Training lab 🥼

Bradenton, Fl: Opened in January 2019, the Training Lab is our 5,000 sq ft. warehouse facility that brings a shooter student to the forefront of firearm manipulation & opposition based learning, commonly referred to as Force on Force.

Our facility has an integrated Welcome Area, main training area, and WiFI service for shooter students to receive the best experience they can.

Opposition based learning

While there are too many factors involved given a lethal force encounter to replicate, DWS does provide the environment in which you need to aggressively think, make decisions, and work the problem, all while focusing on fundamentals.

Force on Force training is the best way to provide the stimulus of The Event. Going up against live opposition ( another thinking human being ) is the only way to test core skills and validate what will work.  One of the most effective attributes of FoF is it exposes the heavily flawed methodology of “gunfighter” classes taught by those who have no actual experience.

In working those core fundamentals, shooter students can now get more focused on proper manipulation, target identification & discrimination while still having to maintain high accuracy standards.

WELCOME AREA

Whether it’s admin time or lunch time, the welcome area provides a clean, class atmosphere that attributes to a good learning experience. Although DWS runs a small class, the picture below demonstrates the ease at which a larger class size could be accommodated and configured.

There are two 8’ x 4’ panels that can be used as a dry erase board and provides up to 100 inches of projection screen. There is a HD projector and sound bar used to enhance class time presentations and student video analysis playback.

What welcome area would be complete without a complimentary coffee bar. Complete with a Keurig model, there are a variety of K-Cup flavors and 12oz cups available. You are more than welcome to bring your own K-Cup.

MAIN TRAINING AREA

 A 360 degree engagement environment which brings together training elements that will further develop skills for success in conflict.  Comprised of The Structure and two separate sections ( Alpha & Bravo ), shooter students are now in the epicenter of DWS Force on Force methodology. There is a virtual limitless means to set up exercises and functions to get shooters more adaptable to thinking and problem solving. From singe person manipulation drills, to multi-team structure engagement, all of which can be supported.

*ALPHA Section: Approximately 7 yards by 15 yards, this provides a very flexible area for running a number of exercises that don’t involve the structure itself or can easily be used for larger class sizes.  There are two 8’ x 4’ panels available for dry erase or projection set up.

*BRAVO Section: This area measures approximately 7 yards by 12 yards and is the primary utility corner for staging gear and supplies necessary to support class functions. A team board and rifle spacers help support Law Enforcement needs.

THe STRUCTURE

1300 sq. ft of formidable problem solving capabilities. The Structure gives shooter students, agency teams and other organizations the chance to hone their skills and understand sound fighting applications whether it be a dwelling or commercial venue.. A simple overview of the floorpan provides 8 points of entry/exit, 5 window ports, 40ft stretch of hallway and all above access from the catwalk. Modular capabilities have been built in to include two slide walls and two pivot walls. Even with this “fixed” structure, there are over 20+ pathways that can be created. Engagement is possible from across the entire floorpan from 6 different points. In other words, this floor plan is not “one room deep”.

DWS incorporates 28 separate 8’ x 4’ wood panels for increased modularity both inside and outside the floorpan. This expansive add-on creates a number of custom set ups depending on training needs or specific class curriculum.

DWS has been an approved PTO since 2016

DWS utilizes Ultimate Training Munitions ( UTM ) to enhance the shooter students experience in their firearms training. UTM is a leading manufacturer of conversion kits, Non-Lethal Training Rounds, and various equipment/gear options. Shooter students still get to experience the functionality & accuracy of firearm performance.

COURSE OFFERINGS

The signature series line up consists of 3 courses that are 2 days each. This provides a unique user experience and exposure to firearm performance in our everyday environments. There are a custom set of exercises for each course to include the Force on Force block on day two. For added development, any pistol class is run from a concealed posture.

Regardless of which class you take, there are vehicles exercises incorporated into day 2 as well. The primary reason was to show shooter students that everything you work on over a 2 day period regarding principles of technique and manipulation habits, directly relate to being in and around a vehicle - without all the commercial gimmicks.

Clicking on any course title will take you to its page to see the outline & cost.

Class Size

Structure Engagement & Urban Threat are limited to 5 Students. Couples Development is limited to 2 couples per class. With a smaller class size, more personalized attention can be given to each shooter student and allow for increased repetitions.

 
 

WHATS provided

  • UTM Converted Pistols | UTM Bolts provided for Rifles.

  • UTM Pistol & Rifle Ammo, plus Magazines

  • Protective Equipment: Masks, Gloves & Neck coverings.

  • Holsters: Left & Right handed - Inside or Outside the waistband options.

What to bring

  • Clear set of eye protection. Prescription glasses MUST cover the eye socket.

  • Ball or skull cap ( Force on Force exercises )

  • Recommended 2 light layers outer garments ( Force on Force exercises )

  • Note taking material

Private use

The Training Lab is available to Government, Military, Law Enforcement, Private Organizations and vetted Instructors to host their training programs. Contact us for more details.

Discounts

At this time, the following personnel will receive a discount on any course offered by DWS, which is available via the discount code during checkout.

  • Active Duty Military: 20% Code: THISIDEFEND ( Copy of CAC is required )

  • Active Law Enforcement | Firefighter | EMT: 20% Code: FIRSTRESPONDERS ( Copy of valid Credentials is required )

  • Members of The Well Armed Woman ( TWAW ): 10% Code: IAMTWAW ( During checkout, refer to which Chapter you are an active participant. )

  • Members of ZERT Nation: 10% Code: GETSOME ( Be sure to have a copy of your latest year renewal & member card ready for verification ) - Z20668