Artemis Defense Institute in Lake Forest offers a wide array of self defense training including CCW initial and renewal courses and virtual strategic defense skills in their modern high tech and well run facility. Their website goes into detail relative to courses and they also offer memberships with ongoing training opportunities inclusive of live fire range skills and shooting. I took my initial CCW 16 hour two day course with Artemis Defense Institute and it was comprehensive, rewarding and even fun. Steven and Sandy Lieberman have this coursework mastered. Steven led the class and has vast knowledge in concealed carry and constitutional law. It was refreshing listening to the legal parameters as it relates to 1st, 2nd and 14th amendment issues and recent changes affecting concealed carry and future insights and possibilities. The class is enlightening and held in a comfortable and well designed conference classroom. Steven outlines the doctrine of necessity, Cooper's colors, the importance of mastering at skill at arms and the preservation of human life as core essentials. Professionalism at arms and the preservation of existence was a true focal point during the coursework. I so enjoyed Steven's style of teaching with real world scenarios, application and of course humor. This class is a must for anyone looking at a first time CCW, renewal or refresher, it's fantastic. Steven covers all aspects of SB2 (AB1078), philosophical doctrine, constitutional law, threat cycle, strategic and tactical environment characteristics and so much more. Sarah who manages the front end, provides training, handles all documentation inclusive of applications for additional CCW states such at AZ and UT and so much more. Sarah is phenomenal and another key player and pleasure to have in your corner. The team at Artemis is highly skilled, knowledgable, professional, helpful and caring. Kavon was our live fire qualification instructor and what an amazing professional and quality individual. Kavon is skilled in all aspects of firearms safety and operation and is another key staff member to compliment this amazing defense institute. Sandy was not present during our training due to a family emergency but Steven provided a summary of her background and skill traits as co-owner of the facility and her skills are quite impressive as well. I also purchased Steven's book which is available on Amazon titled Sword and Quill co-authored by Steve Tarani another self defense professional. I highly recommend this coursework through Artemis Defense Institute as this was rewarding and I plan to take additional training throughout the year when my wife and I are not traveling. 5 stars plus read more

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BF and I went there to checkout the facilities before we booked an company recreation club event there for my business. Safety is extremely important to both us and the rec club, so an on site pre-booking visit was definitely in order. Websites Always make the locations look nicer and better than they really are. You also cannot tell from a glance at a web page about Whether or not unsafe or sketchy customers regularly visit. We also wanted to find out information about classes, as many of the rec club people are interested in having spouses and Their older children get basic safety and protection training. No one present at the desk to answer our questions. We had to walk around for some time before we found anyone. Person was rude and stand-offish. Simply refused to answer questions and directed us towards their web site. We Do NOT Recommend. We took the rec club business elsewhere and never went back. read more

Amazing owners, staff, and curriculum. I gave it a try to be 'gun safe.' Now it's my new favorite hobby. Keep up the great work Artemis team! read more

If you like getting trained and being more knowledgeable this is the place. The equipment is state of the art. The staff are very nice and will answer as many questions as you have. I've used them as training now for 2 years and I'm extremely happy and it's why I keep using them. Highly recommend read more

Artemis is the place to go if you're looking to get qualified for your CCW or get training. From the class to the staff, everything was amazing. Steven was thorough, knowledgeable and made sure everyone's questions were answered and his funny jokes were an added bonus! Sandy ran the whole operation with great professionalism and made sure everything went well from start to finish. The workers were amazing as well! You can tell everyone there genuinely enjoys what they do, and it shows in how they treat their students. Will definitely be back for my renewal! read more

Was referred to Artemis by a family friend and could not be happier. As a new firearms owner and CCW applicant, I expected the class to be dry and unhelpful. Their course was entertaining and insightful to say the least. If I did not live so far away, I would definitely get a membership and come regularly for training. Im not sure how I can find a place that will compare! read more

I went through my ccw class here and it was great. Class is very informative and the instructors keep things interesting.

