Defensive Pistol I

Defensive Pistol I is a foundational course designed to validate safe, efficient, and accountable handgun handling for defensive purposes. This course focuses on the core skills required to operate a handgun competently under time, emphasizing accuracy, control, and sound gun-handling habits.

Students receive structured instruction and coaching on essential defensive pistol fundamentals, including drawstroke mechanics, grip and trigger control, recoil management, and emergency reloads. Live-fire exercises reinforce these skills through repeatable drills that prioritize consistency and safety over speed.

The course concludes with a timed, pass/fail live-fire performance evaluation based on a professional defensive pistol standard. Successful completion demonstrates that the student can safely and effectively execute fundamental defensive handgun skills within established performance requirements.

This course is not a beginner class and is not a concealed carry permit course.

For participation, students must possess a valid Firearms Identification (FID) card or provide proof of legal eligibility to possess and handle firearms in their state of residence. All students are responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Prerequisites:

• Basic shooting knowledge and prior range experience
• Working understanding of firearm safety principles and range rules
• Students must supply their own handgun

Required Equipment:

• Handgun
• Minimum 500 rounds of factory ammunition per training day
• Eye and ear protection
• Belt-mounted holster and magazine pouches
• Appropriate clothing for the weather
• Snacks and plenty of water

Students who successfully complete Defensive Pistol I and wish to advance their training are encouraged to continue with Defensive Pistol II, where performance standards are tightened and additional gun-handling challenges—such as malfunction clearance—are introduced. Defensive Pistol II builds on the fundamentals validated in this course, shifting the focus from individual skill execution to maintaining those skills while managing the handgun under increased pressure.