Home/BDT–03 · Women & Family
Safety, confidence, empowerment
Empowering women and families with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to safely own, store, and use firearms for protection. A welcoming, pressure-free environment designed with you in mind.

Built around real-life needs
Many women who want to learn firearm safety feel intimidated by the idea of walking into a class designed for experienced shooters. At Blackthorn Defense Tactics, courses for women and families are specifically designed to be welcoming, educational, and empowering — not overwhelming.
As a Well Armed Woman Certified Instructor, the curriculum is built around the realities women actually face — from choosing a firearm that fits your hand and lifestyle, to practicing safe storage in a home with children, to understanding how to use a firearm effectively for personal protection.
Classes are available for women only or as family/mixed groups, depending on your preference. There is no pressure, no judgment — just practical, life-changing education.
Course details
BDT–03- Who
- Women, families, all skill levels
- Format
- Women-only or family sessions
- Cert
- Well Armed Woman + USCCA + NRA
- Environment
- Welcoming, non-intimidating
- Location
- East Tennessee
- Contact
- 423-446-7233
What you'll learn
Foundations & safety
- Choosing the right firearm — Understanding which handgun fits your hand size, strength, and intended use.
- Safe handling from day one — The four rules of firearm safety made second nature from your very first session.
- Safe storage with children in the home — Balancing accessibility for protection with safety for kids.
- Loading, unloading & maintenance — Practical skills to confidently manage your firearm at home and at the range.
- Home defense planning — How to think through a home defense strategy before you ever need it.
Skills & awareness
- Marksmanship fundamentals — Grip, stance, sight alignment, and trigger control tailored for the female shooter.
- Concealed carry considerations — Holster options, carry positions, and clothing choices specific to women.
- Situational awareness — Developing the mindset and habits that let you recognize and avoid danger before it arrives.
- Legal use of force — Understanding Tennessee's laws regarding self-defense and use of a firearm.
- Teaching children firearm safety — Age-appropriate ways to educate children about firearms to prevent accidents.
Designed for women, by someone who gets it
-
Well Armed Woman certified
Specialized certification focused exclusively on empowering women with practical firearm skills and safety knowledge.
-
Real-world focus
Curriculum built around the actual situations women face — home defense, carry options, storage with kids, and personal protection on the go.
-
Zero pressure environment
No judgment, no intimidation. Classes are designed to be supportive and empowering from the first moment to the last.
Women's safety questions
I've never held a gun. Is this class for me?
Yes — this is exactly the right starting point. These courses are designed with first-time shooters in mind and progress at a comfortable pace for everyone.
Can my husband/partner/teenage son or daughter come with me?
Absolutely. Family sessions are available. If you'd prefer a women-only environment, that option exists as well — just let us know your preference when you register.
I'm not sure which gun to buy. Can you help?
Yes. Firearm selection guidance is part of the course. We can discuss options and help you understand what to look for before you purchase.
What about storage when I have young children at home?
This is covered in the course. Safe storage with children at home is one of the most important topics — we walk through practical options that balance safety and accessibility.
Take control of your personal safety
Classes fill quickly. Call or register online today to claim your spot.
423-446-SAFE(7233) · call or text