Classes

Defensive Handgun 1 bridges the gap between fundamental handgun skills and real-world defensive applications, teaching the operation of the pistol while pushing for high standards of precision. This comprehensive course elevates the shooter’s skill level, regardless of previous experience, transitioning them from basic marksmanship in controlled environments to engaging multiple targets and zones. Utilizing scenario examples, low-light conditions, and moving targets, DH1 prepares shooters for a wide range of defensive situations.

Owning a handgun is one thing; knowing how to use it effectively in a defensive situation is another. The Defensive Handgun 1 (DH1) course equips you with essential skills for safe and effective defensive handgun operation. This course covers the fundamentals of gun safety, drawing, loading, and managing malfunctions.In addition to these basic skills, DH1 delves into “advanced techniques” such as firing at extended distances, engaging moving targets, shooting while on the move,communication, and use of cover.

Whether you’re new to handgun shooting, seeking professional training for the first time, or a seasoned shooter wanting to refresh your core skills, DH1 provides a solid foundation for defensive handgun proficiency.

You’ve got a rifle—now learn how to use it effectively with the Urban Rifle 1 course.

Since its creation in 1983, this course has been the benchmark for personal defensive training with rifles, often imitated but never matched. Urban Rifle 1 is the flagship course of Thunder Ranch’s doctrine.

This class covers multiple spectrums of the rifle, from the setup to effective employment. This course is suitable for shooters of all skill levels, from beginners to highly experienced shooters. Everyone leaves better and with more knowledge then when they came.

This course focuses on using a rifle for self-defense at close range, typically considered handgun distance. It is suitable for magazine-fed, iron-sighted rifles, though other types are welcome. Low-powered or dot-type optics are encouraged, but having backup iron sights is recommended.

Griffin Arms is hosting a Thunder Ranch Urban Rifle course  in Stoneboro, PA.

Created in 1983 this course is still the one most copied but not duplicated by other institutions. Urban rifle is the cornerstone of the personal defensive doctrine of this school and has been since the schools inception.

Very simply, this is the way to defend yourself with a rifle in what most people would consider handgun distance. Generally for magazine fed rifles(AR15, AK47 etc.), but other rifle types accepted. Low power(1-6) or red dot type optics recommended, but it is also recommended that backup iron sights be available somewhere on the rifle.

This course is condensed for Griffin Arms from the normal 3-day course at the ranch. Be prepared to work hard both days.

Griffin Arms is hosting a Thunder Ranch Defensive Handgun course in Stoneboro, PA, is a two-day intensive designed to teach effective handgun use for personal defense. While owning a handgun is common, knowing how to use it properly in defensive situations is crucial. This course addresses core skills such as gun safety, drawing, loading, and malfunction handling, along with more complex defensive techniques.

You will practice firing at extended distances, shooting while moving, and basic tactical maneuvers. The training also includes low light handgun operation, requiring a handheld tactical-style flashlight with a tail-cap button. This course is perfect for new handgun shooters, those new to professional training, and seasoned shooters seeking to refine their fundamentals and explore advanced concepts.

The Team Tactics with Vehicle Block course at Thunder Ranch is a three-day intensive course designed to equip you with the skills needed to handle defensive problems in and around vehicles and structures.

This course acknowledges the reality that we spend a great deal of time in and around structures, or traveling in vehicles. It addresses how to resolve threats in these environments, whether alone, with a partner, or in a small group.

Training includes the employment and carriage of handguns in vehicles, and a focus on strategies with partners to ensure the best possible outcomes in violent situations. You’ll practice working in and around vehicles and structures, coordinating movements solo, in pairs, and in small groups. The course also covers crucial medical considerations for managing injuries.

Understanding that many attacks occur while seated in a vehicle, you’ll learn to egress safely when driving away isn’t an option. The training emphasizes equipment manipulation (seat belts, doors, guns), marksmanship, communication and terrain management. A vehicle ballistics workshop is included.

Thunder Ranch’s The Hunt course is perfect for those wanting to learn or refine their skills in hunting North American big game, focusing on Mule Deer-sized animals. This course offers a thorough exploration of hunting essentials, including personal gear choices, appropriate firearms, game location strategies, and post-shot care for your harvest.

