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DEFENSIVE PISTOL PROGRAM

Shepherd Defense SD |

  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Includes Live Fire
    • Fri, Jul. 10, 2026

      9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

    • Sat, Jul. 11, 2026

      9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

    • Sun, Jul. 12, 2026

      9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

  • $650
  • Map Pin
    Sioux River Sportsman club
    48298 US-18
    Canton, SD 57013
  • In-Class Time
    2 Hour(s)
  • Range Time
    18 Hour(s)

Registration Closed

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 live-fire and dry-fire training. The program is broken into six parts, each progressively building on the last to ensure the best results for individual students. These six parts include classroom-based learning and live-fire training to fully integrate objective and performance-based training methods. By using motor learning and skill acquisition science, DPP ensures participants are equipped with the knowledge and practical experience needed for effective pistol use in a defensive context.

Cancellation Policy: Students are required to cancel at least 48 hours in advance of a class date in order to receive a full refund. Classes cancelled less than 48 hours before the class will not be refunded.

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

Overview Focused, no-frills defensive pistol training centered on a clean, consistent draw cycle, blending speed with precision, efficient malfunction clearing, and engaging multiple target zones and multiple targets. Each day builds on the last with measurable standards and coaching. Who It’s For Concealed carriers and handgun owners with solid basic handling who want structured defensive competence without movement/low-light/cover blocks. Prerequisites Safe gun handling, ability to legally possess/carry, prior live-fire experience. Recommended: USCCA e-learning (DPP/DSF fundamentals). Learning Objectives Clean, repeatable draw from concealment to first-round hit. Throttle control: appropriate speed while maintaining accuracy. Efficient reloads and malfunction identification/clearance. Target transitions and accountability across multiple zones/targets. Daily Outline Day 1: Safety/medical plan; gear setup; defensive accuracy vs. bullseye; full draw cycle (grip, clear, rotate, join, extend); cadence and acceptable sight picture; baseline standards; emergency/tactical reloads; intro to common malfunctions. Day 2: Par-time driven drills; first‑shot from concealment at distance variations; throttle control at 3–15 yards; precision on defined zones (A-zone/high center chest, head box, pelvic); target transitions; confirmation vs. acceptance of sights. Day 3: Malfunction diagnostics and clears under time (stovepipe, double-feed, failure to fire); complex target arrays with zone changes; multi‑string standards; final skills check; debrief and improvement plan. Round Count and Gear 600–800 rounds total. Quality defensive handgun; 3+ magazines; strong-side kydex OWB/IWB holster that fully covers the trigger (no pocket/appendix soft holsters); sturdy belt; 1–2 mag pouches; eye/ear protection; brimmed hat; closed-toe shoes; concealment garment; note-taking materials; water/snacks. Format and Assessment Brief classroom blocks; extensive coached live-fire. Measurable drills with par times and accuracy standards; end-of-course skills check. Certificate of completion provided (DPP). Logistics Three consecutive days, ~8 hours/day with breaks. Range fees and ammo not included unless noted. Final details and any pre-course e-learning links sent after registration. Safety and Policies Strict cold-range protocols unless directed. Clear medical plan and instructor-to-student ratios. Classes run rain or shine barring unsafe conditions.

Registration Closed

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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

  • Ammunition
  • FMJ
  • Long Pants
  • Close-toed Shoes
  • Brimmed Hat
  • Thick Belt
  • Handgun
  • Lunch
  • Rain Gear
  • Pen & Notebook
  • Bug Spray
  • Sunscreen
  • Eye & Ear Protection
  • Magazine Pouch
  • Speed Loader
  • Holster

What is Provided

  • Water / Beverage
  • Targets

Training Powered By:

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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

5.0

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1 Reviews

What Students Are Saying

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    Class taken on Fri, Apr. 17, 2026
    |Taught by

    Instructors

    • Matt Johnson

      Canton, SD

      Rating star large5.0
    "The defensive pistol course from Shepard’s Defense was outstanding. Matt Johnson proved to be an exceptional instructor, combining deep knowledge with clear, practical teaching. Our group walked away with skills and confidence that far exceeded expectations. He dedicated meaningful one-on-one time to each participant, maintained a strong focus on safety, and set us up to continue improving beyond the class. Training with Matt delivers real value."

    Submitted on Mon, Apr. 20, 2026 by Don P.

    "Thank you again for choosing to come and train with me. I'm very happy you found it beneficial and useful."

    Submitted on Sat, Jul. 11, 2026

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1 Insurance has been purchased by the USCCA and is one of the benefits of membership in the USCCA. USCCA members are additional insureds under a policy issued to the USCCA by Universal Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, an insurance company with its principal place of business in Hudsonville, MI. Coverage and benefits are subject to the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the insurance policy. Information provided herein is for informational purposes and is not intended to be a representation of coverage that may exist in any particular situation. Contact Delta Defense’s Member Engagement Team at 800-674-9779 with any questions.