
Tactical Guardians Academy

Self-Defense Foundations: Shotgun 101
Recommendations course for beginner shooters
Service Description
Step beyond casual clay or bird hunting and build the foundation for real-world defense with the defensive shotgun. Self-Defense Foundations: Shotgun 101 is designed for new or returning shooters who want safe, practical skills for home and personal defense. Unlike recreational range time, this course emphasizes proven defensive techniques, recoil control, and efficient weapon handling under basic pressure. Whether this is your first formal class or you’re refreshing dormant skills, you’ll leave confident in how to set up, run, and maintain your shotgun responsibly. Students are encouraged to bring their own shotgun, sling, and side-saddle/ammo carrier; limited rentals may be available at an additional cost (ask in advance). What You’ll Learn - Defensive mindset & firearm safety (platform-specific best practices) - Shotgun setup & fit (length of pull, stock/optic options, sling mounting) - Ready positions & mount (low/compressed ready; efficient shoulder mount) - Recoil & control fundamentals (stance, grip, stock weld, follow-through) - Patterning & aiming concepts (bead/ghost ring optics basics; patterning at defensive distances) - Ammunition fundamentals (buckshot vs. slugs; purpose and accountability) - Load, reload, and basic stoppage clearing (emergency/tactical loads; port/quad-load intro as appropriate) - Ammo management (on-gun carriers, topping off, select-slug concept overview) - Safe movement & muzzle management (range-approved positional work) Student Outcomes By the end of this course, you’ll have a solid grasp of the core defensive shotgun skills needed to safely handle, mount, aim, and run the platform under basic pressure. You’ll understand how to configure your shotgun, manage recoil and reloads, address common stoppages, and place accountable hits at defensive distances, laying the groundwork for Performance Fundamentals 201 and future home-defense training. The course is located and taught in the DFW metroplex of Texas. This course can accommodate an individual, a small group, or even a larger group. The course will give the students great opportunities, from beginner to intermediate skills, to seek better training fundamentals and enhance their overall skills. * RANGE FEE AND AMMUNITION IS NOT INCLUDED *