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
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.
Maryland CCW + HQL Certification Bundle
Get Certified. Get Licensed. Do It Once—Do It Right.
If you’re serious about firearm ownership in Maryland, this is the most efficient path forward.
Our CCW + HQL Bundle combines both required certifications into one streamlined training experience—so you can purchase, carry, and move forward with confidence.
What This Bundle Includes
You’ll complete both:
HQL Certification (Handgun Qualification License)
Required to legally purchase a handgun in Maryland.
CCW Certification (Wear & Carry Permit)
Required to legally carry a concealed firearm.
Why Take the Bundle
Most people take these courses separately—and end up wasting time, repeating information, and delaying the process.
This bundle allows you to:
Complete both certifications in one structured path
Save time and money
Build confidence faster with consistent instruction
Understand both ownership and carry laws together
What You’ll Learn
Across both certifications, you’ll cover:
Maryland firearm laws and legal responsibilities
Use-of-force and where you can legally carry
Safe handling, storage, and transportation
Firearm fundamentals and operation
Situational awareness and decision-making
Live-fire training and qualification
This is about more than passing—it’s about being prepared.
What’s Included
Full HQL certification training
Full 16-hour CCW certification (2-day course)
Firearm and ammunition provided for training
Live-fire qualification
Step-by-step guidance for both applications
You may also bring your own firearm if you prefer.
Application Support (What Makes This Different)
Most people leave training with paperwork—and confusion about what to do next.
We don’t do that.
At the end of your training, we walk you through your application and submit your forms to the state with you, ensuring:
Accuracy and completeness
Reduced risk of delays or errors
A smoother, more streamlined approval process
You leave not just trained—but fully in motion.
Course Format
Total Training Time: HQL + 16-hour CCW
Schedule: Completed over two 8 hour consecutive day sessions
Location: TBD In-person training
Who This Is For
This bundle is ideal if you:
Want to purchase and carry a firearm
Prefer a clear, guided path instead of figuring it out alone
Want to save time by completing everything at once
Are committed to responsible, informed firearm ownership
Before You Attend
To ensure a smooth experience, please have:
Valid photo ID or passport
Fingerprinting completed
Willingness to learn in a structured, safety-first environment
Full instructions and required documents will be sent after booking.
Important Policy
All bookings are final. No refunds will be issued.
What Happens After You Book
You’ll receive:
A checklist of what to bring
Required forms and preparation steps
Guidance on completing both applications
The Smart Way to Start
Most people try to piece this together over time.
This bundle gives you a clear, complete path from beginner to certified—without confusion or delays.
Take the Next Step
If you’re going to do this, do it once—and do it right.
Book the CCW + HQL Bundle today.
their words, not mine
“I can’t say enough about my experience at Piece Be Still with Ms. Ashley. From the moment I walked in, she was kind and welcoming, creating a safe and peaceful environment. Her knowledge if gun ownership is exceptional, and her patience while teaching made me feel comfortable and confident. i left feeling empowered, informed, and at peace.”
★★★★★
V. Jackson
“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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