Strong Women and Guns (SWAG)
Overview
SWAG is a structured women’s shooting program designed to build confidence, safety, and skill in a focused range environment.
The program is divided into two levels to provide a clear and safe progression path for all participants.
Program Structure
Level 1 – Confidence & Skill Building
(First Monday of each month)
Level 2 – Movement & Defense
(Third Thursday of each month)
Level 1 – Confidence & Skill Building
This is the foundational level of SWAG, focused on safe firearm handling and building strong shooting fundamentals.
Focus:
- Bench-based shooting only
- Safe handling and operation of your firearm
- Understanding range commands and flow
- Building confidence, control, and consistency
Participants in this level are:
- Learning or reinforcing safe firearm handling
- Becoming familiar with range expectations
- Gaining confidence with their firearm
- Developing consistency and accuracy
Important:
- No holster work
- No movement drills
- Controlled, structured environment
This level is designed to give participants a solid foundation before progressing.
SWAG Level 1 Dates
Level 2 – Movement & Defense
This level builds on foundational skills and introduces dynamic shooting concepts.
Focus:
- Holster work
- Movement and positional shooting
- Shooting around barriers
- Target engagement (paper and steel)
- Defensive application and scenario-based drills
Participants in this level are:
- Comfortable handling their firearm independently
- Familiar with range commands and flow
- Ready for holster work and movement
- Looking to apply skills in more advanced scenarios
SWAG Level 2 Dates
TRAINING PATHWAY
To continue building your skills, you may consider:
NRA Basic Pistol Class
An introduction to firearm safety and pistol fundamentals—ideal for new shooters building a strong foundation. For more information: https://applevalleygunclub.com/firearms-training-classes/nra-basics-of-pistolshooting-class/
Beyond Basics Class
For those ready to advance, this class focuses on improving consistency, control, and overall shooting proficiency. For more information: https://applevalleygunclub.com/firearms-training-classes/beyond-the-basics/
SWAG Event Details
Location
Pistol Range (P-1 & P-2)
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Must attend safety briefing to participate
Cost
Club members $5 / Non-Club members $15
Registration
Pre-registration required through Eventbrite.
Range Rules
- DO NOT UN-CASE YOUR FIREARM UNTIL GIVEN PERMISSION
- NEVER carry a LOADED firearm in your holster. This is a cold range. Your firearm is to remain unloaded until instructed to load by your instructor.
- NEVER take ammo to the Safety Area. This includes when going to holster your firearm.
- Always Follow Instructions
- Know the NRA Safety Rules
SWAG Program Directors
If you have any questions or concerns you may contact one of the Program Directors:
Debbie Shell
SWAG.AVGC@gmail.com
Tara Nadreau
nadreaut@gmail.com
(760)220-3963 Text Only
All AVGC firearms training classes and matches are open to the public.
The gate will be unlocked and open when you arrive and will be locked shortly after the event or class starts.
Please arrive on time or early.
