Protect Yourself, Protect Your Family
River Valley Arms & Ammo Firearm and Self Defense Trainings
We believe in equipping you with the skills and confidence you need to be a responsible and capable firearm owner. Our Training Calendar is packed with courses designed to fit every skill level and interest—from beginner classes to advanced defensive tactics. Whether you're new to firearms or a seasoned shooter looking to refine your skills, we’ve got a class for you.
Our instructors are experienced, passionate, and dedicated to creating a positive, hands-on learning environment where you can grow at your own pace. Check out our upcoming courses below and get ready to take your skills to the next level.
Upcoming Training Courses and Events
Annual Gun Safety and Personal Defense Training
The Personal Defense Level 1 course is a 5-hour, hands-on training designed for those serious about improving their self-defense skills. Building on the basics of the Intro to Personal Defense, this course includes both discussion and practical techniques. You’ll learn situational awareness, how to spot potential threats, and the legal aspects of self-defense, including the laws surrounding the use of force. The hands-on portion focuses on defensive tactics such as pressure points, body mobility, chokeholds, escapes, and ground control. For $100 (with a $20 deposit), this course provides real-world skills and strategies to help you protect yourself and your loved ones in a variety of situations.
5 hours
$100 (with a $20 deposit)
This course is designed for beginners and those looking to strengthen their firearm skills. You’ll learn the fundamentals of handling both long guns (rifles and shotguns) and handguns (semi-autos and revolvers). The day begins with classroom instruction on safety, firearm components, and handling techniques, followed by dry practice to build comfort and confidence. After a lunch break, you’ll head to the range for live-fire exercises, where you’ll apply your skills with a variety of firearms and calibers. All firearms, ammunition, safety gear, and expert instruction are provided. By the end of the course, you’ll have a solid foundation in firearm safety and handling, giving you the confidence to operate firearms safely and effectively.
8 AM - 5 PM
$170 per student
Learn the fundamentals of safely handling and using your handgun in a defensive situation. This course focuses on practical, real-world skills such as grip, stance, trigger control, and reloading. You’ll also gain experience in movement, shooting from different positions, and engaging multiple targets. The training is designed to give you the confidence and skills you need for self-defense.
300 rounds of ammo
If you’ve just bought your first firearm, this free training session is for you! Learn the fundamentals of safe gun ownership, including handling, loading and unloading, shooting positions, live fire, and firearm care and cleaning. This course is designed to build your confidence and skills, ensuring you leave as a responsible and capable gun owner.
1.5 hours
50 rounds of ammo
Learn the basics of personal defense, including situational awareness, de-escalation tactics, and how to respond to a threat. This course does not involve firearms but will focus on practical defensive strategies and decision-making skills that can be used in real-life situations. Whether you're interested in improving your overall safety or supplementing your firearms training, this class is a valuable addition to your self-defense toolkit.
2 hours
If you want to legally carry in Minnesota, this is the class you need. Learn the ins and outs of Minnesota carry laws, self-defense, and how to responsibly carry a firearm. After completing the classroom portion, you'll hit the range for your shooting qualification. If you successfully complete the course, you'll have the certification required to apply for your Minnesota Permit to Carry.
8 hours
Handgun, 50 rounds of ammo
Customizable Sessions | Minimum 4 Participants
— Private Training Sessions
If you have a group and want personalized training, we offer private courses tailored to your specific needs. Whether it's a group of friends, family, or coworkers, we’ll bring the training to you. Topics can range from basic firearm safety to advanced self-defense techniques. Contact us to schedule your private session and get started on your journey to firearm mastery.
How to Register
To secure your spot in any of our upcoming courses, simply register on the website here. Space is limited, and many of our classes fill up quickly, so don't wait! You can also find detailed class descriptions, pricing, and requirements for each course on our website.
We look forward to training with you and helping you become a more confident and capable firearm owner. Check out the full training calendar below to see when your next class is scheduled!
Whatever your experience level,
We’ll guide you every step of the way.
We may be small, but we know how to make things happen! From your first firearm purchase to advanced trainings, we’ll take care of you.