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It’s been several weeks since I completed the Rangemaster Advanced Instructor Development Course. This one, for many reasons, was different from the others on a personal note. I’ll get into that later, but let’s start with a review of the course itself.
The Course
First and foremost, the class is instructed by Tom Givens, arguably one of the greatest instructors of our time. Tom’s history, expertise, and influence are undeniable within the firearms community. The same can be said for many of his patrons. At this level, participants are true students of pistolcraft, dedicated to both the discipline and artistry of firearm management. That exposure, in addition to Tom's mastery, lend to the value of the experience.
Then, the icing on the cake—the Assistant Instructors. Only Tom could host a course assisted by the likes of Shannon Pable, Lee Weems, and Steve Havy. All are impressive shooters and expert instructors in their own right. They were impactful throughout the weekend, and I gained knowledge well beyond what was covered in the course outline.
In terms of resources. Tom provided a workbook for the course, similar to that provided in the Basic Instructor Development course. It included comprehensive examples and tons of resources that would enhance the toolkit of any instructor.
Logistics
The course was held on Saturday and Sunday, December 6 and 7, at the Georgia Gun Club in Buford, GA. The GGC is a large, modern, indoor facility. Our class had a private bay, which made the shooting experience comfortable throughout the weekend.
I don’t recall the exact number of students—perhaps twelve or thirteen—but I distinctly remember there was one other woman present, which I always love to see! While experience levels varied, everyone there was skilled, talented, and dedicated to the craft.
Schedule
Both days included some classroom instruction, but the majority of time was spent on the range. This course focuses on performance and understanding how to select the proper tools to teach the skills we were drilled on—exactly the challenge I needed. Unlike the Basic Instructor Certification course, there was no written exam. However, I found myself taking just as many notes as Tom covered real-life self-defense considerations, including teaching students through appropriate target design, drills, and scoring, as well as understanding the physiological and psychological impacts of violent encounters.
What resonated most with me was the correlation Tom proposed between confidence, performance, and ultimately, survival. This concept fed directly into my personal takeaways, which I address later in this report.
On the range, we shot standardized drills designed to introduce stress and emphasize the balance between speed and accuracy. Most were scored, and two were recorded to determine our course scores. Several exercises required students to perform solo and on demand, which raised the pressure—but the support from everyone was even greater. There were some amazing shooters in the class, yet very little ego, if any.
Overall Impression
This class was challenging, but nothing unexpected. I anticipated a rigorous experience and knew the standards would be high. I was particularly impressed with the expertise shared outside the prescribed curriculum.
For example, I learned the history of my firearm from one of the Assistant Instructors—something I never even thought to explore. As with any Rangemaster course, I also strengthened relationships with like-minded individuals, all while training with a legend. No regrets!
Completion
I passed the course—but it was a struggle. I should have been more prepared and should have performed better throughout. This is not a course anyone can walk into and expect to pass. What I truly appreciated was that success required not only knowledge and skill but also confidence in both. Consistency is a must, and any lack of it will quickly show.
Here’s how I know...
Personal Reflection
I signed up for the course months in advance. After my first Rangemaster Instructor course, I knew I needed to practice consistently, so I reluctantly laid aside my 1911 and committed to using polymer handguns and optics. The year started off well but quickly took a turn. My little brother passed away unexpectedly, just before his 45th birthday.
It was a devastating blow, and I used it as an excuse not to train. I continued working, instructing, ministering, and doing all the things I had to do, but didn't do much of what I'd previously wanted to do. By the time the course came around, it had been at least three months since I’d had a serious range session. I thought about canceling my attendance but decided to attend anyway—to soak in the knowledge and hopefully “rediscover” my love for shooting, even if I didn't pass.
While I felt my lack of preparation, I’m glad I went. The information alone was worth the time and money. Tom and Steve, though likely unaware, addressed many insecurities I had before arriving in Georgia. Their wisdom reminded me that confidence is key. Believing in ourselves and our skills is so much easier when we put in the time to practice, train, and perform before a life-or-death situation arises.
Though I’m not a competition shooter or law enforcement officer, I was reminded that I am just as capable and worthy of training at the same level.
Ultimately, I entered the class with the wrong mindset—already feeling defeated because I hadn’t prepared. Over the two days, with the support of the Rangemaster staff and community, I overcame my own negative self-talk.
Equipment
CZ P 10-C was my tool of choice for this course, initially with Holosun 507C-GR optic. However, I switched to the same firearm with iron sights midway through the first range session. My confidence with the dot just wasn’t there, and I didn’t want to let it affect my performance. I used Magtech 124gr ammunition, shooting approximately 700 rounds over two days.
Summary
I am thankful! This course, though intimidating, reignited my love for shooting and reminded me of what I’m capable of when I set my mind to something. Since the course, I’ve practiced more—both dry and live fire—than I had in the previous six months, and I’m enjoying it again.
Thank you, Mr. Givens, and the entire Rangemaster community. I’m looking forward to more!
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