I am a 75-year-old female and have always had a great deal of fear of firearms. My husband finally convinced me to try to learn to shoot. I took the introductory course at the Florence, SC Armory. Alissa was my instructor. She was so patient and so kind and did much to calm my nerves. Her knowledge and skill were very impressive. She explained and demonstrated every aspect from safety to loading to firing. She then guided me through each step and was so encouraging that I felt I could try another session. I had a long discussion with both Alissa and Wes (the range manager) about different types of firearms. Wes asked me questions and showed me several different pistols as he explained the differences of each. He was very honest in helping me see the advantages and disadvantages for someone in my particular situation. (small hands, weaker hand strength etc.) I ended up purchasing a Ruger and when it was delivered, Wes gave me a lesson on the specific use of my gun. He also was patient, knowledgeable and very skilled. He not only knew what to teach for the correct use of my gun, he was able to explain each detail using perfect analogies to help me understand. He was patient with my questions and as he observed my shooting, he gently corrected what I was doing wrong and was very encouraging and quick to point out what I did correctly. Because of Alyssa and Wes, my fear of handguns has been replaced with a healthy respect for their power. Since my lessons, I have been to the range several times and I am gaining skill and confidence. I have plans to get my CWP, something I never dreamed I would ever do. I owe it all to Alyssa and Wes at the Florence store and I am so grateful for everything they have done for me.