Mark Townsend

Concealed Carry Fundamentals is a comprehensive course for anyone who wants to learn about carrying a firearm for self-defense. The course is a complete guide to understanding conflict avoidance and situational awareness; defensive shooting fundamentals; the physiology and psychology of violent encounters; the legal aspects of using deadly force, and more.
This course starts is made up of three portions. The first will be education in the classroom, followed by use of the firearms simulator and then ending with live fire on the range. During the simulator portion, the students will experience self-defense scenarios in which they will learn skills to respond appropriately. The live fire portion will be tailored to the student’s ability and will focus on defensive use of a pistol.
If you want to use your own firearm, please bring 100 rounds of ammunition for your handgun. If you wish to use one of my handguns, please bring it to my attention so we can discuss what type of ammunition you should bring. It helps to have a large frame handgun (even if this is not the handgun you carry), many magazines, an outside the waistband holster (OWB), and magazine pouch. You may bring more than one pistol and/or revolver.

This course covers the following topics:

• Evaluating your home's security
• Understanding home defense firearm options
• Defensive shooting fundamentals
• Legal use of force in, and around, the home
• Violent encounters and their aftermath
• Firearms Simulator Scenarios. The simulator will allow students the opportunity to practice judgment and defensive skills while responding to a simulated attack.

Ever wonder what you would do if you were attacked? Do you have questions about when it is justified to use lethal force to defend yourself, or someone else?

This course will cover : • The four rules of gun safety • The legal use of force • Violent encounters and the aftermath • Judgement training using laser pistols and interactive simulated scenarios

There will be 60-90 minutes of classroom education followed by judgement training using the simulator. The simulations allow students to experience self-defense scenarios in which they will learn skills to respond appropriately. This course is limited to 6 students. This ensures all students can experience plenty of scenarios. You are learning the entire time though. Even if you aren’t the person reacting to the scenario, you are learning by watching and discussing. This is a great group learning opportunity. Bring your significant other so you can learn to work together.

This course covers basics for understanding...

• Universal safety rules
• Types of pistols and how they operate
• Ammunition
• Defensive shooting Fundementals

The classroom portion will be followed by range time with the firearm simulator. No live ammunition is used.

Concealed Carry Fundamentals is a comprehensive course for anyone currently, or considering, carrying a firearm for self-defense. The course is a complete guide to understanding conflict avoidance and situational awareness; defensive shooting fundamentals; the physiology and psychology of violent encounters; the legal aspects of using deadly force, and more. This course will help you understand your rights and responsibilities as you apply for your CCW permit in Indiana. The Indiana permit allows you to carry in many states.

This course starts with a classroom session followed by range time with the firearm simulator. Simulator range time will include drills to improve basic pistol shooting, defensive pistol shooting and self-defense scenarios.

This course covers basics for understanding...

• Universal safety rules
• Types of pistols and how they operate
• Ammunition
• Defensive shooting Fundamentals

The classroom portion will be followed by range time with the firearm simulator. No live ammunition is used.

This course covers the following topics:

• Evaluating your home's security
• Understanding home defense firearm options
• Defensive shooting fundamentals
• Legal use of force in, and around, the home
• Violent encounters and their aftermath
• Gear and gadgets
• Classroom topics will be followed by a brief introduction to the firearms simulator.

Ever wonder what you would do if you were attacked? Do you have questions about when it is justified to use lethal force to defend yourself, or someone else? This course will cover firearm safety, defensive shooting fundamentals, and the legal use of force. There will be 60-90 minutes of classroom education followed by judgement training using the firearms simulator. The simulations allow students to experience self-defense scenarios in which they will learn skills to respond appropriately.

This is a range only course. No classroom work. Students will be performing fundamental pistol shooting and defensive drills. Instructor will identify areas where student needs to improve and set up drills for training.

In addition to the USCCA curriculum, students will have the opportunity to exercise judgement using a laser simulator and experience realistic self-defense scenarios.

SJVRPC and ISRPA Members can attend for $100 (a $25 discount).

This course will cover the basics of firearm safety, shooting and range procedures. Students will demonstrate safe firearm handling indoors using a simulator.

Ever wonder what you would do if you were attacked? Do you have questions about when it is justified to use lethal force to defend yourself, or someone else?

