Critical Response Training WV

Critical Response Training WV teaches people how to actually respond when it matters most. Their course structure moves from fundamentals straight through to advanced defensive scenarios—not just theory, but live-fire training and tactical application.

New Defender - Introduction to Defensive Pistol

For anyone brand new to handguns or hesitant about firearms. This course covers everything from the ground up: - Cycle of operation and gun selection - Ammunition fundamentals - Safe handling and safe storage - Grip, stance, and sight picture - Both classroom and live-fire portions

Students need to bring a firearm, ear protection, eye protection, and 100 rounds of factory ammunition. Cost: $100. Minors must have an adult guardian enrolled in the course.

Home Defender - Home Defense Fundamentals

A home invasion forces split-second decisions that can mean life or death. This full-day course (9 AM–5 PM) walks you through: - Building an actual family survival plan - Staging firearms for quick access - Essential elements of home defense strategy - Defensive skills under real stress

The decisions you make in this moment might literally be the difference between life and death for you or someone you love.

The course directly addresses the questions most people never ask themselves: Do you have a plan? Do you know where to stage a firearm? Are you confident in your defensive skills?

Public Defender - Concealed Carry Fundamentals

For people who plan to carry a firearm for self-protection. A full-day (9 AM–4 PM) course covering the legal and practical elements of everyday carry.

Pepper Spray Tactics

Pepper spray is one of the most effective non-lethal tools available—but it requires proper training. Critical Response Training teaches: - Life-saving tactics in real-world situations - Hands-on practice with inert training units - Practical deployment scenarios

Each student receives 2 inert training units and 1 live unit of POM premium pepper spray. Course runs 3–4 hours. Cost: $65.

Krav Maga - Be a Nightmare for Bad Guys

Taught by Marcus Torgerson, an instructor featured in Skillset magazine and in Klint Emmerson's book 100 Deadly Skills - Combat Edition. This 3-hour seminar focuses on: - Real-world self-defense mindset - Functional movement and practical techniques - Ways to avoid and handle interpersonal violence

Designed for teens and young adults. Cost: $60 per person.

Krav Maga emphasizes simplicity and rapid learning—taking the most practical techniques from multiple fighting styles and organizing them into an easy-to-learn system.

Realtor Safety & Armed Attacker Response

Specialized courses for professionals who face elevated personal security risks.

Not seeing what you need? Critical Response Training offers custom private courses. Email to build a training package tailored to your group's specific goals.

Critical Response Training doesn't treat self-defense as an abstract concept. Every course emphasizes decision-making and real-world application. Classroom time feeds directly into practical, live-fire training where applicable. The instructors reference current events in tactical training and bring in guest specialists like Marcus Torgerson when teaching specialized skills.

They're located in West Virginia and regularly schedule courses throughout the state.