“We’ll help get you on target”
Upcoming Courses & Dates:
- Ohio CCW Course, Saturday October 10th, 9am-6pm (Location: Rockbridge, OH) – Cost: $80/per person & student/attendee MUST supply their own firearm AND ammunition for this class. Payment DUE at time of class via CASH payment ONLY!
To Register for courses: Please email us:-> Registration@SouthwestFirearmsAcademy.com
Our firearms academy is instructed by NRA Certified Firearms Instructors and we offer both, NRA Courses and Non-NRA Courses.
We offer a variety of courses, below is a list of some of our course offerings:
- Ohio Concealed Carry Course (To obtain a CCW license/permit)
- Hybrid NRA Basic Pistol Course (In-Person content based course/non-online)
- CCW Fundamentals & Skill Builders
- CCW Legal Issues & Other Matters
- NRA Shooting Qualification course(s)
- Basic Shooter and Firing Range Course
- Rifle & Shotgun Training
- Less-lethal Self Defense
- TASER® training & certification
- “Fun Shoots” (carnival, trick & other various shots)
We also offer advanced firearms training and tactical situation response, below are some advanced courses:
- Tactical Handgun Course(s)
- Force-on-Force Courses
- Edged & Impact Weapons
- Tactical Response to a Situation
- Personal Protection Inside & Outside the Home (Non-NRA Course)
- Advanced Tactical Long-Gun Course (covering both rifle & shotgun)
- We can also custom design a course to meet your training and educational needs.
Our Mission: Our mission is to provide quality and informative firearms and tactical training to students who desire to learn and continue their firearms and self-defense training and to further the students knowledge, skills and attitude regarding self-defense and firearms proficiency
Our Goal: Our goal is for every student whom attends our courses to leave with a working knowledge of the topic at hand and a better understanding of the relation of the topic
Course Expanded Descriptions: Below you will find a listing of our course offerings and course descriptions (Course # precedes Course Name)
1001 NRA Basic Pistol Course – This course is the basic foundation which our other courses are built upon. In this course, we introduce the students to the various types of handguns such as revolvers vs pistols and various action types: single/double/double-only actions, their operation, safe handling, use, cleaning and storage. Class also discusses various ammunition types/calibers. It is NOT required that a student currently own a handgun for this class! If you do not currently own a handgun, students will learn methods of selecting a handgun to fit their needs.Various handguns will be available during the course for students to view. Additionally, if a student does already own their own handgun, they may use their ouw handgun in this course. Course open to ALL ages! 8-Hr Class; Prerequisites: NONE — Course Cost: $(TBA)
1002-12A Concealed Carry Course (12-Hr) – Our most popular course for those who are not familiar and/or readily comfortable with handling/operating a handgun, as this course is more of a “starter” and “from the ground up” education and certification course which is for those who are seeking to obtain an Out-of-State CCW License and/or CCW/CHL license/permit from another state (excludes Illinois). This class consists of a two-part course: the first being a condensed version of the NRA Basic Pistol Course, where students learn the basics of the NRA curriculum. The second part of the course is based on the “Ohio Model CCW Curriculum” which was developed by the State of Ohio (OPOTA). This course is a “GENERAL, non-specific state class that can be used to satisfy the training requirements for out-of-state permit applications, however this course will EXCEED the Ohio training requirements. This course also includes additional/supplemental content from the USCCA. This course meets/exceeds the Ohio CCW Training requirements.It is NOT required that a student currently own a handgun for this class! If you do not currently own a handgun, students will learn methods of selecting a handgun for their needs in this class. Additionally, if a student does already own their own handgun, they may use their own handgun in this course. Students may also seek to obtain an out of state non-resident CCW permit after the completion of this courses for the following states of: Florida, Virginia, Arizona, Idaho, Oregon, Nevada, other states being added; **NEW Course Content: Course now also references 3 additional training books: USCCA – Concealed Carry & Home Defense. Books are available for purchase during classes. We build a solid foundation for your CCW training and our CCW course includes far more information, handouts and student books than any other instructor in our local area, you won’t be disappointed with the amount of information you learn in this course! This course is designed to meet and comply with the OHIO minimum educational requirements, so students wishing to attend THIS course need not already have a familiarity with the safe operation of a handgun. The additional (2) books that we include in our course are not offered by any other local instructors! 8-Hr NRA Class (Including 2-Hr Range Time) = 4-Hr Classroom for Self Defense/Laws topcis = Total 12-Hrs — Course Cost: $ (Cost: $(TBA)
1002-8B OHIO Concealed Carry Course (8-Hr) ***New*** – Our most popular course is for those who are seeking to obtain an Ohio CCW license/permit or for another state that has the same/similar training requirements to obtain a CCW permit/license (excludes Illinois). This class This course meets the newly REVISED Ohio training requirements that took effect in March 2015, that reduced the Ohio training hours from 12 to a new minimum of just 8 hours. This course meets/exceeds the Ohio CCW Training requirements to apply for an Ohio permit. It is NOT required that a student currently own a handgun for this class! If you do not currently own a handgun, students will learn methods of selecting a handgun for their needs in this class. Additionally, if a student does already own their own handgun, they may use their own handgun in this course. We build a solid foundation to for your CCW training and our CCW course includes far more information, handouts than any other instructor in our local area, you won’t be disappointed with the amount of information you learn in this course! This course is designed to meet and comply with the OHIO minimum educational requirements, so students wishing to attend THIS course SHOULD already have a familiarity with the safe operation of a handgun, as this course is not as inclusive regarding an in-depth presentation regarding how various handguns operate/function, but instead focuses on the two most common handguns, being the semiautomatic pistol and the revolver. Students are encouraged to be familiar with these two types of firearms prior to attending this course. 6-Hr Classroom + 2-Hr Range Time = Total 8-Hrs Training– Course Cost: $ (Please see course cost levels/options below) Course does NOT include the purchase of: USCCA – Concealed Carry & Home Defense, but the book is available for purchase during class and/or from other sources.
