Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Steel Bear Academy give me I can’t learn elsewhere?
A: Steel Bear Academy provides the one-on-one training that helps facilitate the fastest growth. Our instructors coach students in how to improve their shooting, maintain their safety, and answers any questions the student may have. While information can be found everywhere, the quality and thoroughness of the instruction is our strength. The direct dialogue between the instructor and student makes for much faster learning than trying to discover the answers on their own. Additionally, the instructor models the skills and practices that are important for safe gun handling—and corrects the student, if needed.
Q: I don’t own a gun. Can I still do a training?
A: Yes! We have handguns and rifles for use in the basic pistol and rifle classes.
Q: I don’t know if I am ready for this training. How would I know?
A: If you are able to follow instructions and stay focused, you can do the training. Shooting guns is not difficult, but it is a big responsibility. If you are unsure if you are ready for that responsibility, give us a call and we can talk about it.
Q: Where will the range time be held?
A: The range we will use will be Range Master in San Luis Obispo.
Q: Are there any restrictions for using guns?
A: Yes. If you fall into any category of restrictions (such as having a felon conviction, being involuntarily committed to a mental institution, or currently being the subject of a domestic violence restraining order, etc.) that prohibit possessing a firearm, you will not be able to participate in handling or using firearms or ammunition. For a complete list of disqualifying categories, visit the California DOJ website and/or view form 4473 from the ATF. You may file a CA DOJ BOF Form 116 to check your eligibility. As part of using Steel Bear Academy’s services, you must NOT be restricted from possessing and using firearms or ammunition.
Q: I already own a gun, can you teach me how to use my guns?
A: Yes! Many students have a firearm already, and we can show you how to use it safely and competently. For live-fire training, we can use handguns and “low” power rifles (.223 caliber or weaker). Give us a call and we can let you know how we can help.
Q: Does Steel Bear Academy train kids?
A: Yes, we can! For a child (or anyone under 18) to participate in training with us, we require that a parent or guardian attend the training for the entire duration. Many parents and children enjoy taking a class together! There isn’t an additional charge to teach 2 people as opposed to 1 person.
Q: How do I know if my child is ready for firearms training?
A: Every child is different, so it will depend on your child. We suggest asking two questions to yourself: 1. Can my child follow directions? and 2. Can my child stay focused while doing dangerous things? These are really the important questions for anyone looking to learn about firearms, but for children they are especially important. If you can answer both of those questions as “Yes,” then your child is likely ready. If you have any questions about it, please give us a call. We’d be happy to talk to you about it!
Q: How old do I have to be to take a class with Steel Bear Academy?
A: You must be at least 18 years old to take a class with us. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must be present for the entire class and sign the waiver with you. While we don’t have an age minimum to take our class with a parent, students must be able to follow instructions and maintain safe practices (which will be explained by the instructor). We reserve the right to stop the training of any student who cannot follow safe practices. A partial refund or credit may be given in these cases, at our discretion.
Q: How do I pay for my classes with Steel Bear Academy?
A: We accept cash, personal checks, Venmo, or CashApp at this time. We accept payment at the end of your training session. We keep track of time, and the amount of ammo we used, and let you know the total price at the end of the training. Check the class page for more information on the prices of classes, or give us a call. We’d be happy to go over it with you!
Q: Where is the classroom (not range) portion of training held?
A: At this time, it would be held at your home or business.