This will be my second review of FTA. My first review was for the basic handgun/saftey training, this one will be more geared towards the CCW class which I took last weekend. I can't say enough good things about everyone involved with this organization. Everyone from the instructors to the owners are all class acts and I would give them 10 stars if I could. On to the CCW review. I had completed my Basic firearm safety training (being new to firearms and all) and decided it was time to prepare for the CCW training course. When I found out that FTA offered a CCW class I decided to go ahead and enroll since I had so much fun in the basic. Now I want to preface this by stating that carrying a concealed weapon is a very serious matter, so in turn this is a very serious class. FTA and the instructors are putting their name on the line to sign off on your abilities go out in the world with a loaded gun, so if you are expecting hand holding this is not the class for you. If you are looking for high intensity true to life training for a possible life and death scenario, then you will really, and I mean really enjoy this class. Day one is all class room instructional. You will be going over the laws of owning and transporting a handgun, as well as scenarios where it is permissible to use deadly force and when it is not. I was originally kind of worried about this because sitting in a classroom all day and getting lectured does not sound like a whole lot of fun. I was wrong! Dave B. our lead instructor for the course made the lecture interactive and fun. When five o'clock came around and it was time to go home I could not believe it! I was having so much fun I lost track of the time. In a class room mind you lol. Our instructor Dave came from a law enforcement background and was one of the nicest and coolest guys I have ever met. His knowledge of firearms and gun fight scenarios is unparalleled. I was very thankful to have someone of his expertise take time out of his schedule to come and pass on his extensive knowledge to our group. Day 2 is when the real fun begins. You basically hit the range first thing in the morning and begin shooting for the whole day only breaking for lunch, and at the end of the day to fill out your certificate for the CCW. You work extensively on combat reloading drills, clearing malfunctions, and also working on your trigger reset timing. Being knew to firearms I did not even know what a trigger rest is. Man, let me tell you this is probably one of the coolest skills I have learned yet. You will also be learning how to effectively draw from holster and put yourself in the quickest and best position to win a gun fight. You will also learn valuable skills like managing your ammunition so that you do not run out in a possible shootout, and recovering expelled magazines while in the heat of battle. Towards the end of the shooting portion you will work on qualification. Your accuracy and knowledge of everything you have learned for the day will be tested. Once again this is a very serious class with very serious implications. If you are looking for hand holding then this class is not for you. Yes the instructors are a little bit more stern and will not hesitate to correct any safety violations you are commiting. I for one am glad they do this. I have read a lot of other reviews where people are complaining about the instructors "being mean" or "hurting their feelings".Truthfully if you want to carry a loaded gun around on your then maybe you should have thicker skin. Honestly just follow the instructors directions and don't go off on your own program and you will have a blast. This class is the most fun you can have without going to jail (pun intented). Do not let prior negative reviews of this class deter you. Some people just need to stop letting their feelings get hurt and put their big boy pants on. CCW class with FTA is well worth the money. I cannot thank Dave B. enough. The knowledge that he passed on to me those two days will stay with me for life. I also want to thank all of the other instructors who came out to help us. You guys are all awesome! Keep doing what you guys are doing and I will gladly keep spending my money. Most importantly a big thank you to Cheryl and Bill for running such a class act organization. Civilians like me can come out and get world class training from world class instructors at a very reasonable price. Already signed up for General Handgun and will be doing many more classes after this. They have different classes for every kind of skill level. Whether you are a beginner who wants to learn more about guns or an advanced shooter. There is a class for each and every one of you, -James Crosby- read more

My wife and I just took the Basic Handgun Safety class. The class was very informative and the instructors made it fun. The class participants were a wide range in age and skill level both male and female. I highly recommend this as a great way to learn the basics of knowing about and using a handgun. The instructors are VERY knowledgeable but not intimidating. They are very patient and take the time so that everyone learns what they need to at their own pace. They also offer many other classes especially suited to women or things such as shotgun training and CCW. I have already signed up for another class as I want to continue to become more comfortable and proficient with handguns. Thanks for the experience and training! read more

Very knowledgable training staff. Learned more in a 2 day class than years of range time on my own. Would highly recommend.

