SAFTEA Defensive Handgun 1

The goal of the Second Amendment Foundation Training Divisions “Defensive Handgun 1” course is to provide the student with a solid foundation in basic knowledge of handgun safety, various types of handguns, an understanding of ammunition and how it functions, shooting fundamentals and an introduction to defensive shooting skills.

A student new to the use of a firearm for personal defense typically has a broad range of questions and is faced with learning a number of skills that are critical in the use of a firearm – in this case a handgun – to defend themselves, their family or someone in their charge. Defensive Handgun 1 is specifically designed to provide a person new to handguns the opportunity to gain that knowledge and learn those skills.

A number of topics will be covered in “Defensive Handgun 1 – Introduction to the Defensive Use of a Handgun”. These include but are not limited to:

  • Safe handling of your firearm.
  • Safe Storage of your firearm and ammunition.
  • Basic components of a Double Action Revolver.
  • Basic components of a Semi-Automatic Pistol
  • Operation of a Double– Action Revolver
  • Operation of a Single and a Double Action Semi-Automatic Pistol.
  • Working With A Natural Defensive Stance
  • 2-Handed and Single Handed Engagements
  • Integrating The Color Code Into Your Life
  • Finding Your Balance of Speed and Precision
  • Clearing Common Pistol Stoppages
  • Progressive Shooting Drills
  • Definition of Cover and Concealment
  • Use of Cover
  • Selecting a Pistol and Ammunition

Required Equipment

  • A modern, serviceable, center-fire handgun (Semi-automatic Highly Recommended)
  • Ear and Eye protection (electronic muffs preferred).
  • Strong Side Holster – For safety reasons on the range our classes will use Strong Side Holsters only! - (No cross draws, shoulder rigs, pocket holsters, ankle, appendix or small of the back carry). Blackhawk Serpa and similar holsters which require the use of the index finger to deactivate a retention device will not be used in SAFTD classes. The ONLY exception is for Law Enforcement & Military who are issued these types of holsters for duty use.
  • No pocket guns or holsters such as Ruger LCP etc. You will be presenting the gun from concealment and reholstering repeatedly. You need to be proficient at this task and have a holster that does not collapse when the gun is removed.
  • Semi-Automatic Pistol or Double Action Revolver .38 special or 9 mm or above.
  • 150 Rounds of Ammunition: Factory fresh ammo only. NO RELOADS or specialty ammo such as RIP ammo etc.
  • Two extra functional magazines (semi-autos) or speed-loaders (revolvers)
  • Dual Magazine carrier optional but HIGHLY recommended.
  • Comfortable clothing, knee-pads (optional but recommended).
  • Hydration system or Bottled water.
  • Shoes – comfortable with sufficient support to permit a full range of motion. No sandals or flip-flops.
  • Long Pants, Shirt With Higher Collar
  • Sturdy Belt
  • Baseball Cap

Course length is a full day, typically 8-10 hours including a 1-hour lunch break. There are short breaks throughout both the classroom session and shooting range drills.