SSGT Defensive Tactics & Firearms Training

protect and prevail

Strategic Self-Defense &
Gunfighting Tactics

Field-proven defensive tactics and firearms training for law enforcement, corrections, military, and security professionals.

View Upcoming Courses Host a Course

Why Train With SSGT

Practical Instruction

Skills taught for real encounters, not just classroom theory.

Experienced Instructors

Training led by proven law enforcement and military professionals.

Built for the Field

Courses focused on safety, control, and performance under pressure.

Upcoming Courses

Find upcoming defensive tactics and firearms training opportunities.

August 17-21	Vanguard Level Two Instructor	Stapleton, AL
August 17-21	Patrol Rifle Instructor	Cullman, AL
August 24-28	Vanguard Level One Instructor	Pearl, MS
August 31-September 4	Vanguard Level Two Instructor	Pearl, MS
August 24-28	Pistol Instructor	Waynesville, MO

Success in the field

I came into the course with no experience beyond 200 meters. By the end, I was consistently making accurate shots past 800 meters without a Kestrel. Hands down, the best course I’ve attended in my line of work.
James Ward
Durant PD, Mississippi

After more than seven years in law enforcement, I learned things in this course I had never been taught before. The training provided practical information on overcoming dangerous situations and staying alive
Richard McCloskey
Baton Rouge PD, Louisiana

Probably the best overall DT/firearms course I have taken in my 11 years of law enforcement service. Jack Nevils’ background and credentials made the material even more valuable.
Paul Brignac
Livingston Parish SO, Louisiana

The training was fantastic. I plan to take more training through SSGT. We intend to teach what we learned to our deputies here. Thank you for sharing your training and experience with us in law enforcement. We are better for it!
Matt Rabren
Escambia County SO, Alabama

As a full-time undercover officer, I found the tactics and techniques directly applicable to real-life scenarios. Excellent class.
Matt Dixon
Iberville Parish SO, Louisiana

Federal | State & Local

AGENCIES WE SERVE

SSGT has trained personnel at the federal level and served state and local agencies across Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.

Our footprint continues to grow as more agencies bring SSGT courses to their teams.

VIEW FULL AGENCY LIST

TRAINING LED BY PROVEN INSTRUCTORS

JOHNNY LEE SMITH

Founder of SSGT and defensive tactics authority with deep experience in law enforcement training, use of force, and officer safety programs.

VIEW BIO

JACK NEVILS

Firearms Director and retired U.S. Army Sergeant Major with extensive Special Forces, sniper, hostage rescue, and advanced firearms instruction experience.

View Bio

Built for Growth. Committed to Excellence.

SSGT courses are supported by a foundational backbone of leaders, advisors, and instructors with experience across law enforcement, military operations, defensive tactics, firearms, and instructor development.

View The Backbone of SSGT

Bring SSGT to Your Agency

Host A Course

Bring SSGT defensive tactics or firearms training to your facility with instruction tailored to your personnel, schedule, and mission.

View Hosting Information

Strategic Self-Defense & Gunfighting Tactics

Defensive Tactics

Firearms