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Artemis Self-Protection Training operates from Kila, Montana (5050 US Hwy 2 W), offering firearms instruction and self-defense education specifically designed for women. The training philosophy centers on three priorities: safety first, then avoidance and prevention, then self-defense capability.
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Full description and what we offer
Artemis Self-Protection Training operates from Kila, Montana (5050 US Hwy 2 W), offering firearms instruction and self-defense education specifically designed for women. The training philosophy centers on three priorities: safety first, then avoidance and prevention, then self-defense capability.
Vickie Kelley is the lead instructor for the women's program. Five years ago, she went from owning a gun with no real training to becoming a USCCA Firearms Instructor. She now holds credentials in concealed carry instruction, women's curriculum, pepper spray certification (Sabre Red), off-body carry, and tactical anatomy shooting.
Will Parker, the chief instructor and owner, brings 45+ years of firearms experience and 30+ years as an instructor. He's a retired Navy and Marine Corps veteran (25 years), Force Science Institute Analyst, MAG Deadly Force Instructor, and USCCA Senior Training Counselor. Will has trained under Rob Leatham, Massad Ayoob, Andrew Branca, Michael Seeklander, and numerous other nationally-recognized instructors.
The program follows a three-level USCCA foundation:
| Level | Course Name | Duration | Cost | What You Learn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | USCCA Women's Basic Pistol | 4 hours | $90 | Gun safety, storage, handgun fundamentals, shooting basics with laser and CO2 firearms |
| 2 | USCCA Women's Intermediate Pistol | 3 hours | $90 | Revolvers vs semi-automatics, ballistics, firearms operation, malfunctions, holsters, concealed carry |
| 3 | USCCA Women's Defensive Pistol | 3 hours | $100 | Mindset, avoidance, escape techniques, use of force, cover vs concealment, drawing from holster, live-fire |
Artemis strongly recommends starting with Level 1 regardless of experience. They've found skipping it creates problems for everyone in the classroom.
Level 1 uses laser pistols and CO2-converted firearms with realistic felt recoil. All equipment provided.
Level 2 transitions to real firearms. Students shoot S&W M&P .22, S&W VICTORY .22, and GLOCK G44 .22 (all 22-caliber for reduced recoil and cost).
Level 3 uses full-power 9mm and .380 handguns: - S&W M&P 9 2.0 Subcompact - S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus - S&W M&P 9 Shield EZ - GLOCK G19 and G48 (some with optics) - Springfield XDM Mod 2 - Ruger LCP Max (.380) - Ruger LCR Revolver (.38 Special) - Avidity Arms PD10 with optic
All firearms, ammunition, and equipment provided for Levels 2 and 3.
Practice With Purpose Range Time ($40, 1.5 hours) - After completing all three levels, students can attend coached range sessions. Targets and range fee included; bring your own gun and ammunition.
Private Training - Minimum two hours on a private range: - One-on-one: $180 for first two hours, $60 per additional hour - Each additional student: $50/hour - Buy 5 two-hour sessions, get the 6th for half-price - Buy 10 sessions, get the 11th free
Artemis provides: range, targets, range materials, cleanup. Students bring: firearm, ammunition, eye and ear protection, ballcap, crew neck shirt, closed-toe shoes. Steel core and steel/aluminum cased ammo not allowed—bring brass cased full metal jacket only.
Monday - Saturday: 8am - 8pm
5050 US Hwy 2 W, Kila, MT 59920
Artemis notes: They don't always receive messages through their contact form ("Techno Gremlins"). Email is the most reliable method.
Artemis was named after the Greek goddess known as a protector of innocent women and helpless infants. The mission: empower today's women with skills to protect themselves and their children. Vickie's personal journey—from false confidence based on gun ownership alone to becoming a certified instructor—shapes how they teach with thoughtfulness, kindness, and real experience. Classes reduce fear and confusion around handguns through accurate information, real-life scenario studies, dummy gun practice, and live-fire training.