Our Story: A Legacy of Real-World Self-Defense Training
Urban Defense Academy was founded on a deep-seated belief in the innate, God-given right of every citizen to protect their life. Our story is one of unwavering dedication to empowering individuals with the skills and mindset needed to confidently protect themselves and their loved ones in any real-world scenario.
Building Our Foundation: From Nevada to Texas
Our founder, Brian Simmons, began his intensive one-on-one firearms training mentorship in 1998. This deep, personalized instruction laid the groundwork for his comprehensive teaching approach and practical business acumen. Brian then established his own academy, Beyond CCW, in Nevada in 2004, where he continued to hone his expertise for over 14 years. This foundation was profoundly shaped by his own instructors, who were combat veterans and instilled in him a critical combat philosophy and a robust self-defense mindset.
Gigi Simmons began her training with Brian in 2008, immersing herself in the same rigorous methodology. By 2015, she joined the business full-time, becoming an integral part of our mission.
In early 2019, Brian and Gigi embarked on a new chapter, moving to Panama, Central America, where they built a new martial arts dojo. However, by May 2020, they felt called to return to the USA, choosing Liberty Hill, Texas, as their new home. This decision was driven by family connections in Texas and other compelling reasons, leading to the establishment of Urban Defense Academy, which officially opened its doors in February 2021.
While initially encompassing both traditional Japanese martial arts and firearms training, Urban Defense Academy has since evolved to focus exclusively on providing unparalleled firearms training for personal defense. You can visit our Martial Arts website HERE
Our Mission & Philosophy: The Warrior’s Art for Modern Defense
At Urban Defense Academy, our mission is clear: to equip individuals with the physical and psychological tools necessary for armed self-defense, enabling them to decisively stop transgressors and ensure personal safety. Our comprehensive programs prepare everyday citizens with essential firearms skills, emphasizing both physical readiness and the combat-ready mindset needed to confidently confront threats.
More than anything, we offer peace of mind. As students of crisis management, you will learn to control your environment as much as possible and, if necessary, deliver a fight-stopping blow with precision and intent. Our realistic and practical training empowers you to defend yourself effectively with the tools you master.
Our philosophy is rooted in a serious understanding: this is a Warrior’s Art. Your commitment here means preparing yourself mentally and physically, embracing a serious attitude toward life-and-death matters, and putting your shooting and tactical skills into their proper perspective.
We train because we believe in freedom. We aim to prevent danger from visiting families, to discourage evil, and to keep threats at bay. We teach you to understand that violent transgressors typically cannot be reasoned with; they must be decisively stopped.
Our dedicated Instructors are committed to your growth, safety, and empowerment. Together, we prepare you for whatever challenges lie ahead, ensuring responsible citizens are well-prepared to defend themselves, their families, and their community if necessary.
Click HERE to Meet Our Team of Dedicated Instructors
Our Training Environment
Welcome to our specialized training facility in Liberty Hill, designed for comprehensive skill development focused on armed self-defense. We offer three distinct areas to ensure realistic and effective training:
- Dry Fire Training Area: This safe, controlled environment is where students master fundamental firearm principles and build confidence without live ammunition. It’s essential for developing foundational skills and muscle memory.
- Airsoft Shoot-House: Our adaptable shoot-house allows students to practice crucial tactics such as entering and clearing rooms. More experienced participants can engage in realistic force-on-force training using airsoft guns, simulating various scenarios to teach safe navigation and strategic thinking within an environment.
- Live Fire Training: For all live fire practice, we partner with a local private gun range. This collaboration ensures our students receive an excellent and focused shooting experience in a dedicated setting.