Participants will have dinner at the ranch house with the staff. There will be a pre-dinner tasting of various regional big game species, followed by a meal prepared from staff harvested game, emphasizing simplicity and fresh ingredients.

The Hunt is a physically demanding class, designed to provide the most realistic hunting experience possible. You’ll spend extensive hours under field conditions, hiking 2-3 miles in mountainous terrain, locating various game animals, and shooting targets in backcountry settings. The course teaches the necessary field positions for making clean shots in uneven terrain.

The ideal rifle for this class is a standard hunting rifle for animals in the 150-250 pound range. A bolt-action rifle in .24 to .30 caliber, non-magnum, with a variable mid-range scope is recommended. Target or tactical rifles are discouraged. For any special caliber requests or questions, please inquire.

Join The Hunt to immerse yourself in the practical aspects of big game hunting, enhancing your skills and enjoying the rewards of the hunt with the guidance of experienced instructors.

Thunder Ranch’s Old Rifle course is tailored for rifles made before 1946, excluding contemporary martial-based platforms. This course is perfect for bolt action, lever action, single shot, and pump action rifle enthusiasts who want to develop practical skills with their classic firearms. Bring your old or inherited rifle and learn to use it effectively for personal and family protection.

The training focuses on engaging targets at danger close ranges of 0-100 yards, with drills extending out to 300 yards. You’ll experience a variety of outdoor scenarios and practice “other rifle” pick-up drills, emphasizing real-world applications. The course covers fundamental skills such as using cover, ammunition management, malfunction correction, and sling use. Practical shooting positions, communication, and movement are also key components of the training, focusing on accurate and deliberate shooting rather than speed.

This course will enhance your respect for old rifles and exceed your expectations of their performance.

Thunder Ranch’s Urban Rifle Night Vision course is a staple offering that leverages our extensive experience with night vision systems. This course builds on your previous Urban Rifle training, teaching you to integrate those skills with night vision operations.

Over three days, you’ll learn to maximize your night vision system in conjunction with rifle use across various environments. The course utilizes the diverse terrain and exclusive features of Thunder Ranch, presenting new challenges in locating and engaging targets under night vision. Exercises cover both urban and rural settings, emphasizing equipment manipulation and situational awareness in low or no-light conditions.

To enroll, students must have completed Urban Rifle 1 or a similar course within the past five years, be physically capable of navigating varied terrain in the dark with full kit, and legally possess and use firearms and night vision equipment (ITAR compliance). No rental units are available. This advanced course is designed to push your limits and provide a full spectrum use case for your equipment.

The Mid-Range Rifle course at Thunder Ranch is designed to extend your shooting proficiency from 100 to 700 yards, with a focus on achieving first-round hits, particularly within Danger Close distances of 0-300 yards. This comprehensive training will push the limits of your rifle and scope combination, ensuring you maximize their potential.

You’ll learn the fundamentals of spotting, providing accurate corrections and calls for your shooting partner. Additionally, the course covers shooting in wind, dialing in scope corrections/DOPE, as well as holdovers using the reticle.

Anticipate shots from the prone position, where most of the data is gathered, then you’ll primarily engage in drills that simulate field conditions, requiring modified shooting positions. This course is highly beneficial for both new and experienced shooters, offering the opportunity to collect valuable data on your rifle’s performance at extended distances.

The Mid-Range Rifle course emphasizes practical, real-world shooting applications. You’ll face various scenarios that test your skills and equipment under challenging conditions.

Good scopes mounted to reliable actions are recommended. This course is designed to refine your marksmanship and overall capability with your chosen rifle.

NO MUZZLE BRAKES. Suppressors are welcomed and encouraged.

Thunder Ranch’s Long Range Scoped AR course is designed to push the boundaries of what modern semi-auto AR platforms can achieve in precision shooting. This course will expose you to the capabilities and constraints of your rifle, ensuring you leave with the skills and knowledge to engage threats from close quarters to extended ranges up to 700 yards.

You’ll explore the practical application of extended-range marksmanship with an AR, traditionally a role for bolt-action rifles. The course addresses critical elements for rapid engagement of targets at different distances.

