Defensive Handgun

This class is suitable for officers, CHL/LTC holders, and those interested in carrying a handgun for self-defense. Students will receive the most updated fundamentals along with skills enabling safe and efficient draws from both open and concealed carry positions. Students will learn the most efficient methods for reloading, and clearing malfunctions. Survival tactics for using cover, movement, and threat recognition will be presented. Students will apply these skills in a reality based training exercise.

Prerequisite: Prior training is not required, but you must be competent and safe while handling, loading, and shooting your firearm. You will be moving and shooting.

Safe weapons handling is more important than your marksmanship skills. Attendees exhibiting unsafe weapons handling will be removed from training without a refund.

Range Location

  • TDSA Texas Defensive Shooting Academy (Outdoor)
    1125 Wolf Springs Rd. E.
    Ferris, TX
    75125

Course Outline

  • Safe Gun Handling

  • Marksmanship Fundamentals

  • Drawing From Holster

  • Drawing From Concealment

  • Reloading & Malfunction Clearance

  • Using Cover & Movement

  • Threat Identification / Judgement 

Required Equipment

  • Handgun

  • 200 - 350 Rounds of Ammo
    Due to ammo shortages - students may lower their individual round counts

  • Concealed Carry or Duty Holster*

  • Sturdy Belt

  • Hearing and Eye Protection

  • Clothing Suitable for Weather Outdoors

  • An under shirt and outer shirt are recommended for Concealed Draw techniques

  • Lunch (there are no facilities on site)

*For Safety - Holster must be sturdy, rigid, and maintain an open shape when the gun is drawn. Sturdy leather or kydex construction is recommended. Retention is not necessary. Either IWB (Inside Waistband) or OWB (Outside Waistband) are acceptable.
Serpa Holsters are NOT recommended.

Range Information

TDSA is an outdoor range in the elements. The ground is dirt and can get muddy when it rains; please be aware of the weather when dressing. There is no store or facilities other than a porta-potty. Bring comfort items like sunscreen, bug spray, portable chairs, and food.

Safety Policy

Conditioning safe shooters is a mission we take very seriously. Safety is important during training to avoid accidents but safe weapons handling must be conditioned for it to become habitual under stress. Each class and lesson begins with a safety brief to establish expectations and consequences for unsafe behavior. Minor violations are common in the beginning and will be remediated. Major violations can result in termination of training or removal from group classes.