PAPER ISN’T PEOPLE!
Reactive Handgun 1 is an introductory force-on-force course for concealed carriers. Whether you already conceal or plan to, this class trains responsible, effective use under critical stress. Most firearms training lacks social nuance and stress—shooting static targets won’t prepare you for interacting with moving, talking people or train you in navigating social “gray‑area” scenarios. Reactive Handgun immerses you in realistic violent scenarios with experienced actors to build practical readiness with your handgun.
Range-time is not enough! CLICK HERE to read an article on why force-on-force training is just as important as going to the range.
We provide scenario handgun training to Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, and all of Hampton Roads for civilians, law enforcement, and military.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Learn to use your holster or carry system under stress
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Learn the laws of VA when it comes to deadly force with a pistol
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Learn how to use your environment in your favor. Fire from superior positions
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The self-defense incident is just the beginning. Learn what to say, who to call, and what to do after the shoot.
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Knowing when to shoot and not to shoot requires social intelligence and situational awareness
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Not every situation requires a shooting solution. Learn to find openings to escape.
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Shooting from concealment can sometimes be improved by using more obscured positions. We will teach some of these techniques in this class.
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The fight is only part of the problem. You may need to de-escalate, control chaos, give commands, and explain your actions afterward.
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Understanding how you react under critical stress is not a process that should be done on the streets. Learn and master these responses here.
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We will teach you when to prioritize deceptive techniques and when to react quickly.
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This class costs $225 to attend
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No. New to firearms or a seasoned shooter, this class is built for both.
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No. This class is not a live-fire class. We will be using sim guns that do shoot projectiles but are safe for force on force training
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No. This class does not classify as a permit class under Virginia Code §18.2‑308.09. You need to take our separate CHP class
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Training equipment and PPE will be provided. Details will be shared upon registration. Bring long sleeves and pants. It recommended to bring a head covering to go under the mask.
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A US Citizen, permitted to own a firearm in the United States
Those who are not classified as a "prohibited possessor", legally permitted to own firearms.
Those who have not been charged with domestic violence at any time.
Those who have not been involuntarily admitted to an emergency facility due to a mental disorder that would make it dangerous for you to own or use firearms.
Those who are not currently taking medications that would be classified as "altering". (Any medication that is advised to be taken while driving or operating machinery would fall under this category).
Those who currently do not have nor have a consistent history of suicidal and/or homicidal thoughts.
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If you have had your firearms rights restored, please email us with proof of your restoration prior to the class.
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The sim guns we use (high-end airsoft guns), shoot small plastic projectiles that can leave marks or break skin. With proper PPE (eye protection, hats, hoodies, thick jackets), the pain of being shot is minimal. We will be providing all critical PPE to you but we recommend bringing thick clothing and gloves.
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Minimum age to enroll is 18 years old.
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No. While this class does not give you your CHP, you do not need to have it to take this class.
REACTIVE HANDGUN 1 SCHEDULE IN NORFOLK, VA
SCENARIOS WE MAY COVER
STALKERS
Approximately 13.5 million individuals are stalked in the U.S. every year. Studies indicate that roughly 46% of stalkers ultimately display physical violence toward their victims, and the risk multiplies drastically if threats of harm have been communicated.
WORDS GONE BAD
We’ve seen the videos: a simple, public disagreement turns into a physical fight. Learn to pick up on the pre-combat tells before it evolves into a lethal force encounter. Be ready to know when to run or fight.
SHOOT/NO SHOOT
As armed defenders, it is OUR responsibility to know what we’re engaging. Is the man approaching you armed with a black handgun or a similarly-shaped black cellphone? At the end of the day, we will be held accountable for the rounds we fire. Would you make the right choice?
REVIEWS FROM ACTUAL STUDENTS
“Reactive handgun level 1 was an awesome class!! Definitely recommend taking this course to anyone looking to advance their firearms skills. You never know how your body will respond when faced with a massive adrenaline dump. This class puts you in real world scenarios that may or may not call for deadly force. The role players did a fantastic job of creating real world chaos and distractions during the training evolutions. Check them out and get another tool to add to your self defense tool belt. You won’t regret it!!”
“Attended Reactive Handgun Foundation and was an awesome class, just what I was looking for. Went over concealed carry, holster draws, firing drills including while moving, and best of all live scenarios to put training into action.”
“In my humble opinion, nobody has any business carrying a handgun until you have taken this class. This class does what 500+ hours in the range dosn’t even scratch: Putting you in real life situations with real stress with real moving living human beings. How will you do when the time comes that you need to act to protect yourself or your family?”
“I’ve been working and training with Applied Defense Concepts now for about 4 years. I can say with great confidence their operation is top knotch for curriculum, instructor staff and course flow. I would highly recommend any and all courses taught, managed and executed by ADC..”
CLASS LOCATION
UNIVERSAL COMBAT CENTER - 5000 Colley Ave, Norfolk VA 23508
Please park either using street parking on Colley Ave or 50th street. If no parking is available, overflow parking is located at Colley Executive Offices at 5215 Colley Ave, Norfolk VA.
TAKE THIS CLASS IN RICHMOND, VA
CHECK OUR UPCOMING RVA SCHEDULE BELOW
Taught by experienced firearms instructors specializing in defensive firearms training, handgun safety, and Virginia law
Your Decision Today Shapes Seconds Later
When the moment comes, will you hesitate or respond with clarity?
This training builds real-world decision-making, situational awareness, and confidence under pressure.
