Frequently Asked Questions
Discover quick and reliable answers to common concerns.
1. What is the difference between a gun safety course and a permit to carry course?
A gun safety course focuses on safe firearm handling, storage, operation, and responsible ownership. A permit to carry course includes those safety fundamentals while also meeting the legal training requirements necessary to apply for a Minnesota Permit to Carry.
2. Do I need prior firearm experience to take the course?
No. Our courses are designed for both new and experienced shooters. We understand many students may have little or no experience handling a handgun, and instructors are available throughout the course and live-fire qualification to provide guidance and assistance.
3. Does this course satisfy the Minnesota Permit to Carry requirements?
Yes. The Grizzly Creek Gunnery Permit to Carry Course meets Minnesota permit to carry requirements as per Minnesota statute 624.714 Grizzly Creek Gunnery is certified by the Minnesota BCA.
4. What topics are covered in the course?
The course covers firearm safety, defensive mindset development, Minnesota carry laws, use-of-force considerations, conflict avoidance, situational awareness, handgun fundamentals, and safe firearm handling. The course also includes a live-fire qualification. The live-fire portion includes up to1hour of instruction as needed.
5. What should I bring to class?
Students should bring a valid photo ID.
Students may bring a handgun and ammunition. If you do not have a gun, one will be provided.
Eye and ear protection will be provided.
Proper attire is pretty important. For safety reasons do not wear open toed shoes or open front tops. Hot brass down the shirt or in your toes is not a pleasant experience.
6. Do I need my own handgun and ammunition?
Students are encouraged to bring their own handgun and 50 rounds of ammunition. For students that do not have their own firearm we can provide a .22 caliber handgun and ammunition for no extra charge.
7. What happens during the live-fire qualification?
The live-fire qualification focuses primarily on safe firearm handling and demonstrating reasonable proficiency with your handgun. An instructor will be present throughout the qualification to provide guidance and to ensure safety at all times.
8. Is the shooting qualification difficult?
No. The qualification is designed to evaluate safe firearm handling and basic competency, not advanced shooting skills. Most students (99%) successfully complete the qualification with instructor guidance and coaching.
9. What happens after I complete the course?
After successfully completing the course, you will receive a “Certificate of Completion” that can be submitted with your Minnesota Permit to Carry application at your local sheriff’s office. The application can be printed off the Minnesota BCA website. Your local sheriff’s office will have them available as well and you can fill it out when you go to apply.
10. Why is developing a defensive mindset important?
A defensive mindset helps individuals make safe, responsible, and legally sound decisions under stress. Our training emphasizes awareness, conflict avoidance, judgment, and personal responsibility alongside firearm proficiency.