Overview
In Texas, you have a constitutional right to carry a gun in public, and getting a License to Carry that expands that right is relatively straightforward. Being genuinely prepared to carry a firearm every day — legally, safely, and effectively — takes more. This course bridges that gap.
We cover Texas carry law in depth, help you build a gear system that actually works for your body and lifestyle, and develop the situational awareness and decision-making framework that responsible carriers rely on. Significant range time is dedicated to drawing from concealment and engaging targets, and making the adjustments your shooting fundamentals require when a holster and cover garment are in the equation.
This course satisfies neither the LTC requirement nor replaces it — it's designed to make you a more capable, more responsible carrier regardless of your LTC status.
Participants demonstrating proficiency will have the opportunity to earn a NRA Pistol Marksmanship Qualification certificate by performing specific courses of fire to standard.
Curriculum
Texas Carry Law
LTC vs. Constitutional Carry — rights, differences, and why your LTC still matters. Where you can and cannot carry, prohibited locations, signage law (30.06 and 30.07), and what to do when you're asked to leave. Interaction with law enforcement while carrying.
Use of Force & Deadly Force Law
Texas Penal Code Chapter 9. When lethal force is legally justified, the duty to retreat (or lack thereof), Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine, and the legal aftermath of a defensive shooting. This is not legal advice — it's the foundation for sound decision-making in a threat situation.
Gear Selection & Carry Systems
Holsters, bags, purses, belts, and cover garments. We evaluate the tradeoffs between concealment types and carry positions, and help you build a system for your body type and daily routine.
Situational Awareness
Condition White through Condition Red — the Cooper color code and how to use it practically. Threat recognition, pre-attack indicators, and the habit of environmental scanning without paranoia.
Defensive Mindset & Decision-Making
The OODA loop applied to defensive encounters. The importance of verbal commands, de-escalation, and the decision process that happens before any trigger is pressed.
Drawing from Concealment
Clearing the cover garment, establishing a firing grip while drawing, and integrating your draw with your marksmanship fundamentals. Slower is faster — we build this correctly before adding speed.
Application and Drills
Practice and test the knowledge and skills through practical application drills, such as follow-up shots, engaging multiple threats, failure to stop drills, and reloads under pressure.
What to Bring
- Current and Valid ID (driver license, Texas LTC card, etc.)
- Your carry pistol and your carry holster
- Your normal carry belt and cover garment
- 150 rounds of ammunition
- 3 magazines or speedloaders
- Eye Protection — impact-resistant safety glasses (clear, tinted, or shooting-specific)
- Electronic and/or passive hearing protection (earmuffs and/or earplugs) — for better protection, wear both
- Appropriate Clothing — moisture-wicking shirt, long pants, belt capable of supporting holster, closed-toed footwear, and weather-appropriate outerwear. Ejected casings are HOT — a long-sleeved shirt with a snug collar (such as a sun shirt) is strongly recommended.
- Water and a snack
Who This Course Is For
- New LTC holders wanting to go beyond the basics of the Texas LTC course
- Gun owners wanting to learn and practice carry-specific knowledge and skills
- Experienced carriers wanting to improve competence and confidence
Who Should Consider a Different Course First