In regards to the CCW initial class they offer, I am incredibly happy that I chose Artemis for my CCW class. At first I was worried about the 8 hour zoom session but once Steven started talking with how animated and enthusiastic he was about the 2nd amendment and making sure that we were properly prepared for the role we were getting ready to take on, I knew that I was in the right spot. The Sunday in class training was exceptional as well. If you are looking for a CCW class then look no further, click the sign up button. read more

I've been a member @ Artemis for almost 2 years now and could not be happier. The staff are always friendly & the trainers are top notch. I challenge anyone to find a place that is as dedicated to equipping/preparing those of us that carry as you will find at Artemis. Guess what? You wont find anything even close to what they offer. If you've ever thought about getting a permit, they offer a free "Pre-CCW" 2-hour web-based class (monthly) that is very informative. So what are you waiting for? read more

I just completed my initial qualification today. From start to finish was an amazing experience. The first day lecture by Steven was very well done and informative. He kept it fun and honest, which I respect. No BS. The 8 hours went by fast and I felt engaged throughout. The today at the facility, I met Sandy and Steven in person and they couldn't have been nicer folks. The date of the art facility was more than impressive and a lot of fun. I can see the value in the VR training and was able to participate in it during our class. Convinced me to sign up for a membership to continue my training and to learn as much as I can from their team. The new indoor range was awesome. I would highly recommend to anyone and everyone. read more

Artemis Defense Institute - VR - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Simply the best place for firearms training and CCW certifications and renewals. Not only is there a live fire range, but multiple simulators. But it would all be for naught without the great staff and instructors. Getting a membership is well worth it if you want to greatly improve your skills. read more

Update: Wife spoke to the owner today and was able to get the issues resolved. We always appreciate a business being flexible and understanding as well as willing to help remedy problems. read more

Been coming here for a few years now for various classes and can't say enough good things about the place. People are nice, instructors teach well, their simulator systems are incredibly cool, and prices are competitive. If you're considering it, there's no better place to go. Ive ran into a few friends who I didn't know trained here, and they all have had nothing but good things to say about Artemis too. read more

This is for the initial CCW class. I could listen to Steven talk about laws and cases all day. He knows how to teach and capture an audience. I went to the Wednesday/Thursday class in person both days. Very informative and he lets you know everything that you are getting yourself into and what you need to do after the class. He also helps with paperwork and Artemis will help you get the multi state if you are interested. Highly highly recommend. read more

Mark was my instructor for V300 training and he was excellent! He was CHP for some 39 years, calm demeanor, excellent instructor with applicable tips to practice for better placement and preparedness. I appreciated his ability to come across as an average Joe. I highly recommend the facility and you'll be fortunate to work with Mark. read more

Just did my requal, normally a painful experience. Not this time! Instead got the most informative and useful dissertation on evolving 2A related laws and policies from a legit constitutional scholar and atty who is actively working these cases. Definitely coming back for more and recommending to others. read more

I attended the Ladies Pistol 1 class yesterday and it was phenomenal. The class was 2.5 hours and was very informative. The instructor, Jeannette, was knowledgeable, professional and patient. I learned the basics such as but not limited to proper stance, grip on the gun and the parts of the gun. Oscar was also on hand running the equipment and answering questions. Two thumbs up for both Jeannette and Oscar. I look forward to the Ladies Pistol 2 class next week. The staff is top notch and there is ample parking. Thank you and God bless. read more

I just completed my first private digital training session at Artemis Defense and am amazed. Like most CCW folks, I felt my live fire practice was sufficient to maintain my competence and confidence when carrying on the street. But one session using real life scenarios convinced me otherwise. It's one thing to understand the laws governing use of a weapon, it's another to see how you react when a stranger in a parking lot pulls a knife and runs at you. What you expect your reaction to be and what it actually is are quite different but only when faced with threats in real time can you fully appreciate this. JJ (my trainer) skillfully went through all the steps applicable to reacting properly to the scenarios however, that didn't prevent me from being killed once (digitally anyway) and wrongfully shooting an attacker once. Note to self: This is not like a videogame where the bad guy does the same thing each time...every single scenario is different. It may at first appear to be a repeat of the previous action but it's not. They really test that 8 inches between your ears. Now I'm hooked. While my initial session landed me in jail and in the morgue...it's far better to experience that digitally than in real life. If you have not tried this type of CCW training, make an appointment now! I can guarantee you three things: You will leave enlightened. You will be amazed how fast (beep) happens. You will love it & come back for more. This is MUST DO training for anyone engaged in EDC. JJ presented post-engagement factors I never considered and I have trained with other coaches in live fire exercises a lot and believed I was fully prepared. JJ threw real world possibilities at me that I was completely unprepared for because I never considered them. Things like, what to do if you shoot somebody in self defense and then his friends come after you? What if your attacker is unarmed but trained to kill you with martial arts? You will also be updated on the ever-changing laws applicable to you as an armed subject in the People's Republik of Commiefornia and some of the current changes are alarming...strange new legal stuff that even applies to law enforcement engagements. Lemme tell ya, this is worth the money. Try it once...you'll thank me later. read more

