Training Classes at Talladega

Talladega Marksmanship Park > Training Classes at Talladega

The CMP Talladega Marksmanship Park in Alabama offers a comprehensive range of training classes for shooters of all skill levels. Weekly courses include Basic Rifle, Basic Pistol, Basic Archery, and Introduction to Shotgun, each combining classroom instruction with live-fire practice to emphasize safety and fundamental marksmanship skills. Specialized programs such as the LEOSA Firearm Qualification Course, Marksmanship 101 sessions led by U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit instructors, and advanced tactical classes are also available. All classes are conducted by certified CMP range officers and most classes are open to the public, providing a safe and supportive environment for both new and experienced shooters. If you have questions, please contact our staff at (256) 474-4408.

List of Upcoming Training Clinics

July 16
Street Cop University/Legal Use of Force
(Law Enforcement Only)

Law Enforcement professionals are constantly under scrutiny for the force that they use during the course of their duties. Now more than ever, it is critical that we provide officers with the knowledge, skills and abilities they need, so they safely and effectively do their job – to serve and protect their communities. All too often use of force is taught in fragments spread over various classes. That is not how use of force occurs in practice. This class is one of the only classes that
teaches use of force as a practical application.

This course will strengthen the officer’s knowledge of Supreme Court Case Law, the neuroscience of violent encounters and how it pertains to Law Enforcement, documentation of force used, the type of effective training needed for Law Enforcement and how to deal with the aftermath of a critical incident. The instructor will use interactive tools and activities to engage each officer while providing real examples of critical incidents to include group discussions. Each officer will be more confident in understanding their legal authority to use force, be able to articulate and justify the force used, all while understanding how to improve their mindset prior to a use of force encounter.

Contact for questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 or email at blankford@thecmp.org

July 26
Defensive Handgun with Greg Bettis

8:00 am – 12:30 pm

The “Practical Defense Series – Handgun” course is designed for those currently owning or considering the use of a handgun for practical defense. This is a live-fire training session with classroom and on-range topic discussion.

This course will include the following basic handgun skills and topics, knowledge and attitude necessary for responsible firearms ownership/practical defensive skills.

· Fundamentals of defensive pistol

· Critical safety measures

· Care/maintenance of your firearm

· Alternative to using a firearm

· What to say & when to say it

· Target identification

· Close Quarters considerations

· Multiple threat concerns

· One-hand shooting techniques

· What to do before and after

· Contact with police

· Deploying the handgun

· Win the fight – now

· And more

The course has limited roster space. In order to attend, you must complete a registration form by contacting the course instructor or CMP below.

Once you have successfully registered, you will be contacted by the training coordinator with additional course information.

Each applicant will be required to complete a liability waiver. Anyone prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm is ineligible to participate. You must be a minimum of 21-yoa to attend the class.

Firearm, caliber and holster-type must be approved by the instructor prior to class.

Student will need a handgun of modern manufacture (semi-automatic or revolver, if revolver, not of single action or single-shot design), 100-rds of training ammunition appropriate for firearm, brimmed hat, closed-toe shoes, holster (no pocket holsters), belt for holster, drinks/snacks.

Please remember, this is a live fire course and ear & eye protection are required on the range.

The course will include standing, walking, and other minimal physical activity.

Student fee: $150 per person. Group rate: $130 per person for two or more.

Contact for registration/questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email blankford@thecmp.org

August 8-10, September 5-7, October 3-5, November 7-9
Steyr Academy

Steyr Arms, Inc. is a firearms manufacturer with over 150 years of innovation. The company specializes in products that are often utilized by military and law enforcement. As a subsidiary to their production division, Steyr Academy trains individuals on practical uses of firearms through valuable instruction, led by Brian Marshall, a 28-year veteran of local and federal law enforcement with two decades of instructor experience.

Contact for questions: Brian Marshall at b.marshall@steyr-arms.com.

