Firearms Training in Bend, OR

Updated 2/26/25

Firearms training in Bend, Oregon, is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their skills, learn about safety, or gain confidence with firearms. The city is home to a variety of experienced trainers, well-equipped facilities, and comprehensive courses designed to meet the needs of both beginners and seasoned shooters. From basic safety classes to advanced tactical training, Bend offers a range of options that make firearms education accessible and effective. Whether you're pursuing personal protection, recreational shooting, or professional skills, the expertise available in Bend ensures you'll find high-quality instruction tailored to your goals.

Types of Firearms Training Courses in Bend

Bend offers a variety of firearms training courses for all experience levels, from first-time gun owners to advanced tactical shooters. Here are some of the most common types of courses available:

1. Basic Handgun Safety & Firearms Fundamentals

• Designed for beginners who have little to no experience handling firearms.

• Covers safe handling, proper grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control, and firearm storage.

• Includes live-fire practice at a shooting range.

• Often a prerequisite for more advanced training.

2. Concealed Carry Courses (Oregon CHL Certification)

• Meets the Oregon Concealed Handgun License (CHL) training requirements.

• Covers Oregon gun laws, self-defense laws, situational awareness, and firearm safety.

• Some courses include shooting qualification, while others are classroom-based.

• Completion of this course allows you to apply for an Oregon CHL permit.

3. Defensive Handgun Training

• Focuses on real-world self-defense scenarios.

• Teaches drawing from a holster, shooting under stress, shooting from cover, and close-quarters defense.

• Ideal for those who want to carry for self-defense.

4. Advanced Tactical & Combat Shooting

• Designed for law enforcement, security professionals, or experienced gun owners.

• Covers high-stress shooting, multiple target engagement, movement-based shooting, and force-on-force training.

• May include low-light shooting, vehicle defense, or home defense drills.

5. Home Defense & Personal Protection Courses

• Focuses on protecting your home and family in a self-defense situation.

• Teaches home invasion response, firearm storage for quick access, and legal considerations.

• Often includes scenario-based training and decision-making under pressure.

6. Women’s-Only Firearms Training

• Offers a comfortable, supportive learning environment for women.

• Covers firearms safety, concealed carry considerations, and self-defense shooting.

• Often taught by female instructors to create a relaxed setting.

7. Rifle & Carbine Courses

• Teaches proper use of AR-15s, hunting rifles, and other long guns.

• Covers marksmanship, proper optics use, maintenance, and tactical shooting techniques.

• Some courses focus on hunting applications, while others are designed for defensive use.

8. Shotgun Training

• Covers proper handling, reloading, and defensive techniques for shotguns.

• Includes training for home defense, sport shooting, and hunting applications.

• Often features live-fire drills to improve proficiency.

9. First Aid & Trauma Training for Gun Owners

• Teaches how to handle gunshot wounds and emergency medical situations.

• Covers basic trauma care, tourniquet use, and first-aid skills for shooting incidents.

• Often recommended for gun owners, range officers, and concealed carriers.

Ultimate Guide to Firearms Training in Bend, Oregon

Bend, Oregon, offers a variety of options for firearms training, whether you’re new to gun safety, looking to obtain a concealed handgun license (CHL), or wanting to sharpen your marksmanship. Here’s a comprehensive guide to top firearms training facilities in Bend, covering gun safety, practice ranges, and instructional courses.

1. Deschutes Firearms Training

• Overview: Specializes in firearms safety, concealed carry permit training, and defensive shooting courses.

• Why It’s Great: Known for knowledgeable instructors and small class sizes, ensuring personal attention and effective training.

• Courses Offered:

  • Basic handgun training

  • Concealed handgun license (CHL) courses

  • Defensive shooting techniques

• More Info: dftoregon.com

2. TIG Tactical

• Overview: Provides expert-level training in firearms safety, tactical skills, and self-defense for civilians and professionals.

• Why It’s Great: Focuses on real-world scenarios and advanced techniques for confident and safe firearm handling.

• Courses Offered:

  • Defensive handgun courses

  • Tactical rifle and carbine training

  • Custom private lessons

• More Info: tigtactical.com

3. Liberation Firearms Training

• Overview: Offers firearms training designed for all experience levels, emphasizing safety, responsibility, and accuracy.

• Why It’s Great: Tailored instruction for beginners, families, and advanced shooters in a comfortable learning environment.

• Courses Offered:

  • Basic firearms safety and operation

  • Women’s handgun courses

  • Concealed carry training

• More Info: liberationft.com

4. Deschutes County Sheriff’s Concealed Handgun Class

• Overview: Official concealed handgun license (CHL) training provided by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office.

• Why It’s Great: Reliable and affordable training from a trusted community institution.

• Courses Offered:

  • Concealed handgun permit training

  • Safety and legal considerations for firearm ownership

• More Info: sheriff.deschutes.org

5. Stoneridge Tactical

• Overview: Combines real-world experience and professional training to deliver tactical firearm instruction.

• Why It’s Great: Offers practical, hands-on training in self-defense and firearms handling for both beginners and advanced shooters.

