Highly recommend this class for enthusiasts and folks looking to sharpen their skill sets. I came in for rifle-1 which turned out to be bonus combined with tactical shotgun. It was highly informative and challenging for all of us. The Friday classes are usually very small handful of people and allows us to go for more advanced drills which we wouldn't be able to do otherwise in a larger class of say 10-16. I much prefer it this way. Tim is an excellent trainer and I appreciate his depth of knowledge and willingness to tailor his approach to each students level of abilities. I've taken rifle-1, shotgun-1, tactical pistol 1 and have scheduled pistol-2 next month. I plan to try and take one of his classes at least a couple times a year read more

See all

I took the Basic Handgun 101 Class last month. If you haven't fired in a while or are a complete novice, this is the class for you. Lisa is extremely knowledgeable and aside from learning how the gun operates, safety and cleaning of the weapon, she also provided great information on regulatory laws, types of safes and correct methods of transporting your firearm. The trip to the gun range gave me a chance to put into practice what she taught us. She's ex-military so if you feel like you're in boot camp while at the range, it's all good. She wants to make sure that you learn safety not only for yourself, but for others around you. An added benefit, for an additional cost, you can also get your Firearm Safety Certificate. I highly recommend taking this course. I definitely plan on taking additional courses. Thanks Lisa! read more

Civilian Arms Training Source - Gun Range. Once I got the hang of loading the magazine, it was super fun! - Firearm Training Near Me - La Palma, California

Civilian Arms Training Source has a great CCW renewal class with knowledgeable instructors. The instructors Tim and Brad are very engaging and informative. read more

"FORMER" C.A.T.S. Basic 101 and tactical C.A.R. firearms instructor here. I am also a former student so this review is based on an honest assessment of this school and training of over 5 years (2015-2022). It has been almost 2 years since I left this company due to a move out of state. I have not been in contact with this school or its owner since so I feel I can post this without prejudice. Sorry for all of you who called me wanting to take my Basic 101 course at this school after reading the reviews. I highly recommend Civilian Arms Training Source to learn the Center Axis Re-lock (C.A.R.) system to supplement your existing Isosceles and Weaver shooting styles especially if you are preparing for a tactical/personal protection environment. It is another tool to employ that is eye opening in advantages and few disadvantages. The owner/lead Instructor, Tim George, who wrote all the tactical curriculum is awesome at teaching this system and is second to only one, Paul Castle, who developed this system and personally taught Tim before his untimely passing. Add that to Tim's immense training resume with law enforcement and what you can learn is only limited by the number of classes you take with him, how well you listen, and how often you train using what was taught. Most level 2 students are repeat students because they see the value in C.A.R. and training and have a lot of fun while also building friendships with others including families from teens on up. Tim will do everything he can to ensure your time training is positive. So talk to him if you have an unresolved issue(s); don't wait until debrief at the end of class. All level 1 & Level 2 courses are the foundation and bread and butter of this school and is based on an Advanced Shooting System; so it assumes you have some level of foundational firearms experience/competencies. Level 1 was never designed for brand new shooters, however, Tim and his marketing team will sign you up anyway and make it work which is 1/2 a point lost. Often times these individuals required way too much attention by instructors on the line. The result is that it pulls an instructor/safety officer from the group. Not the best situation when you have a lot of people with varied experience levels upholstered and moving while shooting. The other 1/2 a point was lost because consistency and attitude of how things are taught can vary depending on what contractor is instructing despite being the same curriculum and same class as students periodically break into groups. Even level two is a crap shoot as to what skills or real life scenarios will be taught/employed leaving some students confused on expectations from previous classes. So, for those of you who have never shot a gun before or are not feeling confident. DO NOT BE TALKED IN TO TAKING LEVEL 1 yet. Although the Basic 101 curriculum I created and taught is not longer available, I highly recommend "Pistol Essentials" at C.A.T.S. or basic NRA firearms class for the particular platform (pistol/rifle/shotgun) before taking any level 1 course; it will not be a waste of your time or money but an essential part of training for level 1 success, safety, and enjoyment. All contract instructors have varied backgrounds and teaching styles. Not everyone is compatible with everyone but you will find an instructor to meet your needs. If your not understanding from one, ask for help from another. Number of instructors are based on class size so reservations are important to ensure appropriate numbers of instructors present. Lastly: Reports of "Laps of Safety"!!! This is a difficult topic to confirm or deny. All schools will have periodic minor/major lapses because it is a learning environment. C.A.T.S. operates under NRA Safety rules at all times!!! There are no exceptions and breaking them will get you packing your firearm away while you watch. Of those I have seen from instructors, rare but non-threatening minor, From students, major which is why I created Basic 101. I am aware of one contract instructor who was removed over breaking a non-serious safety rule by Tim (I wasn't there to witness). Again, safety is paramount at C.A.T.S. for everyone but like any activity. inexperience, mental laps, and complacency does happen and with firearms it can be life changing. The only injuries I have seen are self inflicted requiring a band aide for improper grip or the slide hitting the shooter's nose. Ensure you are well rested, well fed, in a good mental/physical state, and accidents are less likely to happen in life (I.M. S.A.F.E.). Finally, C.A.T.S. does their best to provide rentals as an option. but please wear appropriate clothing which includes a "BELT!" C.A.T.S. does not have a wardrobe rental department. Also, bring lots of food and water. I myself have fallen victim to the heat during the summer months which took me out for a few hours. Enjoy, and be safe!!! read more

