Derick Henshaw SR
Instructor # 2919299 | Fortvigil Personal and Home Defense Training Academy
Certified with the USCCA since 10/23/2022
Certification Renewal Date 10/23/2027
USCCA Certifications
- Concealed Carry & Home Defense
- Countering the Mass Shooter
- Range Safety Officer
- Women's Handgun & Self-Defense
- Children's Firearms & Safety Fundamentals
- Emergency & First Aid
- AR-15 Fundamentals
My Biography
Former Air Force Military Law Enforcement & Security Police Officer, Certified Instructor, Certified Range Safety Officer, Certified Instructor Women's Handgun Self Defense Fundamentals, Certified Countering the Mass Shooter, Certified First Aide Fundamentals, USCCA Certified Laser Training Instructor Course.
Current Classes Available
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Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals is a comprehensive course for anyone considering owning or carrying a firearm for self-defense, with range qualification.
Are you considering carrying a firearm for self-defense in the state of Maryland? If so, this is the course for you! Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals is a complete guide to understanding conflict avoidance and situational awareness; home security and home defense; handgun, shooting fundamentals; the physiology of violent encounters; the legal aspects of using deadly force (including knowing what to do in the aftermath); and a complete guide on gear, gadgets, and ongoing training. As a bonus this package will include your MD HQL Certification.
This class will provide the mandatory training required by New Jersey to obtain a permit to carry a handgun in that state. Residents will need: a valid NJ driver’s license, Non-Residents will need a valid state driver’s license of said state.
Topics covered in this class: - What we’ve learned about mass shootings - Knowing the signs of a potential threat - Learn and discuss solutions to prevent an attack in your community - What steps in your training to take next - Live Q&A with USCCA Certified Instructors
The Utah CCW permit is currently the most widely known CCW permit. This permit is recognized in 37 states. This course will review handgun safety rules, handgun parts, operation, ammunition, fundamentals of shooting, safe firearms handling, U.S. federal firearms regulations, practical and legal considerations, and more, including summary of Utah state laws., self defense including defense of habitation, person, property.
Included in the course: • Utah CCW Application (separate fee of $63.25 in the form of credit card, check or money order) • Training certification Finger prints Passport photo
Maximum 6 students per class
Requirements: • NOTE: Applicants who reside in a state in which Utah CCW is recognized (PA/DE) must include a copy of both sides of their state-issued carry permit. (This does not apply to New Jersey residents). NJ residents only need to supply a front and back copy of state-issued photo ID.
The Utah CCW permit is currently the most widely known CCW permit. This permit is recognized in 37 states. This course will review handgun safety rules, handgun parts, operation, ammunition, fundamentals of shooting, safe firearms handling, U.S. federal firearms regulations, practical and legal considerations, and more, including summary of Utah state laws., self defense including defense of habitation, person, property.
Included in the course: • Utah CCW Application (separate fee of $63.25 in the form of credit card, check or money order) • Training certification Finger prints Passport photo
Maximum 12 students per class
Requirements: • NOTE: Applicants who reside in a state in which Utah CCW is recognized (PA/DE) must include a copy of both sides of their state-issued carry permit. (This does not apply to New Jersey residents). NJ residents only need to supply a front and back copy of state-issued photo ID.
This is a 6-hour concealed carry firearm permit class that will contain the mandatory training and live fire exercises necessary to obtain your permit in FL. In addition to getting your Florida license it will grant you an additional 35 states of reciprocity.
Course Overview: • Responsibility of the gun owner • Firearm types & terminology • General pistol handling • Fundamentals of shooting • Loading & reloading • Defensive pistol shooting • Shoot/no-shoot scenarios • Proper cleaning & storage • Application process • Live fire range session
Price also includes passport photos and range time.
This is a 4-hour concealed carry firearm permit class that will contain the mandatory training and live fire exercises necessary to obtain your permit in FL. In addition to getting your Florida license it will grant you an additional 35 states of reciprocity.
