Sign up for BFA-sponsored tactical carbine classes coming in July

Two tactical carbine classes sponsored by Buckeye Firearms Association are scheduled this summer, focused on the use of AR-style modern sporting rifles (MSRs). The first course is designed for those with no official hands-on MSR training, and the second is for MSR owners with good working knowledge.

2026 Tactical Carbine Phase 1: July 18

Only 24 spots are available for this beginner training, scheduled 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 18 at E.A.S.T. Group, 2535 Wilson Road, Fredericktown, Ohio (VIEW ON MAP).

This is a solid fundamentals class for those who have purchased an AR platform but have no official hands-on training for operating this firearm safely and effectively. You will leave this training with a thorough working knowledge of the system and its capabilities. If you own an AR-15 and are newer to the training journey, this will prepare you for success in the real world, not just on the range.

A portion of the morning training will be classroom based and hands-on as you learn to tear down your firearm, understand maintenance, and reassemble. The largest portion of the day will be spent on the range focused on operation and manipulation, and learning the platform.

Topics will include the following:

• Disassembly, assembly, and nomenclature
• Proper techniques for zeroing your sights (iron or optic)
• Loading and unloading procedures
• Shooting positions: standing, kneeling, prone
• Shooting drills that will get you quickly on target
• Cleaning and maintenance

Course tuition is $225 per person and includes instruction, targets, and range access.

For more information and to register, visit our Phase 1 sign-up page.

2026 Tactical Carbine Phase 2: July 19

This course, also at E.A.S.T. Group, is structured for those with a good working knowledge of the AR/M4 platform. Successful completion of Tactical Carbine Phase 1 is STRONGLY recommended.

Only 24 spots are available for this one, as well, with classes scheduled for 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 19.

This carbine class picks up where Carbine Phase I left off and provides you with more training on the platform. This is an amazing class for newer shooters, those looking for a refresher, and especially great for our younger students (14 or older with participating parent on site with student).

There is minimal classroom time. The majority of the day will be on the range at varied distances from contact out to 150-yards. Expect to be on your feet all day and active.

Topics will include the following:

• Varied shooting positions: standing, kneeling, prone
• Movement
• Use of cover and varying types of cover
• Proper manipulation to provide you with speed, consistency, and accuracy
• REPS! Training properly is about REPS and you’re going to get them!
• Loading and unloading procedures
• Shooting drills that will get you quickly on target

Course tuition is $225 per person and includes instruction, targets, and range access.

For more information and to register, visit our Phase 2 sign-up page.

About the Venue:

E.A.S.T. Group was established by a group of professionals in 2012 with a specific mission in mind: to assist individuals and organizations with the resources needed to map out a realistic training program and provide solutions to operate in today's ever-changing environment.

The cadre of instructors share their knowledge and experience gained from decades of working within the public, private, and military sectors both here and abroad. This allows students to immerse themselves in real-world, up-to-date exercises. The professional and personal experience adds to the curriculum taught at E.A.S.T. and provides a vast mixture of tactics, techniques, and procedures to tailor a training solution to meet the needs of clientele.

E.A.S.T. stands for ENVIRONMENT ASSESSMENT and SOLUTIONS TRAINING. The mindset and mantra of “Bullets are Inbound” sets them apart from the rest in what they provide.

The E.A.S.T. purpose-built facility is situated on 52-acres of rural Central Ohio, allowing for private training. They operate a variety of classes throughout the year to civilian, law enforcement, and military. The 30’x56’ classroom features A/V equipment and plenty of space for seated instruction or hands-on work. There are three primary ranges with varying distances out to 225-yards with additional training areas. Scenarios involving props, barricades, walls, vehicles, and a variety of other items are available throughout the facility.

E.A.S.T. is a 360-degree, realistic environment that differs from most others. Training areas are a mix of gravel and grass covered areas with high berms that are well maintained for use and safety. A 30'x56' scenario house offers multiple layouts and is easily configurable for any training need. Outdoor areas have plenty of covered carports to get students out of the elements.

To learn more about E.A.S.T. Group Training, visit their website or check them out on Facebook.