In a non-threatening, safe, women- only environment with no live ammunition present, learn the basics of handgun safety when kept in your home or throughout your daily routine; how to handle a pistol safely; parts of a pistol and ammunition; fundamentals of pistol shooting including holding, stance, and aiming; common malfunctions; cleaning; and selecting a pistol just right for you. You may not

bring your own handgun or any ammunition to class, but the instructor will have safe, unloaded examples to share. You will receive a textbook. The optional two-hour range time at Lincoln County Rifle Club in Damariscotta is separately scheduled during daylight hours during the week and has a fee of $50 payable to the instructor. If you go to the range, you’ll fire either your own pistol or one from the instructor and try to put five rounds of ammunition through four separate target circles at 10 feet using only 20 rounds. You will need 50 rounds of ammunition for your personal handgun. If you are “renting” a pistol from the instructor, she will have 50 rounds of ammunition for you for a cost of $25 for a total cost of $75. To pass this nationally rated course and get certified, you must attend all sessions and actively participate, pass a written examination, and pass the 10-foot shooting qualification, all within two weeks of the last class session. Certification can be used to apply for a concealed carry permit.