Holster Course
Learn to safely and confidently use holsters on the range
The SSAA NSW Holster Course gives members the confidence, knowledge, and hands-on skills to use holsters safely during competitions and range activities. Whether you’re just starting out or expanding your skill set, this course helps you handle firearms from the holster with complete control and self-assurance.
It’s interactive and designed for real-world use in practical pistol shooting, helping you build competence, confidence, and respect for the process.
Why this course exists and what you will learn
Holster work is a big step up from bench or supported shooting. It requires smooth movement, strong awareness, and complete safety discipline. The SSAA NSW Holster Qualification Course teaches you everything you need to draw, present, and re-holster safely in a structured environment. By the end of the course, you will:
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Understand range and competition safety rules for holster use.
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Know correct holster types, placement, and fit for your firearm.
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Learn safe draw and re-holstering techniques.
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Build smooth, consistent movements that prevent accidents.
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Gain confidence handling your firearm from start to finish of each stage.
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Meet the SSAA NSW standard required to gain Holster Accreditation.
- Participants must provide their own firearms and holsters for use in the course.
- Participants must be endorsed by their club to undertake the training.
SSAA NSW Holster Course:
To make sure all members have access, our SSAA NSW Trainers will be visiting branches across the state to deliver the course in person. These sessions are hands-on and designed to give every participant the chance to qualify under expert supervision. To register for a SSAA NSW Holster Course, please get in touch with your branch who will assist you with the nomination process
SSAA NSW Holster Qualification Course:
For those looking to become instructors themselves, please register your interest by clicking here SSAA NSW Holster Qualification Course Expression of Interest. This program will qualify and accredit new instructors so they can deliver the course consistently at their own branches.
The course combines short theory sessions with plenty of hands-on time. You’ll start with safety fundamentals and dry-fire drills before progressing to supervised live-fire exercises.
You’ll cover:
- Range protocols and commands.
- Correct holster setup and positioning.
- The five-step draw process.
- Muzzle awareness and trigger discipline during movement.
- Managing malfunctions and stoppages.
- Re-holstering safely at the end of a stage.
Every session is guided by an accredited instructor, ensuring that each shooter develops safe skills and meets SSAA NSW holster-qualification standards.
- A current firearms licence with the appropriate category.
- Photo ID and your SSAA NSW membership details.
- Please refer to the SSAA NSW Holster trainer if you are unsure about the holster requirements.
SSAA NSW Holster Course:
To make sure all members have access, our SSAA NSW Trainers will be visiting branches across the state to deliver the course in person. These sessions are hands-on and designed to give every participant the chance to qualify under expert supervision.
SSAA NSW Holster Qualification Course:
- Contact your local SSAA NSW branch to find the next available Holster Course.
- Register your interest.-for a nomination form that endorses you to participate in the Holster Course (SSAA NSW Holster Qualification Course Expression of Interest)
Pre-course material: Watch this video.
Read the booklet here:
Why train with SSAA NSW

Expert instruction from qualified trainers and industry specialists

Nationally consistent standards for safe, practical holster use

Hands-on coaching focused on real-world range conditions

Pathway to competition readiness and official SSAA NSW holster accreditation