I was a little overwhelmed with the downloaded curriculum heading into their CCW Initial class. Although it's a lot to cover, they made it very enjoyable. They keep it light yet serious enough to remind you of the heavy responsibilities of being a CCW permit holder. I would definitely take another class with these guys. read more

Yesterday, my father and I attended the Defensive Tactical Level 1 course. We attended the same course 4 years ago and decided that we were way overdue for a C.A.R refresh. In short, we LOVE Civilian Arms Training Source (C.AT.S.). The C.A.R. method of shooting is the most efficient, logical and ergonomic system of shooting we've experienced. With an open mind, and willingness to shift from conventional shooting stances (isosceles/weaver), beginners and seasoned shooters can greatly benefit from implementing the C.A.R. system. Tim George, the Director of C.A.T.S., is awesome. The instructors are passionate about students learning and mastering the new techniques. We felt extremely safe during the demonstrations, drills and live fire practice. We ran through almost 300 rounds during the afternoon live fire session. The morning period was dedicated to education, plastic gun, and dry fire drills. Everything from grip, to sight picture, stoppages, tactical reloads and much more were covered during the 8-hour course. Even though it was our second time through this course, we learned something new and refined our skills. I think we will take Level 1 once more before taking Level 2. Level 1 is fast-paced and at times, intense. Level 2 is at least twice as fast and live-fire starts in the morning, so it's not uncommon to blow through 600 rounds. C.A.T.S offers multi-level tactical pistol, multi-level tactical rifle, tactical shotgun, LEO only, night shoot, and CCW courses. Certificates are awarded via email at the conclusion of training. Thank you, Tim, Lisa, Richard, Jim and the others for another educational and enjoyable experience! We are looking forward to coming back sometime next year. read more

Civilian Arms Training Source - Firearm Training Near Me - La Palma, California

I took a CCW training course here and got much more than I expected. Not only did they cover the required material, but there was also additional information for firearm safety and general everyday aspects of safety training that would be valuable for anyone to learn. Course material and demonstrations throughout the course were top notch and included some short videos along with shooting range training. By the end of the course, I was definitely more knowledgable and prepared for what I wanted to accomplish. Their training will get you the results you need. I highly recommend it and I plan to attend more courses. read more

Great training! This is my second class and looking forward to many more!! Tim and Lisa are very thorough, safe, and super friendly. I have gained much more confidence when using my firearm. Thank you Lisa for your expertise and giving me a new confidence. read more

I first took the Basic 101 and immediately felt so much more comfortable with my firearm as a result of the training of the CAR system. I then took the Tactical 1 course in Burro Canyon and was able to put the training to the test with great success! The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and provide a safe and effective learning environment. I highly recommend them for any new gun owner or someone who wants to learn a new and effective system. read more

I have taken classes with Tim George ,and the CATS instructors for 14 years. The CENTER AXIS RE LOCK system is the best combat system for Rifle or Pistol.This school is very informative ,and professional... read more