This course will cover : • The four rules of gun safety • The legal use of force • Violent encounters and the aftermath • Judgement training using laser pistols and interactive simulated scenarios

There will be 60-90 minutes of classroom education followed by judgement training using the simulator. The simulations allow students to experience self-defense scenarios in which they will learn skills to respond appropriately. This course is limited to 6 students. This ensures all students can experience plenty of scenarios. You are learning the entire time though. Even if you aren’t the person reacting to the scenario, you are learning by watching and discussing. This is a great group learning opportunity. Bring your significant other so you can learn to work together.

Overview Welcome to "Protect the Flock," our comprehensive course designed to equip members of the church community with essential skills and knowledge to ensure a safe and secure environment for worship, fellowship, and ministry.

Course Structure "Protect the Flock" is a highly interactive training course that combines theoretical knowledge with practical exercises, real-life case studies, and role-playing scenarios to enhance learning and skill application. The course is 7 hours, with a mix of classroom sessions and hands-on training exercises.
Who Should Attend? This course is designed for a broad range of individuals involved in the church community, including:

Pastors, clergy members, and church leaders Ushers and greeters Security team and volunteers Administrative staff Youth ministry leaders Sunday school teachers Congregational members interested in enhancing church security

Course Topics Include: Understanding the Trends, Challenges, Threats Learning From Past Events, Responses, Failures Countering The Threat Recognize In Advance/Warning Signs Creating A Plan House of Worship Challenges/Security Checklist Armed Response/Deadly Force Educating The Congregation USCCA Tools & Resources Firearms Simulator – Church Scenarios

The following Practical Exercises are also included: 1: Determine Goals and Objectives 2: Evaluate Church Security 3: Determine Escape Routes 4: Determine Safe Locations 5: Finding Improvised Weapons

Private Event! This course is by invitation only and is being sponsored by Bart and Amy Snyder. Lunch will also be provided.

Concealed Carry Fundamentals is a comprehensive course for anyone currently, or considering, carrying a firearm for self-defense. The course is a complete guide to understanding conflict avoidance and situational awareness; defensive shooting fundamentals; the physiology and psychology of violent encounters; the legal aspects of using deadly force, and more. This course will help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

This course starts with a classroom session followed by range time with the firearm simulator. Simulator range time will include drills to improve basic pistol shooting, defensive pistol shooting, and self-defense scenarios.

If you have a concealed carry handgun, you may bring it with you for instructional purposes. It must be unloaded.

Take charge of your safety at Self-Defense Academy Level 1 Are you concerned about your safety in today's unpredictable world? Do you want to learn the knowledge and skills to protect yourself? Look no further! Welcome to Self-Defense Academy Level 1, where your journey to becoming a defender begins.

At Freedom Focus, we understand that safety is every individual's fundamental right.  Our Level 1 program is designed to equip you with essential self-defense skills that are easy to learn, effective, and practical in real-life scenarios.  This course is for everyone whether you have prior experience or you're new to self-defense.

Here's why you shouldn't miss the opportunity to join Self-Defense Academy Level 1: 1.  Learn Proven Techniques: Our curriculum focuses on techniques backed by years of experience and research.  You'll learn simple yet powerful tactics that enable you to stop threats efficiently, often before they start.  This course includes everything from conflict avoidance to responding to unavoidable conflicts.  The course is designed to keep you safe physically, financially, legally, and morally. 2.  Build Confidence: Confidence is the key to self-defense.  Our training will enhance your confidence by giving you the skills to respond and stay composed in challenging situations.  As you progress through Level 1, you'll notice a profound transformation in your mental and physical fortitude. 3.  Develop Situational Awareness: Self-defense is not just about the physical aspect but also about being aware of your surroundings and potential danger.  You will learn how to identify potential threats, assess situations, and make informed decisions to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones. 4.  Train in a Supportive Environment: At Freedom Focus, we foster a welcoming and non-judgmental atmosphere.  You'll join a community of like-minded individuals who are committed to personal growth and self-protection.  Mark Townsend, your instructor, will provide personalized attention and create a safe environment for effective learning. Invest in your well-being and join Self-Defense Academy Level 1 today. 

What you will get:

Training              The Academy meets every Tuesday from 6:00 to 8:00 at the Tippecanoe County Conservation Club.  You can join any time and complete the academy in 5 weeks.

