Women’s Defensive Pistol is the final in a series of classes developed by women, for women. Having already learned basic safety and marksmanship skills, this class will prepare you for defensive use of a pistol. To that end, we will start by reviewing the fundamentals acquired through “Women’s Basic Handgun” and “Women’s Intermediate Handgun“. Then, we will take you through all new lessons and exercises. Specifically, we start by helping understand how important the right mindset can be. Next we discuss your options for handling a violent encounter. You will also learn the difference between “marksmanship” and “defensive shooting”. Finally, we wrap up the discussion portion discussing and demonstrating skills you will practice in your hands-on session at the range.
Of course, the key component to all of this training is helping you be safe and develop confidence while you learn to meet or exceed your goals. We want you to participate, ask questions, push yourself a little bit, and have fun learning.
Women’s Defensive Pistol provides a safe, but casual learning experience, free of the judgment and critical review many have come to expect of our male dominated industry. The pace of each class will be determined by how quickly students are comfortable progressing.
[Important: If you do not already have a handgun, please contact your instructor for accommodations prior to signing up. We have a limited selection of pistols for rent at reasonable rates.]
What to Expect from Women’s Defensive Pistol
The classroom portion of “Women’s Defensive Pistol” may be conducted via Zoom Meeting. Students and weather will decide. Then, we will meet at the range to put it all together to continue developing your skills.
Defensive Pistol skills and topics covered at the range will include the following:
- Range safety & range etiquette
- Drawing from the holster
- Loading and Reloading
- Types of reload maneuvers
- Drills for development
[note: Actual course time may vary depending on average student experience and desired training goals.]
What to bring for Women’s Basic Handgun
Required for each WOMEN’S Basic Handgun student
- Great attitude, willingness to have fun, and eagerness to learn!
- Head gear: Hat, ball cap, or other brimmed head-wear to protect you from the sun and potential flying/floating debris.
- Eye protection: Shooting glasses, prescription glasses, sunglasses, or other suitable tempered protective eyewear.
- Hearing protection: Ear plugs or ear muffs are required. Electronic ear muffs are preferred, for those who have access to them.
- Footwear: Closed-toed, comfortable shoes. We will be standing a lot. Bring something comfortable, with a thick enough sole to protect your feet while walking on expended brass, gravel and/or dirt.
- Ammunition: At least 100 rounds for each gun you plan to fire. ( In light of the current shortage … bring what you can. We’ll work with it!)
(If you have issues obtaining ammunition, contact me for more options; at least 3 days prior to class.)
Hint … If you do not already own protective gear, and you do not want to buy everything right away, please let me know. I have a limited supply of loaner gear I can bring for you.
Highly recommended:
- Equipment: Any additional equipment you may have (speed loaders, extra magazines, holsters, etc.)
- Cool drinking water. We will be working outside. Regardless of the weather, you will need to be drinking to stay safe and healthy.
IMPORANT: Limit or avoid caffeine intake for 12hrs prior to training outdoors to prevent dehydration and heat related injuries. - Sunscreen or Rain gear: We will have limited cover and you will be exposed to the weather during all exercises.
- Comfortable seating: Range seating may be limited, and is rarely comfortable. Folding chairs are HIGHLY encouraged.
- Snacks: You will be burning a lot of calories. The range is a LONG way from the nearest convenience store or drive-thru. You will not be able to grab snacks once the class begins.