Special Notice regarding taking a CCW training course & a pre-course background check:Please be aware that OUR facility does NOT require any student to undergo a background check as a prerequisite to attend our CCW training course! It has come to our attention that there are “some” other instructors/training facilities that are requiring students to pay for and then undergo/complete a pre-course background check just to be able to attend the CCW basic training course. Please be aware that any instructor/training facility that requires this IS A SCAM! First off: it is NOT a requirement of the NRA that one must pass a background check to take the NRA Basic Pistol Course. Any instructor/training facility that requires this is simply just an attempt for that instructor/training facility to charge you for a background check and then they obtain a FREE public copy of your county records check via the online county records check systems. Please be aware, that it is NOT a state law requirement that you must pass a background check PRIOR to your obtaining you CCW basic training! Simply put: the ONLY background check that you are required to pass is the one conducted by the county sheriff’s office at the time you apply for your CCW permit. You are REQUIRED to present valid government issued photo identification at the CCW basic training course to prove your identity as to whom is in attendance of the course and to whom the training certificate is made out and presented to for having attended and passed the course. So, please be forewarned of this new SCAM tactic! Additionally, NO instructor/training facility can accept your application! ONLY the sheriff’s office can accept your application to apply for an Ohio CCW permit. Only a person whom is a felon or precluded by law from owning and/or having possession of a firearm in not able to attend any firearms training course that is offered by any instructor/training facility. Furthermore, please know that you are NOT required to own and/or purchase a firearm prior to attending your CCW basic training course. Should you have any questions regarding this, please feel free to contact our office, your local county sheriff’s office or the Ohio Attorney General office to answer any questions you may have. *This posting and notice is made as a public service announcement*
Under 21 CCW Course – If you are not yet 21-years old, you can still attend our Concealed Carry Course! A common misconception is that you must be at least 21-years old to attend, but that’s simply not the case! Our CCW Course is open to persons 18-years or older, but here’s the catch: In order to apply for your CCW permit, you must be at least 21-years old, but you ARE permitted to attend the training course before your 21st birthday and our training certificates are valid for up to 3-years (per Ohio law), so that means you can get your state required training completed, and when it’s your 21st birthday you can make your appointment to apply with the county sheriff to obtain your Ohio CCW permit. This works out great so that you don’t have to wait after your 21-st birthday to get your CCW permit. ALSO: We do offer course discounts for those persons who are 18-20 years old and would like to attend our course. If you are between the ages of 18-20, please contact our office to register. Cost: $(TBA)
Ohio Teachers Firearm Course – Our facility is dedicated to firearms training and assisting people express their right to safely own and carry firearms with proper concealed carry permit/licensing. Accordingly, we will offer a $25 discount to any currently certified teacher that can provide current/valid (unexpired) proof of certification & license as a teacher on file with the Ohio Department of Education (ODoE). In order to apply for this discount, please contact our office via phone or email. Also, please note: you must provide a valid copy of your license. If you have a group of teachers who are interested in obtaining their Ohio CCW Permit, we can offer group rates with this discount also. The protection of our children is extremely important & we offer this discount to help our teachers. – Prerequisites: provide valid copy of teaching certificate PRIOR to course date (at time of registration). Cost: $(TBA)
1003 CCW Refresher/Re-qualification Course – This class is designed to meet/exceed the requirements of the Ohio Revised Code for students that need to obtain refresher training and live fire shooting range experience in order to renew their CCW license. This class is NOT the entire NRA Basic Pistol/CCW Course all over, this class is specifically designed for students seeking to obtain the “Refresher Requirements” to renew their CCW license and training certificate. This class also includes notifying students of any updates/changes to the Ohio CCW laws, providing the student with a current copy of the Ohio CCW Laws Pamphlet, as provided by the Ohio Attorney Generals Office. Prerequisites for this class: Student must have a current or recently expired (within 90-days) Concealed Carry Permit from Ohio or any other state that honors an Ohio CCW Permit in order to take this refresher course. Includes any new Ohio CCW laws & requirements for CCW refresher. 3-Hr Class (Approx 4-hrs with paperwork) Cost: $(TBA)
***New*** Illinois Concealed Carry Course – Our facility is currently developing a new course to satisfy the Illinois requirements to apply for the Illinois CCW Permit. This course will be a minimum of 16-hours, as per Illinois law! Please check back later for additional updates and further details. Cost: $(TBA)
1004 CCW Fundamentals & Skill Builders – This course is the next level in continuing your training and education after you have completed our NRA Basic Pistol & CCW Course and obtained your permit to carry concealed. In this course we will cover the following topics: gun/holster selection; methods/modes of carry; presentation from concealment; move to cover; “sound-off/issuing commands”; tunnel-vision avoidance; drawing from your holster; use of force continuum; additional items to carry. 12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit, attended a NRA Basic Pistol and any Concealed Carry Course; Required Course Textbook: USCCA – Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals (Student provided or must purchase) — Course #1004 Cost: $(TBA)
1005 Personal Protection Inside & Outside the Home (PPI&OTH) – This course is geared more towards the everyday carry of a handgun by a licensed CCW/CHL licensee and how to deal with situations and when to use force. This class includes discussion of various “What If”s” and contains some scenario and role-play based training, to allow students to practice their response to various situations and the use of both deadly & non-deadly force. Course also covers various methods of carry/holster selection and firearm type/selection; ammunition type/selection for concealed/defensive carry options. This course “lays the groundwork to build upon” to continue forward and attend our Advanced Tactical Pistol Course. Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit.This course is not an NRA-sanctioned course, this course is instructed by our training academy staff and utilizes our own “in-house” materials, as developed by our instructor staff, along with some NRA materials for reference. 12-Hrs — Required Course Textbook: USCCA – Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals (Student provided or must purchase) — Course #1005 Cost: $(TBA)
1006 CCW “What If’s” & Legal Issues (Module #2) – This course includes classroom discussion and is highly student discussion based to encourage interaction and discussion of possible “what if’s” and the legality issues of carrying a concealed firearm, use of a firearm for self defense and the aftermath a self-defense shooting. This course serves to encourage the student to understand the need and application for additional firearms & concealed carry training and exposes the student to new ideas, opinions and perspectives surrounding the carry of a concealed firearm for self defense purposes. In the wake of the aftermath of a CCW involved shooting for self-defense, it is extremely important to know this material. Discussions regarding what to expect in the aftermath of a self defense shooting situation, what/how to handle interactions with law enforcement, the investigations and the prosecuting attorney. Additional discussion topics including defensive strategies in the courtroom, what not to say, that will wreck your situation. Course includes student book and materials for course, NO firearm is needed in-class, as this course does NOT include any live-fire shooting. No legal advise is included in this course, just covers topics of discussion and points to consider, please contact your attorney for any specific legal questions that may relate to your specific situation. 12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit, attended a NRA Basic Pistol and any Concealed Carry Course; Required Course Textbook: Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals USCCA edition only -AND- The Law of Self Defense 2nd edition, by Andrew F. Branca (Both books are either Student provided or must purchase) — Course #1006 Cost: $(TBA)
