Gear, gadgets, and things may come and go, but KNOWLEDGE can never be taken from you…
Please do not be overwhelmed by the apparent size of this list. If you don’t have any of it AT ALL, except your gun and ONE magazine, we can get started with that and work with what you have on hand.
“…THE FINAL WEAPON IS THE BRAIN. ALL ELSE IS SUPPLEMENTAL.” -STEINBECK
The acquisition of appropriate skills for your personal defense is not a one-and-done event. You will need to make a reasonable commitment of time and treasure to your skills. The alternative is to rely upon the “goodwill” of violent predators to select you last…
Mandatory Equipment
- Defensive handgun. “Major” caliber is preferable, but we can work with what you have.
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Holster for your specific make/model of handgun. **Must be an approved style. Contact me if you think you have an approved holster or if you have any questions about your holster.
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An approved gun belt. This may be a pants belt of proper characteristics that can support the weight of your loaded and holstered firearm, loaded magazines/speed loader pouches, along with any other mounted support gear, or a purpose built, duty-type belt. Contact me if you have any questions about your gun belt.
- For each training session bring at least 200 rounds of ammunition for your handgun.
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At least 2 magazines for your semi-auto pistol or 2 speed loaders for your revolver. More is always better…”Gee, I wish I had less ammunition for this gunfight that I have found myself to be in…”, said NO. ONE. EVER.
- Ammunition has an extremely long shelf life with only a moderate amount of consideration to storage. You should invest in more ammunition than virtually anything else.
- Magazines are equally durable. It will be to your advantage to have more magazines than you think you might every need.
- Contact DFI for your critical supply consultation.
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Eye and ear protection
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Wrap-around style, ballistic-rated eye protection is mandatory
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Over-the-Ear, electronic hearing protection is preferred
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Foam-style, expanding ear plugs are very good. Custom molded ear plugs are even better.
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Double protection (Electronics plus ear plugs) is the best
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- Ball-style cap with front-facing brim to keep flying brass from hitting your forehead
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Weather and environment appropriate clothing
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Boots or otherwise sturdy footwear. NO sandals or open-toed shoes
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Loose fitting, outdoor style pants. Cargo pockets are a big advantage
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Highly Recommended
The following items will greatly enhance your training experience. We will discuss, in detail, how much of this you need to consider “Everyday Carry” to increase your survivability in a defensive shooting event.
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Double magazine pouches or double speed loader pouches
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Dump pouch
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High performance (and compact) flashlight. Yes, even for daytime classes. You will actually use a flashlight more in your daily life than your handgun. Consider it a “must have”, an Every Day Carry (EDC) item whether or not you are in a permissive environment or choose to be armed anyway…
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Sunscreen and bug repellant
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Knee and elbow pads are encouraged
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Snacks and water or other hydration fluids. It is crucial that you drink enough water to avoid heat related injuries during hot months. Caffeinated drinks are not good for hydration. The range is too far away from eating establishments for practical use in mid-day, so bring your lunch.
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Note taking material
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Other support gear at your discretion, i.e., Cleaning gear, transportation systems, etc. Emergency outdoor trauma kit and/or personal medical kit are highly advised and will be mandatory for intermediate and advanced classes.