The instructors especially Bill and Ben were excellent. They are informative and knowledgeable. All the staff had a great attitude and they made it a great experience. I took the ccw class and was greatly impressed. Lunch was hot dogs and cheeseburgers. After taking classes at front site in Nevada I am very glad I switched to ftatv. The classes are informative, we'll structured and during the course you are politely and shown with great example the correct and safe methods. Thank you once again guys! read more

This is the second class I've taken from FTA. The first was nine years ago when I applied for my Utah CCW. I wasn't disappointed then and I wasn't this time either. I attended the Ca CCW class on May 22 & 23, 2014. There was a great deal of information exchanged in a short period of time. The class room activity was on point and sprinkled with enough humor and personal examples that made me listen and learn. The shooting portion of the second day was so professionally run I was amazed at how quickly I became comfortable. The building block type of training that was offered couldn't help but make you a better shooter and gun owner. I think that most of us were somewhat apprehensive of the shooting portion on the second day. It was made very clear that if you didn't shoot as instructed or committed safety rules you had a chance of going home without a certificate and having to return another day to qualify. The instructors did such a outstanding job of building our skill sets step by step that most of my misgivings were put to rest. Ben Romero and all the other instructors take this training seriously and it shows. read more

100% LEGITIMATE, PASSIONATE and PROFESSIONAL operation. Family owned and operated with numerous decades of law-enforcement experience. Bill, Cheryl, Brandon, Kristen, Tim, Andrew, Otto and the entire range staff are absolutely amazing! Everyone is extremely friendly and knowledgeable in the latest local, state and federal regulations. On every visit, I have personally witnessed the entire staff display patience, assistance, sound guidance and encouragement towards their customers. I have trained all around the world and I can honestly state that this facility has taught me new things during each visit. It does not matter what level of experience you have, the staff is very helpful at developing, improving and refining your firearms skills. Clean and Safe with convenient hours and plenty of parking available. Please contact these folks for ALL your CCW, small arms, shotgun and rifle needs. I absolutely trust, support and highly recommend this operation. Use "Google Maps" to locate. read more

FTA is absolutely the best training venue in Southern CA....and they have best instructors in the business. If you want to learn gun handling skills the correct & safe way (probably not the way your dad taught you) then this is the place for you! Anyone who owns a gun (or is thinking of owning one) and has never attended a serious training class... should at a minimum take the Basic 2-day Pistol or Carbine class to start their training. Once you have taken the basic course...I guarantee you will be back for the more advanced training courses as they are so educational and FUN! read more

I took a firearms class here over the weekend and the trainers were very experienced and helpful. If you need any firearms training of any kind, this is the place to go. Thanks Everyone! read more

I have attended numerous shooting schools over the past 30 years. Bill Murphy and FTA is one of the best schools I have ever attended. Bill and his staff teach from real world expertise. These are instructors who have carried weapons into harms way defending the community and the Country. They know what they are talking about. Every time I take a different class from FTA or the Surefire Institute, I am continually amazed at the level of expertise and experience being taught to the students. Whether you are the person who just bought their first gun, or a seasoned police officer, you will learn a lot from Bill Murphy and the FTA school. I would highly recommend this firearms school to all of my family and friends. read more

Did another 2 day class with fta, this time it was general handgun. Steve and the rest of the instructors run a great operation. Had Ben as my lead instructor for most of it, and he was very good. Boric is still there and still funny as heck. Already looking to see what class I go to next. Cannot recommend these guys enough!! read more

I found the instructors and office admin to be extremely accommodating and professional. During my recent class, safety was the priority and was very well supervised. Very respectful. I can't say enough good things - I'd definitely take more classes and recommend them to friends no matter the skill level. read more

