Frequently asked questions
Who can attend ETS, Inc. courses?
All law abiding U.S. Citizens willing to train regardless of experience, novice or elite.
Where does ETS, Inc. conduct training?
Our primary training location for pistol and carbine courses is the Cedar Ridge Range in Bulverde, TX and the Copperhead Creek Shooting Club in Marble Falls, TX.
What can I expect when I arrive for training?
We encourage students to arrive 30 minutes prior to training in order to manage administrative issues such as weapons, equipment and ammo allocation. Most of the firearms courses begin with a 60 minute classroom lecture and are followed by a full morning of range time. Plan for a one hour break for lunch and an afternoon of more range time! We recommend to bring your lunch.
How long is the typical training day?
Training typically commences at 8:00 am and we secure at 5:00 pm – unless otherwise stated. We typically break between 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm for lunch.
Do I have to bring ammunition or can I buy it when I arrive?
Ammunition is not included in the price of the course and we always encourage you to bring your own ammunition. The required ammo allotment per day (typically 200-300 rounds) is posted in the curriculum (or course content under the training schedule tab) for each course. However, you may purchase your daily allotments of ammunition from ETS when you arrive at the range. (Just give us a heads-up!)
Do I need to bring my own pistol, carbine, shotgun, or long gun for training?
We encourage you to bring your personal firearm. However, if you do not own one, firearms are available for use for all programs of instruction. We have a limited number of Glock 19s, AR-15s, Remington 700s, and 12-gauge Mossberg pump-action shotguns allocated for your use during the courses. Again, if you need to use an ETS weapon, please let us know at least 24 hours before the class start date. The sooner the better.
What do I need to bring to the course?
Along with your welcome packet (sent to the email used for registration), we will provide any updates to the gear list prior to your first day of training. Required gear for the tactical firearms courses typically includes daily ammo allocation (posted in the course curriculum section under the training schedule tab), 3 x magazines, 2 x magazine pouches, outside-the-waistband holster (for Pistol Courses), sturdy belt, eye protection, hearing protection, snacks and a water source. If you cannot procure some of these items before training, we may have some available for use. Let us know ahead of time.
For the Patrol Rifle (Carbine) Course, officers will need the following:
Duty uniform & appropriate kit
Patrol carbine (AR platform, 600 rounds of .223) AND duty pistol (with 50 rounds of appropriate ammo)
Appropriate iron sights and/or holographic optic
3 x 30-round magazines (minimum)
Duty load-bearing equipment
3 x 30-round magazine pouches
Magazine dump pouch (optional)
Tactical rifle sling
Rifle cleaning gear
Z87 ballistic rated eye protection
Hearing protection (electronic noise attenuating recommended)
Rifle/shooter’s data bookNote-taking materials
What should I wear to the range for training?
Wear your "Saturday Best" with Z87 sunglasses and bring sunscreenin the summer months. No cut-off t-shirts, no shorts, no open-toe shoes, please.
I have ZERO experience with firearms. Is it okay to still attend the Level 1 courses?
Shooters should be familiar and comfortable with the functions of their fireteam. However, our courses utilize progressive method of instruction designed to accommodate both beginners and experienced shooters.
Can I use a revolver for the Handgun courses?
We don't have a "no-revolver" or a "semi-automatic only" policy. However, we STRONGLY recommend shooters employ a semi-automatic pistol for the duration of the Basic Pistol and Advanced Handgun Courses. The curriculum goes beyond stationary marksmanship and includes plenty of multiple shot and multiple target engagement drills. Employing a revolver is feasible, but "wheel-gun" shooters will spend an inordinate amount of time conducting speed reloads - which can be frustrating and diminish training value. Bottom line is semi-automatic handguns provide a tactical advantage by putting more rounds on target.
Can I use a sub-compact or "pocket pistol" for the handgun courses?
Like a revolver, the magazine capacity of a "pocket pistol" will diminish training value. The curriculum goes beyond stationary marksmanship and includes a plenty of multiple shot and multiple target engagement drills. This means A LOT of time spent filling magazines and conducting speed reloads. For those that carry a small sub-compact pistol (e.g. smaller than a Glock 26), we understand the value of training with your concealed carry platform. However, many of the weapons manipulation drills are easier to practice and master on a larger weapon (compact or larger). If you have a choice between bringing a sub-compact or a larger pistol, we recommend training on the larger platform.
Do I have to undergo a background check in order to train?
Yes. The secure online registration will ask you to provide us with your name, SSN and date of birth prior to the course of instruction. By law, ETS, Inc. is required to run background checks on all persons who desire to train. We are not permitted to train convicted felons or persons with outstanding warrants.
Are teens allowed to conduct firearms training?
No. Shooters 18 years or older are welcome to train. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate shooters under 18 for live fire evolutions.
Does ETS, Inc. do private or "off-site" mobile training?
YES! We have “white space” built into our schedule to accommodate mobile training team requests. Call or email us to schedule or discuss your specific training needs.
Does ETS, Inc. teach a concealed carry course or License to Carry course?
Yes! We do offer a stand-alone concealed carry course. Look at our schedule to signup for "Pistol 1 & 2 (Combo). This is a 2 day course run is fast-paced and will challenge you and truly test your ability to learn. Upon completion of Pistol 2, shooters will meet Texas instruction requirements for conceal carry.
Shooters will be signed off by our Master Instructor. Additionally, we cover concealed carry techniques extensively during Pistol Level 3.
The decision to carry concealed is a weighty responsibility; the safe and effective employment of a concealed firearm in a high-stress situation requires a mastery of the basics. The decision to carry concealed requires a personal assessment: "Am I tactically and technically efficient enough to carry a firearm?" and "If I had to, could I use lethal force to defend myself, my family or others around me?" If the answer is "no" to either one of these questions, you should not carry concealed. If the answer is "yes", then understanding state law, acquiring adequate firearm skills & training, and maintaining proficiency are critical!
The concealed carry curriculum included in Pistol 3 WILL prepare you for a true concealed carry lifestyle.