Best Handgun Training

Best Handgun Training operates a full-time facility offering DOJ-certified instruction for California CCW permits and general handgun courses. The team includes instructors with a minimum of 20 years of experience and 140+ combined years in law enforcement and training backgrounds.

Compliant with 2024 California law changes, Best Handgun Training offers:

• •16-hour initial CCW training (2 days, includes range and classroom both days)
• •8-hour renewal CCW training (1 day, range and classroom combined)
• •One-hour mental health component required by state law, built into all courses
• •Range qualifications for up to 3 registered weapons on your permit

All firearms on your permit must be registered to you in the California firearms database—no exceptions for spouses or family members as of January 1, 2024.

They're certified to instruct for El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Sierra, Sutter, Yolo, and Yuba counties. They also offer a 36-state Concealed Weapons Permit course (Utah reciprocity) for those seeking multi-state carry options.

Classroom focus includes: - Self-defense law—draw and no-draw scenarios - Shoot vs. no-shoot decision-making - Where you can legally carry (including the repealed "sensitive areas" provisions) - Best holster and concealment methods - Proper deployment techniques from concealment - What to expect legally and practically after a self-defense shooting - Use-of-force law applicable to your county

Range work: - Private outdoor facility ~10 minutes from classroom - Instructor controls all range operations for maximum safety oversight - EZ-up canopies provided on hot days - Range master has 20+ years experience, 100% safety record - Shooting occurs on both days for initial 16-hour courses

For those new to firearms, Best Handgun Training offers beginner instruction that includes all materials, .22 rimfire rentals, ammunition, targets, hearing and eye protection. One-on-one instruction during live-fire exercises for smaller class sizes (typically 8 students max on firing line).

• •Location: Lincoln, CA (I-80 exit at Hwy 65 near Nelson Lane, about 3 miles north of Twelve Bridges exit)
• •Free, safe parking
• •Private, professional classroom facility
• •24/7 online scheduling portal—calendar posted around the 15th of each month for the following month
• •Flexible weekday and weekend classes
• •$20 range fee due in cash on training day

Students must: - Demonstrate safe firearm handling and knowledge before live-fire work - Have no felony convictions, domestic violence convictions, or active restraining orders - Have no disqualifying history of mental illness or illegal activity - Be alcohol-free for at least 12 hours prior to class (approximately 0.02% blood alcohol burns off per hour during sleep) - Not be under the influence of prescription medications that warn against operating heavy machinery - Be 18+ for Basic courses, 21+ for CCW training

Certificates issued upon course completion are valid 60-90 days (check your county sheriff's specific policy).

Email is the preferred contact method. Call (916) 295-8489 and leave a message for callback within 2-3 days. Online FAQ section covers common questions about requirements, disqualifiers, and certificate validity.