This is not a basic marksmanship course, though new shooters are welcomed; it’s a dynamic, problem-solving class where you’ll shoot, move, and engage multiple threats under tight time constraints. The training includes runs on the Punisher, focusing on shooting from various positions, dialing, and using hold-offs.

The course primarily focuses on AR-style rifles in 5.56. Other acceptable platforms include AKs and SCARs with magnified optics. Ideal optics range from low to mid-power (1-8, 2.5-10, 3-15, etc.), though Red Dots with magnifiers can be used with limitations. High-quality optics with MIL-based reticles and premium ammunition are recommended, along with bipods and slings. 20-round magazines may offer advantages at times.

Prepare for a challenging course which will test your equipment and push your personal limits, making you a more capable and confident marksman.

The course primarily focuses on AR-style rifles in .223 configured as Designated Marksman Rifles (DMR). Other acceptable platforms include AKs and SCARs with magnified optics. Ideal optics range from low to mid-power (1-8, 2.5-10, 3-15, etc.), though Red Dots with magnifiers can be used with limitations. High-quality optics with MIL-based reticles and premium ammunition are recommended, along with bipods and slings, though 20-round magazines may offer advantages at times.

Prepare for a challenging, real-world training experience that will enhance your precision shooting skills and tactical abilities. This course will test your equipment and push your personal limits, making you a more capable and confident marksman.

High Intensity Training (HIT) is a premier course reserved for graduates of previous TR Courses. This program is designed to push your current physical and mental limits, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness and a strong foundation in skill.

HIT introduces students to “advanced” skills, including low and no light runs in the Terminator, teamwork, communication, but ultimately a high level execution of fundamentals.

The course features physically demanding drills and exercises that test your endurance and adaptability.

Throughout HIT, you’ll gain valuable insights from continuous evaluation and feedback from our experienced staff.

You’ll leave with a higher skill level, greater confidence, and a sense of accomplishment.

The Thunder Ranch Designated Marksman course is designed for precision shooters who need to achieve first-round hits and rapid follow-ups on diminished size targets at known and unknown distances. Over four intense days, you’ll face challenging scenarios that test your mental and physical resilience.

This advanced rifleman’s class builds on decades of refined curriculum, offering the ultimate training experience for Armed Professionals and Citizens alike. You’ll dive straight into gathering data and engaging properly identified targets, learning to perform under pressure and in challenging positions. The course emphasizes shooting from real-world locations such as loopholes, hides, vehicles, and elevated or awkward positions (the dreaded sloped roof). Additionally the course covers camouflage, terrain utilization, and the critical roles of shooter and spotter.

You’ll be provided with a DOPE book and taught how to use it effectively, with the chance to gather data using a chronograph. The course also includes training on ballistic apps, although physical DOPE collection and knowledge is prioritized. Working in shooter/spotter teams, you’ll gain practical experience and develop teamwork, wind calling, and other critical skills. This advanced, demanding course utilizes Thunder Ranch’s expansive 850 acre facility and is ideal for Armed Professionals and citizens alike seeking to enhance their skills.

Defensive Handgun 2 (DH2) picks up where DHG 1 leaves off, advancing your skills and understanding to meet more complex defensive scenarios. This course tackles timing, problem-solving, and the practical application of these skills under pressure.

Participants will engage in grounded and injury drills, learning to operate effectively even under compromised conditions. Tactical runs become more rigorous, with heightened expectations of your ability to perform. A prerequisite for DH2 is the successful completion of DHG 1, along with consistent self-directed range time. This course is designed for those who have maintained their skills; if your pistol hasn’t seen action since your last class, DH2 is not for you. This is not an introductory class, and newcomers to Thunder Ranch are encouraged to start with DHG 1.

UPR combines the best aspects of Urban Rifle and Scoped AR, maintaining the robust tenets of Urban Rifle while upholding a higher standard of precision and responsibility. This innovative approach elevates the shooter’s experience, transitioning them from executing marksmanship in controlled range settings to more field-expedient and practical applications. Through realistic building facades and individual and team movements, UPR enhances the shooter’s ability to maximize the use of the chosen platform.

