Get Training at Whittington U

by
posted on April 26, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
am2015_fs.jpg (17)

undefinedThe expansive show floor of the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits is a place to not only get info the latest guns and gear, but also learn about top-notch training. Attendees who stop by the NRA Whittington Center booth to talk with Jon Weiler, lead instructor for Whittington U, will quickly realize the New Mexico facility offers a wealth of training opportunities.

"We have a Defensive Academy that includes practical pistol and carbine courses, and a Precision Academy that focuses on long-range shooting," said Weiler (on the right in the photo above), a former U.S. Army sniper and CEO of Professional Marksmen Inc. "And we're adding more."

A glance at the Whittington U website reveals more than a dozen courses that are either currently running or planned for the future. Weiler noted the instruction is categorized by levels of proficiency, and any shooter, from the beginner to the expert, will find something worthwhile in the offerings.

"We present an open environment and want everyone to feel comfortable," he said. "We focus on the intent of the firearm, and your goals with that firearm."

For example, the introductory-level Practical Pistol I course stresses the fundamentals of "everyday implementation of the firearm tool," while the School of Extreme Long Range Engagements Masters Course sees precision-rifle shooters engaging targets at ranges beyond two miles--with success. Weiler also pointed out the family atmosphere of many of the Whittington U courses.

"It's the perfect way to bond with your family," he said, "while improving skills that one day your family may need to defend one another."

Latest

LEDE Composite Image
LEDE Composite Image

Standout New Hunting Guns of 2026

This year’s standout hunting firearms reveal an industry focused on refining proven ideas. Manufacturers are increasingly embracing features once reserved for premium models and including extras that a few years ago were considered aftermarket additions. Whether you’re chasing game close to home or venturing deep into the backcountry, today’s new hunting guns arrive more capable than ever before.

Massive Expansion of Hunting and Fishing Opportunities

The Department of the Interior recently announced the largest expansion of hunting and sport fishing opportunities in the history of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Service is also making more than 1,000 modifications to existing regulatory provisions, reducing complexity and making it easier for hunters and anglers to understand and comply with applicable rules. 

Behind the Bullet: The .25 WSSM

Quarterbores are back, so let's take a look at a fan favorite released just after the turn of the millennium: the .25 WSSM.

Henry Repeating Arms Introduces the Founding Fathers Collection

Henry Repeating Arms has introduced the Founding Fathers Collection, a series of seven Tribute Edition rifles honoring the men who shaped the American republic: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, James Madison, John Jay, and Alexander Hamilton.

Rethinking Ragù: Venison Ragù Bianco

In Italy, ragù simply refers to a slow-cooked meat sauce. Bolognese—ragù alla Bolognese—is just one regional variation that originated in Bologna and traditionally incorporates tomatoes, wine, milk, and finely minced meat simmered low and slow until deeply rich and complex. But some of the most beautiful ragù dishes in Italy contain little or no tomato at all. This version uses axis deer simply because that’s what I happened to have in the freezer, but this sauce works beautifully with almost any species of venison.

USFWS Releases 2026 Waterfowl Population Survey Results

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has released its 2026 Waterfowl Population Status Report. This report contains results from surveys and population estimation methods conducted by the USFWS, Canadian Wildlife Service and numerous state and provincial partners.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.