1029 CCW 101 (What You NEED To Know BEFORE You Carry) ***New*** – This course includes classroom discussion and covers topics that EVERY person should know and be familiar with BEFORE they CCW. Course covers various topics for discussion. Course includes student book and materials for course, NO firearm is needed in-class, as this course does NOT include any live-fire shooting. 8-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit, attended a NRA Basic Pistol and any Concealed Carry Course; Required Course Textbook: USCCA – Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals (Student provided or must purchase) — Course #1029 Cost: $(TBA)
1027 Survival Mindset (“Keep it together to keep alive”) ***New*** – This course covers the defensive mindset, the will power to survive a shooting and discussions regarding the physical and psychological aspects and effects during and after a shooting. This course should be attended by anyone who is an EDC (everyday carry person) and why the student needs to have an understanding of what will happen to their mind and body in a real life situation and how to cope with these situations. Simply put, we believe that nobody should only attend classes that just focus around firearms skills, but should instead also attend this course to understand the dynamics of these situation where you may be faced with fighting for your life. For this course: NO firearm is needed in-class, as this course does NOT include any live-fire shooting. Course consists of classroom discussion, case-study reviews and previous CCW shooting video reviews. 8-Hr Class — Prerequisites: NONE — Course #1027 Cost: $(TBA)
1007 Advanced Handgun – This course is the next level in the sequence of continuing your CCW firearms training to sharpen your knowledge base and skill sets. This course covers the following topics: drawing your handgun from a holster; malfunctions & clearance drills; advanced shooting positions; low-light shooting; intro to multiple targets; timed shots & shooting under pressure. Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer. 12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit, attended a NRA Basic Pistol and any Concealed Carry Course; Required Course Textbook: USCCA – Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals (Student provided or must purchase) — Course #1007 Cost: $(TBA)
1008 Tactical Handgun – This course is further builds on the skills learned in the previous class and then takes it to the next level by incorporating additional new items to include: move & shoot (un-holstered); move & shoot (draw holstered pistol); move & shoot w/multi-target engagement; shooting from a vehicle; low-light move & shoot. Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer. 12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit and must have attended our Advanced Handgun Course; Required Course Textbook: USCCA – Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals (Student provided or must purchase) — Course #1008 Cost: $(TBA)
1028 Tactical Revolver (“Revolver for EDC”) ***New*** – This course covers the (EDC) Every Day Carry of a revolver as you CCW weapon system. This course was developed to address the needs for training and topics of discussion that are specific to those whom desire and choose to carry a revolver (instead of a semiautomatic) for their CCW self defense firearm. This course will include classroom discussion relating to specific topics associated with the concealed carry of a revolver, methods of carry, along with draw from cover/concealment and presentation. Course will also consist of practical shooting courses of fire on the range to help students develop proper techniques for use of their revolver. 12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit, attended a NRA Basic Pistol and any Concealed Carry Course;Required Course Textbook: Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals USCCA edition only -AND- Defensive Revolver Fundamentals by Grant Cunningham (Both books are either Student provided or must purchase) — Course #1028 Cost: $(TBA)
1030 Every Day Carry [EDC] & Engagement ***New*** – This course was designed to further expand upon a students’ fundamental foundation of their EDC techniques and to specifically allow students to engage targets from EDC positions. This course incorporates various EDC methods, from OWB, IWB, SoB, Appendix Carry, Shoulder holster and cross-draw, just to name a few. Course will involve both classroom discussion and live-fire shooting. 8-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit, attended a NRA Basic Pistol and any Concealed Carry Course; Required Course Textbook: USCCA – Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals (Student provided or must purchase); Student MUST provide their own firearm, ammunition and holster for their firearm — Course #1030 Cost: $(TBA)
1009 Force-on-Force (Level #1) – This course incorporates all the skills a student has learned to this point and allows the student to put these skills to use in actual one-on-one interactive scenarios that include force-on-force situations through role play exercises. Course includes instructor driven sample scenarios and discussion and then gets “hands-on” with student participation of practice scenarios to demonstrate practical, real-world application of the use of force continuum and go/no-go response to a given situation. This is a “full class participation” course, no students are “left-out” while conduction the hands-on scenario training evolution of this course. NOTE: This course DOES involve the actual use of airsoft safe training weapons where the students will have the actual opportunity to “fire at and be fired upon” while using airsoft weapons and safety equipment. 12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit, attended our Advanced Handgun and Tactical Handgun Course; — Course #1009 Cost: $(TBA)
1010 Force-on-Force (Level #2) – This course continues to build upon the topics from the level #1 course and includes additional scenarios to allow the students additional practice handling possible real-world encounters that involve the proper application and use of force given a situation. This course contains additional detailed discussions about each of the various scenarios presented and the possible outcomes. The goal of this course is to encourage the student to broaden their viewpoints and perspectives with regard to the use of force in real-world encounters, be aware of some possible situations that the student may encounter while “carrying concealed” and be aware of the possible consequences of their actions given a situation. NOTE: This course DOES involve the actual use of airsoft safe training weapons where the students will have the actual opportunity to “fire at and be fired upon” while using airsoft weapons and safety equipment 12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit, attended our Advanced Handgun, Tactical Handgun and Force-on-Force Level #1 Course; — Course #1010 Cost: $(TBA)
Advanced Tactical Handgun Course – Discontinued/Reformatted: This course has been split into individual courses and the material reformatted into two seperate course offerings to allow for additional instruction of the topics covered. Please see the two new course offerings: Advanced Handgun & Tactical Handgun courses. This class is extensively scenario based and provides students with the “What-If’s” during various scenario and role-play based exercises. We also discuss the “What-If’s” and how to handle these situations. We also cover topics such as: Situational Awareness, Handgun selection and methods of carry that best optimize your tactical advantage, ammunition for self defense, “Go/No-Go” & the “Use of Force Continuum”, along with less than lethal self defense methods and hand-to-hand combat. This course specifically targeted towards & geared to deal with “Tactical Response to a Situation”. Requisites for class: Must have attended our NRA Basic Pistol class AND our PPI&OTH class, prior to being allowed to attend this course. Due to the nature of this course, the student is REQUIRED to provide their own handgun/ammo and holster. Valid CCW Permit Required to attend this course.12-Hrs This course is very scenario and role-play based with both lethal & Less-lethal force situations for training/practice and includes live-fire shooting exercises (ie: move & shoot/multiple targets) This course is still listed due to past students whom may have taken this course are aware of the course and content change. The original course number assigned to this specific format was: ATHC102
