Franklin Revolver and Rifle Association hosts training

FRANKLIN — Twenty one students, twenty one coaches and six Range Officers participated in a Women & Guns training event at Franklin Revolver and Rifle Association.

To date, more than 600 women have been trained in firearms safety and basic pistol marksmanship which is provided free as a community service. Guns, one on one coaching and the facility’s use were donated by the club’s members, while ammunition, targets and refreshments were paid for by a safety training grant from the National Rifle Association.

National Pistol Champion John Heller gave a one-hour lecture on basic pistol marksmanship and firearms safety. The class learned and practiced safe handgun usage by treating the guns with respect, keeping the muzzles (barrels) pointed in a safe direction and keeping fingers off of the triggers until ready to shoot. Fundamentals of handgun shooting included stance, breathing, sight picture, trigger squeeze and a follow-up pause after every shot.

As a novice shooter, Stephanie Monroe won top honors by scoring 95, 97 and 98 out of a possible 100 points. Her coach Rich Geisler took her step-by-step from familiarization of the gun, dry firing with an empty gun and finally shooting live ammunition.

Women & Guns Training Director George Ambrose was assisted by Bill Haas as head coach and Heller as Lecturer and chief range officer. Bob Uzzalino recruited highly qualified club members to serve as coaches. Also volunteering was Judy Storms, one of the foremost certified shooting instructors in Sussex County.

Women age 21 and over may register for a future class by calling George Ambrose at 973-827-9723. Due to the high demand for this opportunity and the small class size, repeat visitors cannot be accommodated.