deco2: I think it's great that you are being educated in gun safety. This is very important and a lot of people never take the time to learn about safety issues. I've had a permit for well over 25 years and I make sure I renew it. But like Bella said, be sure you are prepared to use it. Another human being does not usually just stand there and let you shoot them. They may even shoot back. Good luck on your classes. I've found that another good way to practice is to drop a pretty small balloon into the creek and get it while it's moving.