Arizona Women's Shooting Associates

Arizona Women's Shooting Associates (AWSA) is the home of the Arizona State Rifle & Pistol Association (ASRPA) Women's Division and affiliated with the National Rifle Association (NRA). Founded by women, for women—Carol Ruh leads the organization with a teaching philosophy built on patience, encouragement, and practical skill development.

"I really liked the class today and learned so much. I'm looking forward to doing more shooting in the very near future now that I feel comfortable with it." — Rene S.

All classes and practice sessions happen at Ben Avery Shooting Facility (I-17 and Carefree Highway), located at 4044 West Black Canyon Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85086. The facility offers dedicated pistol and rifle ranges for instruction and practice.

Every AWSA instructor holds NRA certification. The organization offers structured classes and open practice sessions for shooters at every level.

Pistol Training - NRA Basic Pistol (8 hours) — Covers safety rules, pistol types, ammunition basics, shooting fundamentals, different positions, common errors, gun cleaning, and maintenance - NRA Women on Target (6 hours) — Women-only course focusing on basic skills in a supportive environment; includes eye/ear protection, targets, ammo, and pistols - ASRPA Women's Basic Pistol - Intermediate & Holster (4 hours) — For shooters who've taken a class but need skill development; focuses on safe handling, gun manipulation, malfunction clearing, and drawing from holster. $85 class fee; students provide 100 rounds; gun/holster rental available for $15 - Mother/Daughter Basic Pistol Instruction — Ages 14-84; introduces fundamentals and safety with pistols, ammo, and protection provided. April 25, 2026, 8:30 am–3 pm. Fee: $110 - Everyday Women's Safety Training (4 hours) — Personal safety techniques and threat awareness for daily life

Rifle Training - NRA Basic Rifle (8 hours) — Gun safety, rifle parts/operation, ammunition, shooting fundamentals, different positions, and cleaning; prerequisite for becoming an NRA Rifle Instructor - NSSF's First Shots Rifle Class — For ages 12+ and adults using .22 caliber rifles; covers fundamentals, safety, and hands-on experience with NSSF materials provided

Self-Defense & Home Safety - Personal Protection in the Home (8 hours) — Essential knowledge for safe and efficient handgun use for self and family protection; requires proof of basic gun handling skills and own firearm - Home Firearm Safety (4 hours) — Classroom only (non-shooting); covers NRA's three rules, accident causes, firearm parts, unloading procedures, ammunition components, cleaning, storage, and safety participation benefits - Refuse to be a Victim (4 hours) — NRA's personal safety seminar teaching threat awareness and avoidance strategies applicable to everyday situations

Advanced Instruction - Range Safety Officer (9 hours) — Prepares experienced shooters to supervise safe shooting, enforce regulations, and respond to emergencies - Chief Range Safety Officer — Advanced RSO certification - NRA Instructor Certification (3 days) — For effective shooters wanting to teach; teaches instructional methods and course development. Open to men and women. Prerequisites: completion of the basic course in your chosen discipline

• •Private Lessons — Available by contacting AWSA for scheduling

• •2026 Pistol Practice Dates: January 13 & 27, February 10 & 24, March 10 & 24, April 14 & 28, May 12 & 26, September 8 & 22, October 13 & 27, November 10 & 24 (all Tuesday mornings unless specified)

• •2026 Rifle Clinic Dates: January 24, February 21, March 21, April 18 (Saturday mornings)

All practice sessions use cash payment only and welcome beginners and experienced shooters.

The organization stresses safety, variety, and fun. Instructors work in a women-centered environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and progressing at their own pace. High instructor-to-student ratios ensure personalized attention and immediate feedback on technique. AWSA also maintains a resource called "Why AWSA Members Selected Their Gun"—a collective guide helping women make thoughtful firearm purchasing decisions.

Arizona Women's Shooting Associates Attn: Carol Ruh 47801 North Black Canyon Highway #307 New River, AZ 85087 Email: [email protected]

ASRPA Women's Division affiliation and NRA partnerships provide access to broader shooting sports networks, competitions (including the Arizona State Rifle & Pistol Washington Birthday Match), and community events.

"Having been married to Pete for 52 years, I can tell you that seeing the difference I've made teaching women to shoot is my most rewarding part. My way of teaching comes from really caring for the ladies." — Carol Ruh