A well defined and executed Tactical Pistol Level 1 for the serious and seasoned shooter wanting to keep building on personal skill. Excellent course! Thank you Tim and team! You're awesome! read more

Civilian Arms Training Source - Firearm Training Near Me - La Palma, California

Took the basic training course with Lisa, I have to say the patience she has is unbelievable. I had a lot of questions and she answered every single one of them. I learned so much with Lisa. I plan on taking their next course and I really hope she is going to be the instructor for that too. I'm so happy she was the one to help me. As far as the course is concerned , they covered everything you need to know. Including the laws which was a HUUUUGE indicator with me. The course was great , my instructor was even better. This place is the real deal. I will be back for my next course. And I actually can not wait for that. read more

Effective and practical introductory firearms training taught in a non-threatening environment. I took the intro to shotgun and handgun courses. Lisa Erickson is knowledgeable, personable, and patient. She makes certain that her students are comfortable with course content, from the classroom to the range. She is happy to answer questions or find appropriate resources for you if she doesn't immediately know the answer. Tim, the owner, is very welcoming. They also offer tactical and CCW classes. CATS is a gem of a small business that I'm happy to support. Thank you Lisa and Tim! read more

Civilian Arms Training Source - Intro to handguns - range souvenirs :) - Firearm Training Near Me - La Palma, California

My wife, my son, and I took tactical handgun 1 and learned all about the CAR system. It was a really good class and we learned alot. Learned some close up ways to take away guns from the bad guy. Lots to take in. Great guys teaching us. Went through 250 rounds. I recommend this class. read more

I really enjoyed taking the Tactical Pistol 1 course. As a 1st time gun owner, I was not very confident in my skills but the instructors were very patient and explained everything clearly and as many times as it took for me to understand and execute what they were teaching. We were instructed on the Center Axis Relock system, stoppages, sight picture, loading techniques, take away maneuvers and much more. I was much more confident and knowledgeable than when I started. I highly recommend the CATS team :-) read more

I did a beginner training course with these guys sometime ago. I was skeptical from the very beginning since the director's email responses to my inquiry had the grammar/spelling proficiency of a 1st grader. However, I went for it since it was convenient and cheap. They tend to push a certain instruction platform and the CAR method .I have many friends in law enforcement that completely disagree with it. They also weren't very understanding to the fact that some are new to this; felt a lot of pressure in the course . Should have gone with my first instinct ! read more

Had a great time, revisting C.a.r. 1 and building on those skills with C.A.R 2. DEFINITELY COMING BACK for more, lots of practical applications for real world situations. read more

I took the Basic Pistol 101 class. It is two 4-hour sessions which is mostly in class instruction and discussion and finishes off with time at a firing range to practice stance, trigger squeeze, breathing, etc. At first I was not looking forward to so much class time but I quickly came to the realization that I was learning more about how revolvers and semi-autos work, gun laws, supporting organizations and, of course, how to hit the target that I had in the classes I took years ago. I've attended a few classes around SoCal and haven't found the perfect one but this was definitely worthwhile. Lisa was very informative, patient, and fascinating to spend eight hours with. read more

I found out about C.A.T.S. while at a las vegas gun show. I truly have to admit I was a but skeptical but decided what have i got to lose. So I did a but more research and learned about Paul Castle and the C.A.R. method and honestly i was still a bit skeptical but decided to keep an open mind. I took the level 1 class yesterday and was completely changed on my view of the C.A.R. method. Tim and his instructors (Tom and Billy) are a great bunch of guys and kept the class fun and informative. Safety was a number one priority and never once felt unsafe during the class. All i have to say is I'm looking forward to my next class and keep up the great work guys! read more

I have trained with several schools and I must say CATS is thus far the best. Their attention to safety was extremely pleasing and the C.A.R. System itself was another great and useful addition to my tool-shed. I am a "beast" equally with my left hand as I am with my right if not better.Tim and his team of skilled and personable instructors made my visit so worth while I have returned for 3 more classes. Thank again TG and The CATS Team!!! -Reginald Jenkins USNR read more

