Pistol Training
Build Skill, Confidence, and Control with Expert Pistol Training
At Fully Loaded Defense, our pistol training programs are designed to help everyday citizens develop safe, confident, and effective handgun skills. Whether you are new to pistols or looking to elevate your defensive capabilities, our courses focus on real-world application, responsible firearm ownership, and measurable skill progression.
We offer structured pistol courses in Wilmington, NC and serve students throughout New Hanover County and surrounding areas. Each course is built with clear objectives, hands-on instruction, and an emphasis on decision-making under realistic conditions.
Our Pistol Training Philosophy
Pistol training should be progressive, practical, and purpose-driven. At Fully Loaded Defense, we emphasize:
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Safe firearm handling at all times
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Strong shooting fundamentals before speed
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Realistic defensive application
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Clear decision-making under stress
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Training that translates beyond the range
Our pistol courses are designed to meet students where they are—and help them move forward with confidence.
Live-Fire Pistol Training Courses
These courses involve live-fire range instruction and are ideal for shooters ready to train with their own firearms.
Basic Pistol Course
Price: $225
The Basic Pistol Course is designed for newer shooters or those looking to reinforce the fundamentals of safe and effective pistol use. This course builds a strong foundation that all future training relies on.
What You’ll Learn
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Proper grip, stance, and posture
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Safe loading and unloading procedures
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Firearm handling and muzzle discipline
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Sight alignment and trigger control
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Basic marksmanship principles
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Firearm maintenance and cleaning basics
This course establishes the core skills necessary for confident and responsible handgun ownership.
Defensive Pistol Course
Price: $250
The Defensive Pistol Course is a performance-focused class that moves beyond static shooting. Students learn to apply pistol skills in dynamic, defensive contexts.
Training Focus
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Shooting while moving
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Use of cover and concealment
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Target transitions
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Multiple shooting positions
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Speed, accuracy, and control under pressure
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This course is ideal for shooters ready to push beyond fundamentals and develop practical defensive pistol skills.
Home Defense Pistol Course
Price: $275
This course is specifically designed to address defensive considerations inside the home. Instruction focuses on safe movement, awareness, and decision-making in residential environments.
Course Emphasis
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Home-defense fundamentals
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Safe movement through doorways and hallways
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Identifying and managing common problem areas
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Decision-making inside a residence
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Pistol-based skills that can translate to rifle-based home defense
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This course helps students understand how defensive principles apply in the environment most people are trying to protect—their home.
Advanced Concealed Carry
Price: $300
The Advanced Concealed Carry course focuses on responsible carry and response in public environments. This course goes beyond basic permit-level instruction.
Key Topics
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Concealment principles and positioning
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Awareness and avoidance strategies
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Defending yourself in open and confined spaces
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Legal and practical considerations
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Responding to threats safely and responsibly
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This course is ideal for experienced shooters who want deeper understanding of real-world concealed carry challenges.
SIRT Pistol Training Classes (Non-Live Fire)
SIRT pistol courses use training pistols with no live ammunition, allowing students to focus on mechanics, decision-making, and safety in a controlled environment.
SIRT Pistol – Pistol Fundamentals
Price: $25
Build a safe, confident foundation using SIRT training pistols.
Skills Covered
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Stance and grip
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Sight alignment and trigger control
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Presentation from the holster (as appropriate)
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Reload and malfunction mechanics
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This class is ideal for beginners or anyone wanting to refine fundamentals without live fire.
SIRT Pistol – Home Defense / Firearm in the Home
Price: $25
Practical training focused on safe firearm handling inside the home.
Training Topics
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Safe storage options
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Home-defense mindset
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Family safety planning
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Movement and positioning
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Threat identification and communication
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Decision-making under stress
SIRT Pistol – Active Threat in Public
Price: $25
Scenario-based training emphasizing awareness and smart decision-making in public environments.
Focus Areas
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Avoidance and escape strategies
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Use of cover and concealment
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Communication in crowded spaces
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When to disengage versus intervene
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Safe movement in public settings
Explore Our Course Offerings and Services
SIRT Pistol – Home Defense / Firearm in the Home
Training Credit Toward Future Classes
Each SIRT pistol class is $25, and your $25 is credited toward a future Fully Loaded Defense live-fire course. This allows students to build skills and confidence before progressing into more advanced training.
Certificate of Completion
Fully Loaded Defense Certificate
Upon completion of applicable pistol courses, participants receive a Fully Loaded Defense Certificate of Completionfor their personal records, recognizing their participation and commitment to training.
