One of my teens is just about to head off to college and expressed that she wish she knew a little something about guns before going out in an open world. Bill provided a fabulous two hour training showing us features/components of a variety of hand guns, mechanics of how they work, key elements to safety and gave us all a shooting experience (with consistent repetition interspersed about safe handling) that helped demystify a gun while still retaining appropriate respect for its power. Both my kids feel better about what a gun is and how to handle a firearm situation if ever it were to come up. Bill is a skilled marksman, a patient teacher and just a pleasure to work with. read more

I connected with Bill based on reviews here and via a recommendation. We had a good chat around what I was looking for in rifle instruction. He seemed thorough and knowledgeable, so far so good. I then sent him a list of proposed lesson times, but didn't get any response. That should've been a red flag / hint of things to come, but I still followed up a week later. He finally replied and we set an appointment, weekday afternoon 4:30pm because he suggested it was an optimal day for a focused lesson when the range is closed to the public. On the day of, I left work early to drive over to Richmond. I texted him 4 minutes before the 4:30pm appointment time to let him know that I'd be there in 5 minutes. Bill then responds with an angry message cancelling the lesson, and calling me inconsiderate for being half hour late without giving a heads up. I was a minute away from the range, perplexed at what just happened. I pulled over to the side, sent him a screenshot of our 4:30pm time we had AGREED to. But I knew given his (supposedly) irate attitude, it was pointless to try to get that lesson anymore, so turned around and left. Bill either messed up / confused the timing, or intentionally made this up as a pretext for his own decision to cancel. He of course, never acknowledged my screenshot of our 4:30pm appointment time we agreed on. Suppose it's always hard to walk back or admit a mistake after escalating things. If only he was organized and not quick to blame others (assuming he wasn't being disingenuous), I might've gotten a lesson as these other reviews suggest. In any case, no point in arguing further with him, just sharing my experience here as Yelp intended and then moving on. read more

Bill Gossy- Certified Firearm Safety Instructor - 4:30pm appointment time CONFIRMED. Repeat - 4:30pm, 4:30pm, 4:30pm - Firearm Training Near Me

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Had a great experience learning how to safely and confidently use my new shotgun. Bill was extremely thorough and made safety the priority from the very beginning. He walked me through everything I needed to know as a new owner, including proper handling, fit and sizing, choosing and understanding different shells, loading and unloading, and proper cleaning and maintenance. I especially appreciated that he took the time to explain the why behind everything rather than just going through the motions. I left feeling much more knowledgeable, comfortable, and confident while also having a healthy respect for safe firearm handling. Highly recommend Bill for anyone who is new to shotguns or simply wants professional, safety-focused instruction. read more

I have always been uncomfortable with firearms and decide to take a safety class, Bill was a fantastic instructor, he's patient and kind while explaining the rules for gun safety. I was a nervous wreck but felt well supported and not at all judged. I was taught how to sight and hold a handgun correctly ( safely) then had the opportunity to handle and shoot multiple handguns, learned the various types and even took one apart and put it back together. It was a lot of information to absorb but it was an enjoyable experience. The lesson was one on one so there was very little distraction. There were some concepts he pointed out that made so much sense that I felt better about owning a gun and using it for defense. I would highly recommend lessons with Bill, I would definitely do it again when I decide to get one of my own! Thanks Bill! read more

Went with a girlfriend yesterday to meet Bill at the Richmond Rod & Gun Club to get lessons; to learn about gun safety, types of firearms and for the opportunity to shoot a variety of firearms. What fun I had! Bill is not only a fantastic instructor, incredibly knowledgeable, patient and personable, but he's great company to boot. You'd be hard pressed to ask Bill anything about guns and gun safety that he doesn't know, or to find a better instructor. I couldn't recommend him more for anyone wanting a great experience to learn about, use and feel more comfortable around firearms. We'll be going back to see Bill again for sure. Such a fun time, thanks, Bill! read more

Today a friend and I had a lesson with Bill and it was an amazing experience. It was my first time with firearms and I feel Bill was an excellent instructor. He was very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the whole lesson. I enjoyed it so much I'm going to continue lessons with him until I feel more comfortable with guns. He had a big selection of firearms to shoot with so one can get a better feel for which gun feels best. I highly recommend him to all. read more