The course I took was TACTICAL HANDGUN LEVEL ONE or PISTOL 1 and unfortunately it fell short. It just was not well organized and would be better served if it was a 2-day course due to all the different areas discussed. The first few hours was spent on lecture and although important it was so monotonous. It really was all over the place. It dragged on and cut into shooting. The course was rushed and the director encourages the same course to be taken repeatedly before you can move on to other courses. To me it appeared that it is more of a strategy to make money off the client with repeated attendance. The course should have different phases to learn from and possibly be broken down to beginner, intermediate, and advanced. This would make a student feel as if they are advancing with shooting skills. The instructors were not the best at explaining or conveying information and did not make for the best teachers. They were good at knowing how to shoot but when it came to teaching it, they were substandard. They also were not the most professional and some appeared to be joking all the time or just immature. Also the shooting stance and drawing of the gun is so foreign from a traditional shooting stance that is taught at other places or in police agencies. The director promotes the Center Axis Relock (CAR) System and says they are the only organization on the west coast to teach it. The CAR system is said to be a very dynamic gun fighting system that is developed from your body alarm response when in that critical moment of lethal confrontation. However, the fact is that this system is not got for all types of lethal situations. For example, one of the instructors was demonstrating entering a building and as he sliced the pie, BUT you could see him first due to exposing his elbow and half his body first. A suspect could easily take him out. Also the CAR system was not effective in extreme long distance shooting as the instructor proved it when he missed the target when demonstrating it. He never hit the target the five times he shot. The CAR system requires extensive practice and muscle memory and CANNOT be learned in one day. Because it is foreign it impacts marksmanship because your constantly tweaking your body position. You also get a nice neck ache from it! Also the director and instructors are quick with criticizing law enforcement agencies for not using the CAR system or the little attendance by LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES (LEO). It is evident that if CAR system was so worth using, then police academies and other well known LEO agencies would adopt it, but but the fact is they do not. We ended up finding a different firearms training course presented by the FIREARMS TRAINING INSTITUTE in CORONA and most instructors are retired police officers or military. The course was so ORGANIZED and broken into two days. They run the course on schedule. It was located in Corona and much better. read more

Took this class as a family activity. My mother (68 years old), girlfriend and myself. I haven't shot a gun in about 12 years. My mother hasn't shot a gun in about 40 years and after taking the class we feel confident again in using our guns. Taking the class is a great advantage over someone who is not using the CAR method. Tim, the instructor is amazing and a real throwback. I could not have asked for a better instructor. Lisa was great too. She gave my mother the attention and patience for her to get through the class. There is so much more that the class brings, I highly recommend that every person with a firearm take this class. read more

Great experience. Instructors were very professional and experienced, and safety was their utmost priority. The coarse went from safety procedures in detail to defensive concepts to fundamentals of their system, to reloading. Very supportive instructors, felt like we had one on one the whole day...Great coarse which opened me up to some new concepts, lots of material covered in just one day. Looking forward to practicing a new learned skill, thank you Civilian Arms... read more

safety lapses are a dealbreaker here. instructors routinely muzzle students and each other while demoing. i was told this was permissible as long as we were in the unloaded, or "cold range," phase of the class. what? they also do a little exercise after the lunch break to 'get the blood flowing.' students stand in a circle, while a subset of the group jogs around the inside of the circle and field strips their pistols. so basically it's a chance for the field strippers to muzzle every single other student in the class. a shame too, because the unconventional shooting method taught here is an intriguing one. i brought this to the owner of the school, tim george. he said he would review safety with his instructors, but basically defended the muzzling, using the cold range justification. he sent me a refund. read more

