Triangle Self-Defense Training

Triangle Self-Defense Training delivers North Carolina concealed carry permit classes with instructors who've actually seen combat. Stewart Edmiston is an Air Force veteran and Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran. Scott McClure has 21+ years of military experience including counter drug operations and combat deployment in Iraq. Both hold multiple NRA certifications and are approved by the N.C. Department of Justice.

This isn't a box-checking exercise. They market their approach as training "thinkers, not shooters"—meaning the focus is on judgment, legal knowledge, and awareness rather than just trigger control.

Part One: Legal Issues - North Carolina common law and statutory law - Justified use of deadly force - Concealed carry do's and don'ts - How to interact with police - Written legal examination (must score ≥80%)

Part Two: Gun Safety - Four core firearm safety rules - Gun handling essentials - Firearms, ammunition, and accessories overview - Shooting fundamentals - Shooting qualification (must score ≥85% on B-27 silhouette target)

You'll shoot 30 rounds total: 10 from 3 yards, 10 from 5 yards, 10 from 7 yards. All rounds must stay within the 7-ring (7, 8, 9, and bullseye count).

• •A functioning handgun
• •30 rounds of ammunition
• •Shooting glasses
• •Hearing protection
• •Pen and paper for the written exam
• •The firearm MUST be unloaded and in a safe configuration before entering the classroom—no exceptions

If you don't own a firearm, each rental includes the gun, 30 rounds of ammunition, eye protection, and ear plugs. Rentals are limited per class.

Step 1: Pass the course, receive official N.C. Department of Justice certificate

Step 2: Schedule in-person appointment at your local Sheriff's office and bring the original certificate (don't lose it—they don't keep copies)

Step 3: Complete application, pay fee, and receive permit (timing varies by county)

You must pass BOTH the written exam and shooting qualification. If you fail only one, you can take a $100 private lesson to focus on weak areas and retest. If you fail both or fail the retest, you must retake the full course.

"Failure to follow firearm safety rules will disqualify you from the course."

The four non-negotiable rules: 1. Treat your firearm as loaded at all times 2. Never point it at yourself, classmates, or instructors 3. Keep finger off trigger until on the firing line and instructed to fire 4. Always know what's behind, in front, and beside your target

If behavior is deemed unsafe, you'll be ejected without refund.

• •7+ days before class: Partial refund minus $50 fee, one free reschedule
• •1-7 days before class: No refund, one free reschedule
• •Within 24 hours or day-of: No refund, no reschedule option
• •Second reschedule after courtesy option: $50 fee
• •Third reschedule: Payment forfeited, not permitted

Beyond CCW classes, Triangle Self-Defense Training also offers: - G201: Shooting Fundamentals - G202: Defensive Pistol - Private 1-on-1 training - Couples & friends group sessions - Krav Maga self-defense classes - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training - Knife and stick fighting instruction

Free guides cover concealed carry basics, state gun laws & travel, and what to do when police arrive. Training videos and blog content address threat assessment, awareness techniques, crime breakdowns, and everyday carry (EDC) mindset.

500+ five-star Google reviews from students who completed training

All students must meet state and federal requirements to legally use, possess, and handle firearms and ammunition in North Carolina.