Course Overview: • Responsibility of the gun owner • Firearm types & terminology • General pistol handling • Fundamentals of shooting • Loading & reloading • Defensive pistol shooting • Shoot/no-shoot scenarios • Proper cleaning & storage • Application process • Live fire range session
NEW JERSEY: This class will provide the mandatory training required by New Jersey to obtain a permit to carry a handgun in that state. Residents will need: a valid NJ driver’s license, Non-Residents will need a valid state driver’s license of said state, the handgun you will be using, proof of ownership, Valid firearms receipt, or valid firearms purchase permit. You can NOT use a rental or borrowed firearm.
This class is geared towards women that have little to no experience with shooting a handgun. This class is less focused on accuracy and more focused on developing safe habits and confidence when shooting at our range or any other time.
1 day course 8 hours plus 1 hour at range. Please bring a valid ID. Eye and ear protection are mandatory. If you do not own the necessary protection, you can purchase eye and ear protection from Fort Vigil Academy.
This class will provide the mandatory training required by New Jersey to obtain a permit to carry a handgun in that state. Residents will need: a valid NJ driver’s license, Non-Residents will need a valid state driver’s license of said state, the handgun you will be using, proof of ownership, Valid firearms receipt, or valid firearms purchase permit. You can NOT use a rental or borrowed firearm.
This is a 6-hour concealed carry firearm permit class that will contain the mandatory training and live fire exercises necessary to obtain your permit in New Jersey & FL. In addition to getting your Florida license it will grant you an additional 35 states of reciprocity.
Course Overview: • Responsibility of the gun owner • Firearm types & terminology • General pistol handling • Fundamentals of shooting • Loading & reloading • Defensive pistol shooting • Shoot/no-shoot scenarios • Proper cleaning & storage • Application process • Live fire range session
NEW JERSEY: This class will provide the mandatory training required by New Jersey to obtain a permit to carry a handgun in that state. Residents will need: a valid NJ driver’s license, Non-Residents will need a valid state driver’s license of said state, the handgun you will be using, proof of ownership, Valid firearms receipt, or valid firearms purchase permit. You can NOT use a rental or borrowed firearm.
Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals is a comprehensive course for anyone considering owning or carrying a firearm for self-defense, with range qualification.
This class is geared towards women that have little to no experience with shooting a handgun. This class is less focused on accuracy and more focused on developing safe habits and confidence when shooting at our range or any other time.
This is 6-hour concealed carry firearm permit class that will contain the mandatory training and live fire exercises necessary to obtain your permit as a DE resident.Course Overview: • Responsibility of the gun owner • Firearm types & terminology • General pistol handling • Fundamentals of shooting • Loading & reloading • Defensive pistol shooting • Shoot/no-shoot scenarios • Proper cleaning & storage • Application process • Live fire range session
The Arizona CCW permit is currently one of the most widely known CCW permit. This permit is recognized in 37 states. This course will review handgun safety rules, handgun parts, operation, ammunition, fundamentals of shooting, safe firearms handling, U.S. federal firearms regulations, practical and legal considerations, and more.
Multi state conceal carry, eligible to carry in 36 plus states. Course will include law, safety, suicide prevention and more.
Craig Penglase Esquire will discuss topics that include: Legally justifiable use of force, Pa Code 18 505, the Castle Doctrine, Pa Stand Your Ground Law, Deadly Force, Lawful Concealed Carry
This class will provide the mandatory training required by New Jersey to obtain a permit to carry a handgun in that state. Residents will need: a valid NJ driver’s license, Non-Residents will need a valid state driver’s license of said state.
1 day course 8 hours plus 1 hour at range. Please bring a valid ID. Eye and ear protection are mandatory. If you do not own the necessary protection, you can purchase eye and ear protection from Fort Vigil Academy.
This class provides age-appropriate education on firearm safety to help children understand what to do if they encounter a gun. This course emphasizes awareness, responsibility, and prevention of accidents, ensuring that kids learn how to stay safe without fear.
Are you considering carrying a firearm for self-defense in the state of Maryland? If so, this is the course for you! Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals is a complete guide to understanding conflict avoidance and situational awareness; home security and home defense; handgun, shooting fundamentals; the physiology of violent encounters; the legal aspects of using deadly force (including knowing what to do in the aftermath); and a complete guide on gear, gadgets, and ongoing training. As a bonus this package will include your MD HQL Certification.
