Mercyhurst University Offering Handgun Training Class

The Public Safety Institute at Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pennsylvania has created a firearms training course as part of its Civilian Training Academy program.

As GoErie.com reports, the first Citizen Handgun Familiarization course occurred yesterday, but the second is set for Saturday, Dec. 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The course is divided into two parts: four hours of classroom training which covers handgun operation, safety, marksmanship, and legal issues around gun usage such as the Castle Doctrine; and four hours of hands-on training at the Keystone Gun Club, located at 902 E. 28th St.

“We believe that it is the responsibility of every gun owner to be as educated and as safe as they can be,” PSI Director Arthur Amann said in a statement. “Our new Citizen Handgun Familiarization course is designed for anyone with an interest in handguns, their safe handling, safe storage, an understanding of Pennsylvania gun laws and developing their shooting skills.”

The instructor for the Citizen Handgun Familiarization course is Paul Foltz, who is an adult probation officer, certified firearms instructor and adjunct faculty for Mercyhurst’s Municipal Police Training Academy, according to the press release. Foltz will be joined by Amann, Dave Rockwell, PSI associate director; and John Villa, PSI’s emergency services coordinator.

The total cost for the eight-hour course is $100. Class size is limited to 10 participants. If you can’t get a spot in the upcoming December session, another one is being scheduled for January. To register or to obtain additional information, contact Art Amann at aamann@mercyhurst.edu; 814-725-6121.