Open Carry Concepts

Course Description: Instruction in skills and tactics unique to open carry of a handgun.

This course is part of our 40 hour Defensive Pistol Skills Program.


Topics: Texas open carry laws, retention holster selection, draw/reholster drills using a retention holster, live fire drills for defensive pistol skills (movement, use of cover, multiple targets, scanning, close quarter shooting), interaction with law enforcement, handling unwanted/uninvited attention and conversations about open carry while in public, managing your personal space when open carrying, weapon retention & disarm skills

Length: five hours

For prices and upcoming course dates, check the schedule page.

Prerequisites: Texas or other state CHL

Required Equipment: A retention holster. Any centerfire pistol or revolver and 200 rounds of ammunition. Eye and ear protection.

We prefer that students use Safariland retention holsters. The SERPA holster is normally prohibited in our classes, but can be used for this course.

Optional Equipment: A "red gun" or other training replica of your carry pistol.
See the general policies page for suggestions on food, drink, clothing, etc.

Taught by: Karl Rehn and Leslie Buck of Tactical Arts

Facility: A-Zone Range

Additional information: The course will be approximately 2 hours on the range doing live fire drills, 1 hour of classroom lecture, and 2 hours of weapon retention/disarm training.