Learning to Shoot as a Way to Build Confidence

Going through CCW courses is an essential step in becoming a responsible gun owner. However, once you complete your classes and get your license, it's easy to think that you are ready to shoot. But have you ever been in a situation where you've been forced to make a split-second decision? Have you ever had to pull your gun from a concealed position? Are you sure in a moment of need you'd have the confidence to pull the trigger?

These questions are common, and they are the exact reason our EVR team believes gaining your CCW license is only the first step. Marksmanship and gun handling can be taught and practiced, but having the right mindset and confidence to shoot a gun is an entirely different skill set.

4 Ways to Build Confidence When Learning to Shoot

Shooting is all about precision. It's about knowing your gun and your abilities so well that you don't have to think about it. You can react in a way that feels second nature. If you're not there yet, don't panic. Building this kind of confidence takes time and practice.

Luckily, you can take some steps to start working towards boosting your confidence level and becoming a responsible gun owner.

1. Seek Out Additional Training - CCW courses are great for mastering gun ownership basics, but you need to further your education once you are a gun owner. It would be best to find a virtual gun range, like EVR, committed to helping you practice shooting in a judgment-free environment that promotes learning. Unlike a traditional gun range, virtual range classes let you engage in life-like virtual scenarios, practice pulling from a holster or concealed position, and allow you to track your progress to see how your skills are growing.
2. Learn Your Weapon - One of the biggest challenges for new gun owners is anticipating the blowback. The only way to truly familiarize yourself with the grip, the trigger pull, the blowback, and the sound is practicing. Ammo can get expensive at a traditional gun range, so a virtual gun range makes learning to shoot a little more cost-effective.
3. Protect Yourself - If you aren't confident as a gun owner, it's easy to doubt your abilities. This doubt could cloud your judgment when shooting at a traditional gun range. Practicing often and in an environment that supports growth will allow you to build confidence and ingrain safe gun handling practices in your mind through repetition.
4. Test Your Judgment - When it comes to real life, there are no second chances. However, when it comes to a virtual shooting range, you can have as many do-overs as you need until you get it right. At EVR, we offer a variety of simulations that mimic real-world situations to help you practice your judgment and boost confidence in the event of a real emergency.

Ultimately, the best way to build confidence as a new gun owner is to engage in as much practice as possible. Learning to shoot doesn't stop when you get your license. It's a lifelong process that takes time, commitment, and dedication.

EVR is here to support your goals as you learn to shoot and build your confidence. Our instructors are trained and ready to help you master marksmanship basics and become confident in your individual abilities by using various lifelike virtual scenarios. Explore our selection of virtual gun training classes and find the best fit for your goals.