5 classes covering these topics:
·  Situational Awareness and Conflict Avoidance
·  Pistol Safety and Shooting Fundamentals
·  Self-defense Pistol Skills
·  Legal Use of Force
·  What to expect during and after your defense

 Use of simulator              The LaserShot Firearms Simulator will be used to develop physical skills.  The simulator has many shooting drills and live-action threat simulations.  This is a powerful learning experience where the student will apply skills under stress.  No live ammunition is used allowing for a safe, anxiety-free, learning experience. 

Homework assignments              After the completion of each class, the student will be asked to complete “homework” before returning the following week.  This homework will consist of tasks necessary to engrain the skills taught in the prior class.  This is one of the biggest advantages of taking the academy.  Mark will be coaching you to build skills for the entire duration of the academy to make sure you are proficient. 

Access to discounts on gear              Students will be exposed to many options on gear designed for self-defense and/or to make practice safe and enjoyable.  Coupon codes will be provided on gear so the students can save money.  As new discounts are added, past Academy graduates will have access to the new discounts.

 Access to Self-Defense Academy Level 2 Freedom Focus Self-Defense Academy Level 1 is a prerequisite for the Self-Defense Academy Level 2.  Level 2 will be entirely made up of live-fire range drills.  The drills will cover the fundamentals of safety, shooting, and self-defense tactics.  Level 2 will conclude with the successful completion of a professional live-fire qualification. 

 FAQ’s:

Who should join?              Anyone who wants to develop the skills to avoid conflict and protect themselves and the ones they love.

What makes the academy better than other courses?              Other courses are short and don’t offer the level of coaching required for the student to become proficient.  Graduates of this academy will possess the knowledge and skills to perform.

Can I join at any time?              Yes.  This academy is designed such that you can join at any time and complete all five classes in any order.

What if I have to miss one of the classes during the 5-week academy?              I will add you to the class you missed the next time it is offered.

What do I need to bring?              You don’t need anything to complete the academy.  Part of the benefit of taking the academy is that you will learn about guns and gear before you spend a lot of money.  If you already own guns and gear, feel free to bring it.  You can use your gear when we do drills in the classroom.  No ammunition is allowed in the classroom.

What skill level is required?              The academy is designed to advance the skills of anyone regardless of previous experience. 

Do I need to own a gun?              No.  If you don’t already own a gun, I recommend you take the academy first.  You will learn valuable information before spending hundreds of dollars on a gun that might not be right for you.

Will we be shooting live ammunition?              No.  However, we will be doing dry fire exercises and drills using a top-of-the-line LaserShot Firearms Simulator.  I also have a CoolFire Trainer that uses CO2 gas to simulate recoil.  The following course “Self-Defense Academy Level 2” will consist entirely of live fire training.

What if the class is full?              If you want to join the academy and registration is full, simply send me an email with your contact info.  I will create a list and offer openings to people on the waitlist in the order they were received.  If your turn comes up and you can’t join at that time, I’ll keep you on the wait list for the next opportunity.

This class will cover the physiology of stress, how to call 911, and how to cooperate with the Police. There will be 60-90 minutes of classroom education followed by judgment training using the firearms simulator. The simulations allow students to experience self-defense scenarios in which they will learn skills to respond appropriately.

This course will begin by discussing safety rules for handling firearms and progress through to the successful completion of basic handgun drills. Each student will work on skills appropriate to his/her experience level.

Please bring: Eye and Ear Protection Pistol - full size is preferred Magazines - 3 is preferred 200 rounds of ammunition Holster Good belt Hat Close toed shoes

Freedom Focus "Series" Courses are multiple classes design to focus on skill development.

Taking charge of your personal safety starts with a solid foundation of the fundamentals. Do you want to learn how to own and operate a handgun safely, but are intimidated? At Freedom Focus, we understand the hurdles we must all overcome to be safe and proficient with a handgun. Our academy is designed to equip you with essential safety and shooting skills. It is a requirement for every gun owner to master these fundamental skills.

Course Topics Include: Safe Handling of Firearms How Handguns Function Ammunition Shooting Fundamentals Range Safety Rules

The following Practical Exercises are also included: 1: Pistol Safety and Operation 2: Drills and Exercises Designed to Master the Fundamentals 3: Practice Shooting Using the Lasershot Firearms Simulator

Freedom Focus "Series" Courses are multiple classes design to focus on skill development.

Take charge of your safety. Are you concerned about your safety in today's unpredictable world? Do you want to learn the knowledge and skills to protect yourself?

