RAT About the RAT Fighting System
Decades of law enforcement, firearms, and martial arts experience, distilled into one system.
Practical, Life-Saving Training
The RAT Fighting System is the reality-based self-protection training offered by VGI Tactics. Our mission is to equip you or your organization with the knowledge and skills to navigate today’s increasingly unpredictable threat landscape, with training customized for individuals, groups, and organizations facing threats of violence.
Our delivery methods include online, in-person, and hybrid seminars and classes, consulting, coaching, and instructor development. Our clients include civilians, security, law enforcement, military, and intelligence professionals.
VGI Tactics is a d.b.a. of Vecchi Group International, LLC — a service-disabled veteran-owned small business (SD-VOSB) with an A+ BBB rating, eligible for U.S. federal contracts via SAM (UEI YZJAM6WJM6M6 / CAGE 795F0).
Where RAT Comes From
The RAT Fighting System builds on Sifu Paul Vunak’s Rapid Assault Tactics, a direct-action, military-grade combatives program taught to U.S. Navy SEAL Team 6 in the 1980s. The VGI Tactics version keeps that foundation and adds what civilians and officers need today: averting violence, de-escalation, force matched to the threat and the law, and gunfighting, which was not part of Vunak’s original program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can enroll?
Our courses are open to civilians and professionals. Firearms training is limited to U.S. persons (citizens and lawful permanent residents) because of ITAR.
Do you offer private or group sessions?
Yes. We offer both. Private coaching is billed hourly.
Can I become a RAT instructor?
Yes. Instructor certification runs at three levels, Apprentice, Journeyman, and full Instructor, and you receive a diploma on completion.
How do I sign up?
Click Count Me In on any course page, or use the Contact page. When a class forms, we’ll send a link to pay your $50 deposit and hold your seat. You can also call (605) 920-0229 or email info@vgi-tactics.com.
How long are the courses?
Live courses run one to three days. Self-paced online courses are offered when available.
What payment methods do you accept?
Credit and debit cards and other online payments.
Testimonials
“I recently attended the 3-day Pistol Gunfighting Course offered by Dr. Greg Vecchi. I must say it was actively engaging, challenging, and an absolute game changer if you are serious about your shooting ability. Dr. Vecchi brings years of real-world experience and a direct, yet friendly, no-nonsense approach to how to approach self-defense scenarios and dealing with the aftermath.
In his course, we went in depth on how the brain processes information, how your training progression is best optimized, and the fundamentals of the C.A.R. system for building your shooting skills for ever-changing environments. Ranging from close-quarter engagements to knowing when not to shoot, Dr. Vecchi’s teaching style is perfect for the serious shooter.
In my two decades of teaching edged weapons and empty-hand martial arts, I have seen many great instructors. After taking Dr. Vecchi’s class, I can attest that he is an expert-level instructor with something for everyone, from those just starting out to advanced shooters alike. If you value your awareness and preparedness skill sets, taking Dr. Vecchi’s classes will serve you and those you love for years to come.”
“As director of a large Midwest healthcare hospital, I’ve contracted with VGI Tactics to provide advanced self-defense tactics for our security team. Officers raved about Greg’s techniques and training style and returned feeling more confident. His mastery of all subjects related to firearms and defensive tactics is top-tier.
Over many years of carrying a firearm for personal and professional needs, I’ve been trained by many noteworthy, highly regarded trainers, including U.S. and Australian Special Operations experts. Greg brings a new dimension and has helped me take my training to a new level. I wholly endorse Greg Vecchi of VGI Tactics for exceptional training in firearms and defensive tactics.”
“Greg Vecchi is one of the most talented, dedicated individuals I have ever had the pleasure to work with. His martial arts skills and tactical knowledge are unsurpassed in the industry and have been tested in real life over a career of thirty-plus years. If you’re lucky enough to train with this man, you are one lucky individual.”