Get the certification you need to own a handgun in Maryland, with hands-on instruction in firearm safety, state laws, and basic handling techniques.

1. Responsibility & Legal Foundations

• The moral and ethical case for self-defense

• Overview of Maryland HQL requirements

• State & federal firearm laws

• Legal responsibilities of gun ownership

• Understanding use of force in light of faith and family protection

2. Handgun Function & Operation

• Types of handguns (semi-auto, revolvers)

• Firearm components and how they work

• Safe loading, unloading, and clearing

• Ammunition knowledge and safety basics

3. Firearm Safety & Secure Storage

• The 4 Universal Safety Rules

• Safe handling in the home (with family in mind)

• Child access prevention strategies

• Storage solutions for home and travel

• Stewardship of firearms as a protector of loved ones

4. Practical Handling & Marksmanship

• Proper stance, grip, sight picture, and trigger control

• Dry-fire drills and basic handling practice

• Confidence-building for new or hesitant shooters

• Situational awareness & decision-making

5. Live Fire Qualification & Coaching

• Live-fire range session (50 rounds – exceeds MD requirement)

• Range safety and etiquette

• Real-time coaching and encouragement

• Building confidence through hands-on experience

Final Review & Certification

• Course recap and written exam (if applicable)

• Certificate of completion for HQL application

• Next steps: Fingerprinting, application guidance, Q&A

• Ongoing support from the FFF community

Course Benefits:

• Fulfills Maryland's legal requirement to purchase or receive a handgun

• Increases your knowledge of firearm safety, handling, and responsible ownership

• Educates you on Maryland state firearm laws and legal use of force

• Provides hands-on training with live fire for real-world confidence

• Prepares you to protect yourself, your home, and your loved ones with confidence

• Earns a recognized certificate required by the Maryland State Police

• Opens the door to further training, such as Wear and Carry or Home Defense courses