Do I need prior firearm experience to take this course?

No prior experience is required; the course is designed for beginners and those looking to refresh or improve their skills.

Is ammunition provided during the course?

Ammunition is generally not included, so participants should check with the academy beforehand and bring appropriate rounds.

What is the minimum age to enroll?

Participants must be at least 21 years old to attend this course.

Are safety equipment and firearms provided on-site?

The academy typically provides firearms and some safety gear; however, personal eye and ear protection may be required or recommended.

How many participants are in each class?

Class sizes are limited to five people to maintain personalized instruction.

Is there a written test as part of the course?

Yes, a written exam follows the lectures to reinforce understanding of safety and firearm operation.

NRA Basic Pistol Course at Locked and Loaded Defense Academy

In Gardena, California, a city tucked within the sprawling Los Angeles metro area, Locked and Loaded Defense Academy offers a standout experience for firearm enthusiasts and beginners alike: the NRA Basic Pistol Course. This intensive eight-hour program blends engaging classroom instruction with practical skills-building, culminating in live-fire exercises on a professional shooting range. The course is designed to elevate participants’ understanding of pistol safety, handling, and marksmanship while addressing both the technical and mental aspects of responsibly operating a firearm.

Gardena’s location makes it easily accessible for urban adventurers seeking a hands-on firearms education without venturing far from the city. Its proximity to Southern California’s diverse outdoor scene—ranging from coastal hikes to desert trails—positions Locked and Loaded Defense Academy as a practical resource for anyone looking to sharpen self-defense skills or pursue shooting sports.

What sets this course apart is its structure: balancing dynamic lectures with a thorough written exam ensures participants grasp essential laws, mechanics, and safety practices before stepping onto the range. The live-fire portion challenges shooters under controlled, professional supervision, cultivating confidence and precision. Group sizes capped at five keep the instruction personalized, fostering an environment where questions and hands-on support thrive.

The academy’s focus on combining foundational knowledge with real-world application makes it an invaluable introduction to pistol shooting, especially for those new to firearms or looking to reinforce existing skills in a professional setting. Beyond training, Locked and Loaded contributes to Southern California’s broader outdoor recreation fabric by promoting safe, informed firearm use—a critical component in an area rich with hunting, target shooting, and outdoor lifestyle options.

Whether you’re preparing for competitive sports, personal defense, or simply expanding your skill set, the NRA Basic Pistol Course at Locked and Loaded Defense Academy offers a comprehensive, approachable gateway to mastering pistol fundamentals in the heart of Gardena.

About Locked and Loaded Defense Academy

Locked and Loaded Defense Academy in Gardena, California provides focused firearm training and permit courses for civilians seeking safe, legal handgun ownership and competency. The academy offers a California CCW 16-hour INITIAL Permit Course split over two days, a California CCW 8-Hour RENEWAL Permit Course, an NRA Basic Pistol Course, and a Basic PPITH (Personal Protection In The Home) Course. Each course combines classroom instruction, a written exam, and hands-on live-fire practice at a shooting range.

Instructors at Locked and Loaded Defense Academy emphasize legal compliance, firearm safety, marksmanship fundamentals, and situational awareness. The 16-hour initial course prepares participants for California CCW permit requirements through lectures, written testing, and range drills. The 8-hour renewal course refreshes knowledge and skills for permit holders. The NRA Basic Pistol Course covers fundamentals for beginners and experienced shooters, while the PPITH course focuses on household defense scenarios and practical live-fire exercises using approximately 100 rounds.

Training schedules are designed for convenience, with the initial CCW course split across two days. Courses include both written assessments and hands-on instruction to ensure comprehension and measurable skill development. The academy operates within Gardena and conducts live-fire sessions at authorized ranges, following state regulations and safety protocols. Locked and Loaded Defense Academy markets itself to adults seeking CCW permits, renewals, NRA certification, and practical home defense instruction. Prospective students should review course descriptions and schedule availability before registering. Registration requires identification and adherence to course prerequisites where specified. Contact the academy directly for schedules and available class dates.