Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of student does the Defensive Training Group typically train?
Our students include armed citizens, military personnel, and law enforcement officers from federal, state, and local agencies who want to develop and improve their skills.
Does the Defensive Training Group have students return for multiple classes?
Yes, we have many students who return to retake classes or who come back for training in different weapon systems or for higher level courses. One reason for repeating a course is that our curriculum is constantly evolving as new information becomes available.
Why should I take a class?
Our students come to class for a myriad of reasons. Some carry concealed on a daily basis and want to develop the skills to allow them to effectively respond to a lethal force encounter. Others are interested in home defense and are looking for techniques to protect their families. Our military and law enforcement students are seeking to hone and refine the skills that they already possess and take their abilities to the next level. Regardless of the specific reasons, all of our students take training because they understand that it is not an option to lose in a lethal force situation and that it is not enough to survive. The only acceptable outcome is to win the fight.
Am I ready to take a class?
In over a decade of teaching, we have had many students express concern that they are not ready to step up to a class. To this, we answer - Yes, you are! Keep an open mind and come willing to learn; leave the rest to us. One of our mottos is "This is not our class, this is your class." It is our job to structure the class so that each student, regardless of where they are in the learning curve, comes away having been challenged and with new skills in their toolbox.
What is the typical class size?
We typically require a minimum of four students and a maximum of eight. We believe that having at least four students in a class enhances the learning experience. On occasion, classes may have more than eight students but, in those cases, additional coaches are brought in to maintain a low student to instructor ratio.
Where does the Defensive Training Group hold its classes?
We conduct classes at various facilities but primarily run courses at Shoot GTR (Gainesville Target Range 1610 NW 65th Pl) in Gainesville FL.
When do the classes start?
Unless otherwise indicated, our classes start at 9:00AM.
When do the classes end?
The official end time is 6:00PM for most classes. We typically shoot the last drills of the day around 5:30PM to allow adequate time for clean-up and debrief. Low Light classes normally run from 6:00PM to 10:00PM.
What kind of gun, ammo, and gear should I bring?
This will be class specific but, as a general rule, bring what you actually use for carry or duty. Note that some smaller, concealed carry pistols may not be ideally suited for our courses. Suggested equipment lists are posted on the individual pages for each class. The Pro Shop at the Gainesville Target Range carries a full range of suitable ammunition and stocks quality gear as recommended by the Defensive Training Group instructors. If you have questions, do not hesitate to ask before class.
Does the Defensive Training Group offer a class that meets the requirements to obtain a Florida Concealed Weapons Permit?
Our Reactive Handgun Fundamentals course not only meets but significantly exceeds the requirements to obtain a Florida Concealed Weapons Permit.
What is the policy on refunds?
Refunds will only be issued in the event a class cancels. Being a small business, decisions on whether or not a class runs are based on signups. Once that decision is made, preparations start, which means spending money and incurring expenses. We understand that things come up and will do everything we can to accommodate students and roll them into another class.
Our students include armed citizens, military personnel, and law enforcement officers from federal, state, and local agencies who want to develop and improve their skills.
Does the Defensive Training Group have students return for multiple classes?
Yes, we have many students who return to retake classes or who come back for training in different weapon systems or for higher level courses. One reason for repeating a course is that our curriculum is constantly evolving as new information becomes available.
Why should I take a class?
Our students come to class for a myriad of reasons. Some carry concealed on a daily basis and want to develop the skills to allow them to effectively respond to a lethal force encounter. Others are interested in home defense and are looking for techniques to protect their families. Our military and law enforcement students are seeking to hone and refine the skills that they already possess and take their abilities to the next level. Regardless of the specific reasons, all of our students take training because they understand that it is not an option to lose in a lethal force situation and that it is not enough to survive. The only acceptable outcome is to win the fight.
Am I ready to take a class?
In over a decade of teaching, we have had many students express concern that they are not ready to step up to a class. To this, we answer - Yes, you are! Keep an open mind and come willing to learn; leave the rest to us. One of our mottos is "This is not our class, this is your class." It is our job to structure the class so that each student, regardless of where they are in the learning curve, comes away having been challenged and with new skills in their toolbox.
What is the typical class size?
We typically require a minimum of four students and a maximum of eight. We believe that having at least four students in a class enhances the learning experience. On occasion, classes may have more than eight students but, in those cases, additional coaches are brought in to maintain a low student to instructor ratio.
Where does the Defensive Training Group hold its classes?
We conduct classes at various facilities but primarily run courses at Shoot GTR (Gainesville Target Range 1610 NW 65th Pl) in Gainesville FL.
When do the classes start?
Unless otherwise indicated, our classes start at 9:00AM.
When do the classes end?
The official end time is 6:00PM for most classes. We typically shoot the last drills of the day around 5:30PM to allow adequate time for clean-up and debrief. Low Light classes normally run from 6:00PM to 10:00PM.
What kind of gun, ammo, and gear should I bring?
This will be class specific but, as a general rule, bring what you actually use for carry or duty. Note that some smaller, concealed carry pistols may not be ideally suited for our courses. Suggested equipment lists are posted on the individual pages for each class. The Pro Shop at the Gainesville Target Range carries a full range of suitable ammunition and stocks quality gear as recommended by the Defensive Training Group instructors. If you have questions, do not hesitate to ask before class.
Does the Defensive Training Group offer a class that meets the requirements to obtain a Florida Concealed Weapons Permit?
Our Reactive Handgun Fundamentals course not only meets but significantly exceeds the requirements to obtain a Florida Concealed Weapons Permit.
What is the policy on refunds?
Refunds will only be issued in the event a class cancels. Being a small business, decisions on whether or not a class runs are based on signups. Once that decision is made, preparations start, which means spending money and incurring expenses. We understand that things come up and will do everything we can to accommodate students and roll them into another class.