1011 Tactical Response to a Situation – This course covers various tactical advantages/disadvantages during a self defense situation. Topics of personal protection to that of an Active Shooter situation. Discussion regarding the tactics in these various situations and scenario based situations to expose the student to these situations. 12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit, attended our Advanced Handgun, Tactical Handgun and Force-on-Force Level #1 & #2 Courses; — Course #1011 Cost: $(TBA)
1025 CCW & Vehicular Counter Ambush ***New*** – Course covers tactical and response scenarios regarding possible “real-life” situations that a CCW holder may find themselves in while in or entering/exiting a vehicle. Topics also covered include prows/cons of a CCW involved shooting from a vehicle and the dynamics of holster draw while seated inside of a vehicle and shooting techniques from a seated position. Course will include hands-on live fire involving a vehicle. 12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit, attended our Advanced Handgun, Tactical Handgun and Force-on-Force Level #1 & #2 Courses; — Course #1025 Cost: $(TBA)
1026 Womens EDC Firearm Course ***New*** – This course was developed to address the issues that women face when exercising their right to CCW and the unique problems that women face regarding carry/concealment options, weapon selection and force options given a situation. Course also covers issues including “the mothers instinct” of protection of children and the psychology of a shooting from a female self defense perspective. This course is NOT a CCW certification course, but instead covers topics of females whom choose to exercise their right to carry and discusses factors that effect their methods or carry and other information that relates to female carry options. 8-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit, and be a FEMALE. This course is ONLY open to women! — Course #1026 Cost: $(TBA)
1027 CCW Holsters 101 ***New*** – This course covers the many various types and styles of holsters available for concealed carry. We will review and discuss various Methods of Carry and examine the pros/cons of each method and pair the best holster options for various situations, from EDC (Every Day Carry) to deep concealment. We will also address the options and considerations to think of when carrying and dressing for the weather (hot/cold). Course is entirely classroom based, and there is no live-fire shooting in this course. Students will be able to try various holsters in this class. 8-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have a current (NON-Expired) CCW Permit — Course #1027 Cost: $(TBA)
1012 Rifle Basic Training – Course covers rifle types, operation, accessories, safe handling, use of, cleaning and storage. This class also discusses various rifle ammunition types and calibers. Course includes live fire shooting. This is a basic class with no prerequisites to attend. 8-Hr Class – Prerequisites: NONE — Course #1012 Cost: $(TBA)
1013 Shotgun Basic Training – Course covers shotgun , operation, accessories, safe handling, use of, cleaning and storage. This class also discusses various shotgun ammunition types and calibers. Course includes live fire shooting. This is a basic class with no prerequisites to attend. 8-Hr Class – Prerequisites: NONE — Course #1012 Cost: $(TBA)
1014 Advanced Tactical Long-Gun (Module #1 – Shotgun) – This course is similar to the Advanced Tactical Handgun Course, however, this class deals with the use, selection and response to situations with the use of a shotgun. This course will cover both “use of” and “response to” situations and scenarios and will include active role-playing situations that allow the student to engage in response to an incident and helps to develop the students’ skills. Prerequisites for this class: Student must have attended our Shotgun Basic Training class prior to attending this course, due to the nature of this course, the student MUST provide their own shotgun for use during this course to allow the student to operate the same firearm and become more familiar with its operation and use when responding to and utilizing it in these given situations. a CCW permit is NOT required, but is recommended for this course. Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer.
12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have attended an NRA Basic Rifle and/or Shotgun Course; Required Course Textbook: The Tactical Shotgun by Gabriel Suarez (Book is either Student provided or must purchase) — Course #1014 Cost: $(TBA)
1015 Advanced Tactical Long-Gun (Module #2 – Rifle & Carbine) – This course is similar to the Advanced Tactical Handgun Course, however, this class deals with the use, selection and response to situations with the use of a rifle. This course will cover both “use of” and “response to” situations and scenarios and will include active role-playing situations that allow the student to engage in response to an incident and helps to develop the students’ skills. Prerequisites for this class: Student must have attended our Rifle Basic Training class prior to attending this course, due to the nature of this course, the student MUST provide their own Rifle for use during this course to allow the student to operate the same firearm and become more familiar with its operation and use when responding to and utilizing it in these given situations. a CCW permit is NOT required, but is recommended for this course.
Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer.
12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have attended an NRA Basic Rifle and/or Shotgun Course; — Course #1015 Cost: $(TBA)
1016 Long-Gun Tactical Accessories – This course covers the various tactical accessories available for both the tactical rifle and the tactical shotgun. Course topics include: Optic system (selection, application & use); grip & forend upgrades; magazines & speed re-loading; Tactical lighting systems & lasers. This course is an “all-around” course about upgrades available for your tactical weapon system. 8-Hrs — Prerequisites: NONE — Course #1016 Cost: $(TBA)
1017 Edged & Impact Weapons for Self Defense – This course covers topics such as selection and use of edged weapons (such as knives) for self defense purposes, methods of carry and proper technique for safe use. Course also includes discussion regarding impact weapons and pressure point control techniques for self defense applications, such as expandable baton, kubaton, and others. Course includes various scenario/role-play based situations for students to interact and apply the skills taught in this course. 8-Hr Class — Prerequisites: NONE — Course #1017 Cost: $(TBA)
1018 Less-Lethal Force Defensive Tactics (Level #1 – Basic) – This course is designed to cover the topics of less than lethal force, the uses/application of less than lethal force, methods of less lethal force, the use of less than lethal force and various ammunition. Also includes discussion regarding use/application of aerosol defense sprays (such as: MACE, OC, CS, OC, Foam and Pepper Sprays), stun gun and taser devices. Course also includes role-play and scenarios for the student to apply less lethal force methods and tactics. This course is a very in-depth course regarding the use and application of various less-lethal self defense weapons & tactics. This course does NOT include TASER training or certification, although the use and application of a TASER is discussed as part of the course. 8-Hr Class — Prerequisites: NONE — Course Notes: This is NOT a certification course for TASER or aerosol sprays — Course #1018 Cost: $(TBA)
