Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Register

Which class should I take first?

If you have never taken a firearms class with Hill Top Arms, start with Handgun Fundamentals, Level 1 OR our Women’s Only Handgun and Defensive Fundamentals, Level 1.  Both of these provide the foundation needed for basic handgun shooting and safety.  These classes are all prerequisites to our advanced handgun training.

No. Many students have never handled a handgun before. The Fundamentals course is designed for beginners to intermediate shooters.  Because all of our live fire courses are taught one-on-one, our staff works at each person’s skill level.

Generally, yes. Hill Top’s advanced classes build on techniques taught in Handgun Fundamentals (or our Women’s Only Fundamentals class). If you have prior formal training, contact us to discuss whether an exception is appropriate.

16 and 17 with a parent or guardian.  Under 16 on a case by case basis

You do not need to own a firearm before taking one of our Level 1 classes.  We have a variety of .22 caliber handguns that are available for use during classes.  We are also happy to help you determine the “right” gun for you after class.

What Should I Bring?

What should I bring to class?
  • Eye protection (can be purchased in the shop)
  • Ear protection (can be purchased in the shop)
  • Firearm (optional)
  • Ammunition (if using your personal firearm)
  • Good Attitude
  • Closed-toe shoes
  • High neck shirt
  • Long pants

Registration

How do I register?

Select the class date from our Training Calendar. Each event includes the appropriate registration button or RSVP option for that specific class.

Each person attending a class has to register for the class.  BUT, after attending a class at Hill Top YOU are allowed to sit in that class for free at any future offering.  That means if your friend doesn’t want to go to the class alone, you can attend with them for free if you have already taken the class.  For classes that have a live-fire session, if it is a full class, you will not be able to do the live-fire portion if you are taking the class for free.

Yes, most classes have limited seating to ensure quality instruction.  We NEVER line students up on the firing line, all of our live-fire instruction is done individually, one instructor to each student.

During class

What if I am nervous?

Many students are nervous before and during their first class. Our instructors create a safe, supportive learning environment where questions are encouraged and students learn at their own pace.

This depends on the class, most of our classes start in the classroom and end on the range for live-fire instruction (ALWAYS one-on-one live-fire instruction).

This is also dependent on the class taken.  Handgun Fundamentals live-fire portion is taught on a different day than the classroom portion of the class, so at most there would be one other student being taught at the same time as you.  For the Women’s Only class, each student takes a turn while the other women in the class cheer you on, at most there will be five other students in the class.

Absolutely!  We encourage our students to ask any and all questions before, during, and after class.

Next Level: Skills & Drills

What are Skills & Drills?

These are specialized practice sessions.  They are trainer guided defensive skills practice sessions rather than formal training sessions.  This is a time that you can practice defensive skills that you cannot do during normal range times (holster work, barrier work, etc.).

No.  You are not required to attend these sessions but we do highly encourage attendance to as many sessions as your schedule allows.  Each month has a theme or specific skill we concentrate on and each week builds a little more on the previous week.  But missing a week (or more) will not prevent you from attending the next session.

These sessions are offered to help our students continue improving between formal classes.  We don’t want to prevent our students from this critical practice time just because of individual budgets.  

Women's Training Program

Are the Women's Only classes taught differently?

The Women’s Only Handgun and Defensive Fundamentals are taught very differently than the co-ed Fundamentals classes.  These classes were developed by USCCA, specifically geared towards women.  We have a woman instructor creating a welcoming and encouraging learning environment without the intimidation that many women can feel in a male dominated area.

No. 

Policies

What is your cancellation policy?

Reserving a training seat is like buying a ticket for an event.  We may, at our discretion, allow credit for an upcoming class.

New class dates or upcoming class. 

Case-by-case basis.

Case-by-case basis

Case-by-case basis

Safety

What safety rules do you follow

No unholstered firearms or live loose ammunition in the classroom

Only in range bag, secure case, or in concealed holster, 

All instructors are Certified Range Safety Officers, dedicated to keeping our students safe.

Certifications

Will I receive a certification?

All Fundamentals classes come with a certificate of completion.

This is state dependent, ask for details 

Which Class is Right for Me?

I’m looking for…

I’ve never owned a handgun.

I know the basics but want more training.


I want regular defensive skills practice after completing Fundamentals.

I prefer a women-only environment.

I want to learn about a specific topic without taking a full class.

Recommended Class

Handgun Fundamentals or Women’s Only Handgun and Defensive Fundamentals

Handgun Fundamentals Level 1 or Women’s Only Handgun and Defensive Fundamentals Level 1.  Level 2 classes only for those that have completed our Level 1 classes.

Next Level:  Skills and Drills

Women’s Training Program

USCCA Free Seminars