I had an issue with one of trainers, but Chris in office took care of it. I appreciated it

one word...AMAZING! the staff that run firearms training associates are simply amazing. the fact that its family owned and operated shows completely! Everyone from the main instructor to the supporting cast ARE ALL STELLAR! each individual instructor supported the group/class as a whole. it wasn't this one instructor with this one class...every instructor was there to support each person from beginning to end. Even down to coffee!!!...i told one instructor who was teaching an entirely different class, that i had a long night...two minutes later he was making me a cup of coffee. Again simply amazing group of instructors. the two classes i took were outstanding. Each lead instructor was extremely informative and very detailed. I unlike some had taken a similar course awhile back and was able to compare the two. NO COMPARISON!!... by far they are the better of the two i took. if you are looking for COMPLETE training, skills and learning in the use of your firearm...i highly highly recommend firearm training associates! read more

I recently completed the 2 day CCW training class. The first full day of classroom instruction was extremely informative and the instructor used just the right amount of humor to keep the day moving along. The second day of shooting covered all the basics of safe handling as well as various techniques needed for a safe conceal carry. A perfect combination of instruction and hands on shooting. Most importantly there were enough instructors to ensure everything was done in a safe manner. I am very pleased with how much I learned in 2 days and also realize that I need to constantly improve. read more

Took the shot gun home defense class on March 11 and wow!!! Very detailed. Great instructor! Was so nervous and they were so patient. Recommend this place to all. Will have my kids taking instructional classes here. My gun was heavy and long for me so The instructor let me use his. They help you find which gun works for you and give great tips regarding home invasion defense techniques. read more

This group does an amazing job. They go over and above to help you understand firearms on all levels as well as outstanding range training. While most of the training is very serious they keep the class and field work very fun. I learned way more than I thought I would and look forward to taking new classes. Great job guys, thanks for everything! read more

Took the basics class today and extremely glad I did. The instructors were knowledgeable, engaging, patient, funny and just great guys to be around. I was nervous around guns before class started and by the end of the day was not only comfortable with a handgun but want to go learn more. This girl is a happy customer and I highly recommend Steve, Dave, "Boris", Bob O, Tim, and gang. See you in October boys! read more

I have taken several classes from FTA and I can honestly state that the training is outstanding. The owners are retired police officers with real world experience and understanding. The training instructors are all ex military, or current/former police, and again have many years of practical experience. Safety is always the highest priority and the structure and discipline is taught and reinforced. Even little things are noticed and pointed out to each individual in a positive and reinforcing way. They are constantly encouraging to help you build your confidence, and improve your skill level. I have tried to get my wife to shoot for 19 years to no avail. She went to a class at FTA, and not only learned to shoot, but her confidence and fear is gone due to the methods and encouragement she received. I read a few of the other comments, and have to disagree with a few of them. Chris is very structured and disciplined...that is what makes his courses great. He works with you and instills the discipline within you...Remember, lack of discipline can get you killed, whether on the range, the street, or in you home. I also took my CCW class at FTA and enjoyed both the classroom and range. I look at all of the training they deliver and would not want any of my family or friends to go anywhere else if they wanted to learn the tools, techniques, and mental attitude to defend themselves in a stressful situation. read more

Absolutely Fantastic School, I have tried training at a few other places but have found a home at FTA. Lead by Bill Murphy, the caliber of trainers are second to none. The school has a uniform philosophy for safety & instruction, and they offer a wide array of classes. I have taken everything from basic to advanced classes for Pistol, Carbine, and Shotgun and have learned something new every time I have attended class. The environment is great, I'm a person that asks a lot of questions and when I do, the instructors at FTA take the time to truly give me a thorough explanation. Get your range gear together and book a class. read more

Steve is an excellent instructor. He helped make my nerves disappear. I highly recommend this class before purchasing any firearms. You get the proper guidance on safety and procedures with a firearm. The range masters were patience - a little intimidating, but that is probably necessary. I would recommend this class to all individuals. FTA rocks. read more

This is a great place to learn vital firearms safety as well as state and federal firearm laws. The instructors are super and the range guys are awesome! Very safe place to familiarize yourself with your weapons and perfect your aim. Eyes on target! read more

Gregg and the gang are great. If you need training or a CCW license then give Greg a call.

