About In the Bull Defense
Our Mission: Personalize, Empower, Protect
At In the Bull Defense, we prioritize the safety and success of our students above all else. We believe that a safe environment is the only environment where true learning can occur.
We recognize that the world of firearms and self-defense can be intimidating. That is why we are not a "one size fits all" training company. Every individual who walks through our doors has a unique reason for seeking training—whether it’s a new concealed carry permit holder looking for foundational skills, or an experienced owner refining their marksmanship.
Our goal is to identify what "success" looks like for you and help you achieve it. We bridge the gap between owning a firearm and having the confidence to use it safely and effectively. To ensure every student receives the attention they deserve, we intentionally keep our classes small. This allows our nationally certified instructors to provide personalized coaching that adapts to your specific skill and comfort level.
Training Tailored to You
Comprehensive Safety & Preparedness
Based in the Raleigh-Durham area, we provide more than just range time. We are committed to a holistic approach to personal protection, offering:
Private 1-on-1 Instruction: Targeted coaching to accelerate your progress.
Women’s Only Classes: A supportive, empowering environment for female shooters.
Emergency Medical Training: Life-saving skills for trauma and critical incidents.
Home Defense & EDC Fundamentals: Practical strategies for everyday safety.
Whether you are picking up a firearm for the first time or looking to master advanced situational awareness, In the Bull Defense is here to guide you with professional, expert instruction every step of the way.
Instructors
Ethan DeBandi
Owner/Lead Instructor
Certifications
Originally from Maryland, Ethan is a North Carolina transplant and an avid firearms enthusiast turned instructor. He was introduced to firearms at a young age by his father who was a Marine Veteran and his grandfather who was an Air Force Veteran and Police Officer. Ethan carried his interest in firearms into adulthood, which eventually led him to found In the Bull Defense. He has a strong passion for helping others to gain the skills and confidence needed to defend themselves and their loved ones. Always looking for ways to help his students, Ethan is consistently expanding his own knowledge, currently training weekly in self defense employing multiple martial arts.
With more than a decade of shooting experience, Ethan is a Nationally Certified Firearms Instructor, with additional certifications in Emergency Medical Care and Firearms Education for Children. He has specialized in defensive pistol for over 5 years and is a Maryland Qualified Handgun Instructor. Ethan has worked with a Maryland SWAT officer and defensive tactics instructor focused on developing training techniques that are both highly effective and approachable for all ages and skill levels.
USCCA Certified Instructor
Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals
Children's Firearms & Safety Fundamentals
Women's Handgun & Self-Defense Fundamentals
Marksmanship Simplified: Foundations of Handgun Coaching
Emergency First Aid Fundamentals
NRA Certified Instructor
Pistol
Maryland Qualified Handgun Instructor