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Mastering Self-Defense: AllSafe Defensive Shotgun Course in Azusa, California - Azusa

Mastering Self-Defense: AllSafe Defensive Shotgun Course in Azusa, California

Azusamoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

5 hours

Fitness Level

Moderate physical condition recommended; participants should be able to stand for extended periods and handle moderate physical activity.

Overview

Elevate your firearm skills at the AllSafe Defensive Shotgun course in Azusa, CA. This 5-hour, hands-on workshop teaches essential self-defense techniques and shooting drills at a premier outdoor range near the San Gabriel Mountains.

Orange, California

AllSafe Defensive Shotgun

5 Hours • Explore the Shotgun

Shooting Range

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Adventure Photos

AllSafe Defensive Shotgun photo 1

About This Adventure

Join the AllSafe Defensive Shotgun course for an immersive 5-hour experience focused on self-defense techniques using shotguns. Participants will learn about shotgun selection, practice shooting drills, and develop skills in stance and recoil control. This hands-on workshop is perfect for all skill levels, enhancing familiarity with your specific firearm.

AllSafe Defensive Shotgun

Duration

5 Hours

About

  • The purpose of this course is to explore the practical use of a shotgun for self defense, identifying assets and liabilities of this versatile firearm.
  • The training session begins with a brief discussion of the kinds of shotguns, loaders, ammo carriers and other accessories. We will discuss how to “fit” a shotgun, and things to look for and avoid when selecting a shotgun.
  • A shotgun is best suited for effectively hitting a moving target with a lot of power. Participants will begin by “patterning” their gun at varying distances to analyze the density, shot spread, and location of impact. Then they will sight their shotgun with slugs.
  • Next we will practice proper stance, safe movement with a shotgun, quick snap shooting, and recoil control for follow up shooting. Targets consist of mostly steel plates. Distant targets will be established for shotslug practice.
  • This course is open to all adult shooters, male and female, whether beginner or advanced. The purpose of this course is to train people how to use THEIR shotgun for self defense. Loaner guns are available, but this course is intended to make people more familiar with the capabilities and limitations of THEIR specific shotgun.
  • The ideal shotgun is a 12 gauge semi-auto or pump action shotguns with a magazine capacity of five or more rounds. 20 gauge shotguns can suffice. Break-action shotguns will be inappropriate. Shorter barrel lengths are ideal but not required. Shoulder stocks are important: shotguns with only pistol grips are difficult to use. To reduce discomfort, wearing a recoil pad is highly recommended.
  • The course of fire requires a minimum of 50 rounds of buckshot, plus twenty shot slugs. 50 additional rounds of cheap bird shot is recommended for the practice drills. For defensive purposes, 00 buckshot is recommended.
  • Ammunition carriers are recommended for speed, although clothing with large pockets will suffice. Each participant must provide their own eye and ear protection.
  • The AllSafe Shotgun course is designed in a workshop format. The course will explore defensive techniques and practice them as drills. Once the fundamentals have been learned the class will shoot a course of fire for score. The course requires movement and shooting of full power ammunition. Participants must be in good health and unrestricted in their physical activity.
  • If you have a broadband connection, you’ll want to watch the WMV video of the AllSafe Shotgun stage “Hell Hallway,” (see student Alec Dawson in action). Or on YouTube, Uli Gebhard shoots the “Hallway” or watch Caleb shoot the “Search & Destroy“.
  • Included: All instruction, targets, and range fees. Loaner shotguns are available upon request.
  • Warning:Shotguns are extremely powerful with substantial recoil.

What to Bring

  • Pump or semi-auto shotgun with an extended magazine (5+); 50 rounds buckshot; 30 rounds slugs; 50 rounds inexpensive birdshot. Those sensitive to recoil should bring/wear a recoil pad.

Adventure Tips

Hydrate before and after training

Bring water to stay hydrated during the 5-hour course, especially under the California sun.

Wear ear and eye protection

Protect your senses with provided or personal safety gear when on the shooting range.

Dress for outdoor shooting conditions

Wear comfortable clothing that allows movement and protects from sun exposure.

Arrive early to complete safety briefings

Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to go through important safety and orientation procedures.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Red-tailed hawks
  • California ground squirrels

History

Azusa grew from gold rush roots with rich outdoor heritage tied to the San Gabriel Mountains dating back to early 20th century exploration.

Conservation

Range operations practice strict environmental stewardship to minimize impact, including noise management and waste removal protocols.

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Adventure Hotspots in Azusa

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Closed-toe sturdy shoes

Essential

Provides safety and stability during shooting drills on uneven terrain.

summer specific

Hat and sunscreen

Essential

Protects against sun exposure throughout the outdoor session.

summer specific

Hearing protection

Essential

Essential for protecting ears from loud shotgun blasts.

Comfortable, breathable clothing

Essential

Keeps you cool and flexible during movement on the range.

spring specific