Introduction to Firearms for Self‑Defense

Cost:  Free

CCW Colorado developed this free course to assist potential and new gun owners to decide what self-defense tool is best for themselves and their families.

The goals of this Free Class:

• To give new and potential gun owners information on self-defense laws

• To provide an understanding of different types of firearms for self-defense

• Help determine what firearm is best for your personal situation, if any

• Understand safe storage of firearms.

•  Bring people into the defensive firearms community

This course is not a shooting class and does not meet Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) requirements. It introduces firearms and self-defense, focusing on awareness, safety, legal issues, and responsible ownership.

If you want to apply for a CHP, you must complete certified training that meets state standards such as the CCW Colorado Tier 3 - Concealed Carry class. This course serves as a basic resource for those exploring self-defense options before pursuing firearm ownership or concealed carry.

Remember, effective self-defense is built on knowledge, preparation, and careful choices—not fear. 

By prioritizing safety and responsible ownership, you ensure that your decisions are thoughtful and informed. Making careful, informed choices means considering all aspects of self-defense, including whether a firearm is the right tool for you and your family.

Comprehensive Guide to Colorado Self-Defense Laws and Non-Lethal Tools

Earn the CCW "Guardian" level defender in this course. This class provides an in-depth exploration of the Colorado laws that pertain specifically to self-defense, along with a detailed examination of the legal framework surrounding the use of non-lethal self-defense tools.

Participants will learn about the fundamental principles of self-defense as defined by Colorado statutes, including the circumstances under which an individual is legally justified in using force to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. In addition to understanding the legal definitions and requirements for self-defense, the class will delve into the various types of non-lethal self-defense tools available to individuals, such as pepper spray, personal alarms, and stun guns. Each tool will be discussed in terms of its effectiveness, legal restrictions, and appropriate usage scenarios. Moreover, the course will cover important topics such as the duty to retreat, the concept of proportionality in the use of force, and the legal consequences of using self-defense in various situations.

Participants will engage in discussions and case studies that highlight real-life applications of these laws, allowing them to grasp how theoretical principles translate into practical situations. By the end of the class, attendees will not only have a solid understanding of their rights and responsibilities under Colorado law regarding self-defense but will also feel empowered to make informed decisions about personal safety and the appropriate use of non-lethal self-defense tools in their daily lives.

What can you expect to learn in the "Tier 2 - Pistol Fundamentals" Course at CCW Colorado?

Earn the CCW Colorado" Protector" level defender with this course. In the Tier 2 - Pistol Fundamentals course at CCW Colorado, participants can expect to gain a solid foundation in handgun safety and operation. This comprehensive course covers several key aspects to ensure a thorough understanding and responsible handling of firearms.

Universal Firearm Safety Rules

Participants will learn the fundamental principles of handling and maintaining a pistol safely. This includes proper storage methods and the key safety rules necessary to avoid accidents. Emphasis is placed on treating every firearm as if it is loaded, keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, and being sure of your target and what is beyond it.

Firearm Types, Parts and Operation

Understanding the essential components of a pistol is crucial. In this section, participants will delve into how these components work together and how to perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting. This knowledge is vital for ensuring your firearm operates smoothly and safely.

Safe Loading and Unloading Procedures

Mastering the techniques for safely loading and unloading a pistol is a central part of the training. Participants will learn how to manage misfires and jams, ensuring they can handle their firearm confidently and safely in various situations.

Shooting Fundamentals

The basics of stance, grip, sight alignment, and trigger control are covered to help improve accuracy and build confidence. Proper technique is essential for effective shooting, and this section provides the foundational skills necessary for proficiency.

Live Fire Practice

The course includes live fire practice, where participants can apply what they've learned in a controlled, supportive environment. Experienced instructors oversee this practice, emphasizing safety and skill-building. This hands-on experience is invaluable for reinforcing the principles taught during the course.

Participants Should Bring:

· Safety Glasses

· Hearing Protection

· Personal, Unloaded Firearms

· Minimum of 2 Unloaded Magazines

· Outside the Waistband, Strongside Holster (Recommended but not required)

· 300 - 400 rounds of factory-loaded, range ammunition (FMJ)

This course is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to refresh their knowledge and skills in pistol safety. By the end of the training, participants will have a thorough understanding of how to handle their firearm responsibly and effectively and be prepared for our Tier 2 - Concealed Carry class.

Click Here to request information.

Comprehensive Colorado CCW Defensive Pistol Training Course Course Overview and Requirements

Introduction

Earn the CCW Colorado "True Defender" level by completing this course. This course is a very challenging class. To enroll, you must have completed the CCW Colorado Tier 2 - Pistol Fundamentals course or a similar basic pistol course that includes firearm safety, marksmanship, and live-fire shooting.

Course Description

This is a thorough class that exceeds the requirements for a Colorado CCW license. It forms the base for all CCW Colorado Defensive Pistol training. It’s designed for those with basic firearm knowledge and shooting experience who want to apply for a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP).

Purpose

The course helps students gain the knowledge, skills, and attitude needed to avoid dangerous situations and understand the responsibilities of carrying and using a concealed firearm for self-defense.

