You’ve got a rifle—now learn how to use it effectively with the Urban Rifle 1 course at Thunder Ranch. A rifle is only as valuable as the skill of its owner. This course helps you understand what accessories are necessary and which are not, grounded in the school’s principles of logic and knowledge. Since its creation in 1983, this course…

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. Day 1:…

Urban Rifle Night Vision is one of Thunder Ranch’s premier courses, drawing from decades of experience with night vision systems. From early night vision devices to the latest technology, our expert staff have operated nearly every system available. This course builds on skills learned in previous Urban Rifle classes, integrating those abilities with night vision operations. Over three days, students…

The Defensive Revolver course at Thunder Ranch acknowledges the enduring relevance of the revolver in personal defense. Despite being viewed as archaic by some, the revolver remains a functional and effective tool for defense, hunting, and as a reliable backup gun in close-contact situations. This course covers a full spectrum of applications, from muzzle contact to longer ranges, ensuring you…

Thunder Ranch’s 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…

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 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…

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…

The Old Rifle course at Thunder Ranch is designed for enthusiasts of rifles made and used before 1946, including bolt action, lever action, single shot, and pump action rifles. This course focuses on acquiring and refining rifle skills with these classic firearms, demonstrating their potential applications in modern scenarios. Bring your closet or grandpa’s rifle and learn how to effectively…

The Designated Marksman course at Thunder Ranch trains you to achieve first-round hits and rapid follow-ups on small targets at unknown distances under mentally and physically demanding conditions. This four-day course is the pinnacle for precision shooters and professional end users, evolving from our extensive experience with Counter Sniper and Sniper/Observer courses. This is a rifleman’s class, focused on getting…

Thunder Ranch’s Defensive Shotgun course is a comprehensive training program designed to showcase the effectiveness of shotguns in personal defense. Previously a hit at our Texas facility, this course addresses the often overlooked potential of shotguns when used correctly. Participants will learn critical skills such as safety, operation, load selection, reloading techniques, malfunction handling, and deployment strategies. The course also…