Tactical Shotgun, all day at Angeles Shooting Ranges. Demanding and outstanding course that covers everything from carrying, multiple presentations, zeroing at various distances, shooting and loading while standing and moving forward and sideways between barricades, shooting left and right sides, shooting and loading while down and one or other arm injured, and approaching/clearing a threat. Well worth it at twice the price (check them out at gun shows for discounts). We shot a LOT of ammo and had a tremendously fun time! As an experienced pistol and rifle shooter who has done some skeet, I probably should have taken a basic shotgun course to get a little more proficient in my weapon handling and loading before I showed up at the range. That said, I was (mostly) able to keep up, and this course opened up a whole new skill set to me, much of which I can practice at home without even heading out to the range. One thing I was unprepared for was the weight of the weapon after constant up-and-down to the shoulder firing position throught the day. Would highly recommend that you work on your upper body strength a lot before coming out to the range--it'll make for a more satisfying day. Also, it's hot in the summer, so take plenty of fluids and stay hydrated. Equipment: Check the CAT website for what to bring, although I could have saved a few wasted bucks on unsuitable equipment if they were more specific--email them if you're unsure. My Tacstar Sidesaddle was a life-saver for loading while moving--highly recommended. I have a factory speed stock on my Mossberg, but it didn't help me much--I might improve with practice, but the rounds are easily dislodged by an inadvertent bump of the arm. In my opinion, the stock blade site on the Mossy 590 is worthless. In a cheek-to-stock firing position, the rear loop appears too big, allowing too much area for the front blade to move around in. I got a nice slug grouping by precisely siting during zeroing, but in a tactical situation, I just wouldn't have the time to align the site to the gnat's a** with that much "play." I'm going to remove it and try a bead site to see if that doesn't work better. Bottom Line: Guys that say, "Oh, just get a shotgun for home defense, you don't have to be a good shot" are either underplaying or ignorant of the training and stamina that it takes to properly employ a 12-Gauge. This is a great course to help you get the most out of your shotgun. Hog Driver read more

After the initial shock of purchasing a handgun and not knowing how to use it, I signed up for the Basic Pistol 101 class at "CATS." I'll admit, I was nervous because I had never fired a pistol in my life. BB guns and pellet guns were the extent of my "firearm experience." It was a very small class.... just me, and the instructor, Lisa Erickson. This class was about 8 hours of instruction with lots of note taking, along with getting comfortable handling the firearm. The grand finale was going to the local indoor shooting range to see what I had learned and I was very appreciative that Lisa met me there to show me the ropes. I learned everything that I wanted to know including types of firearms, laws, shooting skills, firearm selection, ammo and most importantly, safety. This was well worth the time and money invested to feel totally comfortable in a brand new environment. I highly recommend Civilian Arms Training Source. If you want to learn safe firearm practices and have absolutely no experience and/or are intimidated or uncomfortable with the thought of using a firearm, I highly recommend taking this class. You will be surprised how comfortable you will be Thank you, Lisa! CCW class was a few weeks later. More knowledge to absorb in safe gun handling, concealed weapon laws, what to do if you get stopped, and how a California CCW is different from others, being just a few topics. There's allot to it, but I feel comfortable from the instructions and training and I know that I am prepared to be a responsible CCW licensee. read more

I took the Basic Pistol 101 class with Lisa Erickson. Before taking this class I was extremely uncomfortable around a handgun and really didn't want to hold one, much less shoot it. I knew I needed to get past this discomfort and fear, so I took this class which was recommended by my husband who has taken your other courses. Lisa did a fabulous job of providing me information related to handgun safety, use, and laws. She gave me plenty of opportunities to handle my gun and learn about how it works. I felt extremely comfortable and safe working with it and learning about it during this class. I was able to practice shooting with her guidance at the shooting range. I had all my questions and concerns addressed and walked away from this class not only comfortable with being around handguns and handling them, but I am actually excited to practice what I learned so it feels more natural to me. I will be taking the next class as well. Thank you!! I highly recommend this course. read more

Amazing instructors, amazing courses. Tim George has a passion to teach you the CAR system, and to do it safely! I have been taking courses from C.A.T.S. for the past two years and have repeated the same courses multiple times and always learn something new each time. I have done Level 1 and 2 Pistol including the pistol 2 low-light/night shoot, Level 1 and 2 Tactical Rifle, and Tactical Shotgun. These courses have greatly increased my confidence with my firearms. Highly recommended! read more

This is by far the most practical and proactive training I have ever had. Instructors are very friendly and patient with all class menbers. My wife and I will definetely be back for more training. A++ Thanks David and Antonio for a great day and keep up the good work. read more

