Testimonials
This training is the very next step everyone should take once completing a permit to carry class. Beau is an outstanding instructor. I highly recommend his training.
I’m a firearms instructor and I learned a ton from him in just a couple of hours. This is the next level folks!
— Mark P.
I've been looking for this kind of training for a long time and I finally found it. All other instruction I've received has been more "entertainment" than actual education and training. DMT covers everything you need to know to be highly competent and responsible about your own self-defense.
— Ryan F.
I can't say enough positive things about Beau and his staff, and a top-notch facility as well! This isn't just a gun safety class, it's about practical, situational learning in a safe environment. I've been through a number of different training programs, but none as solid as this.
— Joshua D.
Exceptional instructors! Beau and the other instructors worked one on one with us. Great facility. So knowledgeable and the teaching method really is quite brilliant! I would say if you are going to take a carry class to shy away from the (non-DMT, competitors’) ones that are 2 hours long. It was a full day, however, the amount of knowledge and confidence I gained was totally worth it! And it's so reasonably priced!
— Mindy S.
Incredible staff, facility, and value! You owe it to yourself to go, and go often.
— Adam N.
I walked into Defensive Mindset Training hoping to learn how to draw effectively from my holster, and left with so much more. DMT offers comprehensive defensive training both for your person and your home. DMT’s state of the art facility is safe and clean, and their innovative instruction provides the drills and practice you need to develop to defend your life. Whether you are a beginner or experienced, Defensive Mindset Training has what you need to take your skills to the next level.
— Madeline E.
Thorough training and procedures that provide a safe environment to learn in. Focused drills and individual attention to each student in the group, it's obvious the instructors care about my progression. Very respectful environment regardless of experience level. Everyone who owns a firearm for self-defense should seek out training like this, and I would and have recommended DMT to family and friends. I started in the foundations course for 3 weeks last fall and have attended the intermediate class as much as possible since. I feel more confident in my shooting and carrying abilities, and have also learned many great methods for de-escalation. Thank you DMT!
— Jeff B.
Just took their CCW (Permit to Carry) class and Defensive Mindset Training will be the only place I go for training and CCW renewal! Beau was beyond knowledgeable, friendly, funny and you could tell he genuinely loved teaching the class. I’m telling you, look no further for training, you’ve found the place with DMT!
— Monroe D.
As a non-Law Enforcement Officer or military veteran, and as an old guy (well, not that old), I want to emphasize and highlight Defensive Mindset Training’s methods. Simply put, their methods are top of the line. The “before the fight - the fight - after the fight” practical training is, I believe, superior. It takes time and commitment, and is repetitious, which is necessary to be effective. I’ve been training with Beau and his excellent instructors, all of whom bring different perspectives, weekly for 1.5 years, and feel I can go so much further. You can go to a weekend warrior training, but to take in 1.5 hours per week over many months is, I believe, much more effective in changing the brain’s neural pathways so the before, during, and after the fight steps are cemented into one’s brain. I highly recommend Defensive Mindset Training.
— DS
The very best training from extremely experienced and patient instructors. I highly recommend DMT!
— Paul B.
This training combines combat stress with handgun fundamentals. As a Navy Veteran and professional firearms instructor, I recommend this program to anyone who wants to truly know they are capable of defending themselves and their loved ones under survival stress!
— Mark F.
I originally came to DMT because, after getting my CCW permit (Permit to Carry), I knew I needed more training than what is required to get a permit. After looking around, I noticed most places I saw had one-off courses, which didn't appeal to me since I wanted someplace I could go regularly to get more and more proficient over time at my own pace. Also, I was hoping to go somewhere that taught retention shooting, as I think a good portion of defensive encounters end up being situations where retention shooting is necessary. At DMT you get consistent and incremental lessons that will absolutely put you miles ahead of the average pistol carrier. I have been coming to DMT for almost two years now at the intermediate level. I do not come to classes weekly (it's more like monthly or bi-monthly), but I would come every week if I could. Everything they teach here is backed by both experience and logic. There are lots of gun gurus out there with varying opinions about a lot of stuff. These guys have their opinions like everyone else, but their opinions are not grounded in bs. Beau is willing and able to give everyone detailed and convincing reasons for everything that is taught. I have never been unsatisfied with a class and have always walked away feeling both like I have improved and that there is more to be done. And hell, it's also a lot of fun. I recommend DMT to everyone I know that carries or wants to carry, and will continue to do so.
— Tom J.
Professional and knowledgeable instructors, dedicated to teaching a well-developed detail-oriented curriculum. The focus on posture, stance, proper handgun grip, handgun shooting positions and safety. Excellent for someone with no experience and also anyone with experience who wants to improve on what they already have.
— Martha L.
