Firearms and Non-Lethal Alternatives Training for People of All Skill Levels

Student Testimonials

"The instruction was fantastic. Rick gave me help to calm my naturally shaky nerves. Great class, very knowledgeable, really tries to help students." (Roger E., Lehi, UT - former US Marine)

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"Rick was excellent during our lesson. My fiancee couldn't hit the broad side of a barn and within 2 hours she was putting up 4 inch groups at 15 feet." (Jake B. - Salt Lake City, UT)

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"Great class. Rick is knowledgeable, patient and very helpful. I had a new Hellcat that I thought maybe the sights could be off. I didn’t have the same issues with my other handgun. But showing me the proper technique he developed, I was able to put rounds on the target. It was me all along, not the gun. Not really a surprise. Absolutely worth being trained by Rick." (Jacquie N. - Spanish Fork, UT.)

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"It has been a goal of mine to be more prepared and carry. So I took my first gun class with Rick Carpenter! And I am so glad I did! Rick was great! He’s very knowledgeable and has a lot of experience. I learned to handle my gun properly, how to aim, holster and go through scenarios and practice shooting targets. He really helped me build a trust in myself in handling my firearm safely and responsibly. I look forward to taking more classes with Rick and keeping up with the skills that are needed in respectfully carrying a firearm! Thank you Rick!" (Brittany W. - Springville, UT)

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"I highly recommend Rick as a firearms instructor and will be attending more sessions with him! Rick was kind enough to give a free class to teachers. He was extremely informative and taught the class about responsible use of firearms, legal issues of their use, the motives of an active shooter, and emphasized preparation, practice and deterrence. He understood our fears and helped us to become more confident about using our firearms if we absolutely need to use them. I learned how to use my firearm safely and during a follow-up shooting activity, Rick was observant and ready with ways to improve our aim, practice safety, and confidence. We know that accidents can happen with untrained gun handlers. The class felt entirely at ease with Rick, as he was funny and always ready to listen and help. I am grateful for such a kind person who offered to serve the community and to train those who want to protect themselves and our schools." (Nancy W - Spanish Fork, UT)

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“Great class! Not only teaches the basics of firing a handgun, but performing while under stress and avoiding bad situations in the first place. Highly recommended!” (Don G. - Provo, UT)

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“I took two firearms classes with Rick in 2020. His attention to detail, his skills and overall demeanor helped me grow tremendously. I gained knowledge and hands-on experience which helped me learn to handle a firearm with confidence. I would highly recommend Rick as a firearms instructor. “ (Marie D. - Salt Lake City, UT - Marie's husband is a police officer)

"Great course, great instructor. Thank you!" (Sean K. - Spanish Fork, UT - retired police/SWAT officer)

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“As a 20 year veteran of the West Millard Sheriff’s Posse, I have had many years of required annual state certification with firearms. I was extremely impressed with Rick’s class. His attention to detail, demeanor and professionalism were outstanding. I learned things from Rick that were never covered in my certification training.” (Les H. - Delta, UT)

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“I have attended three of Rick’s classes. From basic handgun safety to advanced techniques such as weak hand drawing and firing, shooting from cover, shooting while advancing, prone… Rick has years of experience and it shows. I would highly recommend Rick as a firearms instructor and would personally attend his courses again.” (Chase C. - Mapleton, UT)

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“I didn't realize I was lacking in so many aspects of pistol training, I decided to take a few classes provided by Rick. His ability to help students understand basic weapon (sidearm) manipulation and SAFETY was easy for me to pick up on. Target shooting is one thing, but being able to put those skills to practical use is exactly what Rick did. Thanks for all you do.” (Aaron D. - Manti, UT)

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“Rick helped me fix my aim, my grip, and my sighting issues in one target shoot! He knows what he’s doing and is extremely patient with beginners like me!” (April W. - Mapleton, UT)

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“Rick is a professional that created a safe learning environment that allowed for me to not feel intimidated to try new things. He was informative and funny! We worked hard and he was patient in helping me improve my technique. I would highly recommend training with Rick to anyone.” (Madie T. - Spanish Fork, UT)

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“As an elementary school teacher, I decided that this summer would be about me gaining confidence and proper training in defensive tactics/gun safety. I have never taken any classes before, and have never even really held a handgun, so I knew that this would be a monumental task! I chose to take classes from Rick Carpenter, with Southwest Defense Services LLC.

I want to thank Rick for being so helpful, thorough, educational, and especially patient! We finished the week by doing range shooting, and considering I have never shot a handgun, let’s just say that my very first round was eventful and I am glad that no one was recording it!

I had a lot of anxiety and worry as I took that first shot, but with Rick’s help and by using his Instant Accuracy Method, I am proud to say that within just a few short hours I was much more confident in myself and my ability. I’m looking forward to the future as I gain more handgun education. Rick knows his stuff!” (Kim S. – Spanish Fork, UT)

Student Testimonials

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