FAQ & Preparation

Before You Train

Required equipment, range preparation, safety expectations, and answers to common questions before your class.

Before Every Class

Read This Before You Arrive

Come prepared, arrive safely, and give yourself the best possible training experience.

Mandatory

Eye and Ear Protection Are Required

You will not be permitted to participate on the range without proper eye and hearing protection.

01

Required Safety Gear

  • Eye protection
  • Ear protection
  • Proper outdoor range attire
  • Closed-toe shoes
  • Sturdy belt
  • Hat or cap for sun protection
02

Firearm and Equipment

  • Handgun or rifle required for your specific course
  • Firearm must arrive unloaded and secured in a safe case or bag
  • Three empty magazines
  • IWB or OWB holster
  • No flexible nylon holsters
  • Magazine holder; two are recommended
03

Ammunition

  • Bring the ammunition required for your course
  • Plan for approximately 200–300 rounds per person
  • Verify the correct caliber before arriving
  • Ammunition is not included unless the course description states otherwise
04

Outdoor Comfort

  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Rain gear
  • Knee and elbow pads, optional
  • Pen and notepad

Stay Hydrated

Cold Water Will Be Provided

You may bring additional nonalcoholic beverages. Alcohol, illegal drugs, cannabis, and impairing substances are prohibited before, during, and immediately after class activities.

Arrival Checklist

Safe. Prepared. Ready to Learn.

01

Confirm

Review your course, date, time, equipment, and ammunition requirements.

02

Pack Safely

Transport every firearm unloaded and secured inside an appropriate case or bag.

03

Arrive Ready

Wear appropriate outdoor clothing, closed-toe shoes, and required protective equipment.

04

Ask Questions

Bring your questions, stay focused, and be ready to learn and have fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before Your Training Day

Can I arrive with a loaded firearm?

No. Firearms must arrive unloaded and secured inside a safe case or bag. Do not handle, load, unload, draw, or holster a firearm until instructed.

Are eye and ear protection optional?

No. Proper eye and hearing protection are mandatory for all range activities.

How much ammunition should I bring?

Unless your course description states otherwise, plan for approximately 200–300 rounds per person.

Can I use a flexible nylon holster?

No. Flexible nylon holsters are not permitted. Use a secure, serviceable IWB or OWB holster appropriate for your firearm and course.

Do I need three magazines?

Three empty magazines are recommended for efficient training. Contact the academy before class if you cannot meet this requirement.

Is ammunition included?

Ammunition is not included unless expressly stated in the course description. Limited emergency ammunition may sometimes be available, but availability is not guaranteed.

What should I wear?

Wear appropriate outdoor range attire, closed-toe shoes, a sturdy belt, and a hat or cap. Avoid loose clothing that could interfere with safe firearm handling.

What happens if it rains?

Training may continue in ordinary rain. Bring suitable rain gear. A rain check or credit is issued only when the hosting range closes because of lightning or another qualifying safety condition.

Can a friend or family member watch?

Only registered and paid students are permitted in the classroom or on the range unless RDSA expressly approves otherwise. This supports range-access, insurance, and liability requirements.

Can I rent a firearm?

Pistol rentals may be available for a fee and may include a pistol, holster, magazines, and magazine carrier. Rifle or shotgun rentals require advance arrangements and are subject to availability.

How do I reschedule?

Use the RDSA system or send written notice by email. Text or WhatsApp may be used for urgent notice, but telephone calls alone are not sufficient official notice.

Can I attend after drinking alcohol or using drugs?

No. RDSA may refuse, pause, or end training whenever a participant appears impaired, unsafe, disruptive, or unfit to participate.

Still Have Questions?

Contact the Academy Before Class

Use email, text, WhatsApp, or the RDSA system for booking, equipment, payment, transfer, and scheduling questions.

Contact RDSA