In today’s world, knowing how to handle a firearm confidently isn’t just a skill—it’s a powerful tool for keeping yourself and your loved ones safe. For many women, stepping into this realm can feel daunting, especially if guns stir up fear or uncertainty. But here’s the truth: you control the firearm, not the other way around. The secret to overcoming that initial hesitation? Empowerment through knowledge and the support of a community that gets it. Take that first step—grab a friend, your mom, or your partner—and dive into a women-only firearms class. You’ll be amazed at how strength multiplies when you learn together.
Finding Comfort in Community
Christy Painchaud, an experienced instructor married to Adam Painchaud, president and founder of the E3 Firearms Association, has spent years guiding both men and women in firearms training. For a long time, she also taught women-only classes at the Sig Sauer Academy, and she’s heard the question countless times: “Is training different for women?” The fundamentals—grip, stance, trigger pull—are the same for everyone. But the environment? That’s where the magic of women-only classes shines.
Picture this: a room full of women, free from the egos or competitive vibes that can sometimes sneak into mixed settings. For some, it’s a relief—especially for survivors of attacks or domestic violence who might feel anxious around men and guns. In a women-only space, those layers of tension peel away, leaving room for focus, growth, and even a little laughter. Christy’s seen it firsthand: women relax, joke, and cheer each other on. It’s not just training—it’s a sisterhood. And that sense of community becomes a foundation for confidence.
From Intimidation to Mastery
Christy’s own journey with firearms started with a jolt of nerves. During her first military training as part of a security police group, she was one of just five women among 70 men. The all-male instructors loomed close—adjusting her grip, barking instructions—while she wrestled with thoughts like, “What if I don’t shoot as well as the guy next to me?” It was intimidating, no question. But she pushed through, learning that knowledge and repetition turn fear into power. That’s a lesson she passes on to her students: you don’t have to start out fearless—you just have to start.
Her students had a similar hump to get over. At first, the presence of men at the range threw them off. But after a few sessions, they found their stride, comfortable with whoever was around. Community helped them get there—whether it was the encouragement or the shared giggles with other women in class. It’s proof that the right support can bridge the gap between hesitation and mastery.
Practical Lessons: Dress Smart, Shoot Smart
Empowerment isn’t just mental—it’s practical, too. Take Christy’s first civilian range day as a cautionary tale. She showed up in a V-neck shirt, only to learn the hard way about hot brass. One sizzling casing slipped down her shirt, leaving a painful burn on her chest. Lesson learned: high-neck tops are non-negotiable. She never made that mistake again, and now she drills it into her students—comfort and safety go hand in hand.
The list goes on: closed-toe shoes for solid footing, pants with belt loops for holsters, hair tied back to avoid distractions, and no dangly earrings under hearing protection. You’d be surprised how many women show up unprepared, tugging at loose clothing or dodging errant casings mid-shot. Christy often sends students to change, not to nitpick, but because the right gear lets you focus on learning—not fidgeting. It’s a small tweak that makes a big difference, and it’s all part of building that empowered mindset.
Carrying with Confidence
As more women embrace concealed carry—numbers soaring by hundreds of percent—Christy zeroes in on two key questions: “What do you carry?” and “How do you carry?” The answers are as unique as the women asking them, and the options are better than ever. Christy herself opts for a Sig 238 .380 in a pocket holster—tucked in her purse, on her body, or inside her waistband—because it fits her life. But whether it’s a bellyband for a run, a thigh rig for a special assignment, or even an Anna Taylor/Dene Adams corset (a favorite among female instructors) , the goal is the same: find what works, commit to it, and practice.
Here’s the kicker: concealment is only half the battle. A holster might hide your gun perfectly, but can you draw it smoothly? Christy urges women to dry-fire at home (with an unloaded gun, of course) to nail that motion. The market’s bursting with women-specific gear—think pink grips or sleek designs—because manufacturers finally get it: women want function and style, shaped to fit their bodies. That’s empowerment in action: owning your choices and making them work for you.
Your Next Step
So, where does this leave you? Maybe you’re picturing yourself at a women-only class, best friend by your side, laughing as you both fumble through your first reload. Maybe you’re rethinking that low-cut top or flimsy belt for your next range day. Or maybe you’re ready to pick a holster that feels like an extension of you—not just a clunky add-on. Firearms training for women isn’t about becoming someone else; it’s about stepping into your own strength, surrounded by others who lift you up. Sign up for that class. Bring a buddy. Learn together. Because when knowledge meets community, confidence isn’t far behind.