Dragon Tactical International
Michael Patrick
BACKGROUND: Civilian, Law Enforcement, Instructor, Gov’t Employee / Contractor
30 Years Instructing
PH: 423 552 3218
Available Courses
| Next Class | Course | Type | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Next class: May 16 See Classes |
TN Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit Concealed or open carry permit / Handgun… |
Basic, Concealed Carry Training, Concealed Carry License, Constitutional / Permitless Carry | Basic |
About Dragon Tactical International
Dragon Tactical International was built on a simple belief:
Good people deserve the skills to protect themselves and the people they love.
For years, many Americans were taught that danger was unlikely, that emergencies were someone else’s problem, or that owning a firearm alone was enough.
Then the world reminded us that evil can arrive without warning.
From acts of terror to violent crime to the everyday uncertainty of life, one truth became clear:
Hope is not a plan. Readiness matters.
That is why Dragon Tactical International was created.
Not to glorify violence.
Not to promote fear.
Not to impress people with gear or bravado.
Dragon Tactical exists to help responsible citizens become calm, confident, and capable protectors through practical training, sound judgment, and real-world preparation.
We believe the strongest protectors are not reckless. They are disciplined.
They are not loud. They are competent.
They are not paranoid. They are prepared.
And the people you love are worth preparing for.
Most people hope they will never face danger. We hope so too. But hope alone has never protected anyone.
Dragon Tactical International was founded to give everyday people something stronger than hope: confidence, capability, and preparation.
Through professional firearms training and practical defensive education, we help responsible citizens become the kind of person others can rely on when it matters most.
Because good people deserve real preparation.
Today, Dragon Tactical International has helped thousands of students, from first-time gun owners to experienced carriers, build the confidence and skills needed to stand ready when it counts.
Courses Taught
Concealed Carry Training, Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, Rifle, Shotgun, NRA Courses, Active Shooter Response Training, In Home Defense Training, Church / Business - Safety / Security, Scenario Based Training, Scenario Based Training (Simunitions, Man Marking Cartridge), Women's Only Courses, Private Classes (Group / Individual), LEO / MIL / SEC Courses, Virtual Simulation, Seminars / Lectures, Combatives / Less Lethal, Concealed Carry License, Stop the Bleed, Tactical Casualty Care (TCCC / TECC), Medical Other, Legal Aspects for Use of Force / Avoidance, Constitutional / Permitless Carry, Court Ordered Gun Safety, Handgun Fundamentals
Class Instructors
Bill Adams
Certified NRA Instructor with 40+ years of experience with teaching Personal Defense.
Certifications
Mike Patrick’s instruction is grounded in formal certification, operational training, and decades of hands-on teaching experience across both civilian and law enforcement environments. His background spans firearms, defensive tactics, active shooter response, tactical medicine, and advanced martial arts—with training and certifications from state, federal, and international organizations.
The following represents a selection of his professional certifications, instructional roles, and recognized accomplishments:
- Tennessee POST Police Firearms Instructor
- Tennessee Handgun Instructor
- Tennessee POST Defensive Tactics Instructor
- Founder of the CombatiX training system which combines firearms and unarmed tactics
- Tennessee POST Active Shooter Instructor
- Active Shooter Response via FLETC / DHS
- Advanced Israeli Active Shooter Response
- Armed Active Shooter Instructor
- Civilian Response to an Active Shooter (CRASE) Instructor
- Monadnock Expandable Baton Instructor
- Tactical Medical (TacMed) Instructor via FLETC / DHS
- Stop the Bleed Instructor from the American College of Surgeons (ACS)
- Non Lethal Training Ammunition (NLTA) Instructor
- Scenario-Based Force on Force (UTM, Simunitions, and Airsoft) Instructor
- Security Consultant for businesses, schools, and places of worship
- Law Enforcement Trainer
- Subject Matter Expert (SME) for a variety of topics
- Trained by Federal Law Enforcement agencies
- Certified Reserve Police Officer
- Martial Arts Professor / Grandmaster
- 9th Degree Black Belt Karate Jutsu
- 9th Degree Black Belt Okinawan Kempo
- 8th Degree Black Belt Isshinryu Karate
- 8th Degree Black Belt Torite Jutsu
- 7th Degree Black Belt Tae Kwon Do
- Inductee in World Martial Arts Hall of Fame as Instructor of the Year
- Published Author of 7 books, multiple magazine articles, hundreds of DVDs and videos
- Featured International Instructor
Policies
Cancellation Policy
All classes must be canceled no later than 15 days prior to the day of class. Failure to do so will result in forfeiture of deposits.
Should you discover that you are unable to attend on a date inside the 15-day refund cut off, you may transfer your registration to another designated attendee or apply the registration payment toward any other Dragon Tactical event which you are eligible to attend. This course must cccur within 12 months following the originally scheduled event. Requests to have paid registration fees applied to the new event must be received no less than 15 days prior to the opening date of the event.
Reschedule Policy
If you need to reschedule a class, please contact us as soon as possible to reschedule, preferably no later than 15 days before class to avoid loss of deposit. Exceptions will be considered on a case by case basis.
Refund Policy
If you cancel your registration for a course 15 days before the scheduled class date, you will be refunded the full amount of the course. If cancellation is made within 15 days, the student may forfeit a refund.
If the instructor must cancel the course at any time, all students will be refunded the full amount.
