Davey Defense LLC
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Davey Defense training, Minnesota Permit to Carry classes, live fire, equipment, scheduling, and student expectations.
Permit to Carry and Scheduling
How do I start the Permit to Carry class?
Start with the online classroom registration page. After the online portion is complete, live fire is scheduled with an instructor.
Are Davey Defense classes certified for Minnesota permits?
Yes. Davey Defense Permit to Carry training meets Minnesota Permit to Carry training requirements and is accepted statewide for Minnesota permit applications and renewals.
How do I schedule live fire?
Live fire scheduling is handled directly by the instructor. After registration and online classroom completion, students coordinate the range session with their selected instructor.
Where does Davey Defense teach?
Davey Defense uses private range locations in Minnesota, including Gibbon and Fairmont. Some instructors may also travel for groups or schedule at other approved locations.
How long does the class take?
The online classroom usually takes about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the student. Live fire is usually a short range session after the online portion is complete. Total time varies by student and instructor scheduling.
What is the difference between a new permit and a renewal?
For training purposes, there is no shortcut for renewals. New permit students and renewal students complete the required training and live fire. Application timing and county fees are handled through the sheriff’s office.
How long is my training certificate valid?
Minnesota Permit to Carry training certificates are valid for 12 months. Students can complete training before applying or renewing, but should not wait too long before submitting paperwork to the sheriff’s office.
Can adults ages 18 to 20 take the Permit to Carry class?
Yes. Davey Defense provides Permit to Carry training for adults ages 18 to 20. Legal eligibility and permit issuance are handled by the county sheriff, not by Davey Defense.
Live Fire and Equipment
What should I bring to live fire?
Bring a valid photo ID, your handgun if you own one, ammunition, eye and ear protection, weather appropriate clothing, and any payment or paperwork discussed with your instructor.
Do I need to own a firearm before I take the class?
No. You do not need to own a firearm before taking the class. Loaner firearms may be available by arrangement. If you are still shopping, training first can help you make a better choice.
Can I bring my own firearm and ammunition?
Yes. Students may bring their own handgun and ammunition. Firearms must arrive unloaded and cased. If you are not sure whether your firearm or ammunition is suitable, ask your instructor before the range session.
Can I use a 22LR pistol for Permit to Carry live fire?
Yes. A 22LR pistol is acceptable for Permit to Carry live fire. Students who already own a carry gun are encouraged to bring it as well, but the first priority is safe handling and solid fundamentals.
How many rounds of ammunition do I need?
Plan for at least 50 rounds. That covers the live fire requirement and gives room for warm up or basic correction. Bringing extra ammunition is never a bad idea.
Is ammunition included in the class fee?
No. Students are responsible for their own ammunition unless other arrangements are made ahead of time with the instructor.
Do you provide eye and ear protection?
Students should bring their own eye and ear protection. Electronic hearing protection is strongly recommended because it makes range communication much easier.
Can I bring someone with me to watch?
As a general rule, no. Davey Defense does not allow casual observers on the firing line. If a spouse, parent, or family member has a safety concern, discuss that with the instructor before the session.
What are the Davey Defense range rules?
Safety comes first. Every student is expected to follow the Four Rules of Gun Safety and all instructor commands on the range. If safety becomes a problem, training stops.
New Shooters and Private Training
Do you teach beginners?
Yes. Many Davey Defense students are new shooters. Training starts with safety, handling, confidence, and basic marksmanship. No ego. No theatrics. Just solid fundamentals.
Do you offer one-on-one training?
Yes. One-on-one training and small group instruction are common. Availability depends on the instructor, location, and schedule.
Do you teach youth or children?
Davey Defense does not teach the DNR hunter safety course. Youth firearm safety and familiarization may be available by arrangement. Minors require parent or guardian involvement and approval.
What if I have never shot a gun before?
That is fine. New shooters are welcome. The range session is handled one step at a time, with safety and control first.
Gear and Carry Questions
What gun should I buy for concealed carry?
No one can pick that for you. A good carry gun must fit your hand, body, clothing, lifestyle, and willingness to train. Davey Defense can help narrow the field, but the final choice belongs to the person carrying it.
Should I put a red dot on my carry gun?
For most newer shooters, Davey Defense recommends learning solid fundamentals with iron sights first. Red dots can be useful, but they are not a shortcut around grip, trigger control, sight picture, and practice.
Should I carry with a weapon-mounted light?
A weapon-mounted light can make sense on a dedicated home defense firearm. For everyday concealed carry, it adds bulk and complexity. Davey Defense strongly recommends carrying a quality handheld flashlight regardless of whether a weapon-mounted light is used.
What holster do you recommend?
Use a quality holster that fully covers the trigger guard, holds the firearm securely, and allows safe handling. Kydex holsters are often a strong choice for concealed carry.
Davey Defense commonly recommends ConcealedDevelopment.com. Use code Davey at checkout if available.
What CCW app do you recommend?
Davey Defense recommends the CCW Concealed Carry 50 State app from Workman Consulting LLC. It is a paid app and is useful for checking state carry law summaries while traveling.
Payment and Policies
What payment types do you accept?
Payment details may vary by instructor and class arrangement. Confirm payment method with your instructor before the range session.
Do you offer group discounts?
Davey Defense does not have a standard company-wide group discount. Individual instructors may set pricing or make arrangements at their own discretion.
Can pregnant women take the class?
Pregnant students should make their own decision and speak with a medical provider if they have concerns. Davey Defense will not give medical advice. The live fire requirement is short and controlled, but the decision belongs to the student.
What if I lost my Minnesota permit card?
Contact the sheriff’s office that issued your permit and follow their replacement process. Davey Defense does not replace permit cards.
Still have questions?
Use the contact page or reach out before registering if you are not sure where to start.