DNR offers introductory handgun, shotgun shooting classes for women this July in southeast Michigan

The Department of Natural Resources’ Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program will offer its popular beginning handgun and shotgun shooting classes in southeast Michigan this July.

Introduction to Handgun Shooting

Detroit Sportsmen’s Congress (www.d-s-c.org)49800 Dequindre Road, Utica

Monday, July 16, 7 to 10 p.m.

Supervised by certified firearm instructors, this class will include:

firearm safety instruction, presentation of the video Women’s Guide to Firearms and overview of pistol shooting fundamentals; shooting .22 handguns on the shooting range; discussion of ammunition basics, pistol shooting for sports and hunting, and tips on purchasing a handgun; and a display for handling various firearms under certified instructor supervision.

No skill level is required, and beginners are welcome. The cost is $35 per person. All firearms and ammunition, eye and ear protection will be provided. Participants are asked not to bring their own firearms to the class. The class is limited to 24 students, so those interested in attending are encouraged to register early. Registration using e-store is highly recommended as this class is very popular and fills up quickly.

Introduction to Shotgun Shooting

Island Lake Shooting Range (www.mishoot.com)13600 East Grand River Road, Brighton

Wednesday, July 18, 5:30 to 8 p.m.

This shooting clinic, for beginners as well as those who would like to sharpen their shotgun skills, will provide expert, one-on-one instruction on safe firearm handling at home and at the range. Participants will learn the proper way to mount the shotgun and how to shoot a moving target. Group instruction with live fire will take place on the skeet and trap fields, and the class will include a short lesson on firearm cleaning after shooting.

Cost is $45 per person and includes one box (25 rounds) of target-load ammo per participant and one-on-one shooting instruction. Eye and ear protection will be available for those who do not have their own. Participants may bring their own shotgun to this class or one will be provided for their use.

For registration forms and more information on these and other BOW events, visit www.michigan.gov/bow, email dnr-outdoors-woman@michigan.gov or call 517-241-2225.

Becoming an Outdoors-Woman helps women learn about and enjoy hunting, fishing, backpacking, shooting sports, canoeing and many other outdoor recreation activities. BOW specializes in beginners, but also offers a variety of programs that support a mix of skill levels. BOW is a noncompetitive program, designed to let each individual learn and gain confidence at her own pace. The program emphasizes the enjoyment, fun and camaraderie of outdoor activities, while sharing in one another’s success. Learn more at www.michigan.gov/bow.