Shotgun 103: Defensive Shotgun (16 Hours)

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Overview

The Shotgun is one of the most misunderstood and underutilized tools when it comes to defensive applications. Defensive use of the pump-action and semi-automatic shotgun requires a deep understanding and appreciation of its capabilities, handling characteristics, and limitations. This intensive two-day class bridges the gap between entry level foundational shotgun skills and the world of defensive shotgun shooting. Students will become familiar with the skills, manipulations, and mind-set to persevere in a real-world defensive situation. Instructors will guide the students through an array of realistic live fire drills to increase their confidence and proficiency when operating the shotgun in a defensive application.

*Please note that birdshot will be primarily shot during this course utilizing steel reactive targets. Some birdshot can cause reliability/function issues in semi-automatic shotguns.  If you are bringing your own shotgun, make sure it functions properly with birdshot. As always, the Sig Sauer Academy offers the free use of loaner firearms for any course offered.*

Experience Requirements

This course is Step 3 of 4 in our Shotgun Course progression. We require successful completion of Sig Sauer Academy’s Shotgun 102 as well as Handgun 103 or equivalent before you attend Defensive Shotgun. The student MUST know and be able to demonstrate how to safely load, fire, and unload a shotgun as well as have demonstrated competence in working from a holster with their handgun. 

Course Outline

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Recall how to load, unload, status check, and mount a shotgun.
• Apply proper stance to various ready positions.
• Safely demonstrate how to transition from shotgun to pistol.
• Apply knowledge of shotgun ammunition ballistics to accurately engage targets at various distances.
• Demonstrate how to engage a target from various kneeling positions.
• Discuss why communication and scanning is important in a defensive application. 
• Recognize and clear malfunctions.
• Safely and efficiently practice moving, stopping, then shooting.
• Differentiate between cover and concealment. 
• Apply knowledge of cover to engage a target.

Equipment List

• Reliable, mechanically sound shotgun equipped with a single- or 2-point defensive sling and ammunition side saddle (pump or semi-auto)
• Semi-auto pistol in one of the following calibers: .380, 9mm NATO, .357 SIG, .40 S&W, or .45 ACP
• 3 magazines minimum
• Dominant side, hip-mounted holster or dominant side, belt-mounted holster
  • Holster Requirements:
    • Must completely support the pistol.
    • Must not collapse once drawn.
    • Must fit properly to the belt. 
    • When holstered, the trigger guard must be completely covered. 
    • Must be oriented in a safe direction for drawing. 
    • “Trigger Finger” style retention devices are not permitted.
    • Must be able to draw and holster one-handed; Support hand cannot be utilized.
    • Holster compliance is at the discretion of the Instructor. If a holster is deemed to not comply with safety requirements, a loaner SIG SAUER pistol and/or appropriate holster will be provided. Exceptions can be made for Agency or Department issued equipment. Questions? Please call us at 603.610.3400. 
• Magazine pouches
• Sturdy belt at least 1.5” wide
• Footwear suitable for rapid movement and turning
• Clothing suitable for training in any weather
• Hat with a brim (Optional)
• Knee and elbow pads
• Wraparound eyewear, polycarbonate lenses or non-shattering prescription glasses
• Earmuffs and earplugs

*We strongly recommend you bring your own shotgun for this course. We have a limited number of shotguns for student use.

Tuition includes safety glasses and hearing protection at the Epping, NH location.

Ammo

• Estimated round count:
  • 25 rounds buckshot
  • 65 rounds rifled slugs
  • 325 rounds birdshot
  • 50 rounds handgun
• Lead core ammunition to be used on steel only
• No green/brown tip, armor piercing, or surrogate rounds to be used on steel at any time
• Ammunition is available for purchase from the Epping facility only

Notes

2-Day Course