Astrid Defense

Astrid Defense LLC operates from Woodbury in the south metro area, offering hands-on firearms training for both beginners and experienced shooters. Founded and taught by Jennifer and Daniel McDowell, the operation focuses on demystifying firearms for new owners while building legitimate defensive skills in carry holders.

Minnesota Permit to Carry Certification This is Astrid's most frequent offering—scheduled monthly throughout the year. The 5+ hour course covers everything required to apply for a Minnesota Personal Protection Act permit: - Concealed carry lifestyle and mindset - State and interstate carry laws - Prohibited carry locations - Legal use of force and deadly force considerations - Firearms safety, handgun types, and carry equipment examination - Live shooting qualification using provided .22 pistols

Cost is $120 per student, limited to 12 per class. All ammunition, targets, protective gear, and firearms are provided. You must be 18+, legally able to own a firearm, and already proficient on the range.

Introduction to Handguns & Firearms Safety Designed for new gun owners or those considering purchase, this 5+ hour course covers: - Safe handgun handling and operation - Ammunition types and calibers - Loading, unloading, and firing techniques - Target practice and marksmanship fundamentals

Self-Defense Simulated Pistol Training Using law enforcement-grade video simulation systems, this 3+ hour course builds defensive tactics without live fire. Participants develop situational awareness and tactical decision-making in realistic scenarios. No real guns, no ammunition—students work with the simulator and force-on-force training methods.

Advanced Carry & Tactical Training For experienced carriers, this 2.5 hour class works through realistic defensive situations using simunitions (non-lethal training rounds) and protective gear. Covers legal, ethical, and physical consequences of lethal force, followed by defensive drills and detailed review.

Astrid offers a dedicated Women Only Self Defense Starter Pack, recognizing that many women prefer learning in gender-specific environments. This aligns with their stated mission to build confidence alongside safety and strength.

Beyond group classes, Astrid provides personalized training sessions tailored to individual needs—whether you're prepping for your first time at the range or refining carry techniques.

They maintain an on-site store with Astrid-branded merchandise (hoodies, hats, tees) and now offer pre-loaded gift cards for training.

"The Intro class was fun, informative, and safe. The instructors were great coaches and had great energy." — Introduction to Firearms Safety student

"Astrid Defense is personable and professional. I loved their focus on safety, and the simulator was awesome!" — Self Defense (Simulated) Pistol student

"The addition of real-time action and the need to respond make this a particularly invaluable experience. My situational awareness skyrocketed!" — Advanced Carry Mindset & Tactics student

Most firearms training falls into two camps: range instruction or tactical theater. Astrid bridges both. They use actual law enforcement simulation technology (usually restricted to LE), focus heavily on legal and ethical decision-making, and specifically welcome shooters who've been overlooked by traditional gun culture. The emphasis on mindset and situational awareness means students leave understanding when and why to carry, not just how.