School of Defensive Pistol

We offer the region’s only holstered concealed carry training. Levels I, II, III and Masters offered. Our Defensive Pistol courses are taught by combat and police veterans. Learn the proper defensive use of the pistol from the best of the best.

Thousands have been trained. All abilities welcomed. Come train with us!

Defensive Pistol I

Begin your training with our 2-day introductory to intermediate level Defensive Sidearm course. You will undergo presentation and dry-fire drills, and apply your knowledge in live-fire scenarios. You will learn the principles of cover, how to utilize the firearm safely, and the life-saving skills to defend yourself and your family if confronted by a threat.

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Defensive Pistol II

The Whittington U’s Defensive Pistol II Course is the Intermediate to Advanced Level Defensive Sidearm instruction, that focuses on the cognitive disconnect that occurs when the mind is under emotional duress.

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Defensive Pistol III

The Whittington U’s Defensive Pistol III Course is the Advanced Level Defensive Sidearm instruction that focuses on Lowlight/No-light engagements, while employing a strong fundamental interaction with the firearm, and flashlight, along with Principles of Cover.

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Defensive Pistol Masters: No-light

The Defensive Pistol No-light Masters Course focuses on potential engagements that can occur during periods of darkness.

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Defensive Pistol Masters: Risk Assessment

The Defensive Pistol Masters Risk Assessment Course focuses on the everyday situations that can occur, and assessing the risk(s) involved, to enable the best course of action in a defensive engagement.

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Explore Whittington University Academies

Get trained by the experts at the Whittington U Defensive Academy. Learn the essential defensive firearm handling and marksmanship skills you need to defend yourself in high-stress situations. 

Learn the essential skills for long-range shooting, shooting from alternative firing positions, shooting at unknown distances, and other long-range shooting concepts. Get trained by the experts at the Whittington U Precision Long Range Academy.

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All Whittington-U courses are taught on 360 degree ranges where dynamic movement, defensive posture and the fundamentals of pistol marksmanship are emphasized.

Shooters can take part in competitive shooting, rifle and pistol silhouette, bullseye disciplines, and even black powder muzzle-loading rifles. 

The NRA Whittington Center hosts hundreds of private and public events every year. Take a look at our schedule and plan your visit today.

Need Help Planning Your Training Need Help?

Call 800-494-4853 or email [email protected]

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NRA Whittington Center

Located near beautiful Raton, New Mexico, the NRA Whittington Center is home to the nation’s premier hunting, shooting, and outdoor recreation facility. The NRA Whittington Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and relies on the generous contributions of donors who want to preserve our heritage of freedom for the next generation of shooters and hunters.

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