FIREARMS TRAINING
Responsible Ownership Begins With Education
Real confidence comes from understanding... not simply owning a firearm.
What Does It Mean to Be Firearms Fit?
These are the six dimensions of Firearms competency






"Fitness" for Responsible Firearm Ownership
Owning a firearm carries significant responsibility. Whether you’re considering your first firearm, pursuing a New York concealed-carry license, or looking to build practical skills, education and training provide the foundation for responsible ownership.
Firearms Training at First & Last Resort focuses on developing the knowledge, judgment, safety practices, and practical skills needed to become a safe, confident, and responsible firearm owner.
Our goal isn’t simply to teach people how to shoot.
Our goal is to help people make informed decisions, understand the law, train responsibly, and develop the confidence that comes through education and practice.
Because responsible firearm ownership is built long before a firearm is ever needed.
Meet Our Lead Firearms Instructor

Frank Riess
Frank Riess has spent a lifetime around firearms, developing a deep appreciation for safe, responsible firearm ownership through decades of competitive shooting, hands-on gunsmithing, and firearms instruction. Introduced to shooting by his father at an early age with a single-shot Chipmunk rifle, what began as a childhood interest grew into a lifelong passion for the shooting sports and firearm education.
Over the years, Frank has competed across a wide range of shooting disciplines including NRA High Power, Small Bore, Bullseye, USPSA, 3-Gun, Trap, Skeet, Sporting Clays, Precision Rimfire, Steel Challenge, Bowling Pin competition, and many others. This diverse experience has made him a well-rounded shooter with practical knowledge across rifles, pistols, and shotguns.
Today, as the owner of Walkill River Small Arms, Frank enjoys sharing that experience by helping new and experienced shooters alike develop safe firearm handling skills, improve marksmanship, and build confidence through responsible training. Whether teaching one-on-one instruction, leading concealed carry classes, repairing a cherished family firearm, or researching the history and value of a collectible firearm, he believes there is always something new to learn and something valuable to pass along.
Frank's teaching philosophy is simple: honesty, safety, and practical experience come first. If he knows the answer, he'll gladly share it. If he doesn't, he'll tell you—and then help find the right answer. His goal is not simply to teach people how to shoot, but to help them become knowledgeable, responsible, and confident firearm owners for life.
Outside the classroom and range, Frank still enjoys spending time introducing the next generation to the shooting sports. The same Chipmunk rifle his father gave him as a young boy is now being enjoyed by his daughter, a reminder that responsible firearm ownership is built through education, tradition, and the experiences shared between generations.
Find Your Firearms Training Path
Everyone is unique! Just getting started NOW is what is most important...

NYS 18 HR CCW COURSE
Live Classroom & Range Instruction
Complete New York’s required concealed carry training through engaging classroom instruction and live-fire exercises led by experienced, licensed instructors. Learn the knowledge, skills, and legal responsibilities necessary to become a safe, confident, and responsible firearm owner.

VIP PERMIT SERVICES
Personalized Permit Concierge
Navigate New York’s licensing process with confidence through personalized guidance tailored to your county’s specific requirements. From understanding the application process to organizing required documents and training, we’ll simplify every step and keep you on schedule.

MAINTENANCE & STORAGE
Self-Paced Online Instruction
Learn how to properly clean, inspect, maintain, and safely store your firearms to ensure long-term reliability and responsible ownership. This practical course covers routine maintenance, secure storage options, safe transportation, and best practices for protecting both your firearms and your family.

HANDGUN RANGE SESSIONS
One-on-One Instruction
Build confidence and practical shooting skills through personalized range instruction tailored to your experience level and goals. Whether a new shooter or looking to improve your technique, individual coaching helps develop safe firearm handling and consistent marksmanship.

RESPONSIBLE GUN OWNERSHIP
Self-Paced Online Instruction
Develop the knowledge, judgment, and habits that define responsible firearm ownership. This self-paced course explores safety, legal responsibilities, ethical decision-making, conflict avoidance, and the ongoing commitment to becoming a confident and informed gun owner.

NYS FIREARMS LAWS
Legal Resource Center
Stay informed with current New York firearm laws, licensing requirements, carry restrictions, and official state resources. Our Resource Center provides practical guidance and trusted information to help you understand the regulations that apply to responsible firearm ownership.
Our offerings are evolving - your feedback is always welcomed!
Firearms Training In Action!
"Great resources for a newbie!", "Shooting is empowering...", "Should have done this years ago!
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