DEFENSIVE PISTOL PROGRAM
- Sat, Sep. 19, 2026
8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Sun, Sep. 20, 2026
8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Sat, Oct. 3, 2026
8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Sun, Oct. 4, 2026
8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Sat, Oct. 17, 2026
8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Sun, Oct. 18, 2026
8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Sat, Sep. 19, 2026
- $600
- In-Class Time4 Hour(s)
- Range Time20 Hour(s)
What You'll Learn
The USCCA’s Defensive Pistol Program (DPP) is a comprehensive course designed to help participants develop essential defensive shooting skills using both live-fire and dry-practice training methods. The program focuses on both objective and performance based training. Utilizing motor learning and skill-acquisition science, DPP ensures participants are equipped with the knowledge and practical experience needed to effectively use a pistol in a defensive context.
This live-fire program is designed to introduce responsible gun owners to the safe handling and effective use of a pistol while developing essential defensive shoot¬ing skills to be used in a concealed carry and/or home-defense context.
Main lecture topics include: Understanding defensive context, Probability and self defense data, Home defense considerations, Ammunition and ballistics, & Concealed carry considerations
Range (dry practice and live fire) topics: Session 1: Fundamentals of Defensive Marksmanship Session 2: Presentation From Concealment Session 3: The Balance of Speed & Precision Session 4: Defensive Response Session 5: Malfunctions & Single-Handed Shooting
This program is designed for pistol owners, of all levels who wish to learn about concealed carry and defensive use of their handgun. If you have not taken a concealed carry type course, this is a great way to start! The adaptable/adjustable curriculum for this course is molded to the attendee’s skill development compared to a curriculum based approach.
The course is broken up into short, frequent training sessions. The first meeting is a classroom lecture presentation of approx. 4 hours. The remaining 5 sessions are 4 hours each of live-fire training. Maximum class size is 10 people, which means you get a lot more individualized attention. The DPP course can be completed in 6 sessions over several days or weeks.
Cancellation Policy PLEASE READ: Students are required to cancel at least seven (7) days in advance of a class date. Cancellation of less than seven (7) days will result in forfeiture of credit. All cancellations greater than seven (7) days will receive credit towards their next course. There are NO REFUNDS for courses. Course participants will have 3 months to utilize credits from the original course date. If participant has not elected a course within the three (3) months, funds will be forfeited.
Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds. However, funds will remain available to you for the next course of your choosing. Funds must be utilized within 3 months of the first course registration or funds will be permanently forfeited.
What We'll Teach
Defensive Pistol Program
The Defensive Pistol Program (DPP) is a comprehensive, multi-level training curriculum designed to equip students with the necessary skills to effectively and responsibly defend themselves. With its unique focus on skill development, objective and performance-based training, and adaptability to individual skill levels, DPP differentiates itself amidst a competitive landscape of individual trainers, local shooting ranges, and national organizations current training offerings. Topics covered include fundamentals of defensive marksmanship, drawing from the holster, balance of speed and precision, defensive response, malfunctions and single-handed shooting, and orientation and movement.
Additional Notes from Your Instructor
Quality holster (kydex highly preferred), magazine pouches, and belt required. Recommend minimum of 3 magazines. Ammunition count is 600-1000 for the course. We encourage you to bring YOUR weapon and gear as it will be what you use for your defense! However, gun rentals are available for an additional fee. PLEASE, do NOT go buy a gun before class if you do not have one. We are happy to help guide you to a purchase that will fit YOUR needs, not what a salesman tells you you need. Course notification via email will be sent on the Wednesday preceding the class for course location. **Cancellation Policy** PLEASE READ: Students are required to cancel at least seven (7) days in advance of a class date. Cancellation of less than seven (7) days will result in forfeiture of credit. All cancellations greater than seven (7) days will receive credit towards their next course. There are NO REFUNDS for courses. Course participants will have 3 months to utilize credits from the original course date. If participant has not elected a course within the three (3) months, funds will be forfeited.
Upcoming Class Dates for
Defensive Pistol Program
2 Upcoming
Live, Self-Defense Lessons For Everyone
Parents, Teachers, Concerned Citizens, Business Professionals, Churchgoers, and anyone who wants to keep themselves and others safe
What to Bring
- FMJ
- Long Pants
- Thick Belt
- Close-toed Shoes
- Brimmed Hat
- Revolver
- Handgun
- Water / Beverage
- Lunch
- Extra Magazines
- Magazine Pouch
- Speed Loader
- Range Bag
- Holster
- Bug Spray
- Sunscreen
- Eye & Ear Protection
What is Provided
- Targets
Training Powered By:
We Educate. We Train. We Save Lives.
- Ongoing training to keep your family safe
- Next steps you can take in your training to ensure you are prepared
- Plus: Live Q&A with USCCA-Certified Instructors