She said, “I’ve been meaning to do this for a while… but then I was assaulted.”
It’s a sentence that hits hard and one I’ve heard more times than I’d like.
When she walked into my concealed carry class, she wasn’t just carrying a range bag. She was carrying trauma. Pain. A moment that changed everything.
She’d been wanting to get her permit for a long time. But like so many women, life got in the way. Or fear did. Or both. Until suddenly, it didn’t feel like a choice anymore, it felt like survival.
As a firearms instructor, I see this pattern far too often: women showing up after something terrible has already happened. And the truth is, she’s not alone.
This article is for the woman who’s on the edge of taking that first step into self-defense but still hesitating. I see you. And I want to help.
Why Do So Many Women Wait Until Something Bad Happens?
There’s no shame in hesitation. But understanding the reasons behind it can help break the cycle.
Here’s what I often hear from students:
- “I was scared to go alone.”
- “I didn’t know where to start.”
- “I felt embarrassed for not knowing anything.”
- “It’s all so intimidating, especially as a woman.”
Some women also hold onto a false sense of security:
“I’m careful.”
“I live in a safe area.”
“That won’t happen to me.”
Until it does.
The Statistics Speak Loudly
- 1 in 3 women in the U.S. experience physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. (CDC)
- Women are the fastest-growing group of gun owners in the country, many citing past trauma or a recent threat as the reason. (Harvard/Northeastern study)
- More than 50% of new female gun owners report that self-protection is their number one reason for purchasing a firearm. (NSSF)
In other words, most women don’t seek training until something forces them to.
But you don’t have to wait until something bad happens to protect yourself.
What’s Holding You Back And How to Get Past It
Let’s break down some of the most common fears and how to overcome them:
1. “I don’t know where to start.”
That’s exactly what beginner classes are for. No experience is expected. You’ll learn everything from safety rules to handling and fundamentals in a step-by-step, supportive way.
2. “I’m scared of guns.”
That’s completely valid. Firearms deserve respect. A good class will start with safety and mindset, not just shooting. You’ll gain confidence at your pace.
3. “I don’t want to go alone.”
You’re not alone in this. I’ve built a space where women walk in as strangers and leave feeling like friends.
4. “I’m worried I’ll be the only one who doesn’t know what she’s doing.”
You won’t be. This class is made for beginners. There’s no ego here, just guidance, patience, and progress.
Where You Can Start:
If you’re in the Lynchburg, VA area, I offer:
🔹 Ladies Pistol Training & Personal Safety Class
This class was created specifically for women who are brand new or need a confidence boost. We cover safety, handling, fundamentals, situational awareness, and answering the questions most women are afraid to ask. You’ll leave feeling more in control, more aware, and more confident.
🔹 Lynchburg Arms Ladies
This is our members-only women’s shooting club. A community of women continuing their training together in a safe, friendly, and fun environment. We meet regularly to shoot, socialize, and build both skill and confidence. It’s training and community. No pressure, no judgment. Just fun.
Final Thoughts:
I don’t share these stories to scare anyone. I share them because they’re real. And they’re happening far too often.
You deserve to feel safe. You deserve to be confident.
And you don’t have to wait for something bad to happen to take that first step.
If you’re ready. Or even just curious, I invite you to join us.
You’re not alone and I’ll be here to walk with you every step of the way.
👉 Ready to take the first step? Click here to sign up for the next Ladies Pistol Class.
👉 Want to keep growing with other women? Join the Lynchburg Arms Ladies Club.