Bladesmith Outdoor Leadership Training

Bladesmith Outdoor Leadership Training is a 501(c)(3) non-profit serving Chapel Hill and Pittsboro in Chatham County, North Carolina. Founded by Retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Smith, Ph.D., the organization operates on a simple principle: "As Iron Sharpens Iron, Leaders Sharpen One Another."

The program brings together veteran military, law enforcement, and first responders alongside seasoned community leaders. LTC Smith serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor of Leadership at West Point and previously coached West Point's Combat Weapons Team for six years, training with Special Operations Forces, SWAT teams, and diplomatic security personnel.

• •Summer Camps (resuming 2026)
• •Geared for first-time shooters ages 11 and older
• •Gun safety instruction as the primary focus
• •Competitive shooting skills using Sig Sauer P320-M17 Air Pistols
• •Emphasis on responsibility and respect for firearms

Private Instruction - Competitive shooting sports training - Armed self-defense instruction - Individual and family programs - Outdoor skills training

Their approach goes beyond marksmanship. By placing young people in challenging outdoor experiences, Bladesmith develops resilience, grit, confidence, and self-reliance. Students learn teamwork, empathy, and tolerance—but most importantly, they develop the responsibility and integrity that makes them dependable teammates.

"In conquering outdoor challenges, young people develop feelings of competence, confidence, self-reliance, connectedness, and well being."