Organizers
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Safeside Tactical
Instructor
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Bob HartwellNRA Certified InstructorBob is an NRA Certified Instructor proficient in Pistol, Rifle, and Reloading. Additionally, he serves as a Range Safety Officer and Long Range Rifle Instructor, and holds certification as an Illinois State Concealed Carry Instructor. An avid Shotgun enthusiast, Bob instructs NRA Basic Pistol and Basic Rifle courses, along with advanced shooting classes. Currently, he leads GAT Gun’s personalized 1-on-1 private instruction program, enhancing skills for shooters of all levels.
Bob assists numerous students in firearm selection by assessing their abilities and understanding their requirements. He advocates for a “try before you buy” approach to ensure satisfactory purchases. With expertise in ammunition handloading and both internal and external ballistics, Bob helps students improve their ammunition quality or begin the process.
With over 45 years of shooting experience, Bob integrates tactical and competitive shooting insights with scientific knowledge. This blend allows him to educate students comprehensively on safe shooting practices in an engaging and accessible manner.
Introduction to Handgun Red Dots
Dive into the fast-growing world of handgun optics! As more shooters embrace handguns equipped with optics or designed to be optic-ready, understanding this technology is essential. In this dynamic course, you’ll explore the various types of optics, how they function, and the unique advantages each offers.
The highlight of the course is the Range Portion, where you’ll engage in live-fire exercises to master the techniques needed to transition from traditional iron sights to your optic-equipped pistol. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to handgun optics, this hands-on experience will enhance your skills and confidence. Participants must bring a pistol with an optic mounted. A limited number of range rental firearms with installed optics are available. Prior arrangements are necessary.
Join us and take your shooting to the next level with cutting-edge optic technology!
1 -35 = Beginner | 36-70 = Intermediate | 71-100 = Advanced
Class Cancellation / Reschedule Policy
- If you need to Cancel or Reschedule a class, you must call the store: 847-428-4867
- Cancellation / Reschedule of a class up to one week prior to the class is $25.00
- Cancellation / Reschedule of a class from one week to the day of the class is $50.00
Hourly Schedule
Course Outline
- Classroom Portion
- This 2.5-hour immersive course, blends classroom instruction and hands-on shooting practice. Spend the first hour in the classroom, learning about various optics like "Red Dots," reflex sights, holographic sights, and laser sights. Understand key concepts such as dot size, power considerations, and mounting options.
- Range Portion
- After a brief transition to gear up and set up at the range, you'll spend over an hour practicing shooting techniques. Focus on target acquisition, shooting with both eyes open, and maintaining consistent fundamentals to find your dot and achieve a natural point of aim.
