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South Mountain Defense has been tailoring firearms instruction, personal defense, and tactical operations courses since 1987. They work with civilians, law enforcement, and military personnel, pulling from real-world experience to build relevant, applicable training programs. David Paul is the direc...
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Full description and what we offer
South Mountain Defense has been tailoring firearms instruction, personal defense, and tactical operations courses since 1987. They work with civilians, law enforcement, and military personnel, pulling from real-world experience to build relevant, applicable training programs.
David Paul is the director and senior instructor. His background includes law enforcement, special operations instruction, and tactical training. He holds certifications as an NRA Certified Rifle Instructor, NRA Certified Pistol Instructor, NRA Chief Range Safety Officer, Certified SWAT/Hostage Rescue Instructor, Certified Sniper Operations Instructor, Certified Glock Armorer, and PA MPOE Instructor. He also holds a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do.
SMD's approach focuses on techniques that work in both static and dynamic situations. They teach practical handling and defensive applications that account for real-world scenarios—not just range shooting in ideal conditions.
| Course | Duration | Level | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Defensive Handgun (Tier I) | 1 day | Beginner | $190 |
| Defensive Handgun (Tier II) | 1 day | Intermediate | See website |
| Defensive Handgun (Tier III) | 1 day | Advanced | See website |
| Firearms Selection—Women's Perspectives | 4.5 hours | Beginner | $40 |
| Handgun Fundamentals Course | 1 day | Beginner | See website |
This three-day immersive course is designed for civilians interested in tactical operations. It covers mindset shifts, real tactical training, equipment selection, mission planning, and culminates in a scenario against an unknown number of opponents in a community-based setting.
Location: Ridge & Valley Rod & Gun Club, 7600 Blue Church Rd. South, Coopersburg, PA 18036
Payment: Cash, check, credit cards, VENMO accepted :::
Most courses include snacks and beverages. You bring lunch or can arrange through SMD. Class sizes are limited. Discounts available for Ridge & Valley members, prior SMD students, and groups of two or more. Pre-registration by phone is required.
For live fire courses, you'll need to bring your own firearm (or SMD has limited rentals), appropriate ammunition (typically 250 rounds for handgun courses), holsters, and eye/hearing protection. Some courses provide firearms for trial use to help you determine what works best for your grip and needs.
SMD uses SIRT LASER pistols for classroom practice and evaluation of red dot/electronic sights. They have a variety of handguns available for students to try before purchasing. For casualty care training, expect realistic simulation with fake blood.
SMD trains civilians interested in self-defense, concealed carry, home defense, and tactical awareness. They also work with law enforcement agencies and military personnel. Women-specific handgun courses acknowledge different grip needs and selection priorities. Teachers get free training on active shooter response.
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