Patrice Nesbitt

I grew up in a home where my mother who was afraid of firearms, influenced how my brother and I felt about them. So, I likewise was fearful and wanted nothing to do with them. That is, until I inherited a firearm from my grandfather. Suddenly, I became aware that I needed to learn how to safely handle them. Initially, a friend gave me some “gravel pit instruction” where I discovered that guns were a whole lot of fun and I wanted to learn more. Another event further impacted my interest in learning to use a firearm. It was out of necessity, driven by a threat to my personal safety. (Sadly, a situation experienced by far too many women today.) It became clear to me that I needed to equip myself with the skills to defend against potential dangers. Through firearms training, I not only achieved this goal but also discovered a newfound enjoyment in shooting sports. My formal firearms training began with the NRA Women On Target class, which I enthusiastically embraced and then volunteered whenever possible because witnessing women who had never handled firearms before succeed and leave the class with big smiles was incredibly fulfilling. My husband and I were fortunate to have weekly tactical training sessions with our AR15s and pistols, turning Friday nights into our cherished Date Night at the Range. We then immersed ourselves in Rob Pincus’s ICE training, learning critical self-defense techniques for both in the home and out of the home. Over the years, I earned several certifications, including NRA Training Counselor — Rifle and Pistol; Chief Range Safety Officer; and USCCA CCW and Home Defense Instructor. Additionally, I'm certified in Stop The Bleed, CPR, and AED, emphasizing safety and preparedness. A Girl & A Gun Range Response and Communicator certifications. For enjoyment, I compete in F-Class (TR) and have proudly served on an international Rifle team. One of my memorable experiences was participating in the Mini-Palma Competition in New Brunswick against the Canadian Rifle Team in 2018. Having taught numerous students at various skill levels, my passion lies in empowering women to enhance their firearms knowledge and skills. Whether it’s for personal security, competitive shooting across different disciplines, or simply the pleasure of successful target practice, I find immense satisfaction in helping others explore and excel in this realm. To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace. ~ George Washington

Si vis pacem, para bellum. — If you want peace, prepare for war.

Engraved on the lower-receiver of my AR15 is the following quote which I hold dear. Blessed be Jehovah my rock, Who teaches my hands to war, And my fingers to fight: — Psalm 144:1