We Aim to Empower
Established in August 2020, Lioness Defense Firearms Training LLC aims to empower women, men, and children by providing the proper training and education in firearms safety, proper handling procedures, shooting fundamentals, and self-defense.
The Lioness Defense Mission
Lioness Defense is dedicated to the empowerment of women, men, and children on the importance of firearms safety, proper handling, personal safety, responsible gun ownership and the responsibilities that accompany it.
Our mission is to provide comprehensive and effective firearms training to responsible citizens, law enforcement personnel, and security professionals. We strive to empower our clients with the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to safely and proficiently handle firearms in any situation. Our commitment to excellence and professionalism is reflected in every aspect of our training programs, which are designed to meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and effectiveness. Ultimately, our goal is to promote responsible gun ownership and help our clients protect themselves, their loved ones, and their communities.
The Lioness Defense Team
Founder/Chief Instructor
Monique Clarke
Welcome to Lioness Defense, and thank you for your interest!
My name is Monique Clarke, and I am the Founder and Owner of Lioness Defense Firearms Training LLC. I started this company to provide the much-needed education and training on firearms safety and handling to everyday citizens.
I retired from the United States Marine Corps in July 2024 after 20 years of active duty service. Fifteen of those years, I had a collateral responsibility as a certified Combat Marksmanship Trainer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our courses are open to individuals who meet the legal requirements for firearm ownership and possession in their jurisdiction. This typically includes being of legal age, not having any felony convictions, and meeting any other relevant legal criteria. Please check your local laws for specific requirements.
We provide firearms for use during our basic training courses. However, if you have your own firearm and wish to use it during the course, you are welcome to do so, provided it is legal and meets our safety standards. For intermediate and CCW classes, having your own firearms is required, however, we do have rentals at an additional cost.
We offer a range of courses tailored to different experience levels, including basic firearm safety, marksmanship, concealed carry, and tactical training. Our instructors are experienced in working with beginners through to advanced shooters.
We recommend bringing government-issued identification, eye and ear protection, appropriate clothing for the weather, and any necessary paperwork as required by local laws. If you are bringing your own firearm, please ensure it is unloaded and secured in a case.
Yes, our courses are designed to meet the standards set by DC, MD, and VA. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certificate of completion that may be required for concealed carry permit applications or other purposes.
What Our Students Are Saying
Covers pre-K through 4th grade
This class is designed to open up a dialogue between children and their parents regarding firearms. Every child should be educated on lifesaving skills that guide them on what they should and SHOULD NOT do if they encounter a firearm. This is a one-hour to one-and-a-half-hour class that focuses on four basic safety rules when no adult is around—talking about what children should do if a gun is seen or found, 4 Basic Gun Safety rules when handling firearms, stressing the importance of practicing rules (by both students and parents). Your child will learn all the basic elements needed to be safe around firearms, including safe storage and handling.