Women's Defense League of New Hampshire

Women's Defense League of New Hampshire is a grassroots organization built by and for women who want to take control of their own self-defense. Founded in July 2014, the League combines practical firearms training with active 2nd Amendment advocacy at the state level.

• •What sets them apart: They're the only organization in New Hampshire offering women-only NRA Basic Pistol classes taught entirely by women instructors and female range support staff. That means no mixed classes, no male instructors—just women learning from women.

The flagship course covers everything from NRA safety rules to pistol operation, ammunition handling, and shooting fundamentals. The 8-hour class includes classroom instruction and live-fire range time with both revolvers and semi-automatic pistols.

• •Cost: $70 for members / $95 for non-members
• •Capacity: Limited to 24 students per class
• •What's included: Firearms, ammunition, targets, student materials, and instruction
• •What to bring: Eye and ear protection, closed-toe shoes, full-coverage shirt, lunch and beverages
• •Certificate: NRA-certified upon completion

A non-firearms personal safety class that teaches situational awareness, crime prevention, and safety planning. This is also available as a private seminar for organizations and groups that contact the League.

• •Gun Cleaning Class – Learn proper firearm disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly
• •Defensive Spray Training – Safe and accurate pepper spray use for self-defense
• •Concealed Carry Workshop – Guidance on carrying options and self-defense considerations
• •Skill Builder Shoots – Member-only events for intermediate and experienced shooters
• •New Shooters Shoot – Refresher sessions for women new to firearms

Instructors hold certifications in: - NRA Basic Pistol - NRA Intro to Rifle and Shotgun - RTBAV (Refuse To Be A Victim) - Personal Protection Inside the Home - Range Safety Officer and Chief Range Safety Officer - Sabre Pepper Spray - CPR/AED and gunshot wound treatment

Membership is non-refundable and non-transferable, subject to Board approval

Member Benefits: - Discounted class rates ($70 vs $95 for Basic Pistol) - Access to women-only shoots and events - Member-only skill-building competitions - Social events (like their annual axe-throwing outing) - Partner discounts from participating retailers - U.S. Law Shield membership information

The League actively engages in state-level legislative issues, particularly attending NH State House hearings on gun control proposals. They produce fact-based educational materials on gun control myths and participate in public events like the annual 2nd Amendment Rally.

"The Second Amendment is one of the most Important Women's Rights Issues in Modern History"

Their advocacy approach emphasizes that women deserve a voice in 2A policy discussions—not as victims to be protected from guns, but as capable individuals empowered to protect themselves.

Based in Concord, New Hampshire with training held at venues including Londonderry Fish & Game Club (Litchfield, NH) and Renaissance Firearms (Barrington, NH). Events run throughout the year—check their calendar for upcoming classes and shoots.

• •Contact: [email protected]
• •Mailing: PO Box 2335, Concord, NH 03302

Women 18+ can join as Full Members. Young women under 18 and men can become Support Members. Membership renewals are available online via PayPal, by mail, or at events—dues are $40 for Full and $20 for Support annually.