you keep to either revolver or pistol style handgun for that particular day.
Are the classes rain or shine?
For the most part. We will reschedule a class if there is a pending storm with heavy rain or snow with no chance of clearing. No one likes shooting in the rain, but violent crimes happen in the rain too. People are generally busy and are bound by dates and schedules, so we try not to cancel classes if at all possible.
Are their any age requirements?
Yes. 14 is the minimum age for group classes. And anyone under 18 needs to have a parent registered and participating in the class. Weaponcraft encourages parents to teach their children about the dangers of firearms and the respect they deserve. What better way for a young adult to learn than to attend a class taught by law enforcement instructors. Age restrictions can be waived for private lessons.
Do you give discounts for groups or clubs?
Yes we do. We have both a buddy program with reduced tuition and a group rate. Call for details.
Ammo is hard to find, do you have classes for RELOADING?
Yes we do. Our popular Metallic Reloading Class is structured to give you a complete and hand on experience for reloading both pistol and rifle cartridges. Our classes are taught by NRA certified instructors, and include all materials!
Do you offer private training?
Yes. we offer one-on-one training and small group semi private training for up to four students with one instructor. Larger private groups can be accommodated as well. Private training is arranged by appointment only. Email us if you are interested in this option. A typical Basic Handgun course for one or two students can be done in a half-day time frame.
I have never shot a handgun before, will that be a problem?
Many of our students have never even held a gun before. It takes courage for some people to make that first trigger pull. We can be with you every step of the way.
I would like my children to learn about firearms, can they attend classes?
Yes they can. We have a minimum age requirement of 14 years old when they take the class with a parent. Also see above.
Is the carbine course for military weapons only?
No. It is, essentially, for any rifle. We utilize the AR-15 platform for this course but you can take the class with your lever-action or pump-action rifle if you prefer.