Bill is a great instructor. He is passionate about what he does and its great working with him. I have met up with him on several occasions for different reasons and each time was great. My wife who had barely ever shot a gun was a little nervous and he made her feel very comfortable with what we were doing. I think safety is always the number one priority in working with someone like Bill and it is easily his top priority. Anyone looking to get familiar with handguns or rifles should definitely consider contacting Bill. read more

Excellent trainer. We brought our entire family and Bill did a wonderful job covering the basics and then also gave us ample time at the range. He was very hands-on and supportive . Great trainer! read more

Absolutely the best instructor I've ever had regardless of the subject. Guns were a complete mystery to me, but after my first lesson with Bill I understand all the parts and how they work, not to mention how to shoot them and stay safe. There is a lot to think about and remember for a first-timer, but Bill gently helped me through the process. I can't recommend enough. read more

My son and I went today and Bill was very patient and kind. I appreciate his knowledge on the usage of several guns. He is a great instructor. read more

Today, I went to the range with Bill and he taught me about firearm safety, and then we shot 6 different pistols. He not only explained how to properly operate the gun safely, but he also provided vital safety tips for home, range, and on the go. I had a great time learning about different pistols and an even better time shooting! Bill was very kind and informative, and he had a good sense of humor too. His instructions were extremely helpful, and at no time did I feel uncomfortable or confused as a first-time shooter. Bill is a great instructor for anyone. As a woman, I highly recommend him due to his non-judgmental demeanor and his love for passing on his knowledge about firearms! Thanks Bill! Looking forward to hopefully running into you at the range! read more

Bill Gossy- Certified Firearm Safety Instructor - first time! - Firearm Training Near Me

I STRONGLY recommend using Bill for firearms training. He taught me all the basics I need to know to feel confident in moving forward with a firearm. I'm so thankful there are people like Bill out there who are creating responsible gun owners with every session. I will definitely be using his services again and recommending him to anyone looking to get started. Thanks for all you do Bill. read more

I contacted Bill for basic pistol training for me and my teenage kid. He was great to work with--he put me at ease through the whole process, stating from the first introductory phone call. I definitely recommend his instruction! read more

First time (woman) shooter here. Zero previous exposure to shotguns or rifles. My lesson with Bill was trap & skeet. SO EXHILIRATING! SO FUN. Bill Gossy's instruction is impeccable. His teaching style is confidence-inspiring. I was encouraged, coached along and felt safe. He covered safety, handling, mechanics, education about shell gauge. Correct positioning & stance. He brought a few different models for me to shoot with and determine what I liked best. Dynamo instructor, Bill's expertise and passion exude throughout the lesson. I think I'm hooked - next lesson already on the books. Cheers! read more

Recently bought my first handgun and needed a professional and well versed instructor who can show me the basics of shooting one. Haven't shot a gun in around 10 years but it all came back to me and I got to learn more about safety and the importance of stance, handling, target acquisition, as well as trying different calibers and frames of handguns other than my own--also had a ton of fun. Bill even went beyond and taught me how to clear malfunctions and range etiquette if I ever want to come back to the Richmond Rod and Gun Club. Thanks again buddy, cheers! read more

Bill Gossy- Certified Firearm Safety Instructor - surprised myself to be honest - Firearm Training Near Me

This was my first firearm lesson and I got the best teacher around! I scheduled a lesson to face my subtle fears of going to the range, handle a firearm, and build a solid foundation. Bill Gossy loves what he does and makes your feel comfortable. Most importantly he cares about everyone's safety. I feel confidant with my physical technique, mindset, and safe handling. Now, I just need to put in the work and build repetition. read more

Bill Gossy- Certified Firearm Safety Instructor - Firearm Training Near Me

Bill is the best. Great instructor and just all around nice guy. I took his class after researching several instructors and glad I found him. read more

We scheduled a 2 hour gun safety class with Bill a few weeks ago. He is a great instructor. The first hour was dedicated to gun safety, transportation and storage . He was very thorough, professional and efficient. He has a wealth of knowledge. We were able to shoot several different guns to find what would be right for us. It was a great introduction and we would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone. We plan to both go back and have another lesson. Thank you Bill! read more

Bill Gossy's Firearms class was AMAZING! My husband and I did this with my aunt and it was a very thoughtful 2hour lesson -- first hour is safety, second hour is shooting different firearms to get a hang of them and determine which one is for you. Bill was a lot of fun and clearly a serious expert in his craft. Bill definitely leads with safety which I found reassuring. I walked away with the basics on gun safety, maintenance, and technique. I'll be back for more practice! read more

