"Women must not depend upon the protection of a man, but must be taught to protect herself."
~~ Susan B. Anthony
Why We Do What We Do
Our Job is to Teach and Mentor
We Lead by Example
Heels & Steel Training Institute is an official partner with the U. S. Concealed Carry Association (USCAA). The USCCA's mission is to prepare responsible gun owners to avoid danger, save lives, and keep their loved ones safe. Our main focus is on women, so partnering with USCCA allow us to offer exceptional training programs which cover various topics such as concealed carry and home defense fundamentals, women's handgun and self defense, basic gun fundamentals, situational awareness, firearm handling, the legal aspects of self-defense, and more. We also provide hands-on and one on one training to help you become a more confident and responsible gun owner. Our instructors are here to help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively protect yourself and others.
It is important as responsible gun owners, that all of us serve as teachers. Your actions with your firearm set an example for all to see. Everything you do as a gun owner is a reflection of how people perceive gun owners. You might be someone's only connection to the concealed carry lifestyle. And like it or not, your actions will influence others. Part of our job is to show that good people have nothing to fear from good people with guns. With that we stress the importance of being a responsibly armed and educated female.
Continued education -- learning and building skills -- will make you an asset to yourself, your family, and your community. Decide now that you will learn a new skill at least every season. Make the decision right now that you won't enter a new season without knowing more than you currently know about the when, where, and how to use and carry a firearm according to Virginia state law. The stakes are too high!
We do what we do to give our Born Protectors the tools needed to keep progressing and evolving.
Empowering Women Through Concealed Carry
Attention Born Protectors
In recent years, a notable shift has occurred in the realm of personal security, with women leading the charge in embracing firearms training and the concealed carry lifestyle. No longer content to be passive victims, waiting for someone to render aid, women are reclaiming their autonomy and challenging the narrative that self-defense is a one-size-fits-all concept.
This surge in female firearm ownership reflects a profound evolution in our society’s perception of safety and empowerment. The statistics are sobering: Women remain disproportionately vulnerable to violence, with staggering rates of sexual assault and physical abuse. The reality is that every day, women face a looming threat of physical harm, often at the hands of larger, stronger aggressors. And in this landscape of disparity, concealed carry has emerged as a tool of female empowerment and self-protection.
Contrary to outdated stereotypes perpetuated by the media, women and guns are not incompatible. In fact, arming women with the knowledge and skills to handle firearms responsibly yields numerous benefits:
- Empowerment: Through firearm education and training, women shed feelings of fear and inadequacy, gaining confidence and control over their safety.
- Protection: Armed with the means to defend themselves and their loved ones, women no longer need to rely on others for their security.
- Skill Development: Many women discover a newfound proficiency in shooting and develop a passion for marksmanship, transforming leisure activities into opportunities for self-improvement.
- Advocacy: Empowered women become ambassadors for firearm ownership, inspiring others to embrace their right to defend themselves.
Concealed Carry Industry & Women
As women continue to assert their growing presence in the firearms community, the industry has been forced to adapt, recognizing the unique needs and preferences of female gun owners. From compact pistols to subcompact revolvers, a diverse array of options caters to women’s varying lifestyles and preferences. Choosing the right firearm is certainly a personal decision, influenced by varying factors such as comfort, recoil management and ease of operation. But by exploring different options and seeking guidance from experienced trainers, women can find the perfect fit for their concealed carry needs.
The firearm itself, however, is only one aspect of concealed carry. Equally important is the method of carry. Women’s bodies and fashion choices often demand specialized holsters that prioritize safety, simplicity, security, sturdiness and secrecy. Finding the right gun and holster combination can help ensure discreet and effective concealed carry, while also boosting a woman’s feeling of confidence and security.
Of course, concealed carry empowerment extends well beyond guns and gear to encompass ongoing education and skill development. Professional training opportunities and community engagement enable women to hone their abilities and navigate the complexities of firearm ownership responsibly. The good news is: No one has to do this alone! There are numbers of incredible resources through the USCCA that provide encouragement, exploration and direction for the protector’s journey. And whether standing for herself, for her spouse or even for her entire family, every woman can enhance her safety and assert her presence in the face of adversity by cultivating a mindset of vigilance and preparedness. This is why all women should be introduced to the USCCA and all its life-saving training opportunities. So, sign up for your own membership, give the gift of membership and/or remember to add your spouse to your current USCCA Membership to claim all the training benefits.
In essence, concealed carry is more than just a right; it’s a responsibility … and a revolution! And for any woman, anywhere, it is an option that should be considered, a skill that can be developed and a tool that may be wielded. It is also a testament to the resilience and the determination of women everywhere to reclaim their autonomy and safeguard their well-being in an uncertain world.
Article Author: Beth Alcazar
Author of Women’s Handgun & Self-Defense Fundamentals, associate editor of Concealed Carry Magazine and creator of a popular women's focused USCCA Blog column.