Just finished the CCW course at FTA. The ownership and staff are absolutely professional and straight forward. This is an instructional business that is set up to train folks in firearm safety and procedures, not pat you on the head and paste little gold stars on your note to mom. Their instructors educate you in a way that is easy to absorb and will make the classroom time melt away. Range time taught me valuable techniques that 45+ years of shooting has not. Overall I can't speak enough of what I learned in two days and how I was taught. Keep doing what you do and how you do it FTA. You're the best. Oh yeah, I'll be signing up for futures classes. read more

This place is awesome I would recommend it to anyone getting there ccw training is top notch these guys know there stuff and also a great shooting rang for free shooting ! Also they feed you for lunch read more

Firearms Training Associates - The training shooting range - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Corona, California

This review is about the Concealed Carry Weapons class. This is a very thorough and intense course. It is very professionally run, and while it is no-nonsense, the instructors are reasonably friendly and really do care about the students mastering the material, especially the practical course on the second day. The first day is all classroom. I had the head guy, Bill Murphy, as our classroom instructor. Bill is quite good, has a sense of humor, and pretty much knows his stuff. I happen to be a lawyer, and a few times Bill's take on the meaning of certain nuances in firearms laws did not jibe with mine. But I think the way to take this is that listening to Bill lets you know how a Cop thinks about the law. This is a good thing since the goal is to stay out of trouble with the Cops. (Bill is a retired police officer, and I suspect that he was a very good one.) In any case I learned a lot from the class. By the way, it was freaking cold in there. Bring a hoodie or a light jacket. Bill really jacks up the air conditioner. The second day is almost all practical range instruction. This portion is truly outstanding. The staff is very intense, reasonably friendly as I said up above, and very caring about the students. They are really trying to teach you how to use your firearm safely and effectively to put down a bad guy. I have been shooting for 45 years, and learned how to shoot in the military--but I did not know any of the tactics and techniques that I learned here. I am VERY glad that I took this course. I happened to have Boris as my range officer. You will know him when you see him; he is about six foot two, built like a linebacker, has a Russian accent, and looks like a Spetznaz commando. I learned a LOT from Boris and he misses nothing when you are shooting. He is a perfectionist and wants his students to be perfect. This is a long weekend. Rest up before you go, get a good night's sleep Saturday night before the Sunday range work. If you have three guns, get qualified with all three. I highly recommend this course if you want a CCW or just some good handgun training. read more

I took their basic CCW course a few months ago to qualify for a CCW license. The course it very good based on what they teach and the skills that you are supposed to learn, but some of the instructors need to find another job if they can't and won't treat others with the basic level of respect a paying customer deserves. There are some intense tasks that you should learn for the skills needed if you plan on concealing and carrying a firearm. Sometimes these tasks seem confusing and you might experience nervousness. In those cases repetition is necessary and it is incorporated in those exercises that are difficult to master for some or most customers who take this class. So shouting and commands are used for specific purposes. That's completely understandable and even welcomed, at least by me. However, what shouldn't be tolerated and even excused is belittling the customer for ulterior motives. This is what I experienced by one instructor who is Russian. That person should not be permitted to work there. Hopefully he is no longer part of that organization. That person deliberately mispronounced my name as if to make fun of me. To clarify any misunderstandings, I asked him if this is the way my name is pronounced in his country, to which he answered no. Based on his continual and deliberate pronunciation of my name, I realized that his purposes were to harass and belittle me. When I told him to please pronounce my name correctly - several times - he said that he would only cease when I finally learned to obey his instructions. He was purposefully singling me out because the other instructors never called me out on some serious error or action that I supposedly committed. It all started when he suddenly surprised me as I was loading my magazines. He stated something that was totally out of context, therefore confusing me. It was the second day during the morning, and we had to prepare to shoot the targets. So for him to suddenly surprise my like that was stupid and idiotic. When he asked me a stupid question, I was confused because I was focused on being ready along with everyone else there. It was not the time nor the place to make stupid comments and stupid questions. I honestly could not understand his questions, which is why I asked him and even told him - inadvertently - that I couldn't understand what he was saying. He deliberately used this against me and asked another instructor if he could understand him. The other idiot said yes, without even knowing the context of the situation. I didn't have time to analyze this stupidity because everyone of us was preparing to shoot the targets. The Russian instructor then singled me out afterwards and proceeded to make it his job to embarrass me every time he could. I never retaliated or even spoke up about his despicable behavior towards me because I was there for one reason: to complete the course and nothing less or more. Based on my experience, I would not recommend this company. To hire qualified people like him who nevertheless go out of their way to harass customers speaks of the unprofessional behavior and policy of the company. The instruction is very good, so the two stars are for the horrible behavior on behalf of the Russian instructor who seriously needs to find another line of work, and who needs to be disciplined. read more