Artemis Defense Institute - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Excellent. If you have the opportunity to train with these folks. I would highly recommend it. Their facility is top notch and their training plans are second to none. read more

I took my initial CCW training course here and cannot recommend it enough. The zoom class by Steven was so informative. His passion for this is unreal, yet he throws in a couple jokes that have you laughing! Great job Steven !! The Sunday in person shooting class was so much fun. The faculty they have is so cool and I definitely took away a lot of good key lesson about possible scenarios. read more

Great instructors! They are very well trained military or professional...they are all friendly & humble people. It makes me feel comfortable & less intimidating. . Definitely be back & sign up for more classes. read more

Bottom Line: Absolutely come to Artemis for all your defensive firearms training. I've gone through the Pistol 1, 2, 3 series and now finished the CCW course. All the instructors were professional, engaging, entertaining and make you feel at ease. The 8-hour ccw lecture actually flew by since I enjoyed it so much. It's natural to feel nervous around guns if you're new, but the Artemis staff will quickly make you feel at home when you train with them. Steven and Sandy, owners of Artemis, are a valuable asset to the community, and they did a wonderful job hiring the best staff to train with. read more

Steven & Sandy are absolutely awesome! This is way more than a school. I am so excited that I attended this course. Highly recommend. read more

Earlier this year I signed up for concealed carry class with artemis defense Institute To exercise my constitutionally protected right as per the second amendment. The process was explained in great detail and was very smooth. After completing the program and receiving my permit I continued to pursue my responsibility to train. I continued to use Artemis defense Institute. I knew I had other options in Orange County that were closer to my residence but I picked these folks. Steven and Sandy are very friendly and are willing to help out with any issues. Is my favorite Instructor is Scott. (They are all great). I will continue to train with this facility and I would highly recommend it to anybody who wishes to exercise their constitutionally protected right in their responsibility to train. - Ryan Rutledge read more

These guys take the time to get to know you, your background, and your current walk of life. Started training here and Larry has been hands on in my training. Sandy and team are the best. -JC read more

Excellent service! The greatest training spot for all aged trainees. My son Kevin was actively engaged in this training. I believe he will be lifetime member since he learned so much with his curiosity and enthusiasm. Being a freshman in college, he is learning more experiences and knowledge out of school back to new school. Thanks to all pros at Artemis Defense Institute, our great neighbor business! read more

Artemis Defense Institute - Cool practice - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Great classes and very knowledgeable instructors. Will be attending classes again in the future. Also has a private indoor two lane range

I have done a lot of firearms training both professionally and recreationally and I am very impressed with Artemis. Their facility, instructors and training systems are high quality. Definitely recommend using them to improve your skills and proficiency. read more

I just got the chills reading my first review of this company in 2013. My closing line is: I truly believe that this company is going to save lives--go, train and it might be yours. A few months ago, we had an intruder break through our front door and we had to use deadly force to protect ourselves. Our worst nightmare happened. However, we're alive to share this horrific event because of Artemis and the training and preparation they helped make possible. Part of that preparation was knowing to call for legal support. I reached out to Steven before the sun was up. He called me and we had a 1 minute conversation which was him telling me to text my address, that he was on his way and to stay strong. I felt as though I had an attorney and a friend on my side. Steven and Sandy both spent the entire day with us (16+ hours! I'm sure they had obligations that they simply rescheduled). They treated us like family and skillfully took us through the long and challenging process. It is my most genuine and sincere wish that no one has to go through what we went through. Go to Artemis. Train. Listen to their advice. It saved our lives, and as I said in 2013, it may save yours. read more

