Riddle Self Defense

Self-Defense
& Firearms Training

Practical instruction for anyone who wants to build real personal-protection skills, stronger fundamentals, better judgment, and safer habits — on the range and in everyday life.

Two focused offerings: hands-on self-defense training and firearms training. Each track is built around clear safety standards, repeatable skills, and calm coaching. Book the session that fits what you want to work on.

John P. Riddle · 2012 Black Belt Magazine Instructor of the Year · Hall of Fame · Grandmaster of Combative Arts

Book Self-Defense Training Book Firearms Training
Instructor training from a vehicle on the range
Safety First
Every Session
Classes

Training built around fundamentals, confidence, and real-world responsibility

Each class is designed to meet the student where they are. The goal is not just better shooting, but better decision-making, safer handling, and a clearer understanding of how to train with purpose.

Student practicing pistol fundamentals on the range
01

Pistol Fundamentals

For first-time and returning shooters who want a solid baseline.

  • Safe loading, unloading, and storage habits
  • Grip, stance, sight alignment, and trigger control
  • Live-fire coaching with clear corrections
Concealed carry draw practice
02

Concealed Carry Skills

Focus on carrying responsibly with a safety-first mindset.

  • Holster considerations and draw mechanics
  • Concealment, movement, and situational awareness
  • Decision-making before, during, and after a threat
Prone carbine shooting drill
03

Defensive Carbine

Practical rifle training for home defense and range confidence.

  • Carbine setup and handling principles
  • Loading, malfunction clearing, and safe manipulation
  • Target transitions and efficiency under pressure
Private one-on-one coaching session
04

Private Coaching

One-on-one or small-group sessions tailored to your goals.

  • Customized drills and pacing
  • Skill refreshers before qualification or travel
  • Comfortable environment for targeted improvement
Safety

Safety comes first, last, and always

The entire training experience is built on safe habits, clear communication, and a calm training environment. Students are expected to follow range rules, respect the equipment, and train with intention.

Core safety principles

  • Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
  • Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
  • Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.
  • Know your target and what is beyond it.

“Good training builds confidence without cutting corners.”

Training Format

A simple structure that keeps students focused and improves retention

01

Briefing

Review objectives, equipment, safety rules, and any student concerns before live fire begins.

02

Demonstration

See the technique first, then practice it slowly with direct feedback and corrections.

03

Live Fire

Build the skill in context with paced shooting drills and clear performance goals.

04

Debrief

Finish with notes, next steps, and recommendations for safe practice between sessions.

Instructor

John P. Riddle — retired SWAT sergeant, Black Belt Magazine Instructor of the Year, Grandmaster of Combative Arts

Training is led by John P. Riddle: a retired West Palm Beach Police sergeant with 28 years on the job and 16 years on SWAT, and a former U.S. Air Force Combat Arms Training Instructor who trained Air Force Security Police and Pararescue.

In November 2012, Black Belt Magazine named John its Instructor of the Year and inducted him into the Black Belt Hall of Fame. In June 2014 he was tested and awarded Grandmaster of Combative Arts by the World Head of Family Sokeship Council.

His Hall of Fame profile highlights the same approach he brings to students today: reality-based training rooted in point-man duty on more than 1,000 no-knock SWAT entries and years working directly with the victims of crime. John considers awareness the “first skill of self-defense” — the foundation of his Civilian Weapons Awareness and Tactics program, which blends firearms training with techniques from krav maga and jeet kune do.

As a student, John has trained under Paul Vunak, Joe Hess, Terry Giles, Gary Klugiewicz, and Harinder Singh.

2012

Black Belt Magazine Instructor of the Year

Named Instructor of the Year by Black Belt Magazine in its November 2012 Hall of Fame issue.

2012

Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame Inductee

Inducted into the Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame in the same November 2012 issue.

2014

Grandmaster of Combative Arts

Tested and awarded by the World Head of Family Sokeship Council in June 2014.

28 Years

Retired Police Sergeant & SWAT

West Palm Beach PD — 16 years on the SWAT team, plus Patrol, Narcotics, Detective, and Training.

USAF

Combat Arms Training Instructor

U.S. Air Force — trained Security Police and personnel on multiple weapon systems.

Instructor John P. Riddle portrait
Testimonials

What students say

Feedback from people who have trained with John over the years — from first-time shooters to seasoned students refining their skills.

