Defensive Shotgun 1

Unleash the Power. Master the Platform.

The defensive shotgun remains one of the most effective tools for home and personal defense—but only when the shooter knows how to run it efficiently and confidently.

Guardian Training Center's Defensive Shotgun 1 is designed to teach students the essential skills needed to safely and effectively operate a defensive shotgun in real-world situations. Whether you're using a pump-action or semi-automatic shotgun, this course builds the knowledge, confidence, and weapon handling skills necessary to maximize the platform's capabilities.

Students will spend the majority of the day on the range developing efficient gun handling, improving accuracy, learning recoil management, and building confidence through practical, performance-based drills.

Course Topics

Throughout this course, students will learn:

• Firearm safety and range procedures

• Defensive shotgun setup and equipment selection

• Patterning your shotgun

• Fundamentals of defensive shotgun marksmanship

• Recoil management techniques

• Ready positions and presentation

• Emergency and tactical reloads

• Ammunition management

• Malfunction identification and clearance

• Target transitions

• Shooting from multiple positions

• Movement fundamentals

• Defensive mindset and efficient shotgun handling

What to Bring

Students are required to bring the following equipment:

• Pump-action or semi-automatic defensive shotgun in safe working condition

• Minimum of 250 rounds of birdshot ammunition

• 10 rounds of buckshot (recommended)

• 5 rounds of slugs (recommended)

• Shotgun sling (recommended)

• Method of carrying extra ammunition (side saddle, shell cards, belt carrier, chest rig, etc.)

• Eye and ear protection

• Baseball cap or brimmed hat

• Closed-toe shoes

• Weather-appropriate clothing suitable for outdoor training

• Water, snacks, and lunch

• Basic shotgun cleaning and lubrication kit

Students are responsible for bringing all required equipment. Proper gear is essential to fully participate in the course and maximize your training experience.

Prerequisites

Students should be familiar with the basic operation of their shotgun and be able to safely load, unload, and manipulate the firearm. This is a live-fire course that emphasizes safe gun handling and efficient weapon manipulation.

Course Goal

By the end of Defensive Shotgun 1, students will have a solid foundation in safely and effectively operating a defensive shotgun. You'll leave with improved confidence, stronger weapon handling skills, and a greater understanding of how to employ one of the most effective defensive firearms available.

At Guardian Training Center, we believe confidence is built through repetition, proper instruction, and realistic training. Come prepared to work hard, sharpen your skills, and become a more capable defensive shotgun operator.

Train with confidence. Run your shotgun with purpose.