1019 Less-Lethal Force Defensive Tactics (Level #1A – Chemical Aerosols) – This course is designed as a “stand-alone” course for those whom seek to receive training regarding the safe and proper application and use of less-lethal self defense chemical aerosol sprays. This course specifically covers the topics of less than lethal force, with regard to the uses/application of aerosol defense sprays. Specific topics such as the various chemical types of self defense chemical aerosol sprays (such as: Pepper Spray, MACE, OC, CS, OC) and the various spray patterns (such as: Foam, Gel, Fog and straight streams) Discussions regarding the methods of application and deployment of such items. Course also includes role-play and scenarios for the student to apply the application and use of inert training chemical sprays (*NO student will be sprayed with any actual chemical aerosol, instead the use of inert training props are used [water spray under pressure]. 8-Hr Class — Prerequisites: NONE — Course Notes: This is NOT a certification course — Course #1019 Cost: $(TBA)
1020 Less-Lethal Force Defensive Tactics (Level #1B – Expandable Baton & PR-24 Baton) – This course is designed as a “stand-alone” course for those whom seek to receive training regarding the safe and proper application and use of less-lethal self defense use of an expandable baton or PR-24 baton (“night-stick/billy club”). This course specifically covers the topics of less than lethal force, with regard to the uses/application of an expandable baton. Discussions regarding the methods of application and deployment of an expandable baton for self defense. Course also includes role-play and scenarios for the student to apply the application of the methods and use of a training baton (*NO student will be struck with any actual baton, instead the use of inert training props are used [foam training baton] 8-Hr Class — Prerequisites: NONE — Course Notes: This is NOT a certification course — Course #1020 Cost: $(TBA)
1021 Less-Lethal Force Defensive Tactics (Level #2 – Shotgun) – This course is similar to the level #1 course, but continues the skills the student has learned in the previous class and incorporates the use and application of a Less-Lethal Shotgun utilizing Less-Lethal Shotgun Ammunition. Course covers additional skills and tactics through practical application through scenario and hands-on exercises during this course. Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire utilizing less-lethal ammunition while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer. 12-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have attended an NRA Basic Pistol Course, NRA Basic Shotgun Course, or NRA Basic Rifle Course, unless waived with prior written permission from our facility. Course Notes: This is NOT a certification course — Course #1021 Cost: $(TBA)
1022 Less-Lethal Shotgun (Stand-Alone Course) – This course is similar to the level #2 – Shotgun course, but acts as its own “stand-alone” course that only covers the use and practical application of a less-lethal shotgun for self defense and selection of appropriate less-lethal shotgun ammunition. Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire utilizing less-lethal ammunition while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer. 8-Hr Class — Prerequisites: Must have attended an NRA Basic Pistol Course, NRA Basic Shotgun Course, or NRA Basic Rifle Course, unless waived with prior written permission from our facility. Course Notes: This is NOT a certification course — Course #1022 Cost: $(TBA)
1023 Less-Lethal Force Defensive Tactics (Level #3 – TASER & MACE) – This course is similar to the level #1 & 1A course, but continues the skills the student has learned in the previous class and incorporates additional skills and tactics through practical application through scenario and role-play based situations to allow for further hands-on application of the principals of this course. Course also includes TASER® certification & training and chemical aerosol self defense spray training & certification. Students will have the option to purchase their own aerosol defense spray and/or TASER® from our facility for the course or the student can provide their own TASER® for this course. 16-Hr Class — Prerequisites: NONE — Course Notes: This IS a certification course — Course #1023 Cost: $(TBA)
1024 TASER Course (Stand-Alone Course) – This course is a shorter version of our Less-Lethal Defensive Tactics Course, and acts as its own “stand-alone” course as this course only covers the application and use of a TASER® for self-defense less-lethal applications. This course does NOT include the additional less-lethal topics as offered in the Less-Lethal Defensive Tactics Course. Upon completion of our TASER® Course, the student will receive a Certificate of Attendance & Completion and also be certified for the carrying and use of a TASER for self-defense purposes. Students for this course will have the option to purchase their own TASER® from us for the course or the student can provide their own TASER for this course. Please be aware: This course does include use of a live fire TASER® for demonstration purposes while in-class. 8-Hr — Prerequisites: NONE — Course Notes: This IS a certification course — Course #1024 Cost: $(TBA)
FS01 Fun Shoot (Level #1) [available for pistol, rifle or shotgun] – This course is an “all-around” general shooting course to allow the student to exercise their shooting skills engage various targets while incorporating a fun and comprehensive environment among the students of the course. Course is designed to be similar to that of a carnival shooting gallery layout. Some courses of fire to include: move & shoot; move & shoot w/multi target; barricade shots; window shots; kneeling shots; strong-hand & weak-hand shots; prone shots and many others. Targets to include: SEB; IPSC Hard Cover style; Color Discretionary; Steel targets. Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer. Match Run Time – Prerequisites: Must have attended an NRA Basic Pistol Course, NRA Basic Shotgun Course, NRA Basic Rifle Course, or Current CCW Permit, unless waived with prior written permission from our facility. — Fun Shoot # FS01 Cost: $(TBA)
FS02 Fun Shoot (Level #2) [available for pistol, rifle or shotgun] – This course continues the “carnival fun shoot” and takes it to the next level. Some courses of fire to include: move & shoot; move & shoot w/multi target; barricade shots; window shots; kneeling shots; strong-hand & weak-hand shots; prone shots and many others. Targets to include: Bowling Pins; Bottles; Cans; Clays; Balloons; stationary & moving targets; reactionary targets. Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer. Match Run Time – Prerequisites: Must have attended an NRA Basic Pistol Course, NRA Basic Shotgun Course, NRA Basic Rifle Course, or current CCW Permit, unless waived with prior written permission from our facility. — Fun Shoot # FS02 Cost: $(TBA)
FS03 Fun Shoot (Level #3) [available for pistol, rifle or shotgun] – This course takes the “carnival fun shoot” to the ultimate level and incorporates some of the now famous shots demonstrated on the hit tv show on the History Channel: Top Shot. This course is more of a “trick shot” style layout and a few of the targets in this course include: “Splitting a bullet”; Q-tip shot; Threading a CD; Cut the rope; Get the golf tee; and various close and distance shots. This course puts the students skills to the ultimate test and requires max concentration and focus on the shots during the course of fire in this class. Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer. Match Run Time – Prerequisites: Must have attended an NRA Basic Pistol Course, NRA Basic Shotgun Course, NRA Basic Rifle Course, or Current CCW Permit, unless waived with prior written permission from our facility. — Fun Shoot # FS03 Cost: $(TBA)
NRA Shooting Qualification – Students may elect to shoot the live fire course(s) at the firing range in order to receive a NRA Qualification level of distinction. The levels of NRA Qualification include: Pro-Marksman, Marksman, Marksman 1st Class, Sharpshooter, Expert. Upon successful qualification, the student may receive a certificate to display and acknowledge their achievement. Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an NRA Certified Instructor and Range Safety Officer. Student may take this course in conjunction with another class. Prerequisites: NRA Basic Pistol Course — Prerequisites: Must attend one of our shooting courses that allows for firing range qualification and time to shoot the course of fire.
