GOSS SSGT Defensive Tactics

SSGT Defensive Tactics operates as a specialized training system for law enforcement, military police, corrections, and security professionals. The program was founded by Johnny Lee Smith and is led by firearms director Jack Nevils, supported by senior firearms instructors Ricky Harris and Barry Teague.

The training cadre includes former Special Forces (Green Beret) operators who served as instructors and program managers at the JFK Special Warfare Center's Special Forces Hostage Rescue and Sniper School. These instructors bring years of real-world application in diverse combat environments and have trained thousands of U.S. and indigenous forces in counter-terrorism operations during the Global War on Terrorism.

Handgun Instructor Training - 40-hour SSGT Firearms Instructor: Handgun course ($850) - 24-hour SSGT Undercover/Lone Operator: Instructor Course - 24-hour SSGT VISE: Operator Course - 16-hour SSGT Off-duty Officer Survival: Instructor Course

Courses scheduled throughout Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and surrounding states.

Patrol Rifle Certification - 40-hour SSGT Patrol Rifle: Instructor Course

Precision Rifle & Sniper Training - 40-hour SSGT Precision Rifle/Sniper: Operator Course - 40-hour SSGT Precision Rifle/Sniper: R.U.C.S. Course - 40-hour SSGT Precision Rifle/Sniper: Instructor Course

Tactical Shotgun - 16-hour SSGT Tactical Shotgun Course

Vanguard Program (Flagship offering) The most comprehensive defensive tactics system, divided into two certification levels: - Vanguard Level One: 40-hour instructor course, up to 24-hour student course - Vanguard Level Two: 40-hour instructor course, up to 24-hour student course

Level One covers seven defensive categories: common grab defense, headlock defense, bear-hug defense, tackle defense, striking & knife defense, ground escapes, and grounding control techniques.

Level Two adds 13 advanced categories including pressure point application, strategic handcuffing, holstered and drawn handgun retention, long gun retention and disarming, strategic striking, and baton techniques.

COR-Tactics (Corrections-Specific) Developed in partnership with the Tennessee Corrections Institute. 40-hour instructor course addresses the unique needs of corrections officers and jailers.

SSGT OnGuard (Corporate Security) Defensive tactics program for corporate security personnel.

• •Edged Weapon Survival (Law Enforcement & Corrections)
• •24-hour certification course with written and practical exams
• •182-page reference manual included
• •16-hour recertification course
• •Three-year certification validity
• •Nine training categories: knife knowledge, grips/stance/drawing, blade blocking and piercing, transitions, headlock escapes, bear-hug escapes, ground escapes, defeating the draw, and close-quarters defense

A division of SSGT offering women's self-defense instruction derived from the law enforcement program. Teaches risk recognition, violence prevention, and practical defense techniques proven effective in real-world applications.

SSGT emphasizes three core principles:

1. Use-of-Force Expertise: Program leadership consists of recognized use-of-force experts with qualifications acknowledged by State and Federal Courts.

2. Realistic Application: No technique is foolproof. Training focuses on methods that work effectively for most officers against most threats, most of the time—not theoretical or condition-dependent methods.

3. Law Enforcement Context: Techniques account for the critical differences between law enforcement and martial arts training: the presence of firearms, the possibility of multiple threats, and the officer's duty to use objectively reasonable force.

SSGT regularly schedules courses across Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, and surrounding regions. Upcoming offerings include: - 40-hour SSGT Precision Rifle: Instructor in West Monroe, LA (January 2026) - 40-hour SSGT Handgun Firearms: Instructor in Jackson, AL (January 2026) - 40-hour SSGT Handgun Firearms: Instructor in Leesburg, AL (February 2026) - 40-hour SSGT Handgun Firearms: Instructor in Pearl, MS (March 2026)

SSGT provides instructor manuals, student manuals, instructional videos, tactical gear for purchase, and hosts the annual SSGT & Equalizer Instructor Conference. They also offer podcasts, training photos, and maintain a community of agencies currently using SSGT-certified instructors.

• •Physical Fitness: Courses require demonstrable physical fitness. Specific fitness requirements are outlined for each program.

• •Payment Options: Credit card payments accepted online through Shopify.