Best in Town.
Talented instructors. Outstanding and unique training programs with combatives class, force on force curriculum with a legal approach.
Top notch online education.
But what is more important to me this is the group of students and instructors who are sharing the similar mindset. Band of Brothers.
I hadn’t come here to fear. I hadn’t come to fail. I had come to win!— Gueorgui M.
I took the introductory class and permit to carry both from Beau. I thought both were excellent. I particularly like the emphasis, as the company name says, defense. I wish to avoid situations where I need to use a firearm. But if I do need it, I want to win, and these classes helped in that regard.
— JFM
Amazing training program! Beau and Kevin do a great job of meeting you where your skills are at and helping build them up. I've progressed a lot since starting classes in 2020. I came in with very limited abilities and now have a level of proficiency my buddies have noticed at the range.
I cannot recommend them enough and do not say that lightly. Taking the Introductory class was one of my better choices! Thanks, DMT!!— William C.
Very informative class with an interactive and enthusiastic instructor! I would use defensive mindset in the future.
— Mercedes M.
After several years since my last proper handgun class, I got not only the “refresher” I needed, but also a vast amount of new content, plus insight into areas that I need to work on. Beau is an excellent teacher, both in the classroom and on the range. Highly recommended!
— Ryan A.
With the DMT training method, it gives me and my family a complete system from left of bang, to right of bang. From before things happen and how to avoid it, and for well after any event to what to do afterwards including interactions with police and medical. It has improved my shooting immensely, but also showed me how incapable I was, and showed me how far I can progress though diligence and practice. It offers a whole host of solutions, from SIRT, to DVD's and now Defender University.
— Jeff B.
Expert instruction and repetition of correct skills is essential in learning how to handle and use a weapon. Beau has thirty years of defensive experience with a variety of platforms. Whether you are a beginner wanting to be confident with your carry skills (as am I), or an experienced hunter looking to up your game, Defensive Mindset Training is the place. There are many books and videos out there, but having Beau’s feedback on my stance, grip, and trigger pull have made a huge difference in my beginner journey. I highly recommend Defensive Mindset Training.
— Greg P.
Very knowledgeable and professional guys, definitely would recommend for new or seasoned shooters.
— Liam P.
I started working with Beau at Defensive Mindset Training (DMT) because I have a disability, yet I knew I needed to be able to defend myself. I was afraid that I was incompetent with a firearm, because of my physical limitations (particularly grip strength) and my poor range experiences (my perceived inaccuracy). I tried other dry fire methods I had bought online, and saw some progress, but I still felt inadequate. I needed someone to show me how to adapt my limitations to become a safe, competent, skilled defender. What I got at DMT was that and so much more.
First off, DMT has shown me the things I need to do to avoid a confrontation like situational awareness and deterrence. The attitude at DMT has always been that defending is the last resort, since death is a real possibility for the attacker (no vigilantes, here!). I feel empowered to see danger before it happens, and I'm not so afraid of becoming a victim. I also realize the huge responsibility of carrying a firearm, the capacity I now have to do harm, and the necessary restraint needed.
Regarding firearm techniques, Beau has shown me that it is more important HOW I grip my firearm than the strength I apply, that being efficient with my motion (working with body mechanics) creates fast, consistent results, and that using neuroscience will produce quicker, longer lasting results. However, all that wouldn't have worked if Beau hadn't instilled in me that being a beginner is okay (to be patient with myself) and that my perfectionist ideas of pistol accuracy were completely ridiculous!
The other online programs took me only so far; DMT's revolutionary methods have already brought me to better results and competence than I expected possible, yet I'm still a beginner! Now, with Defender University, my progress is accelerating. Having ideas for dry and live fire practice, access to review lessons learned in class, and many other training resources, I have been able to do at home many of the things I could only get in class. Defender University has already become extremely valuable to me, and I've only been using it for a few weeks.
Bottom line: Beau Doboszenski is one of the premier firearms/self-defense instructors in the U.S. The DMT method is the most scientifically researched, revolutionary training method on the planet. Even though there are some starting to understand the DMT way, very few are using even half of the content (if even using it properly). DMT has the expertise and experience to bring you to higher levels of self-defense skills than you thought possible, all from an instructor who will never make you feel small.
— Ben D.
Great place to train with top quality instructors. Love how detail oriented they are.
— Wendy D.
Our group had a private carry class with Beau which was truly exceptional. My wife was nervous about the whole thing and we really didn’t know what to expect. The training was top notch and mostly hands on versus reading from a manual all day. We both walked out feeling significantly more knowledgeable and capable and plan on continuing training with him.
—Clinton B.
