Ch 529 Sec. 29-35 further clarifies what "formal training" means: "For the purposes of this subsection, 'formal pistol or revolver training' means pistol or revolver training at a locally approved or permitted firing range or training facility"
So I guess the question left unanswered is if you need an instructor in order for it to be training, or whether self-instruction and practice is considered training. I don't see that clarification in the statutes, but perhaps it has been clarified elsewhere.
As a matter of fact, I emailed the SLFU and got a response about this very thing from the XO, SGT Bastura. No, range practice is NOT "formal training", so you'd better be on signed up on a roster if you're en route to and have a receipt/certificate en route from if you get popped. I also asked about open carry since it specifically is NOT prohibited by law, but was thrown legal "smoke and mirrors".
"Dear Mike,
Sorry for the delay.
Target practice and target shooting do not qualify as
"formal training." In regard to your open vs. concealed carry questions, we
are not authorized to provide legal opinions. I recommend that you contact
legal counsel to assist you in that regard.
Sincerely,
Sergeant Ronald A. Bastura
Executive Officer
Special Licensing and Firearms Unit
State of Connecticut
Department of Public Safety
Division of State Police
1111 Country Club Road
Middletown, CT 06457-2389
Special Licensing: (860) 685-8046
Investigations: (860) 685-8160
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail transmission (and any attachments
accompanying it) is privileged, confidential and intended only for the
individual or entity named. If you or your office is not the intended
recipient, the dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication
is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error,
please notify us immediately by reply e-mail, delete this e-mail and destroy
all copies of this transmission. Thank you."