Confidence Safety Academy
Women's Basic
Self-Defense Course
in Placer County
New to handguns? Our Women's Basic Self-Defense Course is a 5-hour, women-only beginner handgun class taught by Mindy Hertzell. You get a safe, hands-on start and finish with live fire on the range. No experience needed.
Why Train With US?
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Taught by Mindy: Every session is taught by Mindy Hertzell, CSA co-owner and a registered nurse for over 10 years. She’s a DOJ, USCCA, and NRA-certified instructor, a Front Sight Institute graduate, and certified in Tactical Emergency Casualty Care.
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Women-Only Classes: Feel comfortable and supported in a class designed just for women.
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Same Curriculum: The same material as our Basic Gun Introduction Course. No shortcuts.
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Women-Only CCW Classes: Available on request. Call 916-941-5272 to set one up.
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Private Lessons with Mindy: One-on-one coaching for women, at your pace.
What You'll Learn
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Firearm safety rules and safe handling
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How handguns work, and the difference between revolvers and semi-automatic pistols
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Ammunition basics
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How to clear common malfunctions
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Shooting fundamentals: grip, stance, sight alignment, and trigger control
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Safe storage at home
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Gear basics: holsters, belts, flashlights, and storage options
What You’ll Do at the Range
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Load and unload safely under instructor supervision
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Put the classroom fundamentals to work on paper targets
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Shoot with an instructor right beside you, coaching as you go
This Class Is a Good Fit If You
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Just bought your first handgun
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Are thinking about buying one and want to learn first
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Want to understand firearm safety and how a handgun works
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Want to feel confident handling a handgun in a structured setting
What to Bring
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Eye and ear protection (We have loaners if you need them)
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Closed-toe shoes
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A brimmed hat to keep hot brass off your face
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Water and snacks
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Your handgun and ammo, if you have them
Don’t own a gun yet? No problem. We’ll provide handguns for you to try at no extra cost. Ammo is $25 per box of 50 rounds, paid on class day.
Cost: $250 plus a $25 range fee paid at the range.
Where Class Is Held
We start in our classroom at 4495 Pacific Street, Suite F, Rocklin, CA 95677, then drive to the Lincoln Dillman Range (1420 Sheridan Lincoln Blvd, Lincoln, CA 95648) for live fire.
Who Takes This Class
Any woman willing to make the drive is welcome, no matter what county you live in. Our students come from Rocklin, Roseville, Lincoln, Loomis, Auburn, Granite Bay, and beyond. Some have just bought their first handgun. Others don’t own one yet and want to learn before they buy.
What Students Say About Mindy
“I really enjoyed the perspective from Mindy who had a career as an RN and had a lot of really good advice when it came to handling emergencies with a level head.” — Kimberly C., Google review
“They are a great team with so much experience… The class was exciting engaging and practical without being overwhelming. The classroom was clean, cozy and welcoming.” — Tatiana K., Google review
Common Questions
I’ve never touched a gun and I’m nervous. Is this for me?
Yes. This class was built for you. We start in the classroom and nobody handles a gun until you know the safety rules.
Do I need my own gun?
No. We provide handguns at no extra cost. Ammo is $25 per box of 50, paid on class day.
Can I bring a friend?
Yes. One person can book seats for everyone in a single booking.
Is there a minimum age?
No. Students under 18 must have their mother attend the class with them.
Is this the same as a CCW class?
No. This class teaches you how to safely handle and shoot a handgun. The CCW class is the state-required training for a concealed carry permit. We also run women-only CCW classes on request.
What happens after this class?
Most students move on to private lessons with Mindy, our Defensive Pistol program, or a CCW class.
Ready To Train?
Take the first step. Choose your class and reserve your spot today.