Bill was great! Highly recommend for private lessons! My first lesson was very thorough and informative and also very comfortable. I'm actually afraid of guns, which is why I decided to learn how to use them. And Bill helped put at ease a lot of my fears that I've gathered from hearing stories and watching movies lol. Bill also brought a variety of guns with him that I was able to shoot and experience, which I thought was nice. It gave me insight into how different guns feel. I will definitely be coming back for more lessons, as it was a ton of fun. read more

Reached out to Bill looking for an intro firearm safety course. We spent 2 hours going over safety and handling knowledge and shot a variety of hand guns (7-8 different guns). Bill is extremely knowledgeable and a great resource for a novice entering the firearms world. I had a lovely time with him and narrowed down on the type of handgun I'll most likely be purchasing as my first firearm. Highly recommend for anyone looking to do an intro firearm safety course and get a lay of the land for what to think about when making your first firearm purchase. read more

I just completed my second training session with Bill today, we worked on calibrating my Red Dot Optic sight. He set it up and was hitting Bulls Eyes with it in no time. Me, not so much! But Bill stuck with me until I got a few in the center as well. He is patient, encouraging and kept working on a few basics with me until I dialed it in. I would recommend Bill for any skill level firearm enthusiast who would like to improve their shooting skills. I especially appreciate his detail to safety on the range. Thanks, Bill! Kevin read more

Bill is fantastic. I reached out to him regarding a safety and instruction course for my wife and myself. My wife had previously zero firearms experiences and while not hesitant, wanted to make sure she received a fulsome understanding of firearm mechanics, safety and overall best practices. Bill was the perfect instructor for all that and more. He made our two hours together easy to digest, comfortable and ultimately really enjoyable. He clearly has a wealth of knowledge and experience, and would highly recommend him for not only introductory lessons but plenty more! read more

Bill is an excellent instructor, I highly recommend working with him if you are in the Bay Area and interested in learning about gun safety or just honing your skills - no matter your skill level. My first session with Bill rekindled my love for shooting after many years away between work, raising kids, etc. He came totally prepared for the session and there was not a question he could not answer. He is fully proficient operating at a shooting range safely and responsibly, and is experienced in handling all types of firearms - we used seven different types of handguns over the course of a few hours. Bill provided all the safety equipment as well - safety was emphasized again and again. Overall I could not have asked for more and will be working with Bill again in the future. Five stars! read more

Me and my friend signed up for a lesson with Bill and could not be more please with his thoroughness and professionalism. He is a great teacher and very easy to understand. Seriously, I had zero knowledge of hand guns and after my class, I felt much more prepared to explore further. He supplied me with an excellent 60 page book that basically touches on everything you need to know about hand guns, atleast as a beginner. I plan on studying and taking the California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC). After I pass the test and purchase a hand gun I plan on taking more classes with Bill. Thanks again Bill! read more

First time shooting a Gun and Bill sure has a lot of patience explaining everything . I am slow in understanding and it's always good to have someone with so much patience instruct me . Thank you very much Bill . read more

Had a shotgun / skeet lesson with Bill and cannot say enough positive things about the experience! He was safety-oriented, professional, and had an infectious enthusiasm throughout. New to shotguns and he made me feel safe and comfortable throughout. Great facilities at the Richmond Rod & Gun club and would absolutely recommend bill for any shooting education needs in the future. read more

Great intro to shotguns with Bill at the local skeet range. Very informative on safety, shooting techniques, and recommendations on equipment. Highly recommend. read more

Bill Gossy is a professional and NRA certified firearms instructor. I was fortunate to take lessons from him at the Richmond Rod & Gun Club recently. I had a need to have a better understanding of my weapon, which I keep for self-defense. I couldn't have found a better teacher than Bill Gossy. Both Bill and the facility are top notch! Bill is mindful of every movement the student makes during instruction. We spent a good amount of time doing preparation, going over all the rules, and learning about the gun. Bill is pleasant, calm, ever-watchful and just an overall great instructor. I was nervous about having my gun before I spent time with Bill. I was surprised by how quickly the time went and how much more comfortable I was and am after my lesson. And it was a gas! You won't find a better firearms instructor than Bill Gossy. read more