“

John Riddle is one of those rare instructors you will never forget. I trained with him years ago in Krav Maga, and training with him again only confirmed it: his depth in firearms, situational awareness, and real-world self-defense is on another level; grounded in decades of professional experience and teaching. What makes his training truly special, though, is how he teaches: clear, calm, practical, and confidence-building. He meets you where you are and raises your standard without ego. If you want to take his mindset and approach beyond the training, his book “Defend the Now: A Blueprint for Safety in Today’s Uncertain World” is a powerful companion and absolutely worth reading.

Beate Ewing

“

When I decided it was time to provide my family with situational awareness, training, firearms training and self defense training, I had to identify the best person. Without a doubt, John Riddle was the best choice for the job. John, a military veteran and former law enforcement officer, is the consummate professional. He has a broad knowledge base and teaches to all experience levels but never compromises on safety. I recommend John Riddle unconditionally.

Todd S. Payne

Shaw Lewenz

“

For the past 8 years John has been my instructor and mentor as it relates to personal and home safety, self-defense, fire arms training and most importantly, situational awareness. Everything begins with situational awareness. John is passionate about each of these and more importantly, lives by them. As a result, I have confidence and peace in my daily travels and interactions. Additionally, John is keen to point out that each of these are perishable skills that need to be continually worked on and we should never get complacent. Our life and the lives of our families depend upon it. From someone that has known John for over 8 years, I can wholeheartedly endorse and recommend him for any personal, home, or business safety, fire arms training, self defense concerns, and situational awareness training.

Joe

Private student

“

I had the privilege of taking several classes led by John over the years. When it comes to firearms safety and training, and situational awareness, I do not know anyone in South Florida better than John Riddle. The man is one of the finest instructors. Unlike many other instructors, he listens and teaches. He will not rush until his student is comfortable. While I can competently handle firearms, I am always looking to improve. John does exactly that and with professionalism. If it’s your first time handling a firearm or you are a lifelong user, John will take you to the next level. He imparts invaluable knowledge about firearms safety and training, self defense, and situational awareness. These are things that are needed now more than ever in today’s world. I continue to sign up for his classes because he’s setting me up for success. If I come into a situation where my life or my family’s life depends on defending ourselves, I know I can confidently do so. Thank you, John.

Austin Payne

“

I highly recommend his classes!!! He has lived what he teaches.

Mark Fusco

“

The only instructor I’ll ever recommend!!!

Gus Chaves

“

You were always an excellent instructor. I still use the teaching I’ve received to show others.

James Socrates Chatman

“

Above his knowledge and above his courage is his integrity. [He’s] a truly good man that cares about the success and well-being of every student. If I ever went to war, I would want John Riddle covering my back.

Harinder Singh

Jeet Kune Do Athletic Association · Black Belt Magazine, 2012

Defend the Now by John P. Riddle — A Blueprint for Safety in Today’s Uncertain World
Published Author

Defend the Now: A Blueprint for Safety in Today’s Uncertain World

I wrote this book because too many good people are walking through life unaware of what’s happening around them. After 34 years in the military, law enforcement, and SWAT, I’ve seen what happens when people aren’t prepared—and I’ve seen how a few simple shifts in awareness can change everything.

This isn’t theory. It’s the same operational knowledge I’ve trained law enforcement officers, SWAT teams, and corporate groups to use—translated into practical guidance anyone can apply immediately.

  • Decode body language and anticipate threats
  • Stay safe in parking lots, malls, and while traveling
  • Travel confidently and navigate hotels, elevators, and public transport
  • Make better decisions under pressure
  • Empower yourself and your family with real-world safety skills
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Book Training

Two offerings. Pick the one that fits what you want to work on.

Each track has its own dedicated booking calendar. Pick a time that works for you and we’ll confirm the details from there.

Offering 01

Self-Defense Training

Hands-on personal-protection skills focused on awareness, de-escalation, and practical responses to real-world scenarios.

Book Self-Defense Training
Offering 02

Firearms Training

Safe handling, marksmanship fundamentals, concealed carry skills, and private coaching for new and experienced shooters.

Book Firearms Training
Contact

Have a question before you book?

Send a message with what you want to work on, your current experience level, and whether you are looking for self-defense training, firearms training, or both.

What to include

  • Your name and preferred contact information
  • Which offering you’re interested in (self-defense, firearms, or both)
  • Your current experience level
  • Any scheduling details or preferences

Training requests are handled directly and kept simple.