Basic Pistol

The Basic Pistol Course is designed to provide students with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitude required for the safe and responsible use of a pistol. This course covers key topics, including firearm safety, pistol types and components, ammunition selection, proper shooting techniques, and firearm maintenance.

Students will learn the fundamentals of pistol handling, including grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control, and marksmanship. The course includes both classroom instruction and hands-on live-fire training to build confidence and proficiency.

Emphasis is placed on responsible gun ownership, range safety, and understanding the legal and ethical considerations of firearm use. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in pistol operation, preparing them for further training or responsible ownership.

***Disclaimer:  Completing the Basic Pistol Course at Heritage Shield Defense Academy may satisfy training requirements for concealed carry permit applications in many states. However, completion does not guarantee permit approval. Students are responsible for verifying and meeting all state and local requirements. Heritage Shield Defense Academy is not responsible for the issuance or denial of any concealed carry permit.

 The Basic Rifle Course is designed to provide students with the fundamental knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary for the safe and effective use of a rifle. This course covers essential topics such as firearm safety, rifle types and components, ammunition selection, shooting fundamentals, and proper maintenance.
Students will learn how to handle, load, and fire a rifle with confidence while developing marksmanship skills through classroom instruction and live-fire range exercises. Emphasis is placed on responsible gun ownership, range safety, and understanding the ethical and legal aspects of rifle use. 

The Basic Shotgun Course is designed to provide students with the fundamental knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary for the safe and effective use of a shotgun. This course covers essential topics such as firearm safety, shotgun types and components, ammunition selection, shooting techniques, and proper firearm maintenance.

Students will learn the fundamentals of shotgun operation, including proper mounting, stance, aiming, and trigger control. The course includes both classroom instruction and live-fire range exercises to build confidence and proficiency in handling and shooting a shotgun.

Emphasis is placed on responsible gun ownership, range safety, and the ethical and legal considerations of firearm use. By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation in shotgun handling and marksmanship, preparing them for hunting, home defense, sport shooting, or further training.

The Personal Protection in the Home Course is designed to teach responsible gun owners how to effectively defend themselves and their loved ones in a home defense situation. This course goes beyond basic firearm handling and focuses on defensive shooting techniques, home defense strategies, and legal considerations of using a firearm for self-defense.

Course Topics Include:

• Firearm Safety in the Home – Secure storage, handling, and access to firearms.
• Defensive Shooting Fundamentals – Proper grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control, and rapid target acquisition.
• Home Defense Planning – Creating a home protection plan, understanding safe rooms, and securing entry points.
• Understanding the Threat – Situational awareness, recognizing potential threats, and de-escalation techniques.
• Legal & Ethical Considerations – Use of force laws, self-defense scenarios, and legal responsibilities.
• Shooting Drills & Live-Fire Exercises – Engaging targets under realistic conditions to build confidence and proficiency.

This course is ideal for individuals and families who want to improve their ability to protect themselves at home. It emphasizes practical defensive shooting skills, legal awareness, and mental preparedness. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in home defense strategies and firearm use for personal protection.

Prerequisite: Current and Valid CCW Permit 

The Personal Protection Outside the Home Course is designed to prepare responsible gun owners for self-defense in real-world situations beyond the home. This advanced training course builds upon fundamental firearm skills, focusing on situational awareness, threat assessment, defensive shooting techniques, and the legal considerations of carrying and using a firearm for personal protection in public spaces.

Course Topics Include:

• Firearm Safety and Concealed Carry Considerations – Safe handling, drawing, and holstering techniques.
• Situational Awareness & Threat Avoidance – Identifying and avoiding potential threats before they escalate.
• Defensive Shooting Fundamentals – Engaging threats effectively under stress and dynamic conditions.
• Movement and Cover Techniques – Using cover and concealment to maximize safety.
• Legal & Ethical Responsibilities – Understanding self-defense laws, use-of-force guidelines, and aftermath considerations.
• Live-Fire Drills & Scenarios – Practicing real-world defensive encounters, including multiple threat engagement and low-light shooting.

This course is ideal for individuals who carry a firearm for personal defense or are considering doing so. It emphasizes both the mental and physical aspects of self-protection, ensuring students develop the confidence, skills, and legal knowledge necessary to stay safe in public spaces.