Intermediate
Live Fire
Shotgun Training

Shotgun Defensive Strategies and Tactics

Practical defensive shotgun instruction: loading methods, patterning, recoil management, and realistic expectations.

Course overview

Shotgun Defensive Strategies and Tactics covers what the defensive shotgun actually does well. Students learn safe handling, loading and reloading methods, recoil management, patterning at realistic distances, ammunition selection considerations, and where the shotgun fits in a home-defense plan.

Who this is for

Anyone who keeps a shotgun for defense and wants competent, current instruction on running it.

What you will learn

  • Safe shotgun handling and storage
  • Confident loading and emergency reloads
  • Recoil management and follow-up shots
  • Understanding of your gun's actual pattern
  • Informed ammunition decisions
  • A realistic view of the shotgun's strengths and limits

Safety requirements

This is a live-fire shotgun course. Shotguns remain cased and unloaded, with actions open, until an instructor directs otherwise. Only ammunition types approved for the range and the drills may be used.

Ammunition requirements are confirmed at registration. Shotgun round counts and shell types matter \u2014 do not guess.

Clothing: Closed-toe shoes and a shirt with a high neckline. A padded shoulder is appreciated.

What to bring

  • Eye and ear protection
  • Shotgun with a sling or side saddle, if you have one
  • Water

We provide

  • [EQUIPMENT PROVIDED TO BE CONFIRMED]

Frequently asked questions

Upcoming dates

No dates are currently scheduled for this course. Join the interest list and we will contact you as soon as the next date is set.

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