USCCA Defensive Pistol Program (DPP)

You’ve gotten your Concealed Carry Permit, spent some time at the range, so what comes next? The USCCA’s Defensive Pistol Program (DPP) is our flagship course, offering a comprehensive approach to developing essential defensive shooting skills. This is the PRACTICAL side of concealed carry, covering the proper (and safe!) draw techniques, drawing and presentation from concealment, methods of target engagement and how to engage multiple targets. This program uses both live-fire and dry-fire training methods and is based on the principles of motor learning and skill acquisition science, ensuring participants are well-prepared for real-world defensive situations.

Course Overview

  • Main Lecture (2–2.5 hours):
    • Understanding defensive context.
    • Probability and self-defense data.
    • Home defense considerations.
    • Ammunition and ballistics.
    • Concealed carry considerations.
  • 5 Training Sessions (3–4 hours each):
    1. Fundamentals of Defensive Marksmanship.
    2. Presentation From Concealment.
    3. The Balance of Speed & Precision.
    4. Defensive Response.
    5. Malfunctions & Single-Handed Shooting.

Who Should Attend

  • Experienced gun owners seeking defensive training.
  • New pistol owners.
  • Novice shooters.
  • Individuals interested in concealed carry or home-defense strategies.

Class Structure

  • Maximum of 8 students per session for personalized attention.
  • Flexible schedule options:
    • 5 consecutive days.
    • 5 weekly sessions over five weeks.

This program is ideal as a starting point for those new to defensive pistol use and a stepping stone for advanced training.