At Freedom Focus, we understand that safety is every individual's fundamental right.  Our program is designed to equip you with essential self-defense skills that are easy to learn, effective, and practical in real-life scenarios.  This course is for everyone whether you have prior experience or you are new to self-defense. Course Topics Include: Situational Awareness and Conflict Avoidance Legal Use of Force What To Expect During and After Your Defense

The following Practical Exercises are also included: 1: Conflict Avoidance Practice 2: Respond to a Threats Using the Lasershot Firearms Simulator

Freedom Focus "Series" Courses are multiple classes design to focus on skill development.

Join us for an intensive live-fire pistol course designed for shooters of all skill levels. This hands-on training will focus on fundamental techniques, safety protocols, and practical application in a controlled environment. Participants will engage in various drills that enhance accuracy, speed, and decision-making under pressure. Instructors will provide personalized feedback to help refine your skills, while fostering a supportive learning atmosphere. By the end of the course, you will gain increased confidence and competence in your pistol shooting abilities.

Drills will progress from basic to defense based requiring moving while shooting. The goal of the academy is for the student to attempt and pass a professional pistol qualification.

Course Topics and Drills Include: Basic marksmanship skills Drawing from the holster Moving while shooting Multiple targets Reloads Malfunction clearing

Course Goals:

• Understand and demonstrate knowledge of firearm safety and range safety.
• Understand Types of Firearms and their Actions
• Load and unload Firearms
• Practice Fundamentals of Shooting (using classroom training aids)
• Tippecanoe County Conservation Club Range Rules and explanation of how to operate on a cold range.

This course covers the following topics:

• Evaluating your home's security
• Understanding home defense firearm options
• Defensive shooting fundamentals
• Legal use of force in, and around, the home
• Violent encounters and their aftermath
• Firearms Simulator Scenarios. The simulator will allow students the opportunity to practice judgment and defensive skills while responding to a simulated attack.

Ever wonder what you would do if you were attacked? Do you have questions about when it is justified to use lethal force to defend yourself, or someone else?

This course will cover : • The four rules of gun safety • The legal use of force • Violent encounters and the aftermath • Judgement training using laser pistols and interactive simulated scenarios

There will be 60-90 minutes of classroom education followed by judgement training using the simulator. The simulations allow students to experience self-defense scenarios in which they will learn skills to respond appropriately. This course is limited to 6 students. This ensures all students can experience plenty of scenarios. You are learning the entire time though. Even if you aren’t the person reacting to the scenario, you are learning by watching and discussing. This is a great group learning opportunity. Bring your significant other so you can learn to work together.

This class will cover the follow topics with emphasis on details related to women. The simulator will be used to introduce fundamentals of shooting and response to threats.

Mindset & Situational Awareness Establishing Personal Boundaries Use of Force Choosing The Right Firearm

This class is a Life Fire course with the objective of developing self-defense pistol operation.

Ever wonder what you would do if you were attacked? Do you have questions about when it is justified to use lethal force to defend yourself, or someone else?

This course will cover : • The four rules of gun safety • The legal use of force • Violent encounters and the aftermath • Judgement training using laser pistols and interactive simulated scenarios

There will be 60-90 minutes of classroom education followed by judgement training using the simulator. The simulations allow students to experience self-defense scenarios in which they will learn skills to respond appropriately. This course is limited to 6 students. This ensures all students can experience plenty of scenarios. You are learning the entire time though. Even if you aren’t the person reacting to the scenario, you are learning by watching and discussing. This is a great group learning opportunity. Bring your significant other so you can learn to work together.

This class will cover the follow topics with emphasis on details related to women. The simulator will be used to introduce fundamentals of shooting and response to threats.

Mindset & Situational Awareness Establishing Personal Boundaries Use of Force Choosing The Right Firearm

Ever wonder what you would do if you were attacked? Do you have questions about when it is justified to use lethal force to defend yourself, or someone else?

This course will cover : • The legal use of force • Violent encounters and the aftermath • Judgement training using laser pistols and interactive simulated scenarios

There will be 60 minutes of classroom education followed by judgement training using the simulator. The simulations allow students to experience self-defense scenarios in which they will learn skills to respond appropriately. This course is limited to 8 students. This ensures all students can experience plenty of scenarios. You are learning the entire time though. Even if you aren’t the person reacting to the scenario, you are learning by watching and discussing. This is a great group learning opportunity. Bring your significant other so you can learn to work together.

