Law abider said:
Our paper Pierce county Herald just published an article on a course to be offered in Ellsworth on Jan 28th. The fee is $100. Is this a 'normal' fee??
Depends on where you are.
I've seen NRA classes listed in the MKE area for $150 that I teach for $100. My cc class is less than that.
I suppose in places with fewer teachers, & perhaps students who are less aware, fees might be even higher.
You have to do your research - both on instructor(s) & average fees (look at the class search pages of national educational organizations to find classes in your area).
Ask former students if they got a good deal & learned useful information, were able to ask questions, had things explained until they understood.
IMO a big "this is a good teacher" hint in
any field is someone who isn't afraid to admit "I don't know the answer to that, but I'll find out & let you know".
Find someone who doesn't just give opinions, but shows you the law &
explains it until you understand. Opinions should be clearly stated as such, preferably with the rationale supporting them.
And IMO a firearms instructor, particularly a cc instructor, who doesn't give students a healthy respect for the negative consequences of even a lawful shooting, and strong encouragement to do whatever it takes to avoid a shooting (even in self-defense), is doing them a disservice.