A Great Start Shooting School

A Great Start Shooting School operates a secluded private outdoor range focused on getting shooters from clueless to confident. Founded in 2014, the school is run by Brooke Cheney, an NRA-certified firearms instructor, range officer, IDPA safety officer, and competitive shooter with over 10 years of experience.

Cheney started training after becoming a mother with guns in the home—she realized she needed real knowledge to keep her family safe. That mission drives the school: gun accidents happen because of lack of education, and proper training fixes that.

CT Pistol Permit Classes ($150+) - Covers all state-required curriculum: pistol basics, ammunition types, operation, handling, cleaning - All equipment provided - Designed to get you through Connecticut's permit process

Gun Handling & Shooting - Classroom instruction + hands-on practice at the range - Firearms, ammo, and safety gear included - Bring your own gun if you prefer - Builds confidence and comfort from ground up

Find Your Perfect Gun - Designed for new permit holders or buyers considering their first gun - Helps you figure out what you do and don't like before spending money - Prevents buyer's remorse through real testing

Private 1-on-1 Training - Customized instruction for any skill level and goal - Free 10-minute consultation available

The range is private and secluded—you avoid the crowds, noise, and distractions of public ranges. Training scales from learning to safely load and unload to advanced skills like drawing from a holster and shooting on the move at moving targets.

500+ students trained since 2014. The school specifically markets to women (though it trains everyone), recognizing that many gun ranges aren't built for beginners or people who want focused, judgment-free instruction.