Duration: 3 Days / 24 Hours
Instructor: Chris Cerino
Location: Range Ready Studios, Robert, LA
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Class Size: Limited to 16 Students
Note: *Coffee, Donuts and Lunch are provided each day.*
Turn Fundamentals into Firepower.
Build Unshakable Confidence Behind the Gun.
You don’t rise to the occasion—you fall to your level of training. The Semi-Auto Pistol Operator course isa deep-dive into performance-based handgun skills designed to hardwire competence and confidence into your shooting.
Whether you're a responsibly armed citizen, LEO, or competitor, this course trains your body to move with purpose and your mind to stay ahead of the threat. Led by experienced instructor Chris Cerino, this immersive 3-day course builds long-lasting motor programs, refines your technique, and develops a rock-solid foundation for real-world handgun deployment.
This is not an entry-level class—it’s for those who have experience running a pistol and are ready to elevate every skill they’ve got.
What You’ll Learn
This training is diagnostic, demanding, and focused on measurable gains. With extensive hands-on instruction and high-volume shooting, you’ll master the fundamentals under pressure—and with purpose. Expect to leave with:
- Improved pistol handling and presentation
- Enhanced trigger control and shot accountability
- A clear understanding of body mechanics for stability and speed
- Repetition-based motor programs for combat readiness
- A mindset rooted in efficiency, confidence, and control
Topics Covered
- Mechanics of grip and platform
- Efficient drawstroke and presentation
- Sight alignment, sight picture, and real-world applications
- Effective trigger management for speed and accuracy
- Reloading and manipulation under stress
- Clearing malfunctions and getting back in the fight
- 360° situational awareness and movement
- Solid loading, unloading, and "make ready" routines
Special Considerations
This is a physically demanding course. Students engage in high-round-count drills, weapon manipulation, and movement. Expect sore hands from frequent gear handling, and a full-throttle training tempo. Focus, endurance, and attention to detail are critical.
Mandatory Equipment
- Semi-automatic pistol (minimum 3 magazines; more for low-capacity firearms)
- Sturdy gun belt with strong-side OWB holster and mag pouch
- Eye & ear protection (electronic preferred)
- Cleaning gear
- 800 rounds of pistol ammunition
Who Should Attend?
This course is perfect for:
- Intermediate shooters who want to refine their fundamentals under stress
- Law enforcement and armed professionals
- Competitive shooters and concealed carriers looking to boost efficiency
Note: Not for beginners. You must be comfortable operating a handgun on a hot range, drawing from a holster, and managing basic manipulations.
Ready to Run Your Gun Like a Pro?
If you’re driven to push limits and gain confidence under pressure, SAPO delivers the structure, knowledge, and reps to get you there.
