"We've been open for about a year, and demand for training has been
very high," Chapman said. "Part of the reason may be that we will
tailor a course to meet a group's specific needs and will travel to
accommodate a group. "What has been interesting is that we have
had requests for private classes for specific groups or even
families," she said. "Sometimes, they have as many as 15 or 20
people at a time who want to take lessons together."
Chapman said she thinks Pistol Prep Academy's array of course
offerings and her instructors' depth of experience help attract
people to Pistol Prep — and students then spread the word.
"I think our blend of experience is unique," Chapman said. "We
don't approach training or theory from a single vantage point, but
from many.
"Our instructors come from backgrounds including extensive NRA
training, military and law enforcement duty, and participation in
the competitive pistol sports. We certainly teach firearm safety,
marksmanship and concealed carry, but we also give students a
real-world look into all aspects of firearm choices and use."
Accessibility to instructors and their expertise also has been a
factor in Pistol Prep's success, Chapman said.
"We are very serious about teaching firearm safety and the
principles of gun-handling and marksmanship," she said. "But we are
also everyday people. We don't view this as 'preaching from on
high,' but as helping other people become proficient in the use of
firearms and helping them enjoy the learning process. We are always
available for a question or piece of advice.
[to top of second column] |
"As trainers and shooters, we are serious about our own
development, and we are frequently students ourselves. We understand
that a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere makes a world of
difference to someone new to firearms, just as it is for someone
taking his or her training to a new level."
Pistol Prep Academy offers Illinois concealed carry courses, as
well as NRA courses including Basic Pistol, Personal Protection in
the Home and Personal Protection Outside Home.
Additionally, Pistol Prep Academy offers the NRA's "Refuse To Be
A Victim" seminar, a non-shooting course that focuses on crime
deterrence and personal safety through awareness, avoidance and
preparedness. The topics in the seminar include everything from safe
shopping to Internet security to making the home a harder target for
would-be burglars.
"Everyone is welcome at Pistol Prep Academy," Chapman concluded.
"We are not about politics. We are about personal safety, the safe
and responsible use of firearms, and enjoying the shooting sports."
You can find more information and register for a course at
www.pistolprepacademy.com. For additional details, call Annette
309-830-7182 or email
info@pistolprepacademy.com. You may also like Pistol Prep
Academy on Facebook
[Text from news release received from
Pistol Prep Academy] |