To become an NRA Certified Pistol Instructor, one of the key requirements is demonstrating safe gun handling and marksmanship. The shooting qualification for the NRA Basic Pistol Instructor course ensures that instructor candidates meet a minimum standard of accuracy and consistency.
Whether you’re preparing for certification or looking to test your skills, this drill is a great way to assess your shooting fundamentals.
The Drill: NRA Basic Pistol Instructor Qualification
This qualification is fired from a standing position at 15 yards (45 feet) with no time limit. Candidates must fire 20 rounds total. The goal is to place at least 16 out of 20 shots inside an 8-inch circle, and all of those must also fall within a 6-inch group. This ensures not only accuracy but consistency in shot placement.
Target Setup
Use a standard 8-inch circle printed or drawn onto an 8.5 x 11-inch piece of paper. You can print one by downloading our PDF version of the 8-inch circle target below.
Place the target at 15 yards (45 feet).
🎯 Download and print: See Below
Qualification Chart
| String | Distance | Rounds | Time Limit | Scoring Standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 15 yards | 20 | No time limit | 16/20 hits in 8″ circle; within 6″ group |
What This Drill Teaches
✅ Fundamental accuracy
✅ Sight alignment and trigger control
✅ Consistency of shot placement
✅ Readiness for instructor certification
Tips for Success
- Focus on your grip, stance, and breathing.
- Use slow, deliberate trigger presses.
- Watch for consistency—tight groups matter more than speed.
Want to Train for This Drill?
We offer professional firearms training that helps students prepare for instructor-level performance. Whether you’re a new shooter or on the path to becoming an NRA instructor, we’ve got you covered.
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