Description

Basic Defensive Handgun I

Grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control, recoil management, and basic defensive marksmanship.

Basic Defensive Handgun I is designed for students who already understand basic firearm safety and are ready to build a stronger foundation in defensive handgun handling. This course focuses on the core skills needed to safely and responsibly handle a handgun in a defensive context while reinforcing accuracy, control, confidence, and sound decision-making.

Students will work through the fundamentals of defensive handgun use, including proper grip, stable shooting stance, sight alignment, sight picture, trigger control, recoil management, follow-through, and basic defensive marksmanship. The goal is to help students move beyond simple familiarization and begin developing consistent, repeatable handgun skills.

This is a safety-first training course. All instruction is conducted in a controlled, professional environment with an emphasis on responsible firearm ownership, safe handling, and practical skill development.

Who This Class Is For

This class is ideal for:

• Newer handgun owners who have completed a basic safety or introductory handgun course
• Students preparing for concealed carry or home-defense training
• Shooters who want to improve accuracy, control, and confidence
• Permit holders who want structured defensive handgun fundamentals
• Anyone looking to build a safer, more consistent handgun skill set

What You Will Learn

Students will receive instruction and practical coaching in:

• Firearm safety review and range expectations
• Defensive handgun mindset and responsibility
• Proper handgun grip
• Shooting stance and body position
• Sight alignment and sight picture
• Trigger control and follow-through
• Recoil management
• Basic defensive marksmanship
• Accuracy and consistency drills
• Loading, unloading, and safe administrative handling
• Common shooting errors and how to correct them
• Safe movement and muzzle awareness, as appropriate for the class format

Course Format

This course may include classroom instruction, dry-practice demonstrations, and live-fire range training depending on the scheduled class format.

Students should expect a structured, fundamentals-based class that prioritizes safety, coaching, repetition, and skill development.

Equipment Needed

Students should bring:

• A reliable handgun in safe working condition
• Eye and ear protection
• Ammunition as specified for the scheduled class
• At least two magazines or speedloaders, if applicable
• Magazine pouch or safe storage method, if available
• Weather-appropriate clothing if training outdoors
• Closed-toe shoes
• Notebook and pen
• Valid photo identification

If you do not have all required equipment, please contact Coastal Training Group before registering.

Prerequisites

Students should already be familiar with basic firearm safety and handgun operation before attending this class.

Recommended prior training:

• Firearm Safety Fundamentals
• First Shots Handgun
• Equivalent basic handgun safety experience

This class is not intended for students who have never handled a handgun before. New shooters should begin with an introductory handgun or firearm safety course first.

Safety Requirements

All students must follow instructor directions and all firearm safety rules at all times. Unsafe behavior may result in removal from the class without refund.

Students must arrive with firearms unloaded and secured unless otherwise instructed. No live ammunition is permitted in classroom areas unless specifically authorized by the instructor.

Course Completion

Students who safely participate in the required course activities may receive a certificate of completion from Coastal Training Group.

Completion of this course does not guarantee proficiency, certification, licensure, or legal authorization to carry a firearm. Students are responsible for understanding and following all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Important Notice

This course is educational and skills-development based. It does not replace legal advice, state-mandated training requirements, or continued practice. Defensive firearm use involves serious legal, moral, and safety responsibilities. Students are encouraged to continue training and to seek qualified legal guidance regarding firearm ownership, carry, transportation, storage, and lawful use of force.

Recommended Next Classes

After completing Basic Defensive Handgun I, students may consider:

• Delaware CCDW / Concealed Carry Prep
• Holster Fundamentals
• Defensive Handgun II
• Home Defense Fundamentals
• Low-Light / Flashlight Fundamentals
• Medical Response for Gunshot Trauma