How did all this get started?
I've been shooting my entire life, but I rarely carried a gun prior to the Louisiana Legislature allowing
citizens their RIGHT to carry a concealed firearm. I was mugged in New Orleans by a criminal that
was armed. Criminals don't care about firearms laws, your rights, your property, or your life. That
night, I was lucky to escape with my life.
I resolved to learn more about how to defend myself, and soon I attended Thunder Ranch
(www.thunderranchinc.com). In three days, they changed everything I thought I knew about shooting.
Six years later, I've attended 11 classes at various schools and have learned a lot  - but mainly that I
still have a lot to learn!!
What do these classes teach you?
Courses focused on self defense typically start with basic skills of safe handling, how to
load and unload (more to this than most realize!), how to draw, clearing malfunctions, a
variety of tactics and how to use a handheld flashlight with a weapon.  Shooting while
moving, the use of cover, and manipulating your weapon on the move is also taught.  
Eventually you will engage a variety of moving targets as well. These classes focus on how
to fight for your life, not how to win shooting games. The goal is to teach you a set of skills
that can be used to defend your life or loved ones if anyone were to attack you.
Where do the classes take place?
We aren't tied to any one location - anywhere that is LEGAL and SAFE to shoot is an option.
There are a number of ranges in Louisiana that will host classes.
Louisiana Self Defense - Dedicated to Personal Safety Training
About Louisiana Self Defense
When are the classes?
For the time being, we are trying to organize two defensive classes a year - one class in
the spring, and one in the fall - but if the demand is there, more will be organized.
Frequently Asked Questions
I already know how to shoot. Why would I take a class?
The first time I went to Thunder Ranch, I thought I knew 95% of what there was to
know. I was there to learn that last little bit. I'd been shooting since I was five years
old, had a collection of guns, and could shoot well at the range.
That three day class changed everything I thought I knew about using guns.
SHOOTING and gun and FIGHTING with a gun are very different. In a fight, things
are dynamic - you should be moving, the target will be moving, your weapon is
more likely to malfunction, you need to learn how to use cover... Most fights occur in
altered light environments, so knowing how to use a flashlight with your gun is a
good idea. Basically, making good hits that will stop a threat on a moving target
while you are moving to cover doesn't come naturally - it takes work and training.

One regular student is a FBI SWAT team member. He knows how to shoot -that isn't
the issue.  He is there to stay sharp. The skills you learn here are perishable (you
have to practice them) and repeating them is the best way to learn.  I've taken
several "Level One" classes - I always learn something new. Oh, and all this is fun!
Moving and shooting? Shooting moving targets? Is this dangerous?
Guns are dangerous, so safety is the number one priority in any class.  I will never bring in an
instructor that does anything that violates any of  the four safety rules Jeff Cooper and Clint Smith
came up with.

1. ALL GUNS ARE ALWAYS LOADED -- NO EXCEPTIONS
2. NEVER LET THE MUZZLE COVER ANYTHING WHICH YOU ARE NOT WILLING TO DESTROY
3. BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET
4. KEEP THE FINGER OFF THE TRIGGER UNTIL YOUR SIGHTS ARE ON THE TARGET

If you follow the rules, nothing bad will happen. Period. It is that simple.
If you break any rules, you will be asked to leave.
I haven't been shooting very long - am I ready to take a class?
All classes start with a review of the fundamentals, so as long as a shooter is familiar with
their weapon and comfortable shooting it, they should be OK.

That said, a class can only move as fast as the slowest student can safely progress - so if
you are really worried, I'll be happy to meet you at a range and evaluate where you are. Just
e-mail me to set up a meeting.
Who do I pay, how do I pay, what is your refund policy - all things money...
This website is only a tool to facilitate putting together trainers and trainees. I do not profit
from tuition payments, nor do I accept any liability - I am just a guy setting up classes.

Prices listed cover tuition and ranges fees only - ammunition, etc is not included.

Payments are made directly to the Trainer/School. Prices are set by the individual trainer.

Tuition payments are NON REFUNDABLE - NO EXCEPTIONS. These trainers are flying,
driving, and hiking across the country to come teach here.  They book hotels, pay for staff
to come, the transportation of bulky target systems, etc.  
When is (Your Favorite Instructor) going to teach a class?
I don't know, so ask me! There is a simple science to this -

1. The instructor has to be willing to travel.
2. We need to determine how many will take the class. If enough are interested...
3. We need a range that can accommodate that type of class.

If you want a specific instructor to come in, contact me. I'll see if I can set it up.
Who can take these classes?
1. Qualified citizens - You must be a law abiding citizen. You will need to submit a CCW or letter stating you have no arrest record.
2. Law Enforcement Officers  -  Many trainers offer a discount for sworn law officers, please inquire about this
3. Military - Active duty or retired military members may also qualify for a discount - please inquire about this