Minnesota Gun Class - Willmar

Gary Peterson runs Minnesota Gun Class out of Willmar's industrial park. He holds certifications from the USCCA (Concealed Carry and Defensive Pistol), NRA, and Sig Sauer. Over the past decade-plus, he's put that training to work helping 5,000 permit seekers get their certifications.

This is the baseline course for concealed carry certification. You get classroom instruction on handgun safety, operation, shooting fundamentals, and Minnesota law—followed by supervised range time. The course satisfies requirements for both a Minnesota Permit to Carry (valid in 33 states) and a Florida Concealed Carry License (valid in additional states). Free use of handguns and ammunition included.

• •Class structure: Experienced shooters shoot first and clear out quickly. Beginners get scheduled later and receive one-on-one laser pistol training before moving to live firearms. Multiple classes offered every month.

Upon completion, you're eligible to apply at your local sheriff's office. Bring the certificate, $100 cash, and a completed application.

Three-hour intro for people who've never touched a pistol or want a refresher. Covers essential safety, handgun operation (loading, unloading, disassembling), shooting fundamentals (grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control), and laser training followed by live-fire practice.

• •Next class: Tuesday, March 17
• •What's included: Handguns, lead-free ammo, eye protection, ear protection

A 16-hour weekend course (Saturday and Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM) designed to build real defensive skills. This is for shooters ready to move beyond the basics—whether you're strengthening fundamentals or pushing into advanced territory.

• •Combat accuracy and speed – grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control performed under stress
• •Efficient weapon handling – drawing from concealment, tactical and emergency reloads, malfunction clearance
• •Tactical decision-making – situational awareness, threat assessment using the OODA loop, when to shoot and when to hold

• •Classroom session held at the Willmar facility
• •Majority of training at Eagle Lake Rifle & Pistol Club outdoor range
• •Students fire approximately 500 rounds
• •Small class sizes for personalized instruction and immediate feedback
• •All skill levels welcome; advanced drills can be performed with an unloaded pistol if needed

• •Next course: May 30-31, 2026
• •Returning students: $100 discount if you're retaking for annual refresher or skill sharpening

Minnesota Gun Class maintains a private 4-lane indoor range at the Maracom plant in Willmar's industrial park (2005 Trott Ave SW). The range is lead-free and reserved for class instruction only—not open for walk-up shooting.

The course emphasizes this directly: carrying a concealed handgun means carrying the means to protect life and deal out death. You'll be held to a higher standard of conduct. The course covers not just how to shoot, but the weight of that responsibility—personal, legal, financial, and moral.

Anyone can enroll, including residents of other states and foreign nationals. To actually receive your permit, you must: - Be at least 18 years old - Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident - Pass a background check

• •Note: A recent court decision now allows 18- to 20-year-olds to obtain a Minnesota Permit to Carry.

• •Apply in person at your local sheriff's office
• •Bring: Course certificate, completed application, $100 cash
• •Valid for 5 years
• •Honored in 33+ states

• •Apply by mail
• •Valid for 7 years
• •Expands your carry rights beyond Minnesota reciprocity

Renewal requires retaking a course and reapplying (you can take a class up to 1 year before expiration, but renew within 90 days of expiration).

Maracom plant, Willmar Industrial Park 2005 Trott Ave SW Willmar, MN 56201

• •Phone: 888-621-5136
• •Email: [email protected]
• •Website: willmar.gunclass.com
• •Facebook: facebook.com/MinnGunClass