Basic Rifle

Course Overview

This course is designed for new and aspiring carbine owners, as well as those with limited experience who want to build a solid foundation of safe and effective carbine handling. Through a combination of classroom and live-fire range instruction, students will learn the critical skills needed to operate a semi-automatic rifle confidently and responsibly.

The curriculum emphasizes hands-on practice, giving students the tools to understand their equipment, improve their marksmanship, and build a consistent training methodology. It is an ideal starting point for anyone who owns or plans to purchase a modern sporting rifle, such as an AR-15.

Key Learning Objectives

• Universal Safety Rules

  Apply the universal rules of firearm safety during all operations and manipulations.

• Rifle Parts & Operations

  Understand the fundamental mechanical parts, safety systems, controls, and cycle of operation of the rifle.

• Loading & Chamber-Clearing

  Demonstrate safe, standard procedures for loading, unloading, and chamber-clearing the rifle.

• Rifle Marksmanship Fundamentals

  Master key marksmanship fundamentals: body position/stance, rifle mounting, cheek weld, sight picture, breath control, and trigger press.

• Zeroing Your Sights or Optic

  Learn how to establish an accurate zero on your iron sights, red dot, or magnified optic for defensive application.

• Reloading Manipulations

  Perform basic administrative, speed, and tactical reloads under control.

• Clearing Rifle Malfunctions

  Identify and quickly clear common weapon malfunctions and stoppages (failure to feed, double feeds, etc.).

• Sling Utilization

  Effectively utilize a rifle sling for retention, carry, and stability when firing.

• Basic Shooting Positions

  Execute safe and stable basic shooting positions, including standing, kneeling, and prone.

• Maintenance & Cleaning

  Demonstrate proper field stripping, inspecting, cleaning, and lubricating of your rifle platform.