Thunder Ranch’s Defensive Revolver course is designed for those who recognize the continued viability of the revolver in personal defense. Whether used for defense, hunting, or as a dependable backup gun in close-contact applications, the revolver offers practical and effective solutions. Generally legal in most jurisdictions, the revolver is a viable alternative to other options which may be in violation. This course provides comprehensive training, covering everything from muzzle contact to longer-range engagements.

You’ll utilize various loading and reloading techniques, with a requirement of six to ten speed loaders or strips. Pocket loading is allowed, but impractical items like nail aprons should be avoided to ensure productive training. For safety, cross draw and shoulder holsters are restricted on the firing line, though their practical applications will be addressed if they are part of your everyday carry.

Participants should bring a secondary revolver, ideally in the same caliber, to use as a backup or BUG. The course will cover the carriage and use of these additional firearms.

This course ensures that you maximize the effectiveness of your revolver in various scenarios, reaffirming its place in modern personal defense. Come refine your skills and confidence with this timeless firearm.

Thunder Ranch’s Perfect Storm course is a one-of-a-kind training experience that teams up with Rob Leatham, one of the greatest pistol shooters of all time, and Jason Burton, a world-renowned 1911 builder and seasoned Thunder Ranch instructor. Over three intense days, participants will build, refine, and perform advanced shooting skills within defensive scenarios, guided by Thunder Ranch’s expert staff.

The course starts with Clint Smith’s foundational lecture on awareness and personal defense, setting the stage for skill development. With an emphasis on shooting performance and technique, students will fire around 1200 rounds, benefiting from individual attention by Rob Leatham, a 30-time USPSA/IPSC National Champion and 8-time IPSC World Champion. The high-repetition environment ensures continuous engagement and active learning.

Participants will delve into interior tactics, receiving comprehensive instruction on applying these techniques in real-world scenarios. The course includes challenging drills on the square range and practical application runs in the Thunder Ranch shoot-house, The Terminator, to solidify skills.

This advanced course is reserved for previous DH1 graduates who maintain active practice and range time. Equivalent training may be considered upon approval. Students must have a strong grasp of firearm safety and proficiency in basic marksmanship, draw stroke, and gun handling skills.

Perfect Storm offers a rare opportunity to train with Rob Leatham and the exceptional Thunder Ranch staff in an immersive, high-tempo environment. This course is designed to push your limits and elevate your defensive shooting capabilities to the highest level.

This advanced course is reserved for previous DH1 graduates who maintain active practice and range time. Equivalent training may be considered upon approval. Students must have a strong grasp of firearm safety and proficiency in basic marksmanship, draw stroke, and gun handling skills.

Perfect Storm offers a rare opportunity to train with Rob Leatham and the exceptional Thunder Ranch staff in an immersive, high-tempo environment. This course is designed to push your limits and elevate your defensive shooting capabilities to the highest level.

Thunder Ranch’s High Angle Rifle Training (HART) is an advanced course that pushes the boundaries of precision shooting, requiring participants to hike at high altitudes for extended periods while carrying all necessary gear. This course demands physical fitness and readiness, with packs typically weighing at least 35 pounds.

The course starts with two days on the flat range, focusing on precision shooting from ideal positions. The following two days are spent in the field, where students will engage targets from practical, often challenging shooting positions at intermediate and extended distances. The high-altitude environment adds complexity, with extreme angles and variable winds impacting performance.

Participants must bring rifles in sound working order, with no magnums allowed, and should have a 100-yard zero established with the ammunition they plan to use. Essential tools and wrenches for daily scope maintenance are required, along with a thorough reading of the scope manual. Hands-free rifle packs are highly recommended for the physical demands of the course.

Completion of the Mid-Range Rifle Course is recommended as a prerequisite to ensure preparedness for the rigorous training. Join HART to enhance your precision shooting skills and learn to navigate the unique challenges of high-angle environments.

Thunder Ranch’s Urban Rifle 2 with Vehicle Defense course builds on the foundation of Urban Rifle or Urban Precision Rifle, focusing on tactics for operating in and around vehicles. This course is designed for those who are physically fit and regularly practicing their rifle skills, offering training that goes beyond basic rifle operation.