Course Topics

This course covers the following topics:

· Review Firearm Safety

· Review of Pistol Basics

· Ethical Considerations of Carrying and Using a Firearm

· Overview of Self-Defense Law

· Overview of Federal and State Laws Regarding Firearms

· Holsters, Carry Positions, and Concealment

· Situational Awareness / Defender Mindset

· Defensive Shooting Basics & Tactics

· Responding to an Attack and the Aftermath

Classroom Instruction and Dry-Fire Practice

This training involves classroom learning and dry-fire practice. It takes about 6 hours, depending on the class size and participation. Wear comfortable clothes, but a sturdy belt is needed for holster retention and practice. The class size is capped at 8 participants.

Equipment Needed for Classroom:

· Personal Unloaded Pistol

· Minimum of 2 Unloaded Magazines

· Kydex, Outside of the Waistband Holster

Live-Fire Qualification

This class includes a live-fire qualification as per Colorado law. CCW Colorado will guide you through shooting drills to ensure you can protect yourself and your family.

The live-fire session lasts 3-6 hours, based on participants' experience, at an outdoor range. Dress for the weather and bring water and snacks. Wear a hat, high-neck shirt, sturdy belt, and closed-toe shoes or boots.

Participants Should Bring:

· Safety Glasses

· Electronic Hearing Protection

· Personal, Unloaded Firearms

· Minimum of 2 Unloaded Magazines

· Outside the Waistband, Strongside Holster

· Minimum 200 rounds of factory-loaded, range ammunition 400-800 Rounds is recommended)

This course exceeds the training requirements to apply for the Colorado CHP permit.

Don't See An Upcoming Class? Click here to request a class.

THIS IS AN ADVANCED SHOOTING CLASS. WE WILL UTILIZE THE RANGE FOR ALL Tier 4 - ADVANCED DEFENSIVE SHOOTING CLASS EVENTS. TO BE ELEGIBLE FOR THIS CLASS, YOU MUST HAVE COMPLETED THE CCW COLORADO TIER 2 AND TIER 3 CLASSES OR EQUIVILANT CLASSES THAT REQUIRED A COMPREHENSIVE LIVE FIRE COMPONENT.

This 2 day course dives deep into how to see active threats and quickly develop a course of action and in a self defense situation. You will learn gun fighting tactics, advanced defensive movements, and advanced shooting techniques. Participants should have a current Colorado CCW permit since all live fire training will be from concealment. It teaches participants advanced defensive skills and awareness for unexpected self-defense situations in a safe and effective manner.

This course covers:

• Advanced shooting from Cover and Concealment

• Shooting from odd positions

• Defensive Movements

• Advanced Defensive Shooting Techniques

• Gunfighting Tactics

Training begins with a 1 hour review of firearm safety, range safety and range commands. We then move to the range where we will begin the live fire drills. The range we utilize is an outdoor range, so participants should dress appropriately for the weather conditions. A hat, long sturdy pants, closed collared shirt, sturdy boots or closed toed shoes are minimum requirements.

What to Bring to Class:

• Eye protection

• Electronic hearing protection

• Personal, unloaded firearms

• A minimum of 3 unloaded magazines

• Personal Concealment Holster

• 2 belt mounted magazine holders

• 800 - 1000 rounds of range ammunition.

Due to the complex movements of this class, class size is limited to 6 participants. Participants MUST have a current Colorado CHP since all live fire training will be from concealment.

Click Here to request a class

Defender Mindset - Situational Awareness

This three-hour course focuses on the development of situational awareness to enhance personal safety and the safety of one’s family in public environments. The course examines the principles of awareness, preparation, and deliberate planning to support effective decision-making during high-stress self-defense situations.

No concealed handgun permit or prior firearms experience is required. This course is intended for individuals seeking to improve their personal safety and the safety of their family and friends while in public settings.

Topics covered include:

• Behavioral threat recognition

• The defender’s mindset

• Levels of mental awareness

• Mental preparation

• Avoidance strategies

• Physiological responses to stress

• Applicable self-defense law

• Disparity of force considerations

• Principles for controlling an encounter

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to identify common behavioral indicators of potential threats, explain the principles of situational awareness and self-defense law, demonstrate effective mental preparation techniques under stress, and apply decision-making strategies to avoid, de-escalate, or control encounters in public settings.

Regardless of shooting experience, practicing is extremely important. Improving marksmanship and defensive shooting skills is a necessity. CCW Colorado recommends that CCW holders participate in additional live-fire classes. We can schedule live-fire only time at our range where CCW Colorado instructors will coach you through shooting drills which allow you to practice current skills and even learn new skills and techniques.

The range we utilize is an outdoor range, so participants should dress appropriately for the weather conditions. At a minimum students should wear a hat, high neck shirt, sturdy belt and closed toe shoes or boots.

Participants should bring:

• Safety Glasses

• Electronic Hearing Protection

• Personal, Unloaded Firearms

• Minimum of 2 unloaded magazines

• Outside the Waistband Strongside Holster (Concealed Carry Class)

• Personal Concealed Carry Holster (Defensive Shooting Class)

• 200 rounds of factory loaded, range ammunition (FMJ)

People requesting live shooting courses should keep firearm and shooting experience levels in mind when scheduling private shooting classes. These classes vary greatly by shooting experience.

Click here to inquire about live-fire classes and coaching.