WEST TEXAS HANDGUN TRAINING
The Holster Course
Carrying a pistol on your person is both the safest and best option for its effective use in self-defense. Safely getting the pistol out of the holster and safely back into the holster is a fundamental skill for armed citizens carrying a pistol for self-defense and for future training focused on the defensive use of a firearm. Decisions about how and where you carry your pistol are the focus of this course. The requirements for a concealed carry holster are covered in detail as well as issues of comfort and concealability. We will teach the best method(s) for safely and quickly presenting the gun from the holster, and more importantly, putting it safely back in the holster. Equipment choices are discussed in detail. If you have already received training to safely present and holster your pistol, you might consider our Defensive Pistol Level 1 class. This class contains both classroom and range components. Students are encouraged to attend this course before making equipment purchases.
Course Duration: 4 hours. (Approximately 2 hours of classroom and 2 hours of range)
Cost: $140, loaner equipment is available with advance notice. A separate range fee may apply.
Required Equipment: Students may bring their own pistol, ammunition and holster if they wish. A covering shirt, either open or closed front that is reasonably loose fitting that would conceal a pistil and holster. Bring both if you like. There are some holsters that are not suitable for this class and loaners will be provided in that event.
Holsters
Appropriate holsters for class purposes are made of either leather or kydex. Kydex® is a proprietary name and is not the same as plastic. The holster is a critical piece of equipment for the armed citizen and the reason an entire course is devoted to the subject. Holsters to avoid are generally “one size fits all” varieties, holsters with a collapsible mouth and holsters with different security gimmicks. The Blackhawk Serpa holster is expressly prohibited in WTHT classes. Given the large variety of options and suitability for various body types, students are encouraged to attend the class and use loaner equipment to make better choices and avoid expensive mistakes. If you wish to purchase a holster specifically made for your pistol you may want to review options from the following manufacturers:
Belts
A belt is required for this course. For our purposes, the thicker, wider and sturdier the belt the better. Thin, lightweight or flimsy belts will not provide an optimal learning experience. Pants with belt loops are required. Loop openings of at least 1.25 inches are strongly recommended. Limited loaner belts can be provided with advance notice. There are many excellent belt options and manufacturers available. Students may benefit from reviewing the information and options available here:
Use of a loaner handgun in either .22 caliber or 9mm and ammunition for the range portion is included. Students may bring their own semi-automatic handgun and ammunition if they wish. Eye and ear protection are required. A baseball style cap is required for each student during the range portion of the class. Closed toed shoes suitable for stability and mobility are required on the range.