WEST TEXAS HANDGUN TRAINING

Defensive Pistol 1

If you carry or plan to carry a concealed handgun, the Texas License to Carry class only provides minimal information relevant to what the defensive carry of a pistol is all about.  First and foremost, it ignores the issue of carrying in a holster, and the idea of presenting a handgun from a holster when it is needed.  

 

For those who want to build a strong foundation for safe and effective defensive carry, we recommend Defensive Pistol 1. This course follows The Holster Course and will teach you the essential skills needed to efficiently draw from a holster, accurately deliver multiple shots on target, clear malfunctions, incorporate movement, and reloads under stress.  These are the core skills of carrying a handgun for self-defense.  Training will be conducted with appropriate targets as opposed to the mandated target in the LTC Course.  You will shoot nationally recognized courses of fire to track your skill progression against accepted standards. 

 

A Texas LTC or equivalent from another state is required for this class.Prior to taking this class you should have had some training in basic gun safety, shooting fundamentals, and how to safely draw from a holster.  Because of the equipment requirements and the cost of equipment, The Holster Course is strongly recommended first. If you have not, please consider Handgun Primer and The Holster Course.

 

Among the course material:

 

  • Realistic information about violent criminal actors and realistic defensive encounters;

  • Quick presentation from concealed carry;

  • Effective gun handling techniques, under stress;

  • Fundamental reloading techniques;

  • High speed accuracy at close ranges;

  • Precision shooting at mid-ranges;

  • The defensive mindset, fundamental personal tactics.

 

Course Duration: 6 hours, includes classroom and range time.

 

Cost: $180, separate range fees may apply.

 

Required Equipment:

 

  • Quality handgun

  • Quality belt mounted holster made to fit your handgun

  • Outside the waistband (OWB), inside the waistband (IWB) or appendix inside the waistband (AIWB) are acceptable.  Cross draw, small of the back, ankle, fanny pack, purse, chest, hanging and shoulder holsters are not permitted. 

  • The holster mouth must be rigid and not collapse on removal of the handgun

  • The holster MUST cover completely the trigger and trigger guard of the pistol

  • About 300 rounds of quality ammunition

  • Range or practice ammunition is fine, there is no need to use expensive defensive ammunition

  • At least one additional magazine or speedloader for your pistol (more is better)

  • A belt mounted (support side) magazine or speedloader pouch is strongly recommended.  Loaners may be available on advance notice for a surcharge.

  • A sturdy belt that supports the weight of your equipment

  • Eye and ear protection.  Muff style, electronic hearing protection is recommended

  • A baseball style cap is required for range work

  • Appropriate clothing for weather (we train in the rain), sunscreen, water, snacks and folding chair are suggested.

  • Appropriate concealment garment for your pistol and holster.