August 19
Street Cop University/Interdiction Academy
(Law Enforcement Only)

This comprehensive course has been meticulously designed to cater to the specific needs and requirements of all Law Enforcement Officers, ensuring their professional growth and expertise in various domains. The course entails a well-structured curriculum that primarily focuses on crimes pertaining to the transportation of Narcotics, Illicit Currency, Weapons, and Human Smuggling. However, it goes beyond these specific areas and encompasses a wide range of investigative aspects related to policing. By participating in this course, students will gain invaluable knowledge and skills in utilizing highly advanced roadside interviewing skills, which serve as a powerful tool for deciphering and understanding human behaviors commonly exhibited by deceptive individuals. This efficient approach will empower the students to effectively handle encounters with potential violators, enabling them to accurately articulate and analyze their behaviors while ensuring compliance with legal procedures. Throughout the duration of the course, the students will engage in a comprehensive study of human behavior, engaging in meticulous video analysis exercises and gaining a deep understanding of the underlying motivations and reasons behind various actions.

Using Dash Camera recording, Nick will analyze multiple real-life traffic stops that he has conducted to present a comprehensive explanation of human behavior during roadside interviewing. Students will learn how to conduct consensual encounters, determine reasonable suspicion and probable cause based on behavior, plan encounters, and prepare for court testimony and review. By thoroughly examining the intricacies of human behavior, this course aims to equip students with a holistic perspective, allowing them to make informed decisions and contribute to the overall effectiveness and success of their law enforcement endeavors.

Contact for questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email blankford@thecmp.org

September 2
Glock Armorer Course – To be eligible to take the GLOCK Armorer Course you must be an active/retired law enforcement or military, private security, GLOCK Stocking Dealer/Range Program Employee or current GSSF member.

Description: Learn how to properly service and maintain GLOCK Gen5 and previous generations in a one day (8 hour) class. Visit https://glocktraining.com/files/AC_Course.pdf for more details.

Contact for questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email blankford@thecmp.org

September 3-4
Glock MOS Course – This course is designed to instruct shooters on the use of the GLOCK pistol with Red Dot Optics. This course is a dynamic shooting course that requires the ability to stand for long periods of time, shoot on the move, move into and recover quickly from the kneeling and prone positions.

Description: Increase your knowledge and skills with your GLOCK MOS Pistol in 2 days (16 Hours). Visit https://glocktraining.com/files/MOS_OC_Course.pdf for more details.

Contact for questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email blankford@thecmp.org

September 27
Concealed Carry with Greg Bettis

8:00 pm – 12:30 pm

The “Practical Defense Series – Concealed Carry” course is designed for those currently owning or considering the use of a handgun for practical defense. This is a live-fire training session with classroom discussion and n-range activities.

This course will include the following basic handgun skills and topics, knowledge and attitude necessary for carrying a handgun for practical defense in the presence of loved ones.

· Why you choose to carry

· What to expect when carrying

· Critical safety tips

· Open Carry v. Concealed Carry

· Carry positions: pros & cons

· Dress for success

· What to say & when to say it

· Target identification

· Close Quarters considerations

· Multiple threat concerns

· One-hand shooting techniques

· Safe deployment techniques

· What to do before and after

· Contact with police

· Protecting those you love

· Drill rehearsals for protecting loved ones

· And more

The course is limited to 12 participants. In order to attend, you must complete a registration form by contacting the course instructor, Greg Bettis, or CMP below.

Once you have successfully registered, you will be contacted by the training coordinator with additional course information.

Each applicant will be required to complete a CMP liability waiver. Anyone prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm is ineligible to participate. You must be a minimum of 21-yoa to attend the class.

Firearm, caliber and holster-type must be approved by the instructor prior to class.

Student equipment list: handgun, 100-rds of training ammunition, brimmed hat, closed-toe shoes, holster (no pocket/shoulder holsters), belt for holster, drinks/snacks.

Please remember, this is a live fire course and ear & eye protection are required on the range.

The course will include standing, walking, and other minimal physical activity.

Student fee: $150 per person. Group rate: $130 per person for two or more.