Had a great day of shooting and instruction. Found a couple of things I was doing wrong, after they showed me how to correct it , my patterns got a lot tighter and consistent. Can't wait for more training. read more

Just took TACTICAL HANDGUN LEVEL ONE at the Clark County Nevada Shooting Complex. This is a prerequisite for Level Two which I plan to take. As an experienced shooter I can say this course covered the basics and then some. The student to instructor ratio was great and everyone got the attention they needed. If you are new or experienced to defensive handgun you will learn new stuff. Can't wait to return for more instruction. read more

The Absolute best training you can receive! I have done 3 classes with them so far and plans on doing many, many more. Tim has instructed two of my classes, and he a very knowledgeable, as the rest of his instructors. I have gotten a lot of one on one training with the instructors and safety is a huge priority with them which is always very important. every one of their instructors is highly qualified to give you the skill you will need. If you are looking for great training you could not ask for any better. I am excited to attend as many upcoming classes as possible in the future. Thanks for all you guys do and I look forward to receiving more training from you guys. read more

Without a doubt the best handgun class I've taken (Tactical Handgun Level 1). The CAR system is their platform of instruction and makes a lot of sense, particularly for CQB. A lot of material is covered with challenging drills, so much so that I may take the class again before going to the next level. Probably not for someone who is new to firearms. read more

Excellent value. C.A.R. Trainers came to Rankin Field Weapons Range in Tulare, CA to give the training. We had a wide range of shooters from beginners to experience shooters and everyone benefited. The trainers were very knowledgeable and professional. I am looking forward to taking the level 2 again. Get ready to work hard and have a lot of fun! Donna C Visalia, CA read more

I took the hand gun defense level 1 course at Burro Canyon and can't wait to take the level 2 course. I also took the home defense course in La Palma. Safety is their 1st priority! The instructors are very proffesional, great group of guys. I believe that all families should be armed but most importantly trained. It is better to know how to defend yourself and never have to than not know how to defend yourself and need to. read more

I just took the intro 101 course for handguns. I'm seventy and have had no experience with arms whatsoever--zip, nada. Just want to learn a bit for home defense. I did some homework beforehand by watching YouTubes and reading up on legalities and such, so I had my radar up to make sure I was getting good straight professional skinny. First of all, the course is one-on-one with Lisa Erickson, so it's close and personal. She's a highly knowledgeable plain talking no BS instructor. It was just the two of us and that was real nice. The uber emphasis on safety and overall thoroughness of the course made me feel like I was in good hands. Though I did a little checking prior, I found it useful to simply submit and tell myself that "I know nothing" and just let her teach. The end result: I now have a good foundation of limited confidence to build upon (much practice is yet required), an extreme awareness of safety, and, when we got into the shooting range, I didn't do bad at all. Lisa was there by my side to guide me in correcting technique much as a coach guides an athlete. When it came time to pull the trigger, I didn't feel high or excited or powerful. I was expecting something but I didn't know what. I was surprisingly calm. What I felt was a severe sense of responsibility to myself and others to treat a firearm with caution, safety mindedness, and respect. From here on, I believe I'll be able to do that thanks to starting off on the right foot. I highly recommend Civilian Arms Training Source. -- David W. Betterton; Long Beach, CA read more

I highly recommend the courses offered by this company. So far I have taken a handgun and a rifle course, but I intend to take every course they offer eventually. My thinking is this... if you own any type of firearm, and go to the range regularly, good for you. You know how to stand motionless in front of a paper target. But do you know how to USE your firearm under a variety of scenarios, safely? This class teaches a whole different level of firearm training. This class will boost your level of confidence that you can safely use your firearm in multiple situations safely and accurately. Not only that, but you will have a blast while learning. The instructors are knowledgeable and I never felt like I was in an unsafe situation. read more

Unlike the typical point-and-shoot classes that you will find at most ranges, Civilian Arms Training provides comprehensive defensive training that can actually be used in real-world situations. The Center Axis Relock System is the core of their training, and it is far superior to the typical shooting stances taught by most schools. They utilize different drills in their courses that teach you to be able to move defensively to protect yourself rather than just stand there like a sitting duck. I highly recommend their training to anyone who is serious about learning how to safely use a firearm and be able to protect and defend themseves. read more