Excellent instructors and facility. If you're looking for a great place to learn basics to advanced training, or to simply attend training to receive or renew your carry permit, I would recommend Defensive Mindset Training. They approach training from a unique perspective.
— Jon O.
I wouldn’t go anywhere else for a permit to carry class. The class was thorough and every minute of it contained crucial information. The instructors were incredibly knowledgeable and fun to work with.
— Ben F.
If you feel that you have a responsibility for protecting yourself and your family and one of the ways to do that is to carry a pistol, you should also feel that you should carry that pistol responsibly.
Being responsible for your family's defense isn't met by taking a 4-hour Concealed Carry class and then going to the range and practicing by yourself. Going to the range doesn't prepare you for the physiological and emotional aspects of encountering a life-threatening situation. This training is designed to teach you to recognize possible situations and avoid them BEFORE you need to draw a weapon. If the worst-case scenario happens and you have to defend yourself these courses will teach you how to do that in a way that's going to put you at a bigger advantage to come out on top over your assailant.
These classes will teach you how to identify potential problems, how to avoid threats, how to defuse situations and as a last resort defend yourself with your weapon. You will learn how to deter someone before a situation gets out of hand, how to make a 911 call, what to do after a shooting and so much more.
The instructors are professional and each class participant will receive individual coaching throughout each class. You will be a better shooter and more comfortable accepting the responsibility of defending yourself and your family.
— Jeff S.
Went here with my Fiancé to get professional training with my carry gun. After a short while Beau was able to find that the one I had, had given me a flinch! He also found I had Galloped with each shot, he had the just about fixed by the end of the course!
I loved the mindset portion, definitely bring a pen and paper to write down the 5 steps to follow!— Hannah B.
I had never fired a rifle before and reached out for instruction. I am VERY happy with the instruction and additional information I got. Very much worth the money and time!
— Donald K.
So far I have purchased three DVD courses from Defensive Mindset Training. My first course from DMT was the "Avoid-Deter-Defend." The DVD's opened up my eyes as to the importance of being situationally aware of my surroundings and gave me actionable steps, (not just theory) on how to first avoid and if necessary how to best handle any potential adverse situations. I learned the importance of carrying a defensive flashlight, which I always have on hand. The course material was well thought out, and I was extremely impressed by the instructor's ability to make the subject matter easy to digest and understand.
Because my first experience was so positive, I then bought my second course, "The Concealed Carry Masters Course." Here I learned how to manipulate and carry my pistol confidently. Now, I carry every day because I feel so comfortable with my new skills.
My last purchase from DMT was the "Home Defense Rifle: Volume 1." Before this course, I knew nothing about the AR15 platform. I watched it twice, once before I bought my first AR15, which gave me the knowledge of what to look for when shopping for a rifle. I next view the entire series after I bought my AR15. Having the rifle in hand and following along with the well laid out instructions helped me to master this new rifle platform quickly. The DVD went well beyond how to load and fire the rifle. Such as, how the rifle works, how to clean it, what to include in your range bag and even what to wear on your battle belt. I learned so much from this instruction; it was a joy to be trained by the group of folks from DMT. I am eagerly waiting for Volume 2 so that I can take my training to the next level.
— Chris C.
Awesome video. The techniques presented are worth the price of admission. The grip on the pistol from the holster was an epiphany for me. I had always had a problem with digging my thumb behind the holster. THANK YOU FOR THE PROPER EXPLANATION!!!
— Anthony L.
I began my training here several years ago when the business was known as Sealed Mindset-this ongoing experience, now with DMT has totally transformed how I handle firearms and assess tactical situations in general. Without question this is the most thoughtful, comprehensive program in the area. I highly recommend it.
— Lon L.
Thank you so much for #52. The explanation is the BEST I have ever had on shooting. You may not be the best shooter but in my mind you are the teacher with handguns. Wish I lived closer.
— Richard S.
By far one of the best firearms training you can find in MN. Within minutes of arriving I quickly discovered a lot of flaws in my technique and equipment choices...in a basic fundamentals class. I walked away today very humbled and with a lot more knowledge than when I initially walked into the range today. My only regret is that I wished I had taken this course sooner. Thanks Beau ..., you just got yourself a new regular student!
— Kevin C.
I love going to Defensive Mindset Training (formerly Sealed Mindset). The staff is extremely knowledgeable and professional, yet patient and kind. It does not matter what level of experience you have, they take you from where you are and make you better. Being a woman who never fired a weapon, learning to safely use my weapon gave me confidence in myself in all areas of my life. I would highly recommend Defensive Mindset Training (formerly Sealed Mindset)!
— Julie D.
Great staff and great training. They went above and beyond to accommodate me. Would highly recommend!
— Ryan G.
