Idaho-Based Sportsmen’s Association Launches Innovative Training Sessions

by
posted on July 2, 2024
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
WOMEN ON TARGET logo text FROM THE WOMEN OF THE NRA

Once a month, during the winter, the Bonner County Sportsmen’s Association (BCSA)—in Sandpoint, Idaho—indoor range hosts an NRA Women on Target (WOT) program for handguns. Launched modestly by word of mouth several years ago, the events now attract full-capacity, 12-person participation. 

Attendees receive top-notch training in gun safety and the fundamentals of marksmanship and pistol shooting. The effort is made possible by the range safety officers (RSO) and instructors, as well as grants from the NRA Foundation that keep programs costs low.

BCSA recently decided to take the training to the next level. It combined WOT with the NRA America's Rifle Challenge (ARC), the first time the popular programs have been combined and an innovative approach expanding the knowledge and experience provided in each session.

Bonner County Sportsmen's association shooting range nra ar challenge women with guns

To make it happen, BCSA secured a grant from The NRA Foundation for Smith & Wesson MP 15-22 rifles and red-dot sights. The rifles, which chamber .22 LR rounds, were perfect for the 50-foot indoor range, allowing for realistic training scenarios.

Before opening the training to students, RSOs conducted a thorough dress rehearsal to iron out logistical challenges. When everything was in place, the first class was held. By all accounts it was a great success.

WOT clinics are available only to women, providing a safe and friendly environment—whether they're picking up a gun for the first time or in need of a refresher. Clinics are half- or full-day, with a hands-on, one-of-a-kind session. No experience or equipment is required for participation. The instructional clinics are designed to teach firearm safety and the fundamentals of marksmanship, providing students the confidence needed to safely handle and operate a firearm upon clinic completion.

NRA ARC offers participants with a platform to test and enhance shooting abilities in a competitive setting. As the world’s largest firearms training and education organization, the NRA strives to extend this initiative to rifle owners nationwide, fostering a collective endeavor to utilize and master the AR platform.

Latest

Walther PDP Pro-X PMM
Walther PDP Pro-X PMM

Unfair Advantage: The Walther PDP Pro-X PMM

The latest “Pro” model in this famous German maker’s line of U.S.-assembled pistols leverages more than 100 years of experience in building service-size semi-automatics. And the results are better than even most experienced shooters should expect.

The Armed Citizen® Sept. 8, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Terminal Ballistics 101: What You Must Know As A Rifleman

It is easy to take a box of bullets for granted, but as a rifleman, it is important to understand all variables at play when it comes to terminal ballistics. This guide, from NRA Firearms Sourcebook, will help drill down on what is important.

Preview: BlackPoint Tactical Leather Wing—Light Mounted

The Leather Wing from BlackPoint Tactical is a hybrid OWB concealed-carry holster that pairs thermoformed front and rear Kydex shells with flexible leather side panels.

Bringing The 940 Back: Smith & Wesson & Davidson's Revive Classic Revolver

After a 27-year hiatus, the Smith & Wesson Model 940 revolver in 9 mm Luger is finally back, thanks to S&W's partnership with distributor Davidson's, Inc.

Preview: The Life Of Samuel H. Walker

Firearm enthusiasts will recognize the name of Samuel Walker due to his association with Sam Colt.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.