Ben Stoeger

Ben Stoeger is a professional practical shooting instructor based in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, who conducts training courses nationwide. Rather than operating from a single location, he works with regional organizers to bring his curriculum to shooting clubs and ranges across the country.

Practical Shooting Fundamentals — The flagship course for USPSA competitors. This isn't beginner training—students should already understand USPSA scoring and safety rules. The class covers fundamental skills applied in a stage environment, mixing drills with full stages. You'll work on target accuracy, movement through stages, and stage breakdown. Students leave with a plan for more efficient dry practice and how to build foundational USPSA skills.

Practical Shooting Skills and Drills — A "how to train" course structured around learning the next level of performance. This class features difficult scenario-style drills with minimal fundamental practice, emphasizing how to structure live-fire sessions. It works best with smaller groups and Ben recommends taking Fundamentals first.

Advanced Shooting Skill Builder — For small groups of advanced students only. This drill-based course focuses entirely on eliminating lag time in shooting and movement to maximize efficiency. The emphasis is on removing hesitation between targets and tasks. Students run their own timers in individual bays while Ben circulates with feedback. Requires substantial ammunition and advanced shooting experience.

Combo Classes — When Ben travels to a range, multiple courses can be scheduled. A common setup is a Fundamentals class followed by a Skills & Drills course at a reduced rate.

"My goal is to show people how to practice. I want you to have a plan for improvement when you leave the range."

Ben's approach emphasizes structure and methodology over magic fixes. Student testimonials consistently mention that his instruction reinforces concepts from his books and videos while providing hands-on application. One student noted: "I probably learned more about getting better at USPSA in 2 days than I have in the last year of shooting matches."

Classes are scheduled through regional organizers at various ranges nationwide—from Texas to California to the Northeast. Ben also teaches private training sessions. Registration typically goes through the Practical Shooting Training Group website.

If no organizer is bringing classes to your region, you can contact Ben directly to become an organizer and host a course.

Beyond live instruction, Ben offers: - Books and instructional videos - Dry-fire training drills - Live-fire drills and exercise libraries - A podcast covering practical shooting topics