Defensive Handgun Tactics: Advanced Application – 6hrs

Course Overview:

This course is designed to further the instruction and understanding of defensive handgun shooting tactics. Using dynamic self-defense scenarios, the curriculum will emphasize the practical application of movement, unconventional shooting positions, cover and concealment. Students will learn to apply their skills under high-stress conditions while leveraging their environment to create tactical advantages.

Course Objectives:

• • Develop an understanding of movement in a defensive encounter.
  • Differentiate between cover and concealment and use them effectively.
  • Learn techniques to get off the X and create favorable angles of attack or escape.
  • Utilize barriers and obstacles to maximize defensive options.
  • Practice dynamic movement while maintaining accuracy.
  • Execute decisional shooting under stress.
  • Apply one-handed handgun techniques from an injured fighting perspective.
  • Engage targets from unconventional shooting positions.
  • Break visual contact with attackers to gain a tactical advantage.
  • Navigate confined spaces safely with a handgun.

Prerequisites:

• • Proficient marksmanship fundamentals.
  • Demonstrated safe gun handling skills.
  • Prior formal handgun training* (basic or intermediate level).
    *If you haven’t completed formal training with Gun Training Matters, you’ll need to pass a pre-training qualification.

Course Outline:

Pre-Session

• • Review of safety protocols and range commands.
  • Warm-up drills to confirm safety, accuracy, and weapon manipulation.

Session 1: Fundamentals of Tactical Movement

• • Introduction to movement in a fight: lateral, forward, and rearward movement.
  • Understanding cover vs. concealment.
  • Use of barriers for protection and stabilization.

Session 2: Decisional Shooting and High-Stress Application

• • Breaking visual contact and re-engaging from different angles.
  • Decisional shooting drills (shoot/no-shoot targets).
  • One-handed shooting techniques (dominant and non-dominant hand).
  • High-stress physical exertion drills.

Session 3: Applied Environment-Based Tactics

• • Unconventional shooting positions (prone, supine, seated).
  • Navigate confined spaces safely with a handgun.
  • Moving dynamically through multiple threat scenarios.
  • Scenario-based drills incorporating all course elements.
  • Final evaluation and debrief.

Equipment Requirements:

• • Semi-automatic handgun(minimum caliber 9mm/.38 Special)
  • Minimum of three magazines
  • Quality holster (no Serpa or soft nylon holsters)
  • Magazine pouches
  • Sturdy belt
  • Eye and ear protection
  • 500 rounds of ammunition
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Hydration

Evaluation:

Students will be assessed on their ability to apply course material through live-fire drills, scenario-based exercises, and a final qualification shoot. Emphasis will be placed on safety, decision-making, and effective movement.

Certification:

Successful completion of the course will result in a certificate of completion for Defensive Handgun Tactics: Advanced Application.

Disclaimer:

• • This course is intended for those who are already safe and proficient with handguns.
  • The course involves physical exertion and high-stress scenarios. Students should be in good physical & mental health and notify instructors of any medical conditions or limitations prior to the course.