If you are looking to become highly proficient with your firearm and other self-defense tools, Defensive Mindset Training is the place for you. Beau takes the time to work with the individual to guide them in their training and build their skill level through well thought out and methodical training. His system is 100% focused on fostering the mindset and automatic reactions required for preventing and, if necessary, surviving a potentially deadly encounter. The classes are fun and engaging. Especially the deterrence skills I have learned and continuously drilled at DMT have helped me many times in avoiding potential trouble, be it while traveling in foreign countries, or walking to my car in a dark parking lot.
Additionally, thanks to Beau’s and other DMT instructors’ mentorship over the years, when I joined the Army, I was way ahead of my peers in all aspects of the game, far beyond just shooting. I highly recommend anyone who is looking to join the military, to get involved with DMT.— Phil
Love this place and the people. If you need a solid, sound, high quality firearms training, this is the place.
— Susie B.
State of the art, one of a kind defensive firearm training!
— Larry H.
Just so you know, I have been practicing the drills we did during the class you filmed for crush and flinch. I feel it is really helping, especially the body positioning we worked on and my grip. I feel that was a big part of my problem. On top of working on the drills, I have been going back to basics and working to automatically go into the body position you helped me with in that class and really focus on the grip. I feel if I get that down it will also increase my speed between shots, which needs work (like everything else). One last note, I hate missing class.
— Alan P.
I am so glad I reached out to Defensive Mindset Training. I have learned so much from Beau and Kevin. Thanks guys, I’ll be back for more!
— Dan B.
My wife and I recently took the defensive flashlight course. From start to finish it was an amazing experience. The class was intense, realistic, and practical, but NOT intimidating. The staff are world-class. The facilities are clean, practical, and professional. We loved it! Thanks, Defensive Mindset Training (formerly Sealed Mindset)!!
— Kevin N.
Excellent training. Personable and knowledgeable trainers with incredible real-world experiences.
— Clint S.
Exceptional staff and facility! I can't say enough about everyone who instructs and works at Defensive Mindset Training (formerly Sealed Mindset). I wouldn't go anywhere else for personal defense and firearms instruction.
— Brant C.
DMT Success Stories
DMT student Phil was accepted into the elite US Army Special Forces Q Course. In firearms testing, he was known as “Instructor Phil” because he knew more about firearms operation and usage than any other candidate and several of the US Army instructors, and he was able to coach other candidates to successfully complete the firearms tests for SF Selection course.
A friend and fitness trainer in Maryland has been using DMT programs to train Navy SEAL and Marine MARSOC officer candidates at the US Naval Academy, preparing them for the incredibly challenging demands of selection courses like BUDs (for SEALs). His latest clients have completed the critical and difficult Phase 3 section of BUDs, and the candidates that trained with DMT’s firearm methodologies passed with a success rate of an astounding 97%!
DMT student Taylor became a Cadet at the US Army Military Academy at West Point. Despite being ill at the time, he walked on to several of the Academy shooting teams and was able to outperform the majority of the students who had been competing for years, even though it was Taylor’s first time in competition.
In the spring of 2015, DMT trained the newest Maple Grove sniper team. That fall, this particular Maple Grove sniper team won the Best Minnesota Sniper Team competition at Camp Ripley.
Online DMT student Jon M was confronted by a crazy person in Anchorage, Alaska. By utilizing the materials in DMT’s situational awareness course, he was able to quickly identify the threat, create distance, and avoid conflict with a person yelling horrid racial and violent slurs at him.
DMT students Doug and Terri identified a threat on a walk near their home. They were able to adjust their position, introduce a barricade, and contact law enforcement, who arrived to place the disturbed threat into custody.
DMT student (and now instructor) Jordan, a regular attender of Front Sight Academy as well as DMT, completed a highly advanced Force on Force seminar at Front Sight, and was the only student to emerge from multiple scenarios entirely unscathed by the opposing force instructors.
DMT student (and now instructor) Kevin attended a Force on Force Seminar in 2018. Not only did he consistently and overwhelmingly defeat his opponents, even when the seminar instructors attempted to ambush Kevin, his superior understanding of threat identification, response to stimulus, and firearm speed and accuracy made the ambush attempts repetitively unsuccessful. Kevin also dominated the Law Enforcement firearms standards in multiple states as he has pursued his law enforcement career.
DMT students Mark and Mike found themselves often at the bottom of the pile in their local range competitions. Through their training with DMT, they’re now regularly in the top 5 of their local range competitions, only behind a couple of IDPA or USPSA Grandmasters, running competitive gear and firearms. Mike and Mark shoot stock firearms.
DMT student Brenda always wanted to be part of the top women shooters in her local SCAPSA competitions. After training with DMT, she’s now one of the top shooters, both men AND women, in her local SCAPSA.