Women interested in learning firearm safety, defensive shooting skills, and personal protection techniques will have the opportunity to participate in a specialized training course hosted by the Boone County Sheriff’s Office later this month.
The 16-hour Ladies Only Principles of the Defensive Handgun course is scheduled for June 27-28, 2026, and will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Designed specifically for women of all experience levels, the two-day program aims to build confidence and competence in defensive handgun use through a combination of classroom instruction and practical training.
Course topics will include safe gun handling, marksmanship fundamentals, defensive mindset and decision-making, and real-world skills designed to help participants become more responsible and prepared firearm owners.
Instruction will be led by Major Brian Stevenson and members of the Boone County Sheriff’s Office staff. Stevenson brings nearly three decades of firearms instruction experience to the course and serves as the agency’s Senior Range Master. He has also taught at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy and previously commanded the Boone County Special Response Team.
Participants are required to provide a suitable handgun, at least three magazines, a belt holster, eye and hearing protection, and approximately 350 rounds of ammunition. Organizers noted that .25, .22, and .32 caliber pistols will not be permitted for the training. Equipment can be loaned to students who do not have access to the required gear.
Tuition for the course is $200 and must be paid at registration. However, full-time Boone County employees and local Boone County law enforcement officers may attend at no cost.
Because enrollment is limited, interested participants are encouraged to register early. Those seeking additional information or registration details should contact the Boone County Sheriff’s Office directly.
The course provides a supportive learning environment where women can develop practical skills, increase their understanding of firearm safety, and gain confidence in defensive handgun use.