901 Basic Shooter and Firing Range Course – This is our private and one-on-one training for shooters who want to learn to shoot or improve their shooting skills and consists of extensive live fire experience and one-on-one coaching and instruction with our firearms instructor(s). This class is great for beginner students that desire to improve their accuracy with a firearm and hone their shooting skills. Also great for couples to take this class together too! Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer. 4-Hr Class — Prerequisites: NONE — Course # 901 Cost: $(TBA)
902 Basic Private Firearms Coaching – This is our private and one-on-one training that is billed on a “per-hour” basis and available for shooters who want to learn skills to shoot or improve their shooting skills and consists of extensive live fire experience and one-on-one coaching and instruction with our firearms instructor(s). This class is great for beginner students that desire to improve their accuracy with a firearm and hone their shooting skills. Also great for couples to take this class together too! Students will participate in the various live-fire shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer. Hourly Class — Prerequisites: NONE — Course # 902 Cost: $(TBA)
905 Private Firearms Instruction Course – This course is for one-on-one -OR- groups who want to receive firearms training in a “closed classroom” setting, where the only student(s) are those of your group or in the one-on-one setting with the instructor. These courses can cover any of the course materials that we offer separately (excluding the Ohio Concealed Firearms Course). Private courses are great to help students hone their skills and develop focused firearms handling techniques. If you are interested in scheduling a private course (whether one-on-one or for a group), please contact our office via phone or email for more info. — Course # 905 Cost: $(TBA)
1051 Crossbow Basics 101 ***New*** – This course covers the “basics” of a crossbow, to include topics such as safety, operation, parts and applications for use. The crossbow is a great alternative weapon system for recreational use and hunting applications. Since the crossbow has a similar feel of operation once loaded, we felt that this course would be a nice fit to be offered. 8-Hrs — Prerequisites: NONE — Course # 1051 Cost: $(TBA)
1052 Crossbow as a weapon system ***New*** – This course is a continuation of the crossbow 101 course and further discusses the use and practical application of the crossbow as a formidable weapon system. With the ever rising costs of ammunition for all caliber firearms, the crossbow is becoming a great alternative or supplemental weapon system. 8-Hrs — Prerequisites: Must have attended our Crossbow Basics 101 Course — Course # 1052 Cost: $(TBA)
FS04 Crossbow Fun Shoot ***New*** – This course is much similar to our “Fun Shoot Level 1” course, but geared directly towards the use and application of the crossbow as an “all-around” general fun shoot. — Prerequisites: Must have attended our Crossbow Basics 101 Course –OR- our Basic Shotgun & Rifle Course, unless waived with prior written permission from our facility. Match Run Time — Fun Shoot # FS04 Cost: $(TBA)
1054 Airgun Basics 101 [available for pistol & rifle] ***New*** – This course is great for both children and adults. Course covers safety, operation and handling and use, along with various types and ammunition available. Students will participate in the various live-fire airgun shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer. 8-Hrs — Prerequisites: NONE — Course # 1054 Cost: $(TBA)
FS05 Airgun Fun Shoot [available for pistol & rifle] ***New*** – This is just like the “Fun Shoot Level 1” course, but instead with the use of an airgun instead. Great course for children and adults alike. Students will participate in the various live-fire airgun shooting courses-of-fire while under the direct supervision of an Instructor and Range Safety Officer. 2-Hrs — Prerequisites: NONE — Fun Shoot # FS05 Cost: $(TBA)
1060 Build your own Bugout Bag (Module #1) ***New*** – This course is designed to help students become introduced to the concept of a “bugout bag”, what all items go into a bugout bag and possible situations when you might find it useful to have one packed and ready to go at a moments notice, also includes discussion of development or and locations to use for supply caches and why the need for them is important to consider. Course includes student materials, handouts and book(s), upon completion of this course, the student will be able to build their own custom bugout bag for their needs. – 4-Hrs; Prerequisites: NONE — Course # 1060 Cost: $(TBA)
1061 Build your own Bugout Bag (Module #2) ***New*** – This course continues the ideas and concepts of module #1, but includes and focuses on including various firearms and ammunition into your bugout bag. Course also discusses development, locations for and securment of supply and weapons caches. Course in heavily discussion based so to be geared towards the needs and desires of the students in each class, with regard to the weapon systems that each student will be utilizing for their own bugout bag. 4-Hrs — Prerequisites: Must have attended Build Your Own Bugout Bag (Module #1) — Course # 1052 Cost: $(TBA)
Firearm & Ammunition: It is NOT required that a student currently own or provide their own firearm for a class, However the student may elect to provide their own firearm & ammunition for the class if they so choose to do so. If the student provides their own firearm & ammunition, the firearm and ammunition must be inspected by the instructor(s) at the start of class to ensure safe operation/functionality. The student provided firearm and ammunition must be of a quality and reputable manufacture. NO use of “reloads” will be allowed during live fire shooting at the firing range, NO exceptions! NO Live ammunition in the classroom! If you are bringing your own firearm/ammunition, the ammunition MUST remain in your vehicle until it is time to conduct the shooting range portion of the course, under no circumstances are you to bring any ammunition into the classroom. However, please DO bring the UNLOADED firearm into the classroom for security purposes and to allow for instruction pertaining to your actual firearm that you will be using for the course.
Notice to Students who provide their own firearm & ammunition for class: You MUST provide AT LEAST 150-rounds of ammunition for your caliber firearm. If the student uses a firearm provided by the academy, then we will also provide ammunition to the student. The academy will NOT provide ammunition to a student who chooses to use their own firearm for a class, so if you choose to provide your own firearm & ammo, please be sure to bring at least 150-rounds! The use of “Hi-Point” brand firearms and “antique” firearms (including any firearm manufactured prior to 1965) is prohibited in our courses. No min. caliber
A note on transporting a firearm to/from our courses: ANY student who is transporting any firearm to/from any of our courses MUST do so in accordance with state and local laws regarding the safe transportation of a firearm. For handguns, if you do NOT CURRENTLY have a VALID CCW Permit, then you MUST transport your handgun UNLOADED and the ammunition and handgun MUST be separate. We suggest to lock the handgun in a case and place in the trunk and have the ammunition locked in a center console or glove box of the passenger area of the vehicle, this ensures that the handgun and ammunition are separated and inaccessible while in transport. For rifle/shotgun, you MUST transport ALL rifles/shotguns UNLOADED and the ammunition and firearm MUST be separate, with the chamber/breach locked OPEN and either in a locked case or in plain sight if the firearm is in the passenger compartment area of the vehicle, or locked in the trunk area of the vehicle, so that the firearm is not accessible during transport to/from the course and the ammunition is also separate. To be sure that you are in compliance with Ohio law while transporting a firearm ,please read the law for yourself!
Regarding Firearm Caliber: There is no minimum or maximum requirements regarding the caliber of handgun needed to complete one of our concealed carry courses, when applying for an Ohio CCW Permit, however, please be aware that “SOME” other states do have additional requirements regarding the use/caliber/qualification requirements to obtain a CCW permit in another state. So, if you plan of applying for an “out-of-state” permit to obtain a license/permit from another state to carry a concealed firearm, please be sure to inform the instructor, so that we can be sure that you comply with any additional requirements. We do strongly suggest that any new/novice shooter begin with a smaller caliber, to allow for better control of the firearm and to build a strong foundation for which the shooter can develop the skills needed to become a more experienced shooter over time. We suggest the use of a .22LR pistol for use.
What to bring with you to class: The student should bring the following items with them when they attend any of our courses
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- State Issued Drivers License, State Identification card or Military Identification card
- 2 pens with either Blue or Black ink
- Notepad/scratch paper
- any safety equipment if the student wants to provide their own eye/ear protection
- If student is a current/former NRA member, please bring your NRA member card (…or know your membership # )
- If student is providing their own firearm to use for the course, the student MUST provide AT LEAST 150-rounds of ammunition for their caliber of firearm
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Safety Equipment: The student may elect to provide their own safety equipment (eye & ear protection). If the student provides their own safety equipment, the safety equipment must be inspected by the instructor(s) at the start of class to ensure safe operation/functionality and that they are of quality manufacture.
Firing Range Operations: During the firing range portion of the course (if your class includes actual live-fire exercises and training at the shooting range) the student shall NOT have a loaded firearm “upon their person” unless the student is at the firing line in the actual execution of live-fire shooting drills. We operate our ranges as “Cold” ranges, whereas NO student shall carry a loaded firearm “upon their person”, this means that all student firearms shall be unloaded, have the actions open and the magazine well of the firearm shall be empty (NO magazine inserted into the firearm, regardless of whether the magazine in loaded or empty). In the case of our Concealed Carry Courses, ALL student firearms shall be left on the firing line bench when the student has completed their “turn” at the firing line. There is NO use of holsters, nor the drawing from or the reholstering of any firearms in our basic Concealed Carry Course, due to safety. The ONLY firearms which are authorized to be carried “hot” and loaded are those of the course Instructors. Students shall NOT load any firearm during any course, unless specifically told to do so by an Instructor while at the firing line of the shooting range when immediately just prior to commencing live-fire drills. Any violations of this or any other range safety rules shall constitute the immediate dismissal of the student from the course and forfeiture of all course fees.
