firearms training built for real life.
hanah
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coaching
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hanah ✱ coaching ✱
Maryland CCW and HQL training led by a woman instructor, designed to help you feel informed, capable, and confident without intimidation.
i’m ashley.
Stay ready—so you don’t have to get ready.
I’m Ashley Gardner, founder and lead instructor of Piece Be Steel.
I am a certified firearms instructor through the United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) and a strong advocate for responsible, informed personal safety. I founded Piece Be Steel to provide professional firearms education—especially for women and faith-based communities—who want clear instruction, practical skills, and a solid understanding of the law.
With years of hands-on experience, I train civilians, community members, and security teams in responsible firearm ownership, Maryland firearm laws, and real-world self-defense principles. My approach is structured, respectful, and grounded in safety—designed to help students feel informed, capable, and confident without intimidation.
My goal isn’t just to teach marksmanship. It’s to ensure you understand your rights, your responsibilities, and how to make sound decisions under pressure.
At Piece Be Steel, we believe safety is a right, preparation is essential, and peace of mind is invaluable.
Our classes
Two day women’s firearms training experience designed to build confidence, clarity, and capability in a supportive setting.
This is more than a certification class. It is structured instruction combined with real world application so you leave prepared, not just qualified.
How It Works
Host the class. Invite five paying friends.
When five women register and attend, the host receives her CCW training free.
It is built on the principle that women grow stronger together. When you gather your circle, you do not just train. You elevate one another.
Day One | Private Instruction at the Host’s Home
We begin in a comfortable, private setting where questions are welcomed and fundamentals are taught thoroughly. This day covers firearm safety, Maryland law, situational awareness, mindset, and responsible ownership. You will gain a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities, safe handling practices, and what it truly means to carry with confidence.
Day Two | Live Fire Training at the Range
On day two, we move to the range for supervised live fire instruction. You will practice proper grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control, and safe firearm handling. This is where knowledge becomes skill and confidence becomes real.
Iron Sharpens Iron is designed for women who want to feel prepared, not pressured. Supported, not intimidated.
When five women commit, one leads free.
Confidence multiplies. Skill sharpens.
Maryland CCW Certification Course (16-Hour Training)
Learn the Law. Build Confidence. Carry Responsibly.
This is not just a class—it’s the training required to legally carry a concealed firearm in Maryland.
Our 16-hour Maryland CCW (Wear & Carry Permit) course is designed to give you the knowledge, structure, and confidence to move forward responsibly and legally.
What This Course Covers
Over the course of two full days (16 hours total), you will learn:
Maryland firearm laws and use-of-force regulations
Where you can and cannot legally carry
Safe handling, storage, and transportation
Situational awareness and decision-making
Conflict avoidance and de-escalation
Live-fire qualification required by the state
This course is built to ensure you’re not just certified—but prepared.
What’s Included
Certified 16-hour CCW training (meets Maryland state requirements)
Live-fire qualification
Firearm and ammunition provided for training
Structured, supportive instruction environment
You may also bring your own firearm if you prefer.
Course Format
Duration: 16 hours total
Schedule: 2 days (typically 8 hours each day)
Location: In-person training
What You Need Before Attending
To ensure a smooth experience, please have:
Valid photo ID or passport
Completed fingerprinting (required for application)
Signed waiver and required documents
Full details and required forms will be sent in your confirmation email.
Who This Is For
This course is ideal if you:
Want to legally carry in Maryland
Are new to firearms and want structured guidance
Prefer a clear, supportive, no-pressure learning environment
Want to fully understand the responsibility—not just pass a class
Important Policy
All bookings are final. No refunds will be issued.
What Happens After You Book
Once you register, you’ll receive:
A confirmation email with class details
A checklist of what to bring
Required documents and preparation steps
Support if you have questions before your class
Take the Next Step
Most people delay because they’re unsure where to start.
This course removes that uncertainty—and replaces it with clarity.
Book your CCW class today and move forward with confidence.
Maryland HQL Certification Course (Handgun Qualification License)
Start Here. Learn the Right Way. Own With Confidence.
If you’re planning to purchase a handgun in Maryland, this is your first step.
Our Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL) course is designed to give you the foundation, clarity, and confidence you need to legally own a firearm—without confusion or overwhelm.
What This Course Covers
This course meets all Maryland state requirements and walks you through:
Maryland firearm laws and purchasing requirements
Safe handling and storage
Basic firearm operation and fundamentals
Transportation and legal responsibilities
Live-fire training (required for most applicants)
You won’t just check a box—you’ll understand what you’re doing and why it matters.
What’s Included
State-required HQL certification training
Live-fire component (if applicable)
Firearm and ammunition provided for training
Step-by-step guidance on the HQL application process
You may also bring your own firearm if you prefer.
Course Format
Duration: Typically 4 hours
Location: In-person training
Instruction Style: Structured, beginner-friendly, and supportive
Who This Is For
This course is ideal if you:
Are purchasing your first handgun
Want to understand the legal process in Maryland
Prefer guided instruction instead of figuring it out alone
Want to build confidence before making a purchase
Before You Attend
To ensure a smooth experience, please have:
Valid photo ID or passport
Willingness to learn in a structured, safety-first environment
Additional requirements and documents will be sent in your confirmation email.
Important Policy
All bookings are final. No refunds will be issued.
What Happens After You Book
Once you register, you’ll receive:
A confirmation email with class details
A checklist of what to bring
Guidance on next steps after certification
Support if you have questions before your class
Not Sure What to Do After This?
Most new firearm owners make the mistake of buying before they understand what they actually need.
We can help with that.
After your HQL, you’ll have the option to:
Get guidance on selecting the right firearm
Continue training
Move forward with your CCW certification
Take the First Step
Owning a firearm starts with understanding it.
This course gives you that foundation—clearly, legally, and confidently.
Book your HQL class today.
Choosing the right firearm can be overwhelming—especially for first-time buyers or those new to shooting. Our Firearm Selection & Range Familiarization consultation is designed to guide you through the process of selecting a firearm that fits your needs, comfort level, and intended use. This personalized experience includes expert instruction, hands-on firearm comparisons, and supervised range testing to help you make a confident, informed decision.
their words, not mine
“What started as anxiety quickly turned into confidence thanks to her calm and supportive approach. If you’re new to shooting or just need someone who truly cares about your comfort and safety, I highly recommend Piece Be Steel. An amazing first experience!Thanks,”
★★★★★
Cauprise H
“Ashley runs an extremely professional, safety-first training environment while still keeping the session comfortable and approachable. From the start, she took the time to assess my current skill level and tailor the instruction specifically to me, which made the private lesson incredibly valuable.”
★★★★★
Thomas G.
“You showed incredible patience, paid close attention to detail and recognized both my strengths and weaknesses. I always felt supported encouraged never rushed or judged. You created an environment where I could learn and build real confidence. I grateful not just for the skills I gained but for the mindset and respect for safety you help instill in me.”
★★★★★
C. Green
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confidence
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safety
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skilled
✱ confidence ✱ safety ✱ skilled
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