Approved by the Maine State Police for your Maine Concealed Weapons Permit, this course builds directly on the foundation established in Defensive Handgun 101. But make no mistake this is not a continuation of slow fire on paper and steel. Defensive Handgun Advanced is where fundamentals stop being theory and start being pressure-tested. This course is built for responsible citizens who already understand the basics, and now want the ability to get the gun into the fight faster, think under stress, and prevail when seconds matter. This is about fighting with a handgun when your life or your family’s life is on the line. You’ll work on speed, decision-making, and accountability, reinforcing a repeatable draw stroke designed to function under stress. Through realistic drills, steel targets, multiple-threat engagements, and cognitive pressure, students learn to move from reaction to action — decisively. This class is designed to close the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it when adrenaline hits. You will leave more confident, more capable, and far more prepared for real-world defensive encounters. Course Focus & Skills Developed Survival MindsetUnderstanding violence, decision-making, and what it takes to act when hesitation is costly Drawing from Concealment or TableBuilding a fast, efficient, repeatable draw stroke under pressure Cognitive DrillsShooting while thinking — because real threats don’t stand still or announce themselves Multiple Threat EngagementsPrioritization, transitions, and accountability Working Cover vs. ConcealmentUsing the environment intelligently, not dangerously Close Threat EngagementsWhen distance disappears and reaction time is critical Administrative, Speed, and Tactical ReloadsKeeping the gun running when it counts Required Equipment Your chosen concealed carry or home-defense handgun 2–3 magazines Handgun case Eye protection Ear protection (electronic preferred) Appropriate clothing and footwear (dress in layers; expect movement) Estimated Round Count 200 rounds of handgun ammunition This class is for people who understand one simple truth:You are your own first responder and preparation is the difference between freezing and fighting back. If you’re ready to move beyond fundamentals and start training for reality, Defensive Handgun Advanced is where that happens. Prerequisite: This is not a beginner level class. The student needs to know and be able to demonstrate safe gun handling, weapon system familiarity, foundational marksmanship skills. We strongly recommend completion of our Defensive Handgun Class prior to registering for this course.