Defensive Carry Fundamentals

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Welcome to the 16-hour Maryland Wear and Carry Initial Training Course offered by Freestate Firearms Training. This comprehensive program, led by Maryland Certified Qualified Handgun Instructors, fulfills all requirements set by the Maryland State Police for obtaining your Handgun Wear and Carry Permit. Our course equips you with the mindset and skillset needed to safely and legally carry a concealed handgun for self-defense. 

• Duration: 16 hours (two 8-hour days)
• Location: 603 E. Ridgeville Blvd. Mt. Airy, MD
• Cost: $425 (includes range fees, targets, and course materials)
• Prerequisites: Must be 21 or older (18-21 for employment-related permits), no felony convictions, and meet Maryland eligibility criteria.

Our curriculum, approved by the Maryland State Police, is divided into two days focusing on mindset and skillset:

Day 1: Developing the Mindset for Responsible Carry (8 hours)

The first day emphasizes the mental and legal foundations of concealed carry, taught through interactive classroom sessions and discussions. Topics include:

• Maryland and Federal Firearm Laws: Comprehensive overview of state and federal regulations, transportation rules, and legal responsibilities.
• Situational Awareness: Techniques to identify potential threats and maintain vigilance in public environments.
• De-escalation and Avoidance: Strategies to defuse conflicts and avoid situations that could necessitate the use of force.
• Legal Use of Force: Understanding self-defense laws, including when and how deadly force is justified under Maryland law.
• Mindset for Carry: Cultivating the discipline, responsibility, and ethical considerations of carrying a firearm for personal protection.

Day 2: Mastering the Skillset for Effective Carry (8 hours)

The second day focuses on the practical skills required to carry a firearm in public, combining classroom instruction with extensive range time. Topics include:

• Handgun Mechanisms and Operation: Detailed instruction on revolvers and semi-automatic handguns, including loading, unloading, and clearing malfunctions.
• Defensive Shooting Fundamentals: Proper grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control, and holster draw techniques.
• Low-Light Shooting Techniques: Strategies for effective firearm use in reduced visibility conditions.
• Live-Fire Qualification: A 25-round course of fire at 3, 5, 7, and 15 yards, requiring 70% accuracy on a B27 target, as mandated by Maryland State Police.
• Home Firearm Safety: Best practices for safe storage and securing firearms to prevent unauthorized access.

Note: Completion of this course does not guarantee permit approval by the Maryland State Police. Applicants must submit a complete application, including LiveScan fingerprints and required documentation, through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal.

• Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license)
• Unloaded firearm (if owned) 
• 50 rounds of target ammunition (or purchase on-site)
• Eye protection, and Hearing protection
• Notebook, pen, lunch, and water

• Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license)
• Unloaded firearm (if owned) 
• 50 rounds of target ammunition (or purchase on-site)
• Eye protection, and Hearing protection
• Notebook, pen, lunch, and water

 At Freestate Firearms Training, our Maryland State Police-approved Qualified Handgun Instructors bring extensive experience from law enforcement, military, and civilian self-defense training. We prioritize a supportive learning environment, practical skills, and safety.