This session aims to eliminate the "knowledge gap" that leads to firearm accidents.
Students will receive hands-on instruction regarding the safe manipulation of revolvers and semi-automatic pistols. The curriculum prioritises rigid adherence to Range Officer commands, muzzle discipline, and trigger control.
Upon completion, shooters will possess the skills necessary to safely operate their firearms during static club matches and understand the protocols for home safety and maintenance.
This section defines the locations and strict protocols for using the club's Safety Areas (located between Ranges 1 & 2, 3 & 4, and behind Range 2). These clearly marked zones are the only approved locations for handling firearms and holstering when not actively competing on the firing line. Critical Safety Rule:
These areas are strictly for dry firearm manipulation; the handling or presence of live ammunition within a Safety Area is prohibited under all circumstances.
This module outlines the mandatory safety gear required for all shooters and spectators. We discuss the critical importance of hearing protection (muffs or plugs) and eye protection to prevent noise-induced hearing loss and ricochet fragments.
The lesson also defines the club's strict dress code, which prioritises safety over style: enclosed shoes are mandatory, and low-cut tops are prohibited to prevent burns from hot ejected casings.
This section moves beyond theory to instil muscle memory. We focus on the "On Target – On Trigger / Off Target – Off Trigger" methodology to prevent negligent discharges. Instructors will demonstrate the proper technique for indexing the trigger finger straight along the frame and the correct posture for the "Ready Position" (standing erect, muzzle depressed 1m forward).
The goal is to ensure these safety checks become automatic reflexes for the shooter.
To ensure a safe environment for everyone, this lesson explains the specific traffic patterns and handling rules of our club. Students will learn how to interact with range officers, properly case/uncase or holster their firearms at the start and end of the day, and execute safe movements.
We emphasise that while you may turn your body to speak, the muzzle must never deviate from pointing down range.
This module decodes the verbal commands used by range officers to control the flow of a match. Students will learn the precise actions required for each stage of the firing sequence, including "Load and Make Ready," "Stand By," and "Ceasefire and Show Clear."
We also cover the universal protocols for requesting assistance: if a command is unclear or a malfunction occurs, keep the firearm pointed down range and raise your non-shooting hand immediately.
This module provides a technical breakdown of handgun ammunition, also known as "rounds" or "cartridges." Students will learn to identify the basic components of a round (casing, powder, bullet) and understand the distinction between Imperial and metric calibres.
The core of the lesson focuses on the mechanics of ignition, detailing the structural and functional differences between Rimfire systems (priming compound in the rim) and Centerfire systems (separate primer in the base center), explaining why larger calibres require the latter.
This module defines the mandatory specifications for carrying equipment on the range. We cover strict regulations regarding belt placement (waist or hip-bone level) and security (minimum three loops or keepers).
The lesson details the criteria for Approved Holsters, requiring full trigger coverage, strict muzzle geometry (pointing within 1m of feet), and retention capable of withstanding physical activity. Finally, we standardise the belt rig layout for Revolvers (holster and speed loaders on the strong side) versus Semi-Automatics (holster strong side, magazines weak side).
This practical module introduces the core mechanics of handgun operation, utilising Rimfire firearms to minimise recoil and maximise learning retention. Students will learn the universal "Strong Hand" terminology and the critical safety habit of keeping the finger off the trigger until ready.
The lesson breaks down the distinct grip techniques for Revolvers (thumbs crossed/stacked) versus Semi-Automatics (thumbs forward/parallel), emphasising high-tang placement to manage recoil and avoid slide bite.
This is the verification phase. Instructors will physically inspect every student's rig for safety compliance and guide them through mechanical function checks in the Safety Area. The instruction then moves to the firing line to teach the Ready Position (45 degrees), body indexing, and the draw stroke.
After the instructor is satisfied with the student's dry-fire competence (handling snap caps), the students will proceed to live-fire commands under Mandar Match conditions to demonstrate they are safe for solo competition.
This module familiarizes the shooter with the specific bylaws and operational procedures of the Mundaring Marksmen Association.