Flowstate Defense is dedicated to providing welcoming, accessible, and real-world-focused self-defense education. FlowState was founded by Clint Sand, a certified Intuitive Defensive Shooting (IDS) instructor and a seasoned educator with extensive experience leading large-scale, nationwide firearms training programs.
His own path into firearms ownership reflects that of many new gun owners—motivated by a desire for personal safety, but frustrated by a training landscape dominated by sport shooting, military-style tactics, or competition-level performance. Many of these environments are not only unrealistic for the average person, but also intimidating, especially for those without prior experience. These approaches often demand significant time, money, and physical ability—barriers that leave most people without a clear path to meaningful defensive competency. Through the "Intuitive Defensive Shooting" (IDS) program, Clint offers a smarter, more approachable alternative: a methodology rooted in the body's natural responses to threat, optimized for worst-case scenarios, and designed to build and retain essential defensive skills with as little time, effort, and cost as possible. His students consistently find this approach more realistic, efficient, and confidence-building than traditional models.
In addition to IDS, Clint teaches a broad range of classes to support holistic self-defense, including Firearms Safety and Familiarization, Concealed Carry Fundamentals, Home and Community Defense, and Pepper Spray Fundamentals. Certified by the Massachusetts State Police to teach the state's License to Carry curriculum, Clint also offers private instruction for individuals and families who want to learn in a personalized, judgment-free environment. His mission is simple: make self-defense training approachable, effective, and grounded in what people actually face—not what looks good on a range.
Select quotes from our class feedback surveys and emails from our students.
"I gained a new level of confidence in carrying my firearm. I used to be paranoid it would randomly discharge, but after the class, I now understand how to handle it safely." - Anonymous in MA
"The course helped me realize that carrying a gun isn't as terrifying as I thought. I now feel much more secure about my ability to carry without any negligent discharges." - Anonymous in MA
"Before the class, I carried an unloaded weapon just to feel comfortable in public. Now, I understand I have control over it, and with the right holster, I don't need extra safety features." - Anonymous in MA
"The class environment was incredibly welcoming. It was important to be around people who didn't judge me as I learned new skills" - Justin in MA
"Being in a supportive environment was crucial. It helped me overcome internalized biases and realize the importance of staying in good company while learning to defend myself." - Anonymous in MA
"The class wasn't just about firearms—it helped me realize the importance of self-acceptance and surrounding myself with people who support me, not judge me." - Anonymous in MA
"I didn't just gain knowledge on firearm safety; I left with a better attitude, stronger protection skills, and a more confident disposition. I'll definitely be back for another class." - Anonymous in MA
"This class opened doors for people like me, offering a safer space to learn self-defense without the bigotry that often surrounds these skills. I cannot thank you enough!" - Anonymous in MA
"Compared to my first firearm training and my CCW course, this Defensive Pistol training stands out as one of the best classes I took. In this class, I learned how to move, what to look for during a defensive situation. I also learned about the importance of how you conduct yourself during and after. The instructors are knowledgeable and professional. As a new gun owner, I felt comfortable and safe in the class. I believe this is a must take class for anyone who is carrying for defensive purposes." - Ben in Las Vegas
"I felt the defensive pistol class was a fantastic eye-opener into what it truly means to carry a firearm in public. Learning how to react, move, identify targets, and understanding your limits I believe this level of instruction is critical to anyone who wants to carry a gun in public with them" - Chris in Texas
"That every gun owner that is interested in learning self defense in a critical incident should take this class. It is the best class to teach you what you need to know and understand when confronted by a violent threat and the need to use your gun to protect yourself, your loved ones, and other people who may be in danger." - Lonny in California
"I came into this class never having used a holster. This class addressed my primary goal: I now feel I can safely carry and use a gun from a holster." - Paul in MA