My name is Andy Erickson. After a 23 year career in radio, I have taken my part-time passion project and making it my profession by joining the ranks of the self-employed. I’ve been teaching people how to shoot since 2016, mostly pistol, but also rifle and shotgun.
I was born in Sioux Falls, raised in Beresford, and graduated from Black Hills State University where I played a couple years of football and got a degree in Mass Communications after switching majors my senior year from education.
I’ve never been in law enforcement or the military. My shooting background is as a competitive shooter, primarily competing in USPSA. I work on pistol shooting the way a hardcore golfer works on their short game. You could say I am a shooting nerd.
If you are interested in training credentials, I am a certified NRA Pistol Instructor, certified NRA Range Safety Officer, certified by the South Dakota Law Enforcement Training Center to teach the Enhanced Pistol Permit training class, and a Chief Range Officer in USPSA.
I think what is more important than any of those credentials is that I am open-minded, always learning, and have not made up my mind about anything in the shooting world. I just want to get better and help you get better.
I am not the greatest instructor in the world and don’t pretend to be, I’m just trying to be a better shooter and teacher. I can promise that if you take a class or a lesson from me, I work for you and I will be patient and kind and you will not only learn, you will have a good time. Sign up for a class today!
Reviews
“This was the best day ever! I learned so much from Andy and I went from not knowing or touching a gun to handling a gun with no fear! I came home with a great feeling of excitement that I want to learn more! Andy I can’t thank you enough for the wisdom, encouragement, listening, and humor that was given to me and all the ladies. It was a great time ladies and thank you as well!”
-Stacey M – Women’s Intro to Handgun Class
“I had a great experience. Thanks Andy for being patient with all of us and still have a sense of humor!!! Very informative and I also felt more comfortable being able to handle a gun and feeling safe. I do learn better with hands on, so being able to handle a gun in classroom prior to going to the range made a big difference. Thanks again. Had a great group of ladies in the class as well!!!”
-Julie K – Women’s Intro to Handgun Class
“Andy – thank you for a very interesting, informative and fun class on Saturday. I am excited to get out and shoot again thanks to taking your class. I would definitely recommend this class to any of my family members and friends – you did a great job of not making us feel stupid for all the questions that were asked. :)”
-Becki F – Women’s Intro to Handgun Class
“Andy,
My son and I enjoyed your enhanced concealed carry course. We found it informative, well structured, and planned. I would strongly recommend your course for those interested in pistols and the considerations involved in concealed carry.
Thanks again.
-Galen – SD Enhanced Carry Permit Class