Women and Guns

Women and Guns, run by instructor Janice Talaroc, exists because women face real barriers in a male-dominated shooting sport. Talaroc started this operation after years of experiencing—and witnessing—the dismissive attitudes women encounter at gun ranges. One memorable moment: after she put nine 9mm rounds from her 1911 Nighthawk into a 2-inch group at 15 yards on a "realistic" target, the guys next to her joking about her technique "got real quiet" and left.

"I found myself wanting more of an opportunity to reach out and provide help and education to more of the women in the community."

Talaroc holds formal certifications that matter: - NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Instructor - NRA Refuse To Be A Victim Instructor - NRA Range Safety Officer - Additional tactical training from Insights Training Center in Bellevue - Private instruction from Bruce Jackson at Marksman Indoor Range in Puyallup

• •5-Hour Fundamentals Class – Designed specifically for women with zero shooting experience or very limited background. This is a beginner's course taught in a comfortable, safe environment. Students learn proper handgun operation, safety fundamentals, and basic shooting technique. After completing a class, graduates are invited to join the Scarlet Pistols shooting club at no charge.

• •Private Instruction – One-on-one lessons for students wanting personalized attention. Instruction starts in the classroom, then moves to live fire at the New Lakewood Range. Registration completed online or by phone/email.

• •Scarlet Pistols Ladies Shooting Group – A free shooting club for any woman who has completed a Women and Guns class. Meets every Monday at 2:00pm at New Lakewood Shooting Range (open until 9pm). Range fees are $12.50 per lane for women, $10 for an additional shooter sharing a lane. Women and Guns provides shooting tips and technique coaching. Bring your own guns and ammo, or rent equipment at the range. First-timers complete a safety video and paperwork before shooting.

Talaroc's approach centers on awareness and preparation, not paranoia. She teaches that training isn't one-and-done—it requires ongoing practice and repetition, much like learning to drive. She compares initial firearms training to driver's education: you learn operation, safety, and law in an 8-hour class, then you need consistent practice over time to develop real competency. The same applies to concealed carry and self-defense.

Content on the Women and Guns site covers: - Handgun selection and what to look for when buying your first gun - Gun cleaning and maintenance - Common shooting terminology and what terms actually mean - Gun shop etiquette and how to navigate retail without feeling judged - First range trips and what to expect - Concealed carry basics and pistol licensing - Psychological recovery from violent encounters - Holster selection and concealed carry options

Port Orchard, Washington 253-217-3188 Daily 10am-6pm

Classes held in Tacoma with live fire at New Lakewood Shooting Range (Bridgeport exit off I-5, next door to Ford dealership).

Women looking for training in a judgment-free environment. New shooters intimidated by male-dominated ranges. Women wanting to sharpen skills through consistent practice. Anyone interested in personal safety through awareness and firearms competency.