Carbine 1: Defensive Rifle Fundamentals
The Carbine 1 course is designed to build a strong foundation for shooters of all experience levels, transitioning carbine skills from theoretical knowledge to practical application. This highly practical and relevant course focuses on safe and confident handling of semiautomatic rifles, such as AR-15 platforms, for self-defense. Ideal for new rifle owners seeking experience and confidence, as well as seasoned shooters looking to refresh fundamentals and learn advanced tips and techniques, this course emphasizes modern marksmanship principles, efficient reloads, malfunction clearing, and rapid target acquisition through engaging, repeatable drills. Students will leave with improved grouping, zeroing, and target engagement skills, ready to practice independently at the range.
Lessons Covered:
Firearms safety
Loading, unloading, and reloading (tactical, combat, and admin reloads)
Handling malfunctions and clearing drills
Basics of defensive rifle marksmanship
Multiple shots, follow-through, and rapid target acquisition
Scan and assess process
Threat identification
Use of cover and concealment
Movement with a firearm (low ready, high ready, high port, compressed positions)
Maximizing sling use for stability and efficiency
Multiple target engagements under pressure
Course Duration: 8 hours
Required Equipment Students must bring the following; all other materials will be provided by the instructor:
A magazine-fed semiautomatic rifle or carbine in good working order (AR-pattern rifles emphasized, but other platforms permitted)
Sling
3 or more magazines (5+ recommended; bring extra if using reduced-capacity magazines)
250–400 rounds of new, factory ammunition
Eye and hearing protection
Appropriate clothing for an outdoor range (weather-dependent)
Plenty of water
Snacks and/or lunch
Payment for any outstanding class fees (if applicable)
Optional, Helpful Items
Hat and sunscreen
Notebook and pen for note-taking
2+ snap caps (dummy rounds) for practice
Additional ammunition for extra range time
Extra magazines
Tactical equipment (e.g., chest rigs, plate carriers, battle belts, mag carriers, knee pads) permitted, provided safety is not compromised
Safety Policy Safety is the top priority. Any safety violation will result in one warning before removal from the firing line. Removed students may continue to observe but cannot handle firearms. No refunds will be issued for removal due to safety violations. Participants are expected to be mentally and physically prepared for the class.
This dynamic course offers practical drills, actionable skills, and a fun environment, perfect for capturing great moments of you and your rifle in action! For more details, contact the course provider.
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