Be your own first responder and learn how to identify the signs of a medical emergency. Cardiac, Diabetes, Stroke, Syncope and much more.
This class provides age-appropriate education on firearm safety to help children understand what to do if they encounter a gun. This course emphasizes awareness, responsibility, and prevention of accidents, ensuring that kids learn how to stay safe without fear.
Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals is a comprehensive course for anyone considering owning or carrying a firearm for self-defense, with range qualification.
This hands-on class teaches firearm owners how to safely and effectively clean and maintain both pistols and rifles. Participants will learn proper disassembly, inspection, cleaning techniques, lubrication points, and safe reassembly. Instructors will also cover common wear indicators, recommended tools and cleaning products, and how regular maintenance improves reliability and performance. Whether you’re new to firearms or looking to refresh your skills, this class provides practical knowledge to keep your equipment functioning safely and smoothly.
This hands-on class teaches firearm owners how to safely and effectively clean and maintain both pistols and rifles. Participants will learn proper disassembly, inspection, cleaning techniques, lubrication points, and safe reassembly. Instructors will also cover common wear indicators, recommended tools and cleaning products, and how regular maintenance improves reliability and performance. Whether you’re new to firearms or looking to refresh your skills, this class provides practical knowledge to keep your equipment functioning safely and smoothly.
The USCCA's "Should I Shoot?" guidance emphasizes that using deadly force is a last resort, requiring imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm, focusing on legal justification, de-escalation, tactical positioning, and understanding state laws (like duty to retreat) before an encounter, with a strong emphasis on mental preparedness for the aftermath, not just the shot itself. We offer training, resources, and a book by that title to help responsibly armed citizens navigate complex, real-life scenarios to make informed, lawful decisions, highlighting that the decision involves legal, ethical, and practical considerations, not just a simple yes/no.
The Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL) course is a mandatory 4-hour, Maryland State Police-approved training required for residents to legally purchase, rent, or receive a handgun. It includes classroom instruction on state law, home safety, and a hands-on, live-fire component. Price also includes passport photos & range time.
Are you considering carrying a firearm for self-defense in the state of Maryland? If so, this is the course for you! Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals is a complete guide to understanding conflict avoidance and situational awareness; home security and home defense; handgun, shooting fundamentals; the physiology of violent encounters; the legal aspects of using deadly force (including knowing what to do in the aftermath); and a complete guide on gear, gadgets, and ongoing training. As a bonus this package will include your MD HQL Certification.
Are you considering carrying a firearm for self-defense in the state of Maryland? If so, this is the course for you! Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals is a complete guide to understanding conflict avoidance and situational awareness; home security and home defense; handgun, shooting fundamentals; the physiology of violent encounters; the legal aspects of using deadly force (including knowing what to do in the aftermath); and a complete guide on gear, gadgets, and ongoing training. As a bonus this package will include your MD HQL Certification.
Concealed Carry Certification Course: New Jersey & Utah This comprehensive concealed carry course is designed to educate responsible citizens on the legal, safe, and effective carrying of a firearm in both New Jersey and Utah. Whether you are applying for a permit or seeking to enhance your knowledge, this class provides the essential training required to meet state standards. Participants will receive in-depth instruction on: Firearm safety rules and safe handling practices Proper storage and transportation of firearms Use of force laws, including when deadly force is justified State-specific concealed carry laws for New Jersey and Utah Reciprocity and where your permit is recognized Conflict avoidance and situational awareness Basic marksmanship fundamentals and shooting techniques The course includes both classroom instruction and a live-fire qualification (as required), ensuring students demonstrate safe firearm operation and proficiency. Upon successful completion, students will receive certification documentation that satisfies the training requirements for: A New Jersey Permit to Carry a Handgun A Utah Concealed Firearm Permit This course is ideal for beginners and experienced firearm owners alike who want to legally carry and better understand their rights and responsibilities. Requirements: Valid government-issued ID Firearm and ammunition (or rental options may be available) Eye and ear protection Ability to safely handle a firearm

