Abbie Padilla
Instructor
Biography:
Women’s Firearms Instructor | Certified Firearms Instructor | Co-Founder of Arden Defense
Abbie Padilla is a certified firearms instructor, Women’s Firearms Instructor at Rainier Arms
Firearms Academy, and co-founder of Arden Defense. A longtime Wichita-area resident, wife, and
mother, she is passionate about helping individuals—especially women—develop the confidence,
knowledge, and skills necessary to become safe and responsible firearm owners.
Like many of her students, Abbie’s journey began with a concealed carry permit and a desire to
better protect herself and her family. A women’s introductory firearms class sparked a passion for
training that quickly evolved into a commitment to lifelong learning and instruction.
Since then, Abbie has trained with nationally recognized instructors across the country in defensive
handgun, carbine, force-on-force, vehicle defense, emergency medical response, and other
advanced defensive disciplines. Her teaching style emphasizes safety, encouragement, and
practical application, creating an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions
and building confidence at their own pace.
As co-founder of Arden Defense and a Women’s Firearms Instructor with Rainier Arms Firearms
Academy, Abbie is dedicated to creating opportunities for women to learn, grow, and connect
through firearms education. She believes that confidence is built through quality instruction,
consistent practice, and a supportive community.
Whether teaching someone who has never handled a firearm or helping an experienced shooter
refine their skills, Abbie’s mission remains the same:
Empower every student through education, confidence, and responsible firearms training.
Professional Certifications
• USCCA Certified Firearms Instructor
• NRA Certified Pistol Instructor
• Certified Off-Body Carry Instructor
• Kansas Concealed Carry Handgun License Instructor
