Defensive Pistol Skills

THIS IS NOT A BEGINNER-LEVEL COURSE.  You should be comfortable shooting your handgun and able to draw safely from a holster.

The Defensive Pistol Skills class was developed to teach the most critical skills required to survive a violent encounter through the lawful use of deadly force in self-defense with a handgun. The evidence-based curriculum is supported by an analysis of over 50,000 real gunfights, recognizing that such research has identified the standards of performance necessary to prevail against an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury. Students will take a deep dive into the advanced principles of defensive gunfighting, including rapid presentation from the holster, biomechanical advantage in grip, visual perception & processing, throttle control, and target transitions. Student performance is measured at the beginning and end of the weekend to accurately showcase improvement.

Severe criminal violence, emotional fitness and survival, conflict avoidance and alternatives to lethal force, and use of force law are also discussed.

Topics covered include:
● Victim De-Selection (how to avoid becoming one)
● Denial of Reality & Survival Mindset
● Concealment Mechanics / Gear Considerations
● Grip, Stance, and Biomechanical Advantage
● Visual Perception, Aiming, and Accountability
● “Building the Draw” – how to achieve a fast, accurate first shot
● Throttle Control and the relationship between speed and accuracy
● Target transitions

Course Requirements:
● Reliable handgun (double-action revolvers are OK if that is what you carry, no single-action-only revolvers)
● 350 rounds (minimum) of reliable ammunition
● Quality holster (IWB or OWB, appendix or strong side – Serpa holsters are NOT allowed, floppy nylon-type holsters are strongly discouraged)
● At least 2 spare magazines/speed loaders
● Magazine pouches are encouraged, but bring them how you plan to carry them
● Eye & ear protection (electronic hearing protection is encouraged)
● Clothing & shoes appropriate for the range and weather conditions
● Pen/paper for taking notes
● Positive attitude and an open mind