Signed up through the Groupon deal and took pistol 1, 2 and 3. All classes were geared towards the green horn shooter, but still a great review for seasoned shooters. It covered the foundations drawing from the holster, grip, presenting and basics around sending rounds down range. With the cost of ammo from the pandemic, I signed up for a member at $109 a month that provided me with four visits a month. This allowed me to take the transitions class. This class is geared towards shooting, making adjustments for improvement and cleaning malfunctions. Once I did that for a few months, I tested into the 4M classes which deals with shooting on the move, shooting opposite hand, one handed, shooting in low light situations, using concealment and much more. They also offer private instruction through a VR or 360 degree lab environment. These allow you to walk through scenarios and determine the best course of action based on threats (spoiler alert, not all scenarios will have you draw and fire). The instructors will be provide feedback after the class and/or scenario. Overall, very happy with the classes, the instructors and the value. They use real Glock 22 gen 3 handguns that have been modified to use co2 magazines for the slide to cycle. Every month, they have two live fire classes that you can sign up for. This is at Prado Range and allow for drilling with your own firearm. In additional, they offer a ton of other classes such as California CCW classes, out of state CCW classes, First Aid and many more. read more

Artemis came to my attention from a list of handgun training providers recommended by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. I called several, and was most impressed with Artemis so I booked. I am sure glad I did! Steve, Sandy, and the entire Artemis team were fantastic. Steve took 8 hours of classroom (Zoom, in my session) material and made it useful, engaging, fun, and funny. Everyone at Artemis is clearly a professional, and dedicated to ensuring that everyone who completes their program knows how to safely, legally and accurately operate a firearm with a high degree of competence. The in-person and range instruction was equally fantastic. Overall, if you are looking for any type of firearms training - from skill building to combat simulation to basic stuff like a required CCW course, I HIGHLY recommend Artemis and their team! read more

I recently did my initial CCW training for the OC Sheriffs office with Artemis and couldn't be happier. The process was very fast, clear and therefore as easy as it gets. The first day is done via zoom in the comfort of your home. You'd think it's going to be a long, boring lecture but no! It was extremely interesting and I could have easily gone for another 6 hours. Reason for that is that Steven the co-owner and main instructor, who also is a lawyer!!!, is conducting the class and you can tell how knowledgeable and passionate he is about firearms and the 2nd amendment. His wife who is the founder of the company does an incredible job organizing everything and answering questions during the zoom class. Day 2 you meet at Artemis and get to see what an incredible facility they have! I will definitely be back soon and try one of their simulators! I forgot the name of the instructor we had for dry fire practice, but he had also some great stories to tell and kept the class very interesting and fun! After that 2 hour class we'd drive over to the range in Chino and fire off the required rounds and a few hours later I had my training certificate in my email inbox. I am really happy I chose the Artemis Defense Institute for my CCW and am sure to be back for ANYTHING firearms related. read more

What a great place to learn and grow on your 2nd Amendment rights. Don't be scared. This is the perfect place to be. The staff is very knowledgeable, supportive, kind, and very experienced. You get the personal attention you need to be successful in using your pistol or long rifle. The facility has indoor training with simulators. Safety first. The simulators are awesome and life-like. Check out the videos on youtube. They also have a partnership with Parado Olympic Shooting Center in Chino for an outdoor shooting range experience. Their staff is top-notch! The owner really thought of everything, and play an integral part in the success of Artemis Defense Institute. They are serious about safety, support, learning, and helping you be successful. Plus, one of the owners is a JAG Officer (Military Lawyer), and he knows his business!! I totally recommend it to women. In my class was made up of 1/3 women, and they look like they had a great time, and got great instruction. They have a variety of classes, offer CCW, and memberships to hone your skills. Tell them you are there on my recommendation. Pass the word around. Everyone should get involved in knowing the facts about gun ownership. This is the best place to learn! read more

Thank you Steven & Sandy!!!! Highly recommend Artemis Defense Institute to all gun owners!!!! To everyone else go take a class & you will be astonished. Blessings. read more

