Use of force training is often misunderstood. Many people assume it is only about firearms, physical force, or defensive tactics. In reality, use of force training is about decision-making, responsibility, and understanding limits long before any physical action ever takes place.
For civilians and houses of worship alike, use of force training provides clarity on when force is justified, when it is not, and what responsibilities come with carrying or defending others.
Understanding Use of Force
Use of force refers to the actions a person may take to stop a threat to themselves or others. This can range from verbal commands and avoidance to physical force or, in extreme circumstances, deadly force.
Use of force training teaches individuals to understand:
The difference between avoidance, de-escalation, and force
When force is legally and ethically justified
When force is not appropriate
The consequences—legal, moral, and emotional—of using force
This training is not about encouraging action. It is about preventing bad decisions.
Why Use of Force Training Matters for Civilians
For everyday civilians, carrying a firearm or other defensive tool creates responsibility. Without proper education, people often rely on assumptions, internet opinions, or misinformation.
Use of force training helps civilians:
Understand self-defense laws at a practical level
Recognize situations where force would be inappropriate
Avoid escalation when safer options exist
Make informed decisions under stress
Carry responsibly, not emotionally
Many defensive incidents escalate not because force was unavoidable, but because decision-making failed early.
Why Use of Force Training Is Critical for Houses of Worship
Places of worship face unique challenges. Leaders and volunteers are often responsible not only for their own safety, but for the safety of congregants, children, and staff.
Use of force training for churches and other houses of worship focuses on:
Responsibility before reaction
Protecting people without creating unnecessary risk
Understanding the limits of volunteer roles
Aligning safety decisions with organizational values
Preparing leaders to make calm, informed decisions
Importantly, use of force training is appropriate even if no one carries a firearm. It provides a framework for understanding prevention, response, and accountability.
Use of Force Is More Than Firearms Training
One of the most common misconceptions is that use of force training equals firearms training. Firearms are only one possible tool—and often not the first or best option.
Effective use of force education addresses:
Situational awareness
Avoidance and de-escalation
Verbal commands and presence
Decision-making under stress
Legal and ethical boundaries
After-action considerations
Firearms training without use of force education creates gaps that can lead to poor decisions and unnecessary risk.
Who Should Attend Use of Force Training
Use of force training is appropriate for:
Civilians who carry or are considering carrying a firearm
Church leaders and administrators
Safety team members and volunteers
Organizations responsible for public gatherings
Anyone responsible for the safety of others
This training is not about turning people into enforcers. It is about equipping responsible individuals with clarity and understanding.
Training Before Crisis
The worst time to think about use of force is during a crisis. Training provides a mental framework that helps people slow down, assess situations correctly, and act within appropriate limits.
Responsible training emphasizes:
Judgment over speed
Accountability over ego
Prevention over reaction
Understanding use of force is not optional for those who choose to carry or protect others—it is foundational.
Use of Force Training at Gatekeeper Defense Training
Gatekeeper Defense Training provides use of force education for civilians and houses of worship with a focus on responsibility, clarity, and real-world application. Our approach emphasizes decision-making, legal and ethical considerations, and the serious responsibility that comes with protecting life.
This training is designed to inform, not inflame—and to prepare individuals and organizations to make sound decisions long before they are tested.
