Shotgun Training

Shotgun Training. Gain knowledge, develop skills and build confidence through calm, patient and safety-first instruction.
What’s happening in this image?

Students learn through hands-on practice, observation and peer coaching. In this image, one student practices safe shotgun handling while a fellow student closely watches and learns. I guide both students, coaching muzzle direction, positioning and control.

  • Begin with safe shotgun handling and range readiness.
  • Develop practical skills through structured, hands-on training.
  • Each level builds on the one before it.

Review Your Training Level Options

Open a level to review its purpose, learning objectives and prerequisites.

LEVEL 1

Introduction to Range Use

Build a safe foundation in safe handling, operation, range procedures and introductory live fire.

Review Level

Learning Objectives

  • Apply safe shotgun-handling practices
  • Identify basic controls and operation
  • Verify that the shotgun is unloaded
  • Practice loading and unloading with inert training equipment
  • Follow range procedures and commands
  • Complete supervised introductory live fire

Course Details

No prior experience is required. No firearm is required to begin. Four two-hour sessions; equipment and live-fire arrangements are confirmed before class.

Full course page under review. Contact AFT for current details.

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LEVEL 2

Beginner Self-Defense

Develop safe defensive handling, situational awareness and purposeful movement.

Review Level

Learning Objectives

  • Reinforce safe handling and muzzle awareness
  • Develop situational awareness
  • Practice movement and positioning
  • Recognize cover and concealment
  • Practice clear communication in supervised exercises

Prerequisite

Introduction to Range Use or demonstrated competence approved by AFT.

Full course page under review. Contact AFT for current details.

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LEVEL 3

Intermediate Self-Defense

Build on defensive fundamentals with more complex movement, positions and decision-making.

Review Level

Learning Objectives

  • Develop handling in supervised scenarios
  • Practice movement and positioning around cover
  • Improve decision-making and communication
  • Reinforce safe muzzle and trigger discipline

Prerequisite

Introduction and Beginner training, or demonstrated equivalent competence approved by AFT.

Full course page under review. Contact AFT for current details.

Ask About This Course
LEVEL 4

Advanced Self-Defense

Planned as the next step in AFT’s progressive shotgun training pathway.

Review Level

Course Status

Full course details are coming soon. Contact AFT to discuss your interest.

LEVEL 5

Elite Self-Defense

Planned as the highest level in AFT’s progressive shotgun training pathway.

Review Level

Course Status

Full course details are coming soon. Contact AFT to discuss your interest.

Family Training Options

Build shared safety habits through supervised Introduction to Range Use training.

  • Calm, hands-on instruction for new and developing students
  • Youth readiness and family arrangements discussed before enrollment
  • Participants under 18 must have a parent present for live fire
Discuss Family Training
A family receiving supervised shotgun safety instruction with an inert blue training firearm.
What’s happening in this image?

A young student practices safe shotgun handling with a blue inert training shotgun while family members observe and I coach her positioning and muzzle direction.

Range Supplies

Exact equipment and ammunition requirements are confirmed before class.

Range bag and hard plastic case for transporting a shotgun.
  • Eye and hearing protection
  • Course-appropriate shotgun and ammunition, as arranged with AFT
  • A suitable case for safe transport
  • Basic cleaning equipment
  • Closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
  • Course-specific protective gear

No firearm is required to begin Introduction to Range Use. Ask AFT about equipment before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I start?

Introduction to Range Use provides a safe foundation. AFT reviews experience before placing students in later levels.

Can a family train together?

Yes. Contact AFT to discuss readiness, scheduling and adult participation.

How do I arrange training?

Complete the interest form or contact AFT. David will discuss your goals and confirm course details before enrollment.

Preferred Training Range

Ashland Gun & Archery Club

555 Emigrant Creek Road
Ashland, Oregon 97520

Range sessions are scheduled by appointment as part of your confirmed AFT course.

Map & Directions

Questions Before You Apply?

AFT vets every student by phone or in person and will help determine the appropriate starting level.

Contact AFT

AFT Course Interest & Registration

Tell us which shotgun training interests you. AFT will follow up to discuss your experience, goals and scheduling options.

Open Course Interest & Registration

AFT does not provide legal advice; review current Oregon laws. AFT LLC does not participate with or train individuals or groups in unlawful paramilitary activity as described in ORS 166.660.