Why Shotgun
Shotguns have long been considered a go-to option for those looking to defend themselves. Take our shotgun classes to learn why that’s the case and how best to do so!
Hollywood movies have given the impression that shotguns are just point and shoot, which is far from the case. Shotguns require very specific manipulations to load, unload, speed reload, clear malfunctions and work them a variety of different ways – and yes, you do actually need to use your sights!
Shotguns are unique in the way they function and the loads they shoot. An experienced student of the shotgun can be extremely effective and fast at close distances, but also have the ability for precision when called upon. There are a variety of shotguns and ammunition types to choose from, as well as different ways to configure a shotgun, all of which are very important decisions one needs to make depending on the intended use. Whether it be training for home defense, professional use or as an enthusiast, these are valuable classes to take.
Shotguns offer great Versatility, stopping power and reliability, but only when used properly.
Core Curriculum
Comprehensive classes that provide the framework to achieve advanced proficiency.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Anyone who wants to learn the safe, proper and most effective ways to work a defensive shotgun should attend these classes. If you are looking to defend yourself, your family and home, whether it is in place of or in addition to a handgun, then our classes are a way for you to determine if a shotgun is a suitable option for you.
You may have some prior experience with shotguns from skeet, trap shooting or maybe hunting, but tactical shotgun application, training and setup is very different. Shooting fundamentals will translate, but the way you work the shotgun, the loads you shoot and the considerations for defensive shotgun engagement are all unique.
We look forward to guiding you to a strong comprehension and confidence with this versatile weapon system and showing you that defensive shotguns can be handled with great effectiveness. If you shoot them properly there’s no need to be intimidated!
If you have not attended our Defensive Handgun I class (link here), we ask that you do so before jumping into a shotgun class. There are many reasons for this, including learning about firearms safety, training on a dynamic range, and shooting fundamentals. Having these prerequisite skills will all be very beneficial ahead of time when you enter our shotgun classes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! We have firearms available to rent for all our classes. When you rent a shotgun from us you will receive a full rental package which will include: the firearm, all necessary associated equipment (ear and eye protection, a sling, etc.) as well as ammunition for your training.
If you have never taken a formal shotgun class with a qualified and verifiable school then you should start with Shotgun I (link to Shotgun I class page). Even if you have some previous shotgun training, but it has been a while, there’s value in taking our Shotgun I class to refresh your skills. It never hurst to practice the basics!
If you have previous formal shotgun training it is possible to start in Shotgun II, but please be prepared to show us proof of completion of those classes from qualified schools. We insist on this not to be hard on anyone, but to make sure every student is placed in an appropriate class based on their skill level for the sake of both safety and so they get the most out of the training.
If you are military or active law enforcement with prior shotgun training then you may automatically start in Shotgun II. However, there still may be value in beginning with Shotgun I to brush up on fundamentals.
Contact us with any class placement questions.
Come to class with (or rent from us) either a pump-action or semi-automatic shotgun in either 12 gauge or 20 gauge. 12 gauge is by far the most common, but women and those who are smaller in stature sometimes enjoy shooting 20 gauge because there is less recoil.
The most common pump-action shotguns and what we tend to recommend are either the Remington 870 or Mossberg 590. For semi-autos we prefer the Beretta 1301 or the Benelli M4. There are plenty of other options for pump-action and semi-autos, but in our experience many of the others just aren’t as reliable, which is not something you would want for self-defense.
Keep in mind that even if you buy a quality Remington, Mossberg, Beretta or Benelli, they don’t always come right out of the box fully set up and ready for training and self-defense. There are specific specs you will want to make sure to achieve before attending a class. Without getting into too much detail, here is some basic guidance about ideal the shotgun setup for our classes. At a minimum, a shotgun should have:
– An extended magazine tube
– A side saddle
– A sling (1 or 2 point slings both work, it’s personal preference)
– Either ghost ring sights or a red dot optic. If going the red dot route then check out Trijicon, Aimpoint, Vortex and Holosun. Red dots will need to be properly mounted before attending class.
PLEASE NOTE: We do not allow bullpup style shotguns such as the Kel-Tec KSG and others in our classes. They have proven to be unreliable with far more malfunctions than traditional designs, they can be very unsafe because of their short overall length, resulting in the support hand being extremely close to the muzzle, and in many cases because of their design, they limit the ability to run the shotgun in the ideal manner.
For further questions don’t hesitate to contact us and we will help guide you to a setup that will serve you well in our classes.
We don’t sell ammunition to those who are bringing their own firearm to class, they will need to supply their own. If you need help figuring out where to purchase ammunition, check out our Industry Partners!
We only provide ammunition to students who are renting firearms from us for the sole purpose of training.
