RPAL test pointers!

If you're not familiar with the firearm, ask the instructor before you start! But.. be sure to ask intelligent questions.. eg NOT How do I see this is safe,, but rather, How do I lock the slide so I can examine the chamber?
 
Know what a wadcutter bullet looks like.
Keep your finger off the trigger.
Be able to explain the difference between single and double action.
 
The best thing I did was watch the stupid gov't video's to accompany study guides. I picked up more from them than I did from reading the books.

also, as stated before, ACT and PROVE the hell out of everything.
 
The main objective of the practical,is to show you know how to handle a pistol or revolver safely.If you are nervous,let some people go ahead of you first and watch what they do.Good Luck

When i took my rpal practical the instructor took me into a separate room away from the rest of the class. It was much easier for me to do my test as i didnt have other peeps staring at me. I took my time and got 100% on the test.
 
According to the testing standards, once the exam starts you're on your own. Examiners are supposed to NOT explain anything to you after the test starts. Ask any questions about controls before the start of the practical test. Some examiners coach people through the test. Hell, some let people use the manual during the closed book tests...

Got to go before I start to rant!!

i would disagree with you on this. it is a firearms safety course, not a firearms proficiency course. i know in my case i use a variety of different operating firearms deliberately to see what the student will do when things aren't where they are suppose to be. i have no problems answering questions about where the safety is (there isn't one) or how to open the action etc.
 
i would disagree with you on this. it is a firearms safety course, not a firearms proficiency course. i know in my case i use a variety of different operating firearms deliberately to see what the student will do when things aren't where they are suppose to be. i have no problems answering questions about where the safety is (there isn't one) or how to open the action etc.


My examiner told me once the exam begins he cannot answer any questions. He did give me time to look over the firearms and ask questions before the exam begins. I would suggest doing so.

P.S GOOD LUCK!
 
During the course, ie before the written and practical tests, you should have several occassions to practice with the deact. firearms and get some 'hands on' experience. If you are not sure how they operate prior to the course, this will be explained to each person. This is the time to ask questions and become familiar with each firearm. If you are still not satisfied with your abiltity, tell the instructor prior to the exam. You will/should be given every opportunity to fully understand the individual firearms prior to the practical.
 
Good advice.

Make sure you know how to store the gun too. I almost forgot to put a trigger lock on when I put it away "after a day of shooting at the range was over". Nerves.

And don't forget about the ATT. I got burned on this on my exam. I was right and the instructor agreed, but I was wrong according to the "official" answers. :mad:
Take your time, remember ACTS and PROVE and all should go well.

(E) :cool:
 
rpal pointer

the objective of the practical is to show that you are aware that guns don't kill, peaple kill, with guns.most examiners will not tell you , but they are watching for obvious inattention to the tool you have in your hand. carelessness =failure.:D
 
Heading over to Silvercore next weekend how is their training with its intensity? I am fairly familiar with fire arms and their safety measures, but what are the legalities that I need to focus on?
Also For the rpal in silvercore do I have to provide references or do they do it for me?
 
i would disagree with you on this. it is a firearms safety course, not a firearms proficiency course. ... i have no problems answering questions about where the safety is (there isn't one) or how to open the action etc.

I would suggest that examiners who are coaching people through the test watch the CFC's video "Practical Test Review For Examiners" as it clearly directs examiners to say nothing but the exact script for the questions once the test has started. The only thing you are supposed to say that isn't on the exam is 'thank you' after the candidates' responses. The examiner instructional video explicitly states that you are not allowed to coach students during the exam and that you are not to explain ACTS & PROVE after you have started the instructions for the exam.
 
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Any other tips? I'm going to challange the RPAL tmr (cuz I need it for work). Is the written part self explanatory like the PAL? I didn't want to waste a perfectly good hunting weekend sitting in a room.

Any help would be appreciated!
 
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