There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching a student transform fear into confidence with firearms. And it’s one of my favorite parts of teaching, especially when it comes to working with women who are brand new to shooting.
Why Confidence with Firearms Matters
For many women, stepping into this world can feel intimidating. Let’s be honest — the firearms space is still very much male-dominated, and just walking into a range for the first time can feel overwhelming.
But that’s starting to change. According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation, nearly half of all new gun owners in recent years are women. And that number keeps growing. Confidence with firearms isn’t just for the guys. More and more women are stepping up, getting trained, and owning their safety.
My First Match and My Nerves
I still remember my very first competitive shooting match. I was nervous. Nervous because I didn’t fully understand the course of fire, nervous because I didn’t know a single person there, and nervous because I was clearly one of the very few women on the line. But I showed up anyway. I pushed past that discomfort, took the first shot, and something amazing happened. I loved it! Everyone was kind, helpful, and supportive. The fear I had built up in my head melted away. That moment was a turning point for me, and it’s part of what led me to become an instructor today.
Now I get to witness that same transformation in others and it never gets old.
Watching Fear Turn Into Empowerment
One student in particular still stands out to me. She came into class absolutely terrified of firearms. Before we even stepped onto the range, she broke down crying in the hallway. She told me she didn’t want an audience and asked if she could go last. Of course, I said yes. This was her pace, her experience and she was still brave enough to show up. That’s what matters.
When it was finally her turn to shoot, she did amazing. Truly. And here’s the coolest part: after that first shot, she didn’t want to put the gun down. Her fear turned into curiosity and empowerment in an instant. She asked me to go over how to safely clear it again. She wanted to understand it, to feel in control.
That’s the power of facing fear head-on. That’s what training can do.
Whether it’s your first match, your first time holding a firearm, or just showing up to class unsure of what to expect, it’s okay to be nervous. What matters is that you don’t let that fear stop you. Because what’s waiting on the other side of that fear? Is confidence. And it’s life-changing.
Ready to build your own confidence at the range?
Whether you’re brand new or just need a boost, my classes are designed to meet you where you are. No pressure, no judgment, just real progress.
👉 Check out upcoming classes or contact me with questions.
You’ve got this. And I’ve got your back.