Freedom Focus "Series" Courses are multiple classes design to focus on skill development.

Taking charge of your personal safety starts with a solid foundation of the fundamentals. Do you want to learn how to own and operate a handgun safely, but are intimidated? At Freedom Focus, we understand the hurdles we must all overcome to be safe and proficient with a handgun. Our academy is designed to equip you with essential safety and shooting skills. It is a requirement for every gun owner to master these fundamental skills.

Course Topics Include: Safe Handling of Firearms How Handguns Function Ammunition Shooting Fundamentals Range Safety Rules

The following Practical Exercises are also included: 1: Pistol Safety and Operation 2: Drills and Exercises Designed to Master the Fundamentals 3: Practice Shooting Using the Lasershot Firearms Simulator

Freedom Focus "Series" Courses are multiple classes design to focus on skill development.

Take charge of your safety. Are you concerned about your safety in today's unpredictable world? Do you want to learn the knowledge and skills to protect yourself? Look no further!

At Freedom Focus, we understand that safety is every individual's fundamental right.  Our program is designed to equip you with essential self-defense skills that are easy to learn, effective, and practical in real-life scenarios.  This course is for everyone whether you have prior experience or you are new to self-defense. Course Topics Include: Situational Awareness and Conflict Avoidance Legal Use of Force What To Expect During and After Your Defense

The following Practical Exercises are also included: 1: Conflict Avoidance Practice 2: Respond to a Threats Using the Lasershot Firearms Simulator

This Illinois Concealed Carry Firearms License course provides comprehensive instruction on safe and responsible handgun ownership, use, and carry. Participants will learn the four fundamental rules of firearm safety, proper storage practices, and safe handling procedures. The class covers essential marksmanship skills, including stance, grip, sight alignment, sight picture, and trigger control, along with instruction on firearm identification, ammunition selection, cleaning, loading, and unloading. Students will also gain an understanding of applicable Illinois and federal laws governing firearm ownership, transportation, and use of force, including lawful interaction with law enforcement and prohibited carry areas. The course concludes with hands-on weapon handling and live-fire qualification to ensure safe and competent firearm operation.

Freedom Focus "Series" Courses are multiple classes design to focus on skill development.

Take charge of your safety. Are you concerned about your safety in today's unpredictable world? Do you want to learn the knowledge and skills to protect yourself?

At Freedom Focus, we understand that safety is every individual's fundamental right.  Our program is designed to equip you with essential self-defense skills that are easy to learn, effective, and practical in real-life scenarios.  This course is for everyone whether you have prior experience or you are new to self-defense. Course Topics Include: Situational Awareness and Conflict Avoidance Legal Use of Force What To Expect During and After Your Defense

The following Practical Exercises are also included: 1: Conflict Avoidance Practice 2: Respond to a Threats Using the Lasershot Firearms Simulator

Note: A $10 range fee is required for all students who are not a member of the Tippecanoe County Conservation Club.

This live-fire pistol course is designed to build practical, defensive shooting skills in a controlled, safety-focused environment. Students will learn how to safely handle and operate a handgun while developing accuracy, consistency, and confidence under realistic conditions. Instruction covers fundamental marksmanship, drawing from a holster (where permitted), target identification, recoil management, and effective shot placement.

Beyond basic shooting, the course emphasizes real-world self-defense concepts, including situational awareness, decision-making under stress, use-of-cover principles, and defensive mindset. Students will engage in structured drills that simulate common defensive scenarios, helping them apply skills in dynamic situations rather than static target practice.

This course is suitable for beginners with basic firearm familiarity as well as intermediate shooters looking to refine their defensive capabilities. All training is conducted under the supervision of qualified instructors, with strict adherence to safety protocols at all times.

Course Goals:

• Understand and demonstrate knowledge of firearm safety and range safety.
• Understand Types of Firearms and their Actions
• Load and unload Firearms
• Practice Fundamentals of Shooting
• Tippecanoe County Conservation Club Range Rules and explanation of how to operate on a cold range.

Course Goals:

• Understand and demonstrate knowledge of firearm safety and range safety.
• Understand Types of Firearms and their Actions
• Learn to load and unload Firearms
• Practice Fundamentals of Shooting (using classroom training aids)
• Tippecanoe County Conservation Club Range Rules and explanation of how to operate on a cold range.