GLENDALE SHOOTING RANGE FIELD GUIDE
Call the Shots: On‑Set Prop Gun Set Safety 'Gun Wrangler' Course in Glendale
A 10‑hour, hands‑on film‑set workshop led by industry pro Dutch Merrick that trains armorers, crew and performers to manage blank firearms and earn a level‑2 safety certificate.
Call the Shots: On‑Set Prop Gun Set Safety 'Gun Wrangler' Course in Glendale.
On a working soundstage in Glendale you step into a movie day: a crewing rhythm, scripted beats and the close scrutiny that comes with firearms on set. Live Fire Learning’s Prop Gun Set Safety "Gun Wrangler" course puts students in the thick of that reality under the direction of Dutch Merrick, an industry instructor with decades of experience, teaching how to manage blank firearms, run scenes and keep cast and crew safe.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Full‑day set experience with craft service
The day runs like a real production and includes craft service and lunch to mirror the tempo and logistics of a working soundstage.
Prop Gun Set Safety Level 2 certificate
Participants complete the course with a Prop Gun Set Safety level‑2 certificate, formalizing the skills learned on set.
Reenact famous firearms scenes and manage blanks
The workshop builds a fully functioning film set where crews reenact notable action sequences and trainees take on roles managing blank firearms in a variety of on‑set contexts.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Expect a fast‑paced, production‑style day: safety briefings, crewing up, prop preparation and scripted runs where you’ll practice handling blanks and calling the shots as a lead gun wrangler. Instruction is hands‑on and staged to mirror the pressures and procedures of real feature and television work.
ON‑SET SERVICE
Full‑day set experience with craft service
The day runs like a real production and includes craft service and lunch to mirror the tempo and logistics of a working soundstage.
CREDENTIAL
Prop Gun Set Safety Level 2 certificate
Participants complete the course with a Prop Gun Set Safety level‑2 certificate, formalizing the skills learned on set.
PRACTICAL TRAINING
Reenact famous firearms scenes and manage blanks
The workshop builds a fully functioning film set where crews reenact notable action sequences and trainees take on roles managing blank firearms in a variety of on‑set contexts.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits — and who should seek alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a single, full‑day workshop totaling 10 hours.
The course takes place in Glendale, California; plan travel to the soundstage location as directed by the operator.
The class includes craft service and lunch; consult the operator for any required personal protective gear or preworkshop materials.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the course?
The Prop Gun Set Safety 'Gun Wrangler' course runs for 10 hours.
Who teaches the course?
Instruction is led by Dutch Merrick, a veteran industry armorer and propmaster with decades of experience in film and television.
Is a certificate provided?
Yes — participants receive a Prop Gun Set Safety level‑2 certificate upon completion.
Who should attend this workshop?
The course serves a wide range of entertainment professionals, including Property Masters and Assistants, armorers, camera operators, grips, set medics, assistant directors, directors, writers, actors and stunt performers.
Are there legal restrictions on participation?
Yes — convicted felons are legally barred from handling firearms and therefore cannot participate in firearms handling elements of the course.