Hey everyone, Brian and Gigi here! 
We often get asked how Urban Defense Academy started. For us, this isn’t just a business—it’s a calling rooted in a deep belief: you have a God-given right to protect your life and your family.
Our journey didn’t start yesterday. Brian began his firearms mentorship back in 1998, learning one-on-one from combat veterans who instilled in him a strong self-defense philosophy. In 2004, he opened his first academy in Sparks, Nevada.
For 15 years, we poured our lives into that community in Nevada, honing our methodology and helping everyday citizens find their confidence. Gigi joined the mission in 2008, transitioning to full-time in 2015, and together we’ve been a team ever since.
After a year-long chapter building a martial arts dojo in Panama (2019-2020), we felt a strong pull to return home to the States. We chose Liberty Hill, Texas, (family & Texas roots) and officially opened Urban Defense Academy in February 2021.
We’ve evolved over the decades, and today, our academy is focused on one thing: Unparalleled firearms training for personal defense. We aren’t here for “range play”—we’re here to give you the mindset and skills to stop a threat decisively, keeping you and your loved ones safe.
We’re honored to serve this community. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, we’re here to help you find that peace of mind.
Stay safe,
— Brian & Gigi Simmons
(P.S. If you’re looking for traditional Japanese martial arts, be sure to check out our sister school, Shin Gan Dojo!)