Waiver
Dragon Tactical International - Hold Harmless / Liability Waiver Form
To the best of my knowledge, I am in good physical condition and fully able to participate in this course. I
am fully aware of the risks and hazards connected with the participation in Firearms Training, including
physical injury or even death, and herby elect to voluntarily participate in said event, knowing that the
associated physical activity may be hazardous to me and my property. I VOLUNTARILY ASSUME FULL
RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY RISKS OR LOSS, PROPERTY DAMAGE, OR PERSONAL INJURY,
INCLUDING DEATH, that may be sustained by me, or loss or damage to property owned by me, as a
result of participation in this course. I further certify that I am at least 18 years of age. If under 18, my
parent/guardian is the below signed.
I hereby RELEASE, WAIVE, DISCHARGE, AND COVENANT NOT TO SUE, Dragon Tactical
International, Mike Patrick, Bill Adams, Mike Besser, their officers, servants, agents, and employees
(hereinafter referred to as RELEASEES) from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions and causes of
action whatsoever arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury, including death, that may be
sustained by me, or to any property belonging to me, while participating in physical activity, or while on or
upon the premises where the event is being conducted.
It is my expressed intent that this release and hold harmless agreement shall bind the members
of my family and spouse, if I am alive, and my heirs, assigns and personal representative, if I
am deceased, and shall be deemed as a RELEASE, WAIVE, DISCHARGE, and CONVENTION TO
SUE the above named RELEASEES. I hereby further agree that this Waiver of Liability and Hold
Harmless Agreement shall be constructed in accordance with the laws of the State of Tennessee.
In signing this release, I acknowledge and represent that I HAVE READ THE FOREGOING Waiver
of Liability and Hold Harmless Agreement, UNDERSTAND IT AND SIGN IT VOLUNTARILY as my
own free act and deed; no oral representations, statements or inducements, apart from the foregoing
written agreements have been made; and I EXECUTE THIS RELEASE FOR FULL, ADEQUATE AND
COMPLETE CONSIDERATION FULLY INTENDING TO BE BOUND BY SAME.
PHOTO/VIDEO RELEASE
I hereby grant permission to the rights of my image, likeness and sound of my voice as recorded on audio
or video tape without payment or any other consideration. I understand that my image may be edited,
copied, exhibited, published or distributed and waive the right to inspect or approve the finished product
wherein my likeness appears. Additionally, I waive any right to royalties or other compensation arising or
related to the use of my image or recording. I also understand that this material may be used in diverse
settings within an unrestricted geographic area.
By signing this release, I understand this permission signifies that photographic or video recordings of me
may be electronically displayed via the Internet or in any other setting. There is no time limit on the
validity of this release nor is there any geographic limitation on where these materials may be distributed.
This release applies to photographic, audio or video recordings collected as part of the sessions.
By signing this form, I acknowledge that I have completely read and fully understand the above release and
agree to be bound thereby. I hereby release any and all claims against any person or organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience?
No. Beginners are welcome. Many students are first-time shooters. Our class is patient, professional, and designed to build confidence.
Is this the required class for the Tennessee Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit?
Yes. This is the state-approved course required before applying for the Tennessee Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit.
How long is the class?
Approximately 8 hours, including classroom instruction, written test, and live-fire qualification.
What if I’ve never fired a gun before?
That is completely fine. Many beginners successfully complete our class. We guide you step by step in a calm, supportive environment.
What if I’m nervous?
You are not alone. Many students start that way. Our instructors are respectful, approachable, and known for helping nervous students feel comfortable and capable.
Do I need my own handgun?
No. We offer rental handguns if needed. Contact us in advance so we can help you prepare.
What should I bring?
- Government-issued photo ID
- Handgun (if you have one)
- 50 rounds of ammunition minimum
- Eye and ear protection
- Weather-appropriate clothing for range time
- Water/snacks/lunch if desired
We can also assist with rentals and gear if needed.
What will I learn?
You will learn far more than just how to pass. Topics include:
- Firearm safety
- Tennessee carry laws
- Use-of-force considerations
- Handgun operation
- Ammunition basics
- Loading/unloading
- Shooting fundamentals
- Decision-making under stress
- Range qualification prep
Our goal is to help you leave more capable than when you arrived.
Is there a written test?
Yes. Tennessee requires a written exam. We do an excellent job preparing students, even if it has been years since you last took a test.
Is there a shooting test?
Yes. Tennessee requires a live-fire qualification. We explain exactly what to expect and help prepare you for success.
What if I don’t pass?
We want you to succeed. If you struggle, we work with you and review retest or guarantee options. We are proud of our strong student success record.
Is this class only for people getting a permit?
No. Many students attend to improve safety, confidence, and firearms knowledge, even if they never apply for a permit.
Will I receive personal help?
Yes. We keep class sizes manageable so students receive attention, coaching, and answers to their questions.
Is the class safe?
Absolutely. Safety is emphasized throughout the classroom and range portions of training.
How do I apply after class?
After successful completion, we explain the next steps for applying with the State of Tennessee.
Can I carry in other states?
The Enhanced Permit is recognized by many states through reciprocity agreements. Laws can change, so always verify before travel.
Why choose Dragon Tactical instead of a cheaper class?
Because this is about more than checking a box. Many low-cost classes rush students through minimum standards. We focus on confidence, understanding, safety, and real preparation.
What makes your class different?
- Beginner-friendly instruction
- Professional, respectful environment
- Small class attention
- Strong legal and safety focus
- Real preparation for testing
- Confidence-building coaching
- Training beyond the minimum standard
How do I reserve my seat?
Class sizes are limited. Register online or contact us directly.
Final Thought
This class is about more than getting a permit. It is about becoming safer, more informed, more confident, and better prepared.
Dragon Tactical International: Ready When It Counts.