Handgun Permit Classes in East TN?

[Magoo]

I am going to be moving soon and I'll need to take a hangun permit class. I was hoping to tap into some local knowledge to help me find a good class. If I'm going to sit through another class like I had to in SC, I'd like to get as much out of it as possible. I'm specifically moving to Cocke County, and obviously don't want to travel too far, but will travel a ways if a particular instructor really stands out.

Internet searching has turned up Black Bear Firearms Training. This one is appealing as it's nearby and is taught by a member of the sherrif's department. I think it'd be a good way to get to meet local LEO and learn as much as possible about "how things are done 'round here". If anyone has taken this class I'm particularly interested to hear what you've got to say.

While I'm at it, if anyone knows anything about the legality of setting up a private range in Cocke County I'd love to hear it. I can't seem to find any info online. The new property has a plenty safe ~200 ft tall backstop . There are only two neighbors (in the opposite direction) but I haven't met them yet - will do that. Most shooting will be suppressed rimfire anyway.

 

[Al Thompson]

There's a range a bit north (Greenville TN) that has hosted Ken Hackathorn. I'll have to look around to find out the 'zacts, but hosting national level trainers is a good indicator.

Got it: http://tac2.com/index.php

Nice area, grew up in Knoxvegas.

 

[Magoo]

Thanks Al, I'll look into it.

I still regret I was never able to take you up on your offer for some range time instruction for the wife and I. I still very much appreciate the offer. We've still got family in the upstate and will certainly be coming back regularly. Hopefully our schedules will work out in the future and we can meet up. Then again, our new property does have a guest cabin, so if you feel the need for a Smokey Mountains getaway we could maybe work something else out .

 

[Al Thompson]

Cool!

People in that area are very nice, think you will enjoy it.

 

[taliv]

if you go one county west of knoxville, i believe the roane county sheriff does a free ccw class. been years since i heard, so may have changed

 

[Magoo]

Thanks taliv, I'll see what I can find out. While certainly free is a good price, I don't mind paying a little bit for a good, informative class. Did you take his class, or know anyone that has?

 

[Magoo]

Anyone else? I know there are east TN members in here.