Practical Defensive Pistol 4 - Night Fighter

This course is a developmental skills block focused on the practical use of the defensive pistol during low-light and no-light conditions.

Practical Defensive Pistol 4 builds on the skills developed in earlier pistol courses and emphasizes the integration of lighting, equipment, and decision-making into existing fundamentals. Students will learn how reduced visibility impacts perception, movement, accuracy, and judgment, and how to manage those challenges safely and effectively.

Instruction includes a dedicated low-light classroom block covering lighting concepts, equipment selection, and proper use of weapon-mounted and handheld lights. These concepts are then applied during live-fire exercises under controlled low-light conditions.

For many students, this may be their first opportunity to train in low-light or no-light environments. Students are encouraged to contact the instructor prior to class with any equipment questions to ensure a safe and productive learning experience. Loaner equipment is available upon request.

Concealed or open carry equipment may be used. Concealment is optional unless otherwise specified.

Instructional Emphasis

Points of instruction include:

• Firearm manipulation with limited visibility

• Weapon-mounted light (WML) operation

• Handheld light operation for defensive pistol applications

• Use of lighting techniques for searching and threat identification

• Deployment from defined carry and ready positions in low-light and no-light contexts

• Reloading the pistol with limited visibility

• Marksmanship development with enhanced accuracy standards

• Critical decision-making in practical defensive scenarios

• Individual developmental focus based on student skill level

The following topics may be included as time permits:

• Immediate and remedial action for malfunction clearance in low-light contexts

Scope & Expectations

This is an applied low-light defensive pistol course conducted at a working pace with moderate physical demand.

Practical Defensive Pistol 4 focuses on environmental complexity and lighting integration rather than speed or volume of fire. The course emphasizes problem solving, information management, and accountability when operating in reduced visibility.

This course does not attempt to cover all aspects of low-light or night fighting and is intentionally focused on practical defensive pistol application.

Training Format & Safety

Live-fire training conducted on an outdoor range during low-light and no-light conditions.

Dry training is not the focus of this course. Live-fire will occur under reduced lighting.

All safety rules and instructor directions must be followed.Students who are unable to operate safely will be removed from the course.

Equipment Requirements

Sidearm (Handgun)

• Modern defensive handgun or revolver

• Outside the Waistband (OWB), Inside the Waistband (IWB), or Appendix Inside the Waistband (AIWB) holster

  • Holster must fully cover the trigger guard

  • Holster must securely retain the handgun during normal movement

  • Friction-fit holsters (retention level 0) are acceptable

  • Active retention holsters (Safariland-style Level 1 or Level 2) are permitted, provided the holster is concealable

• Minimum three handgun magazines

• Ability to carry at least two spare magazines

  • Pocket carry of spare magazines is acceptable

  • Handguns with magazine capacities under 10 rounds will require additional magazines

• Sig Sauer P320 pistols and their variants are not permitted for use in PCA LLC live-fire courses

  • A no-charge loaner handgun and necessary accessories will be provided upon request

  • Students are responsible for supplying appropriate ammunition

Ammunition

• Factory-produced training ammunition matching firearm caliber

  • Minimum 250 rounds

  • 300 rounds recommended

Additional Equipment

• Weapon-mounted pistol light

  • Minimum 500 lumens

  • Strongly recommended but not required

• Handheld flashlight, minimum 500 lumens, with belt pouch or pocket clip

  • Must allow one-handed access

• Eye protection

  • Clear lenses required for low-light shooting

• Ear protection (electronic hearing protection recommended)

• Small chem-light or similar personal identification light

  • Zip tie or similar attachment method required

• Optional cover garment for concealed carry practice

• Seasonally appropriate clothing suitable for outdoor activity

• Closed-toe shoes or boots

• Baseball-style cap or visor

• Water, sports drinks, and snacks

Please note that the range facility does not have running water or improved facilities.

Optional Equipment

• Night vision equipment

  • Students with night vision gear may have an opportunity to use it time permitting

Prerequisites

Successful completion of Practical Defensive Pistol 1 and Practical Defensive Pistol 2 is required.

This course assumes students already possess established skills in:

• Safe and efficient pistol manipulation

• Use of defined carry and ready positions

• Movement, positional shooting, and use of cover

Instructor approval may be granted based on equivalent training or experience.

Students who are unable to operate safely will be removed from the course.

Eligibility

Eligibility includes:

• Completion of a professionally instructed firearms application course

• Or instructor approval based on equivalent training or experience

If you have questions regarding suitability, contact us prior to registration.

Students who are unable to operate safely will be removed from the course.

Administrative

• Fulfillment of prerequisites or instructor approval required

• Must be a U.S. citizen legally eligible to receive instruction

• Government-issued photo identification required

• Signed waiver required for participation