• Courses Offered:

  • Tactical pistol courses

  • Rifle and carbine training

  • Private one-on-one instruction

• More Info: stoneridgetactical.com

Firearm Training Requirements & Regulations in Oregon

Oregon has specific legal requirements for firearm ownership and training, especially for those applying for a Concealed Handgun License (CHL). Understanding these laws is crucial before taking any firearms course.

1. Oregon Concealed Handgun License (CHL) Requirements

To apply for a CHL in Oregon, you must:

• Be at least 21 years old.

• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.

• Be an Oregon resident, or a resident of another state with reciprocity.

• Have no felony convictions or certain misdemeanor convictions.

• Have no history of mental health adjudication or drug-related offenses.

• Complete a state-approved handgun safety training course (online or in-person).

• Pass a background check and submit fingerprints.

2. Open Carry Laws in Oregon

• Oregon allows open carry, but some cities (like Portland) have restrictions on carrying a loaded firearm without a CHL.

• Local laws may require firearms to be unloaded while carried in public places.

• Open carry does not require a permit, but restrictions vary by county and city.

3. Where You Cannot Carry a Firearm in Oregon (Even with a CHL)

Even if you have a CHL, you cannot carry a firearm in certain locations, including:

• Federal buildings (courthouses, post offices, etc.).

• Public schools and college campuses (without special permission).

• Private businesses that prohibit firearms.

• Airports beyond TSA checkpoints.

• Indian reservations (unless permitted by tribal law).

4. Transporting Firearms in Oregon

• If you do not have a CHL, handguns must be unloaded and stored in a locked container when transporting them in a vehicle.

• Rifles and shotguns must also be unloaded when in a vehicle but do not need to be locked up.

• Having a CHL allows you to carry a loaded handgun in your vehicle without restriction.

5. Firearm Purchase & Ownership Laws in Oregon

• Oregon requires a background check for all firearm purchases, including private sales.

• There is no waiting period to purchase a firearm, but some background checks may take longer to process.

• Gun registration is not required, but certain purchases may be recorded.

• There are no magazine capacity limits or restrictions on "assault weapons" in Oregon.

6. Use of Force & Self-Defense Laws in Oregon

• Oregon follows the "Duty to Retreat" rule, meaning you must attempt to avoid a confrontation before using deadly force unless in your own home.

• Use of deadly force is only justified if you are in imminent danger of serious injury or death.

• Homeowners may use "Castle Doctrine" principles to defend themselves against intruders, but this does not grant unlimited rights to shoot an intruder.

• Oregon State Police – Firearms Instant Check System (FICS): Provides information on background checks required for firearm purchases in Oregon. https://www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/cjis/pages/firearms-instant-check-system.aspx

• Oregon Health Authority – Firearm Safety: Discusses firearm safety and related regulations in Oregon. https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/preventionwellness/safeliving/pages/firearm-safety.aspx

• Oregon Department of Justice – Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO): Explains the process and implications of obtaining an ERPO in Oregon. https://www.doj.state.or.us/crime-victims/victims-resources/victims-rights/extreme-risk-protection-orders/

• Oregon State Legislature – Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS): Provides the full text of state laws governing firearm possession, sale, and use. https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors166.html

Understanding Firearms Training

Firearms training encompasses a range of educational experiences designed to teach individuals the safe and effective use of firearms. This training typically includes:

• Safety Protocols: Learning essential safety measures to prevent accidents.

• Operational Proficiency: Understanding the mechanics and proper handling of different firearms.

• Legal Education: Gaining knowledge about local, state, and federal firearms laws.

• Practical Skills: Developing marksmanship and situational awareness.

Selecting the Right Training Program in Bend, OR

When choosing a firearms training program in Bend, consider the following factors:

• Identify Your Goals: Are you looking for basic safety training, concealed carry certification, or advanced tactical skills? Choose a course that matches your needs.

• Check Instructor Credentials: Look for certified instructors with experience in law enforcement, military, or civilian firearms training.

• Consider Class Size: Smaller class sizes often provide more personalized instruction.

• Ask About Facilities: Make sure the range or training site meets your expectations for safety and equipment.

• Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to maintaining your skills and confidence.

Legal Considerations

Understanding Oregon's firearms laws is crucial for responsible gun ownership. Training programs should cover:

• State and Federal Regulations: Knowledge of laws governing firearm possession, transportation, and use.

• Concealed Carry Laws: Specific requirements and restrictions for carrying concealed weapons.

• Use of Force Laws: Understanding when the use of a firearm is legally justified.

Benefits of Firearms Training in Bend

Engaging in firearms training offers numerous advantages:

• Enhanced Safety: Proper training reduces the risk of accidents.

• Improved Confidence: Skill development leads to greater confidence in handling firearms.

• Legal Preparedness: Education on laws helps prevent legal infractions.

• Community Engagement: Training programs provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.

Bend, Oregon, provides a comprehensive array of firearms training options suitable for all experience levels. By selecting a program that aligns with your goals and adhering to legal and safety standards, you can become a responsible and proficient firearms owner.