LAKEVILLE, Minn. (KMSP) -
According to recent polls the percentage of Americans who want to protect the right to own a gun has grown from 34 to nearly 50 percent over 20 years.
Gun control has always been a controversial issue, but people who make the legal choice to carry a gun in Minnesota, now have a different way to learn how to use the gun safely.
Dawn Stevens went to Gander Mountain Academy in Lakeville to learn more.
Justin Johnson is the Gander Mountain Academy supervisor with a military background. He trains shooters in the virtual range. They use modified guns with laser bullets that shoot with the feel of real bullets.
Justin's job is to teach you how to protect yourself when the target-actually moves.
Justin says the 180 degree virtual room allows you to work on speed, marksmanship and other elements.
But it's also important to have the right gun.
Amanda Barron also teaches firearms safety and in the classes for just women, the ladies seem to feel more comfortable, but they don't necessarily take home a smaller weapon.
"Sometimes it's easier to handle a full size gun," Barron said. "It handles the recoil a lot better than a small gun will."
Finally, the 300 degree simulator room has bad guys come at you at all directions. You learn to be safe and be aware of your surroundings.
If you're interested in getting trained check out https://gandermtnacademy.gandermountain.com/purchase-now/lakeville/training
