Does this class sound like a good deal?

[misANTHrope]

http://www.pdhsc.com/idpa_class.htm

My roommate says it sounds like a waste of $130. He's also kind of ambivilant on CCW although he's definitely a gun guy.

I, on the other hand, am at a point where I think I've self-taught myself to a decent level of pistol marksmanship, and I'd like to get some real hands-on instruction. This course sounds like the thing for me- not only do I get some general marksmanship instruction, but I get to work on things I can't do at the indoor range- shooting from cover, multiple targets, shooting on the move, etc. And $130 seems like a good price compared to the general idea I have of course tuition charges.

I'm not satisfied with my current proficiency, especially from a tactical perspective.

Thoughts?

 

[swacje41]

I don't know those folks at all, but I would be leery of it based on what I read. It sounds as if they are trying to teach you to shoot defensively, but also to shoot within the confines of the IDPA game. I think you would be better off with a single-focus course instead of one that has two focuses, in particular where those focuses are at odds with each other in some points.

 

[Jim Watson]

Without getting into the competition techniques vs combat tactics debate, $130 is not a lot of money for good instruction and it is conveniently located.
I'd ask for references and if I heard favorable reports, I'd go. It could be a stepping stone to higher level training next year. But if not, due to inconsistent instruction or a high student to coach ratio, I'd save my money for a major academy.

 

[mete]

That course deals with the mechanics of shooting. If that's what you want that's fine. If you are interested in other factors look elsewhere. The best courses teach not only the mechanical parts but also the legal and moral aspects of using a gun ,when to shoot ,when not to shoot. The best training you can find is essential if you ever need it !!!

 

[misANTHrope]

OK, I should note that I know these guys pretty well and shoot at their indoor range on a weekly basis. I'll also be taking my CCW course there next weekend, so that should give me a good idea of their instructional quality. I do know that from the times I've seen guys teaching new shooters on the range that they seem pretty good- hopefully that will translate well into a group situation. I suppose I'll be much better equipped to make my decision after the CCW class.

Another thing to note is that I would certainly love to go to one of the major academies- Blackwater isn't that far away- but my college-student budget makes the price of this course particularly appealing. Once out of college and in possession of both more time and more money, I'll be checking out the serious courses.

Thanks for all the feedback.

 

[thowell]

Go for it. For $130 and not having to drive, fly or pay for a hotel room, it's hard to go wrong. I took my CCW class there as well as several of the follow up courses and was very satisfied with them.
At the time (5 years ago) the step classes didn't mention anything about IDPA, just self-defense. They were fun and I felt like I learned a lot. I think the instructor that I had is gone, and the format is a little different now, but I have a feeling that it would still be worthwhile.