Frequently Asked Questions

Do you use live ammunition?
No, projectiles of any kind are NOT used at PracTac. We strictly use gas actuated recoil replica firearms that shoot either red or infrared lasers.
Are there any real firearms in the building?
Firearms are not permitted into the training areas. Secure firearm storage is provided at no cost for the duration of your visit. All participants must disarm in the entryway so that there is no accidental incidence of confusion, injury, or death. Prior to entering the training area, everyone must pass through a metal detector screening, or other inspection as needed. Anyone who is not willing to comply with this rule will not be permitted to use the facility and will not be eligible for a refund.
What is stress inoculation training?
Stress inoculation training is a psychological preparation method that helps you build resilience to high-pressure situations. Developed by Dr. Donald Meichenbaum, this technique teaches you to manage stress responses and make clear decisions under pressure. At PracTac, we apply stress inoculation to home defense scenarios so you can learn to respond effectively in stressful situations.
Is this suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. Many of our clients would consider themselves complete beginners. We provide a judgment-free environment where everyone learns at their own pace with guidance from our instructors. No prior experience is required.
How is this different from self-defense classes?
Self-defense classes typically focus on physical techniques for defending yourself in public situations (street attacks, assaults). PracTac specializes specifically in home defense scenarios; protecting your family in your own home with a firearm. We teach tactical decision-making, stress management, creating a home safety plan, and home-specific strategies that self-defense classes don’t cover.
How is this different from CQB (Close Quarters Battle) training?
Although there are elements of CQB training that were incorporated into the training, there are many key differences:

1.

Traditionally, CQB is advanced, tactical training focused on military-style room clearing and engaging threats in confined spaces. CQB is generally done with two or more people and is a fast-paced, offensive exercise.

2.

The objectives of CQB are often elimination of hostiles and mitigation of casualties, not solely protection.

In contrast, PracTac’s Home Defense Training (single-man CQB), is slow, cautious, and deliberate. Our primary goal is to teach you top survival practices to best ensure your safety and that of your loved ones.
What areas do you serve?
PracTac serves the greater Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Coral Springs and Pompano areas.
We are located less than 1 mile off the I-95 in Oakland Park FL, making us easily accessible from anywhere in Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
How long is the training?
Classes are 90 minutes long but training never ends. Shooting is a perishable skill that requires practice to maintain, similar to a physical or athletic skill. Without regular training, a person’s accuracy and confidence can decline, as the precise muscle memory and coordination involved fade with disuse.
Can my family train together?
Yes! We encourage families to train together. Our program is designed for families and includes coordinated response training and communication protocols.
What should I bring to training?
No need to bring anything, simply wear comfortable clothing and shoes that permit easy movement. We provide all training equipment and materials.
Closed-toed/sensible shoes are strongly recommended. No firearms or ammunition are allowed in the training areas.
How much does training cost?
Our pricing reflects small class sizes, expert instruction, and the advanced simulation technology required to deliver realistic, high-stress training.
Our Safe Start class, a beginner-friendly firearm safety course, is $175 per person for a 90-minute session.
Our Intermediate, Advanced, and Elite classes are $250 per person for a 90-minute session and include immersive, scenario-based simulated training using specialized equipment and technology designed to replicate real-world environments and decision-making under pressure.
Do you offer training for community organizations?
Yes. We provide specialized training for houses of worship, community centers, offices, schools and more. Contact us to schedule a consultation and discuss your organization’s specific needs.
This training is interesting but also specific. Do the skills apply to any other areas of my life?
Absolutely. Our training teaches the following key skills:

Situational Awareness: Staying alert to surroundings and recognizing potential hazards before starting any task.

Accountability/Ownership: Taking personal responsibility for one’s own safety and the well-being of family/colleagues.

Speaking Up: Feeling comfortable reporting unsafe conditions or practices without fear of repercussions (fostering psychological safety).

Prioritizing Safety: Choosing to put safety first, even when faced with competing interests like efficiency or productivity.

Thinking Before Acting: Following procedures and avoiding shortcuts, understanding that accidents often occur when someone decides to take a chance.

Decision making under pressure - learning to shift from a reactive, emotional state to one where you can engage logical thinking

Building confidence

Is this laser tag or some form of entertainment?
No. This is a serious training experience but it is also exhilarating. If participants cannot handle this balance of following serious guidelines while giving it their all, then this experience is not for them.
Is there an age limit?
Individual participants are required to be at least 21 years of age.
Persons under 21 may participate only if they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Are there any legal restrictions to taking classes?
All participants must be legally permitted to own a firearm. If you are not legally permitted to own a firearm, you will not be allowed to take a class, with the exception of minors who are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
How do I show my qualifications to sign up for an advanced class if I’ve never been to PracTac before?
We recognize certificates of completion from NRA/USCCA and other private shooting instructors. If your certificate is not one we are familiar with, we may verify the skills which were taught in that class with the issuer.
If you join a class based on your self-claimed skills but you do not have the skills required for that class, you will be excused from that class and no refund will be given.
If you have any questions about your skill level, please feel free to ask us and we will guide you to the appropriate class.
What kind of training equipment do you use besides the gas recoil laser guns?
We brought together systems from a number of manufacturers including Laser Ammo, StressVest, Umarex, and Dvorak Instruments to bring you the best firearms training experience possible short of shooting real guns.
Are there any medical restrictions?
The use of the training vests and visible lasers are not recommended for individuals with epilepsy.
Individuals with pacemakers, or other cardiac conditions should consult with their doctor prior to participating.
Pregnant women should consult with their physician prior to participating.
What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?
Cancellation:

More than 48 hours before the start of the class: You will receive 100% of the cost of the class as a credit toward a future class.

Less than 48 hours before the start of the class: 50% of the cost of the class will be applied as a credit toward a future class.

Rescheduling:

More than 48 hours before the start of the class: You may reschedule and 100% of your original payment will be transferred to the new class date.

Less than 48 hours before the start of the class: You may reschedule and 50% of your original payment will be transferred to the new class date.

Reschedules are subject to availability.
If you have any other questions not addressed here, please don’t hesitate to contact us