The course covers actual occurring situations, emphasizing the effective use of rifles in fluid, vehicle-based environments.

Participants will practice solo and team-based tactics, addressing both defensive and offensive scenarios. The course aims to improve your ability to navigate and respond to high-pressure situations, enhancing your overall proficiency as a shooter.

Urban Rifle 2 with Vehicle Defense provides an intensive, practical learning experience that prepares you for the complexities of vehicle defense.

Thunder Ranch’s Defensive Handgun Low Light course parallels the training of DH1 and DH2, focusing on the critical skills needed to use handguns with handheld and weapon-mounted lights in low light conditions. Recognizing that defensive encounters often occur in low, altered, or failing light, this course prepares you to handle such scenarios.

Students will learn to choose and use the right tools and equipment, integrating them in the dark. This training goes beyond basic flashlight techniques, emphasizing practical application. You will engage in exercises that challenge your ability to navigate and respond to threats in varied lighting conditions.

The course includes drills on the flat range, inside the Terminator shoot-house, and in varied urban and rural terrain.

Defensive Handgun Low Light ensures you are equipped to handle situations where lighting is compromised.

Thunder Ranch’s 2-Day Defensive Handgun course is a down and dirty crash course for individuals seeking knowledge in the use of handguns in defensive situations. This course begins with the basics of gun safety, drawing, loading, and malfunction clearance, ensuring a strong foundational understanding for all participants.

The training extends to more advanced skills, including firing at extended distances, engaging moving targets, shooting while on the move, and other foundational concepts. Additionally, the course covers low light handgun operations.The curriculum makes the course suitable for new handgun owners, those new to professional training, and experienced shooters seeking to reinforce and expand their skill set.

Participants will benefit from expert guidance, gaining confidence and competence in their ability to carry and utilize handguns effectively for personal defense.

Thunder Ranch’s Advanced 1911 Diagnostic Course is a specialized 2-day class aimed at providing in-depth knowledge of the 1911 pistol’s operation and how to properly fit essential reliability components. Led by Jason Burton, a renowned 1911 builder from Heirloom Precision, and long-time Thunder Ranch instructor, this course also includes a lecture by Clint Smith on effective handgun use.

Thunder Ranch’s Defensive Shotgun course is a comprehensive training program designed to demonstrate the effectiveness of shotguns in personal defense. With the right load at the right range, the shotgun is capable of a high level of performance and effectiveness across a broad spectrum of ranges.

Often viewed as archaic and difficult to utilize, the shotgun is highly effective in conflict resolution, at ranges that would surprise most, when paired with a base of knowledge and training.

Generally viewed as less controversial than a rifle, the shotgun can be utilized in geographical areas that are less friendly to persons defending themselves.

Participants will learn critical skills such as safety, proper manipulation, load selection, reloading techniques, malfunction clearance, and deployment options. The course also covers patterning, movement, communication, and the use of cover and concealment.

This 3-day Night Vision Operator course for Law Enforcement is hosted by our friends Sentinel Defense, supported by B.E. Meyers, located at the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Office Range.

Night vision can be a game changer for law enforcement safety. Proper utilization of night vision devices can greatly reduce agency and individual liability. Night vision devices are often issued but very misunderstood and misapplied. This course has a heavy focus on integration to patrol and special teams, to maximize the potential of a positive outcome.

This course will modify Thunder Ranch’s Urban Rifle Night Vision course, tailored explicitly for Law Enforcement officers working in tactical environments. Over three days, students will enhance their capabilities and gain a comprehensive understanding of using night vision in conjunction with a rifle and pistol. Applicable case law will be covered, as well as considerations for utilization.

The course is designed to prepare you for actual use cases, exploiting various terrain features, interior and open air environments, and be provided opportunities to refine your equipment setup and familiarity.

You’ve got a rifle—now learn how to use it effectively with the Urban Rifle course.

Since its creation in 1983, this course has been the benchmark for personal defensive training with rifles, often imitated but never matched. Urban Rifle is the flagship course of Thunder Ranch’s doctrine.

This class covers multiple spectrums of the rifle, from the setup to effective employment. This course is suitable for shooters of all skill levels, from beginners to highly experienced shooters. Everyone leaves better and with more knowledge then when they came.

