SWOP Gun Club
The SWOP Gun Club is a sex worker only space rooted in safety, confidence, and community care.
It was created in response to increasing uncertainty and the very real safety concerns many sex workers are navigating. This program exists to provide access to firearms education in a way that is supportive, harm reduction focused, and led by the needs of the community.
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This space is not about fear, punishment, or intimidation. It is about access to information, informed choice, and building confidence in a setting where sex workers can learn without judgment.
Whether someone is brand new to firearms or looking to strengthen existing skills, the gun club is designed to be practical, respectful, and grounded in care.
What the Gun Club Offers
We meet twice a month and offer two types of classes. All classes are sex worker only and facilitated in a supportive, non judgmental environment.
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Dry fire classes: Held at the SWOP office, these classes focus on getting comfortable around firearms without live ammunition. Topics include safe handling, understanding basic firearm parts, storage, care and cleaning, and building confidence through education.
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Live fire classes: Held at a local range, these classes provide hands on training with live ammunition. Participants receive guided instruction, support, and time to practice in a controlled setting.
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Permit to Carry classes: We also offer Permit to Carry classes for sex workers. Due to the high level of need, we now offer a virtual Permit to Carry option through Atlas Defense for only $10.
This discounted rate is available only to sex workers. Please note this is a two step process. First, you will complete the virtual Permit to Carry class.
After that, you will attend a live fire class to complete the shooting qualification and receive your paperwork. To receive the discount code and details, please email us or send us a direct message on Instagram. We are happy to walk you through the process and answer any questions.
Accessibility and Cost
The first 10 participants for each class attend for free.
Once capacity is reached, additional spots are available for $25. This structure helps keep the program accessible while supporting the ongoing costs of training, range time, and supplies. Firearms, safety equipment, and instruction are provided.
Participants are only required to bring a valid ID.
Why This Space Matters and How to Join
Many sex workers are navigating increased risk, uncertainty, and fear in their daily lives.
The SWOP Gun Club exists to provide education and support without judgment, pressure, or assumptions. It is a space where sex workers can learn at their own pace, ask questions freely, and build skills alongside others who understand their realities.
This program is rooted in community care, not punishment or surveillance. Participation is always optional, and no one is expected to arrive with prior experience or knowledge.
Six months of gun club classes are available to sign up for at a time. Registration is required for all classes, as space is limited. Sign up links can be found in our Linktree.
If you have questions about the gun club or want to learn more before signing up, you are welcome to reach out. We are happy to help.
Support the Gun Club
Allies who want to support this program are welcome to contribute in meaningful ways. Contributions help keep the gun club accessible and reduce barriers for sex workers who want to participate.
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Donate Ammunition: Ammunition donations help cover the cost of live fire classes and ensure participants have what they need for hands on training.
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Sponsor a Participant: You can also help cover the cost of an additional participant. Once free spots are filled, classes cost $25 per person. Sponsoring a spot helps ensure that cost is not a barrier for sex workers who want to attend.
Your support helps sustain this program and ensures access to safety education remains community led and available.