Range Qualification & Courses of Fire: During our training classes, the student will participate in a “course of fire”, which is the method of shooting at the range at the targets. For our Ohio CCW Course, the student will be required to shoot at a distance of 20-feet and be able to land the rounds “on-target” in order to qualify to pass the course. There may be additional range qualification requirements or shooting distances for various courses and may be subject to change without prior notice to the student.
We can provide a “Certificate of Qualification” for those who pass a “course of fire”. For example, if the the student were to complete the NRA basic pistol course and then shoot the “course of fire” on the firing range and obtain the level of a “Marksman”, we would issue the student a NRA Certificate for obtaining the “Marksman” level of qualification. Likewise, if the student were to complete the “Ohio CCW Qualification Course” and then shoot the “course of fire” on the firing range and obtain a passing score, we would issue the student a certificate for successfully passing the CCW Course of Fire Qualification. NRA Qualification is NOT a requirement of our courses, but we do offer students the opportunity to obtain a NRA Qualification Level if they desire to do so. If the student does obtain a NRA Qualification level and desires to receive a certificate of recognition for obtaining such status, then there will be a $5 fee per level. There is no additional cost to the student if they attempt, but do not qualify, the $5 fee is only if a NRA qualification certificate is issued to the student.
The NRA has designated the following levels of qualification, for which we can issue the student a certificate, upon successful completion of the “course of fire”
- Basic Practical
- Pro-Marksman
- Marksman
- Marksman – 1st Class
- Sharpshooter
- Expert
Difference between Certificate of Completion and Range Qualification: Upon successful completion of our class, the student will receive a Certificate of Completion that is issues from our instructor(s). Additionally, if the student also completed a NRA course that includes a certificate, then the student will also receive the NRA certificate for such class also. — Students who successfully complete a “course of fire” while at the range and/or have obtained an NRA qualification, will receive the corresponding certificate for such. A Certificate of Completion for our class and a Certificate of Qualification at the range are two separate and different types of certificates. For example: a student may elect to complete our class and receive a Certificate of Completion for attending our class, but choose to not obtain a Certificate of Qualification for completing a “course of fire” and/or qualify for an NRA shooting qualification level status.
Q: So what makes our classes different from the rest and why come to us for your firearms training? — Let us explain why!
A: We offer more options for class times to fit your schedule. We also offer “all inclusive” and semi inclusive” class options to help make your class experience much easier and more enjoyable. Also, you WILL receive your certificate of completion for the course(s) the same day, at the end of class, so there’s no need to wait for your certificate to be mailed to you!(If the student had pre-registered for the course and paid the required deposit for the course, then the student will receive their certificate the same day at the end of the course) Additionally, we offer the student the option to shoot an NRA course of fire to”qualify” for a shooting level of distinction and receive a certificate (certificate is $5 additional cost) for obtaining a qualification while at the range. Many others, don’t include this option, but we do!
A: We have gone a step further and already provided a copy of our Instructor Credentials and Sample Certificate copy to the local sheriff offices CCW clerks. This allows your application to obtain your CCW permit to be processed quicker, as the documents to validate your training certificate are already on file.
A: We include far more information, student books, handouts and training in our CCW Course as compared to any other local instructors. We want students of our CCW Course to leave class with an actual working knowledge and be competent and ready for initial carry of a concealed firearm. In our CCW Course, we go above-and-beyond by including 3 (YES, THREE!) additional training books in our course that no other local instructor includes! Plus, we provide various handouts and additional training information and resources for students to continue their training after this class.
A: We offer more than just the Ohio CCW Course! Many other local “instructors” are simply out there to make a dollar and they only offer a basic concealed carry course for a student to take in order to apply for a CCW permit or perhaps they might also offer an “advanced” pistol class too…but, our facility goes above-and-beyond in our various course offerings! We offer all levels of basic, advanced and tactical training courses to allow students to continue their training and continued education. We also offer other courses such as: less-lethal and TASER courses that other local “instructors” just don’t offer! We are a “one-stop” training facility to meet all of your training needs for now and in the future to come!
A: We ONLY use NRA Certified Instructors to instruct our courses (that require an NRA certified instructor), so no need to worry about if the certificate you receive will be valid or not. We do NOT use “outside” or “sub-contractors” to instruct our courses, we ONLY use our own instructors. We also can provide proof of our instructors credentials at the start of any of the courses which we conduct, for the student to review and see that our instructors are currently certified by the NRA (where required for an NRA course) or certification that they are an instructor in good standing with our facility.
A: In addition to being NRA Instructors, our instructors are also USCCA Affiliate Instructors too! There are no other local instructors that are certified as BOTH an NRA and USCCA instructors, but our instructors have both certifications.
A: Be cautious of ANY “Instructor” who ONLY offers “out-of-state” or “Non-Resident” training courses to apply for a concealed carry permit/license. If the only courses offered are of this type, it is “generally” a red-flag that the course may NOT meet the Ohio requirements to obtain an Ohio CCW permit. Please remember, another state issued CCW permit should NOT be a replacement for your Ohio issued CCW permit if you ARE an official Ohio resident. Please obtain your Ohio CCW permit if you ARE an Ohio resident, as it will be considered your “Primary” CCW license and permit.
A: We fully stand behind and back our training certificates that we have issued to students for successful completion of any of our courses.
A: Our goal IS to conduct thorough firearms instruction and education and to promote the right of the people to keep and bear arms. We strive to ensure that our quality of instruction is “top notch” and regardless of if you are a new or long-time shooter, that you will learn something new from our courses.
A: Law Compliance: As a requirement written into the Ohio CCW Training & Education Requirements section of the Ohio CCW Law, please be aware that Instructors are REQUIRED to maintain records of each student and also to conduct certain minimum training standards, demonstrations and exercises. Our facility maintains full compliance with this requirement of the state law. Please be aware that MANY other “instructors” either aren’t aware of this requirement, have chosen to not comply or haven’t taken the necessary steps to retain full and complete student records. This is VERY important to the student because, should the student ever be involved in a CCW shooting, one of the first things that a court seeks in the student’s records on file with the instructor and the testimony of the instructor. So, please be aware of this and know that our facility does maintain compliance with the state laws regarding records keeping and student files for student training, certification and competency of a firearm.