This course focuses on using a rifle for self-defense at closer ranges, typically considered handgun distance. It is suitable for magazine-fed, iron-sighted rifles, though other types are welcome. Low-powered or dot-type optics are encouraged, but having backup iron sights is recommended.

This course is condensed for remote delivery from the normal 3-day course at the ranch. Be prepared to work hard both days.

Range Location: 12801 Old U.S. 95, Boulder City, NV 89005

Thunder Ranch’s Off Site 2-Day Defensive Handgun course is a down and dirty crash course for individuals seeking knowledge in the use of handguns in defensive situations. This course begins with the basics of gun safety, drawing, loading, and malfunction clearance, ensuring a strong foundational understanding for all participants.

The training extends to more “advanced” skills, including firing at extended distance, shooting while on the move, effective communication with partners, and other foundational concepts. Additionally, the course covers low light handgun operations.The curriculum makes the course suitable for new handgun owners, those new to professional training, and experienced shooters seeking to reinforce and expand their skill set.

Participants will benefit from expert guidance, gaining confidence and competence in their ability to carry and utilize handguns effectively for personal defense.

Range Location: 12801 Old U.S. 95, Boulder City, NV 89005

This two day condensed version of Urban Precision Rifle is a faster paced and streamlined version of the normal 3 day course held at the ranch.

UPR combines the best aspects of Urban Rifle and Scoped AR, maintaining the robust tenets of Urban Rifle while upholding a higher standard of precision and responsibility. This innovative approach elevates the shooter’s experience, transitioning them from executing marksmanship in controlled range settings to more field-expedient and practical applications.

Variable powered optics in the 1-6/ 1-10 range or red dot with magnifier work the best for this course. Higher magnification optics with offset or 12 o’ clock mounted dots are acceptable as well.

Range Location: Ben Avery Shooting Facility 4044 W Black Canyon Blvd Phoenix, AZ 85086

Thunder Ranch’s Off Site 2-Day Defensive Handgun course is a down and dirty crash course for individuals seeking knowledge in the use of handguns in defensive situations. This course begins with the basics of gun safety, drawing, loading, and malfunction clearance, ensuring a strong foundational understanding for all participants.

The training extends to more “advanced” skills, including firing at extended distance, shooting while on the move, effective communication with partners, and other foundational concepts. Additionally, the course covers low light handgun operations.The curriculum makes the course suitable for new handgun owners, those new to professional training, and experienced shooters seeking to reinforce and expand their skill set.

Participants will benefit from expert guidance, gaining confidence and competence in their ability to carry and utilize handguns effectively for personal defense.

Range Location: Ben Avery Shooting Facility 4044 W Black Canyon Blvd Phoenix, AZ 85086

Thunder Ranch has been contracted by a Client to provide a MIL/LE Only 3 day advanced handgun course, there are additional available spots outside of the contract.

Due to the nature of the contract, this class is for current MIL/LE persons only. This class is small by design and is sure to push students’ performance to a very high level.

Taught by Thunder Ranch staff members Jason Burton and Jack Daniel, this course is sure to be an multidimensional course focusing on mastery of fundamentals, speed, use of cover, and other factors specific to armed professionals, with the ultimate goal of the highest personal performance and accountability.

You’ve got a rifle—now learn how to use it effectively with the Urban Rifle course.

Since its creation in 1983, this course has been the benchmark for personal defensive training with rifles, often imitated but never matched. Urban Rifle is the flagship course of Thunder Ranch’s doctrine.

This class covers multiple spectrums of the rifle, from the setup to effective employment. This course is suitable for shooters of all skill levels, from beginners to highly experienced shooters. Everyone leaves better and with more knowledge then when they came.

This course focuses on using a rifle for self-defense at closer ranges, typically considered handgun distance. It is suitable for magazine-fed, iron-sighted rifles, though other types are welcome. Low-powered or dot-type optics are encouraged, but having backup iron sights is recommended.

This course is condensed for remote delivery from the normal 3-day course at the ranch. Be prepared to work hard both days.

Range Location: Ben Avery Shooting Facility 4044 W Black Canyon Blvd Phoenix, AZ 85086