Reply #2: Great question lunabush - Here is an outline of the California course

[slackmaster]

Courtesy of the American Shooting Center in San Diego - See http://www.gotammo.com/ (I particularly like their line of "Got Ammo?" products)...


Concealed Carry Weapons Certification
(4 or 8 hours)

This course is required by the state of California for those who have applied for or wish to renew a Concealed Carry Weapons permit. This course is restricted to those students who are currently applying for or renewing a CCW in San Diego County.

For new license applicants (8 hours):

Equipment required:

- The firearm or firearms that you wish to be placed on your CCW
- Factory ammunition for your firearm(s) - 100 rounds per firearm
- Eye and ear protection (available at no charge)

Topics covered:

- Basic firearms safety
- Local and state laws regarding the permissible use of a firearm for self defense
- Review of shooting fundamentals
- Review of shooting requirements for permit qualification
- Live fire exercises

For renewal license applicants (four hours):

Equipment required:

- The firearm or firearms that you wish to be placed on your CCW
- Factory ammunition for your firearm(s) - 50 rounds per firearm
- Eye and ear protection (available at no charge)

Topics covered:

- Firearms safety
- Local and state laws regarding the permissible use of a firearm for self defense
- Range instruction and live fire

I've spoken with the instructors at ASC and a few friends who have taken the course. Though not on the syllabus, a theme taught throughout the course is AVOIDANCE of problems.

Getting a concealed-weapons permit does not give you any special dispensation on the laws concerning use of deadly force. If you go looking for trouble you will probably find it, including legal trouble for yourself. Instructors stress vehemently that use of your licensed, concealed firearm is the ABSOLUTE LAST THING YOU WANT TO DO if you face a potential problem situation. Strategies for avoiding trouble include being aware of your surroundings at all times, staying out of known dangerous areas, poorly lit places, unfamiliar neighborhoods especially at night; talking your way out of problems; and running away.