I absolutely love this place! Can't say enough! I have taken 4 classes total here the past year... Pistol 1, 2, and 3, as well as ending with the CCW 2-day course with live fire test. It is so good to learn and train in a safe environment where an accident cannot happen. It makes learning so much better because you can make a mistake and learn what COULD HAVE happened. It's easier to not be afraid to try and it builds confidence. I definitely feel I know how to handle and use my gun safely. I understand enough about range etiquette and gun etiquette, and most off all they engrained the safety rules into my head!! The nice thing is that even though you can't accidentally shoot anyone (it's not real ammo) they take it seriously as though you could. They don't let you make bad habits, and they point everything out so you learn to make good muscle memory and habits. The CCW I was intimidated to take, but Sandy and Steven do amazing! They made me comfortable. It was professional and insightful. I learned a lot. I really appreciate the stories of hypotheticals and even true stories of things that have happened. Kyle who worked with some hands-on aspects with our guns, did a great job as well. He was friendly and fun all while being extremely safe minded and to the point of what we really needed to understand. It was a group class yet also felt individual. nThe live fire portion- the guys did a great job being professional yet friendly. They are ex-military guys and they definitely know their stuff! I have taken each class and each one was taught by a different person who brought different things to the table! I am so happy my friend recommended Artemis and now I recommend it to everyone I know who wants to learn how to use a gun safely. read more

Fantastic Steven even made sitting in front of my Computer all day enjoyable and extremely informative Randy read more

Great please to train, get your CCW and renew your CCW. Stephen, the owner is also an attorney specializing in firearms law. He gave me great legal advise and is on my speed dial if I ever have a situation that requires a firearm Attourney. Sandy, Stephens's wife is also amazing and very friendly. read more

This is regarding 1 star review by Ibga C. from 8/29/2020 I happened to be in that class when 4 individuals burst into the classroom with a noise and the way they start brandishing their guns was frightening to all of us. We were just praying to God that their guns was not loaded. But couldn't stop thinking of that we are going at the range with them to shoot live ammunition that afternoon. I don't scare easily, but these people and their behavior scared crap out of me and probably all others. Kudos to the Artemis Defense Institute and their well-trained people who demonstrated their ability to handle situation like that quickly and professionally to everyone's satisfaction. Their indoor tactical self-defense training and education facility is simple unmatched. I found that owners of this Institute are people of integrity and high moral values. read more

Artemis is AMAZING. The 100+ reviews with 5 stars should be evident enough. If you're still skeptical, check them out for yourself. I did, and it's one of my best decisions this year. As for the false, inappropriate, and unjust review from IBGA, check out the only other review he wrote: a 5-star review for a competing company that has only a single 5-star review (IBGA's one review). Also, if you didn't catch it, IBGA is the abbreviation of International Body Guard Alliance, the name of the other company he is promoting. How sad that IBGA, a company with no reputation, stooped so low in an attempt to bash its competitor, Artemis, a good and honest family-owned small business that is helping our community. IBGA, you just showed us how incredibly unethical and untrustworthy you and your company are. Thank goodness Artemis kicked you out. Your irresponsible behavior would have endangered the lives of their students. And allowing people like you to train with the rest of us would have tainted Artemis' good name. And no, I don't work for Artemis. I recently started training there (and I LOVE IT!!). I just feel the need to speak up when a bad deed is done to good people (and businesses). Also, there are plenty of students at Artemis who have foreign accents when they speak, because their first language is not English. I have never seen any Artemis staff or instructor treat them with anything other than complete respect and sincere patience, as they do with native English speakers. read more

I've been training at Artemis for about a year now. Came in as a complete newb, have slowly progressed through the courses and am becoming a true defensive shooter. My training hasn't come to an end, it never will. I continue to train at Artemis, attend various live fire training sessions, practice at the local range and continue to add to my toolbox of skills. At Artemis they are all about respect, safety. quality and fun. The instructors are always there for you, helping you improve your skills and keeping everyone safe. When out at the live fire range, the instructors are always at a heightened sense of awareness, keeping everyone safe, so we can all learn and have a great time. If your not paying attention, goofing off, doing what you're not supposed to be doing, etc. be prepared to be respectfully called out. If you don't correct yourself and continue to cause safety issues, you will be told to leave. This is not a day care, we're all adults, safety is paramount. read more