ABOUT
P4 Certified - is a comprehensive, principle-based personal defense system that integrates seamlessly with any skill level or weapon platform. It provides scalable responses—from complete de-escalation to decisive action—based on context, not rigid techniques. With zero experience required to start, P4 offers physical, digital, and dry-fire training options, making it adaptable, sustainable, and effective for real-world defense.
"Jon Burke is the real deal. His P4 program provides flexible methods for addressing armed and unarmed aggressors that can be performed by anyone. His techniques are tactically sound and I have applied them on the streets with successful outcomes, without sustaining injuries to myself or the suspect."
R. Chamberlin - LE Officer
P4 PROGRAM
Participants of P4 Certified will learn a principle-based personal defense system designed for real-world application. Built to integrate seamlessly with any skill level or weapon platform, P4 provides scalable responses—from complete de-escalation to decisive action—based on context, not rigid techniques
Pillar 1: Standing
Pillar 1 focuses on stand-up engagements and the proactive and reactive Modes of Engagement / Entries (MOEs) used to manage threats safely and effectively. Emphasis is placed on de-escalation, officer safety, use-of-force reduction, and risk mitigation.
These MOEs are designed with weapon systems in mind—whether carried or deployed by the officer or the threat—and account for the reactionary gap and use-of-force continuum. Training is adaptable to all body types, strength levels, and experience ranges, from zero to expert. All MOEs are bilateral and can be applied in any order, seamlessly integrating with all other P4 pillars and existing skill sets.
Pillar 2: Ground
Pillar 2 addresses ground engagements, both top and bottom positions, with officer safety as the primary priority. This pillar places strong emphasis on managing the reactionary gap and operating within the higher levels of the use-of-force continuum when necessary.
Officers are trained to use the P4 Clock System methodology to solve problems on the ground while creating space, protecting themselves, and safeguarding their weapon systems. Pillar 2 allows for proactive and reactive solutions, supports apprehension and detention when appropriate, and integrates seamlessly with Pillar 1 MOEs throughout the engagement. All techniques are scalable, non-violent when possible, and adaptable to real-world conditions.
Pillar 3: Weapon
Pillar 3 centers on the Gundamental™ program and addresses officer safety when edged, blunt, or firearm weapon systems are introduced—by either the threat or the officer.
This pillar teaches both offensive and defensive weapon applications from multiple states: holstered, off-body, free-standing, or deployed. Officers learn how to prioritize weapon control, disarm safely, and determine the appropriate next course of action based on context and legal considerations.
Pillar 3 uniquely integrates MOEs from Pillars 1 and 2, allowing officers to transition fluidly between pillars while maintaining simplicity, scalability, accountability, and de-escalation as core principles. Escalation is available when required, but always applied deliberately and responsibly.
Pillar 4: Digital Training Platform
Pillar 4 provides a flexible digital training solution that reinforces all P4 principles through online education, dry-fire instruction, and scenario-based learning. This platform allows individuals and organizations to train consistently regardless of location, schedule, or resource limitations.
The Digital Platform supports skill development, retention, and sustainability while maintaining alignment with the Upright, Ground, and Weapon Systems pillars. It enables continuous learning, scalable onboarding, and long-term proficiency without sacrificing safety or effectiveness.