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California: The Freest State for Non-Firearm Self-Defense Tools
California bans your gun in parks, museums, restaurants that serve alcohol, and libraries — but you can still carry a taser, pepper spray, or a full-size pocket knife in every one of those places. True, California’s gun laws are among the toughest. But when it comes to non-lethal, non-firearm tools,...
Empowered Citizens: How Concealed Carry Fills the Gap in Public Safety Amid Police Shortages
This article dives into how the surge in concealed carry—now with over 21 million permits and 29 states embracing permitless carry—bolsters public safety, especially as police face budget cuts, officer shortages, and recruitment crises. Backed by hard data, we'll examine the numbers, the trends, and why armed citizens are stepping...
Human Security Guards vs AI Security: Which Is Right for Your Facility?
In an era where technology evolves faster than ever, facility managers face a critical question: Should you rely on human security guards, AI-powered systems, or a hybrid of both?...
Can You Be a Security Guard with a Criminal Record? A Guide to BSIS Guard Card Disqualifications
In the bustling security industry of California, where demand for trained guards is higher than ever—especially in high-traffic areas like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego—many aspiring professionals wonder if a past mistake could slam the door on their career dreams. The short answer? It's possible, but it depends...
How AI is Transforming the Security Guard Industry: Opportunities & Challenges
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries across the globe, and the security sector is no exception. For security companies and individual guards, AI presents both opportunities and challenges. Understanding how AI is changing the industry—and how advanced training can prepare guards for this new landscape—is essential for companies, employees, and...
Can a Security Guard Carry a Taser in California?
Many people wonder whether security guards in California are allowed to carry Tasers or stun guns while on duty. The short answer is yes—but only under certain conditions. Both the guard and the employer must follow specific state laws and licensing requirements....
Testimonials
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RobTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex.
CCW Renewal class with PDS and Joel Persinger. I recommend PDS and Joel for your CCW training. I just took the CCW renewal class with the added benefit of the Situational Awareness Lab. It was an excellent class!Posted on Trustindex![]()
Glenn MartinTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex.
Outstanding and practical class The class is exceptionally well-designed and provides clear, practical instruction. The teaching style is engaging, and the information is presented in a way that's easy to absorb and apply. Highly recommended for anyone looking to gain valuable skills effectively!Posted on Trustindex![]()
Tina YoungTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex.
CCW Renewal Course The classroom simulator was a real eye opener about how quickly events can occur. We debriefed each event and the entire class learned from one another. The range portion contained clear instructions ensuring everyone’s safety and success. I’ve had my CCW permit for 12 years and have had a lot of firearms instructors. Joel Persinger is hands down the best.Posted on Trustindex![]()
Chris MyersTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex.
Excellent and engaging lecture! The lecture was engaging and very well-designed, with scenarios that effectively broke up any potential monotony. It kept my attention throughout and made the learning process more enjoyable and memorable. Highly recommend!Posted on Trustindex![]()
Mark YandellTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex.
Highly Recommend I liked the hands-on experience. The laser training was very helpful, interesting and fun. I would very much recommend this training to anyone.Posted on Yelp![]()
nolan l.Verified
Practical Defense Systems' 16-hour CCW course is hands down one of the best classes you can spend your hard-earned money on, especially in this economy. I would 10/10 recommend it to all my family members before they begin carrying. I have been carrying a firearm overtly for over 16 years and concealed for nearly nine years. During that time, I've taken numerous tactical shooting courses ranging from low to medium speed and drag. Going into this class, I initially thought a 16-hour California CCW course would be a waste of my time and money. However, Joel and Dave's expert knowledge, experience, and the overall flow of the course quickly changed my perspective. The material was well presented, practical, and highly relevant. The significant amount of simulator time was especially valuable and helped reinforce real-world decision-making. I'm very glad I took their course and definitely feel better equipped to carry concealed in the Wild West that is California. Thanks, gentlemen -- I look forward to taking more courses in the future.