A: Our instructors dedication and love for teaching the safe and proper firearms handling and training to students. Our instructors put a lot of “heart and soul” into the courses which they instruct, not just time inside the classroom, but also extra time outside the classroom, of not only course preparation but also research, additional training and skills development to help our instructors be effective. Our staff is truly dedicated to teaching to those who wish to learn more to further develop the proper: Knowledge, Skills and Attitude necessary for the safe use of firearms
A: Our course costs may be a little bit higher than other individual instructors, but remember the saying, “You get what you pay for”. We put as much time, effort and dedication to our courses and students as possible and once you attend one of our courses, you will easily see why our students keep coming back to us for their training, because our classes include not only great content, but you will come away from the courses having learned many new skills and material, regardless of if you are an experienced shooter or novice. Our dedication is to you, our students! We fully stand behind out courses!
A: Our instructors are not new to this field and have been in the “teaching/instruction” field for a length of time. Our instructors have teaching experience in various other fields that help lend to our ability to be effective instructors. We combine multiple teaching methods to better allow students to be receptive to the information presented. We combine visual, auditory and hands-on instruction. Additionally, our instructors have completed training from outside sources to become skilled in the areas of how to be an effective teacher/instructor, regardless of what field is being covered, this experience was completed in a formal setting by our instructors and presented by a “higher education/college/technical” institution to our staff for development of our teaching/instruction abilities and to help ensure that our instructional staff is the best as it can be
A: Unlike other local firearms instructors whom do not follow the proper safety policies and practices in their own firearms safety classes, our facility staff and our firearms instructors strive for the safety of each and every student in all of our training courses. Safety is the #1 top priority in every course and our staff reminds everyone that ALL firearms should be considered as “loaded” until both visually and physically checked by at least two people to declare the firearm “safe/clear”. Additionally, we go the extra step and utilize “Red or Blue Guns” in our training courses (which are actual replica lifesized/weight of firearms, but are made of plastic and colored either blue or red and are totally inert training aides that can not function).
A: Our Concealed Carry (CCW) course is open to any current/active sheriff’s office official to come and sit in one of our courses, however they will NOT be permitted to participate in the course in any manner (shooting, instruction, comments, discussion)while the course is underway and being instructed by our staff. This is to allow the staff of any sheriff’s office (including the CCW clerks) to come and review our CCW course of instruction.
Ohio CCW License Renewals & Continued Training/Qualification: Students who currently hold a current and unexpired Ohio CCW License, who are in need of obtaining a certificate to satisfy the ORC requirements for demonstration of continued training and live fire qualification may attend one of our “Ohio CCW Re-qualification Classes”. You need not attend either the NRA Basic Pistol Course or the 4-hour CCW Class, but instead may take our Ohio CCW Re-qualification Classes” in order to satasify the requirements to renew your Ohio CCW License. Please contact us for additional details regarding this course. UPDATE: Currently, Ohio has discontinued the requirements of having a current continued education training certificate to show competency & qualification. However, we strongly recommend that students continue their bi-annual re-qualification and continued-ed training, as if you are ever involved in a CCW related shooting and you haven’t kept up on your CCW training, then it was be used against you by the prosecutor in charge.
Instructor(s) Qualifications: Our instructors are NRA Certified Instructors, NRA Certified Pistol Instructors, NRA Certified Range Safety Officers (RSO) and current NRA members. Our instructors can issue certificates to students for successful completion of NRA courses and also for successful qualification of a “course of fire” to obtain a shooting status level, such as a distinction as a certified Marksman, Marksman 1st Class, Pro-Marksman, Sharpshooter, Expert shooter, Sniper (extra steps required to obtain a sniper qualification certificate. Sniper certificate is NOT a NRA recognized shooting qualification level)
Additionally, our instructors can issue certificates to students who have successfully completed our classes and who seek to obtain an Ohio CCW License. Our certificates that we issue to students who have successfully completed our “CCW Course” will satisfy the requirements as set forth in section 2923.125 of the Ohio Revised Code. The CCW Portion of the class is not an NRA-endorsed course, only the NRA Basic Piston portion of the class is NRA endorsed, this is because the NRA does NOT endorse ANY CCW training class to meet ANY specific state CCW training requirements due to the various state CCW training requirements.
Instructors may have various background experience in: law enforcement, private security, military service, defensive tactics, martial arts, close quarters battle, rural open combat training, & SWAT / SRT response & tactical operations
Our instructors are also certified to instruct courses and issue certificates for successful completion of TASER courses for less-lethal self defense products.
Additionally, our instructors have completed outside training/experience through a formal setting to increase our ability to be effective instructors/teachers.
Facility Qualifications: Our facility is registered as a business with the State of Ohio as a Firearms Training Academy. We are an actual business and firearms training academy and not just a “fly by night” instructor that is conducting training classes. We are a legitimate business registered with the State of Ohio. Our facility & Instructor(s) are also listed on the Buckeye Firearms Association website as a Firearms Training Facility to conduct Ohio CCW Training Classes. To view our listing on the Buckeye Firearms Association website, please follow this link: —> Ohio-CCW-Instructors <—
We are also a member of Ohioans for Concealed Carry (OFCC) and our facility uses NRA Certified Firearms Instructors & NRA Certified Range Safety Officers (RSO’s) to instruct courses and during all live-fire shooting training exercises. Additionally, our instructors are also current USCCA Affiliate Firearms Instructors.
Class Location(s): Our classes are held in the local areas for both the classroom and the firing range portions. We are currently working on offering our classes in other areas. Actual classroom address location and range location will be provided to the student prior to class after the course location has been confirmed. We have 3 facility locations we may use
CCW Certificates & Your County Sheriff: Our training certificates for the CCW course are valid at any county sheriff’s office (within the State of Ohio), including the county in which you reside and the surrounding counties. Our certificates can also be used to apply and qualify for a Florida CCW License and other states that will accept our training certificate. If you have any questions about other states that accept our certificates, please contact us for assistance. Please note that per State of Ohio laws, you MUST be at least 21-years old to APPLY for an Ohio CCW Permit, however you MAY attend the state required training PRIOR to being 21-years old, so if you are 18-20 years old, you CAN take our CCW Course prior to your 21st birthday! Then, on/after your 21-st birthday, you can apply to obtain your Ohio CCW Permit. Additionally, we have also provided a copy of our Instructor Credentials and a Sample Copy of our Certificates to surrounding county sheriff offices to help speed your process to obtain your CCW Permit. Q: Why have we gone this extra step? A: Each applicant for a CCW permit must have their training certificate validated and the instructor who issued the certificate must be validated as a current and certified firearms instructor, all of that takes time for the sheriff’s office CCW clerk to do for each applicant, by our facility having taken the additional step of having provided the sheriffs’s office CCW clerk with a copy of our credentials and sample certificates, it helps to speed up the process by allowing the clerk to already have the information ready at hand to validate our instructors and certificates. (Our credentials are on file with the Fairfield, Licking & Muskingum county sheriff’s offices CCW clerks)
County Sheriff‘s Offices: Web links directly to the county sheriff’s offices concealed carry division and scheduling an appointment.