5 Mistakes to Avoid When Training to Use Firearms for Self-defense

Aaron Spuler is a firearms enthusiast and recreational shooter. Follow more or his work at The Weapon Blog

Carrying a firearm in self-defense can save your life. But the effect of any self-defense weapon is entirely dependant on the skill of the person wielding it. To be ready in a potentially critical situation you need to do more than just choose a handgun and get your permit. It takes special training and equipment to make the most of a firearm for self-defense.

Before you choose a handgun and sign up for a course there are a few common mistakes new gun owners frequently make. Keeping these points in mind to prevent costly, and even dangerous mistakes.

Mistake #1: Training for the Wrong Purposes.

One common mistake is signing up for just any training class. The truth is there are a wide variety of classes available, and not all will cover the skills you need. Be sure to select a course specializing in the use of firearms for personal protection. Marksman courses and sport shooting courses will not adequately prepare you for personal defense.

You must also ensure that your course specializes in the same kind of firearm you plan to be using for personal defense. (this will almost always be pistols.) Training drills with firearms that you don’t regularly carry may be satisfying, but won’t further your self-defense goals.

The best training courses for self-defense:

• Practice the full motion of drawing, firing, and reloading

• Condition you on when and how to wear your holster (including legality)

• Include light martial instruction, such as breaking free of grabs, and creating space to draw your weapon

Mistake #2: Failing to Spend Enough Time at the Range

Shooting accuracy is incredibly important when training to use a firearm for self-defense. When a hunter misses their target, it may spoil the day. But a missed shot in self-defense can cost you your life and even put others at risk that you will be liable for.

We recommend practicing twice per month for one hour or more if possible. As you become more proficient, build up to smaller targets at greater distances.

Be sure to practice the full motion of drawing, reloading, and holstering. Practice drawing and firing from standing, seated, kneeling, and prone positions. Practice with the same weapon that you use for self-defense so that you can best acclimate to factors such as the weight of the weapon and its recoil.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Local Laws and Guidelines

Laws and rules in regards to carrying a weapon are far from static. That is why it is important to understand – and follow up on – any ordinances related to gun ownership in areas you plan to carry. Guidelines may not just limit your ability to carry in public, as many companies restrict employees from carrying in the workplace. Or you may be prevented from carrying in other private businesses. The instructors at your local range may be an excellent resource to consult on local laws.

Make it a point to regularly attend a refresher training course. Attending at least one course a year can keep you updated on equipment and techniques, along with changes in laws that apply to self-defense carrying. In addition to keeping you in the loop, these courses can push you into keeping up with your firearm practice.

Mistake #4: Choosing Poorly in Regards to Gear

Carrying for self-defense requires more than just your firearm. Equipment like your holster, ammunition, and sight need to be at the ready so you can be most effective. This gear should be chosen – and maintained – as carefully as your gun. Test out pieces for comfort and concealability in a controlled environment, as well as during movement so you’ll have everything you need to mount an effective defense.

Mistake #5: Having the Wrong Mentality

Above all else, when you start carrying a firearm for self-defense you need to adopt the proper mentality so that you – and those around you – are as safe as possible. No amount of training or practice can protect you if you have a careless approach. Having a firearm is a tremendous responsibility and using it often has life-altering consequences. Therefore you need to treat every moment you have your handgun with the proper amount of respect.

Bragging or showing off is the wrong approach, but you also don’t want to get caught off guard. Part of proper self-defense training should include being aware of your surroundings and knowing situations that can be exploited; both by an attacker and by yourself. Avoiding confrontation should be your main priority, so drawing your weapon occurs only as a last result.

With the right mindset, you can enjoy the benefits of shooting and avoid potentially dangerous outcomes.

Consult with Experts until You are Completely Confident

To make sure you are always safe, remember to carry your firearm as often as possible. This not only allows you to be ready should you encounter a dangerous situation, but also be accustomed to the feel of your weapon on your body, and ensuring that the holster is broken in. This should be done alongside the proper training courses, routine practice of all aspects of utilizing your weapon, and with the right gear in order for your firearm to be an effective tool for self-defense.

Being in a potentially deadly situation is not something anyone should look forward to; even when carrying a firearm. But with the proper planning and mindset, you’ll be able to walk away from dangerous encounters. Consulting with professionals whenever you are unsure about any aspect of firearm use is also a good idea. That way you can avoid these common training mistakes and be absolutely confident in your skills when they are needed most.