Contact for registration/questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email blankford@thecmp.org

October 6-7

NLEFIA Red Dot Sights for Duty Pistols (Law Enforcement Only)

Description: Just as red dot sights started out slow for rifles and ultimately became the standard, the same is projected to occur with duty pistols. As technology continues to get better, the red dot sights will become more prolific. However, teaching RDS on pistols is NOT the same as teaching RDS on rifles. Instructors need to know the technical aspects of these sighting systems and the best way to conduct transitional training for them.

This 2-day / 16-hour instructor development course is designed to provide firearms instructors with technical information related to red dot sights, mounting options, and holster considerations. In addition, policy considerations will be discussed and instructors will learn the best way to conduct transitional training and the types of drills to run to address the common concerns associated with the use of RDS on duty pistols.

This course is approved by the NRA LE Division for 16 hours of continuing education credit.

Visit https://nlefia.org/red_dot_sights_duty_pistols for registration information

October 11
Pistol Mounted Optics: Foundations with Cougar Mountain Solutions

Description: Pistol Mounted Optics (PMO) aren’t coming, they are HERE and have quickly gained popularity. Making the switch from iron sights to PMOs doesn’t have to be a mystery and this course covers successfully making that transition. After covering what does and doesn’t change along with some optic-centric issues in the classroom, we will be on the range. Topics include:

As in the norm for a Cougar Mountain Solutions (CMS) course, judgment & decision making will be addressed as well.

Acquiring the dot from the ready and the holster

Installing & maintaining the optic

Broken & blocked optics

Shooting both eyes open

Shifting one’s visual attention, and

Zeroing the pistol.

Contact for questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email blankford@thecmp.org

October 12
Pistol Mounted Optics: Practical Application with Cougar Mountain Solutions

Description: This one-day class focuses on the practical application of your optic and pistol. Distance, movement, and multiple targets are covered (regardless of your job), and more.

TOPICS COVERED

We are long past optics being novel. This session addresses their application with likely challenges. Topics include:

Judgment and decision-making will also be addressed.

Verification of zero;

Working from the ready and the holster;

Movement before and after shooting;

Shifting visual attention;

Multiple target engagements and moving targets (if the range supports it);

Broken & blocked optics;

Engagement at distance;

Contact for questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email blankford@thecmp.org

October 18
Defensive Rifle with Greg Bettis

8:00 am – 12:30 pm

The “Practical Defense Series – Rifle” course is designed for those currently owning or considering the use of a modern sporting rifle for practical defense. This is a live-fire training session with classroom and on-range topic discussion.

This course will include the following basic handgun skills and topics, knowledge and attitude necessary for responsible firearms ownership/practical defensive skills.

· Fundamentals of defensive rifle

· Critical safety measures

· Defensive fundamentals

· Care/maintenance of your firearm

· Alternative to using a firearm

· What to say & when to say it

· Target identification

· Techniques to employ the rifle

· Multiple threat concerns

· Threat assessment

· Defense considerations

· What to do before and after

· Contact with police

· And more

The course has limited roster space. In order to attend, you must complete a registration form by contacting the course instructor or CMP below.

Once you have successfully registered, you will be contacted by the training coordinator with additional course information.

Firearm and caliber must be approved by the instructor prior to class.

Student will need a modern sporting rifle-type (semi-automatic), sling if available, 2 magazines preferred, 150-rds of training ammunition appropriate for firearm, brimmed hat, closed-toe shoes, drinks/snacks.

Please remember, this is a live fire course and ear & eye protection are required on the range.

The course will include standing, walking, and other minimal physical activity.

Student fee: $150 per person. Group rate: $130 per person for two or more.

Contact for registration/questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email blankford@thecmp.org

November 8-9
Frank Proctor Shooting: Handgun

Description: Here’s what to expect

Priority on what matters most in shooting. Shooting of any kind even performance shooting is a simple thing. I break it down into things we need to SEE and things we need to DO.

We’ll start by listing those things and then start working through exercises that will help us grasp the concepts and build habits to execute those concepts on demand and at any level of performance we want to train to. Read more at https://www.frankproctorshooting.com/the-fundamentals-of-fast-applied-to-pistol-1/

Contact for questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email at blankford@thecmp.org

November 20-21
Thunder Ranch: Handgun

Description: Thunder Ranch’s Off Site 2-Day Defensive Handgun course is a down and dirty crash course for individuals seeking knowledge in the use of handguns in defensive situations. This course begins with the basics of gun safety, drawing, loading, and malfunction clearance, ensuring a strong foundational understanding for all participants.

The training extends to more “advanced” skills, including firing at extended distance, shooting while on the move, effective communication with partners, and other foundational concepts. Additionally, the course covers low light handgun operations. The curriculum makes the course suitable for new handgun owners, those new to professional training, and experienced shooters seeking to reinforce and expand their skill set. For more information please visit https://www.traintr.com/event-details/talladega-alabama-defensive-handgun

Contact for questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email at blankford@thecmp.org

November 22-23
Thunder Ranch: Carbine

Description: You’ve got a rifle—now learn how to use it effectively with the Urban Rifle course.

Since its creation in 1983, this course has been the benchmark for personal defensive training with rifles, often imitated but never matched. Urban Rifle is the flagship course of Thunder Ranch’s doctrine.

This class covers multiple spectrums of the rifle, from the setup to effective employment. This course is suitable for shooters of all skill levels, from beginners to highly experienced shooters. Everyone leaves better and with more knowledge then when they came.

This course focuses on using a rifle for self-defense at closer ranges, typically considered handgun distance. It is suitable for magazine-fed, iron-sighted rifles, though other types are welcome. Low-powered or dot-type optics are encouraged, but having backup iron sights is recommended.

This course is condensed for remote delivery from the normal 3-day course at the ranch. Be prepared to work hard both days.

Contact for questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email at blankford@thecmp.org

November 29
Frank Proctor Shooting: Carbine

Description: This will be offered as an add on to a 2 Day Fundamentals of Fast- Applied to Pistol

In this format we will start the day with carbine mechanics/manipulations and movement concepts that differ from pistol. We will run through some base dry fire and live fire work outs and have alot of time to run more challenging exercises to help us grow to the challenges of shooting/maneuvering/operating the carbine Fast Accurate Easy in a dynamic/practical shooting events. The skills and concepts we will cover can be applied to Combat or Competitive Shooting with a carbine or PCC

In this Format class size will be limited to 16 shooters for outdoor ranges and 12 shooters for indoor ranges.

This course will also be offered as a stand alone 1 day course

In this format we will start with an intro to my visual and mental concepts of performance shooting and training methodology. Then we will run through some base dry fire and live fire work outs and have alot of time to run more challenging exercises to help us grow into shooting/maneuvering/operation the carbine Fast Accurate Easy in dynamic/practical shooting events. The skills and concepts we will cover can be applied to Combat or Competitive Shooting with a carbine or PCC. For more information visit https://www.frankproctorshooting.com/1-day-carbine-pcc-fundamentals-of-fast/

Contact for questions: Please call Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453 or email at blankford@thecmp.org

CMP Training Courses:

Intermediate Handgun Course

Target Group: Graduates of the Basic Handgun Class

This 4 hour block of instruction will introduce the participants to SAFE Gun Handling Techniques, to include Drawing From the Holster, Reloading Techniques, and the Safety Circle Concept.

Student Items and Materials:

A Clear and Safe Handgun, Holster, Spare Magazines or Speedloaders, 100 Rounds of Ammunition.

For more information about this course and/or to schedule your training please contact Park Manager Bret Lankford at 256-474-4408 ext. 453

Concealed Carry Course

Target Group: Graduates of the Basic Handgun Class

This 4 hour block of instruction will introduce the participants to SAFE Gun Handling Techniques, to include: drawing from a position of concealment, the Safety Circle Concept, Range Mindset vs. Street Mindset, Unusual Shooting Positions, and the Legal Requirements of Carrying a Concealed Handgun.

Student Items and Materials:

A clear and Safe Handgun, Holster, Spare Magazines or Speed-loaders, Outer Garment, 100 Rounds of Ammunition.