I took the 2 day CCW class the weekend of September 9th. Now keep in my -- I have no desire to ever carry a gun; I really do not ever want that extra responsibility. I went only because my husband is trying to get his concealed carry permit and asked me if I would go with him. I knew it was going to be intense, but agreed to go-- hoping to get more comfortable with firearms, as my husband has kept a loaded gun in our bedroom at night-- ever since one of his daughter's crazy ex- boyfriends threatened to kill us all. But I digress. As expected-- it was extremely intense , but I can't tell you enough how much I learned or how much fun I had....from shooting outside at all different distances to jamming your gun and learning how to fix it... It used to freak me out when my gun wouldn't fire. They make you simulate a stovepipe and a failure to feed, and they MAKE you fix it! I can't tell you how much more confidence I have now. Otto, Matt, and the other range masters are some of the nicest and most patient people you ever want to meet-- and they put up with some crazy people ! And Bill-- who ran the classroom part of the course -- is one of the funniest men on the planet -- second perhaps, only to my husband. Just a wonderful experience. read more

If you own a firearm or are thinking about getting one, get some training. Or perhaps a whole lot of training. I have taken many shooting classes but I haven't found a better place to do this than Firearms Training Associates. I've taken three courses there and found the instructors are experienced, knowledgeable and very patient. Another reviewer complained about "personalities." I've encountered about 10 instructors there and haven't found one with attitude. They are all different, for sure, but will take time to talk to you, answer questions, encourage and advise without being overbearing or condescending. Bill Murphy, the chief instructor, has 30 years plus as a police officer and decades of teaching police, military and people like you and me and is a great story teller for sure. He is a bit "bigger than life" but what he talks about is immensely entertaining, informative and designed to teach you, not glorify himself. You will NOT fall asleep in his classes! He will make you laugh and make you think. I haven't hear any grumbling among the students and I've met 14 year olds and 70 year olds, experts and newbies there. Most of all the place is safe! They have one of the highest instructor to student ratios I have seen in gun classes and they watch everybody like hawks. They drill you with safety endlessly. Thank God for that. Some classes are a bit more expensive than other schools but you get good value for those bucks. Owning a gun can be a challenge with lots of laws and procedures. Go try a class--you won't be disappointed. And you will meet some cool people. read more

A friend and I took Intro Women's Self Defense 4hr class. The classroom portion with the proprietor, Bill was a bit terrifying. The first hour Bill told us horror stories from his years on the force and with law enforcement with little tips thrown in. I literally had nightmares that night. Then there was some brief and very basic instructions in the class. *take a lunch! It's from 10am-2ish and they do provide soda, water & cookies but we were starving when done. The gun training and shooting on the outdoor range was Excellent. The range guys were great and attentive. Big thanks to Tim & Brandon!!! You can bring your own gear and they will teach you to use it, or they can provide gear for you at no extra cost (except you need to bring or buy bullets). I will be going back for more extensive classes in the future. Didn't give 5 stars b/c we thought the indoor portion was high on the scare factor & low on actual self defense knowledge/tips/techniques. read more

I took the Ladies' Pistol and Self Defense Awareness course over the weekend and could not be more pleased with the course. Before the class, I had had a little bit of experience just target shooting with my father and brother, but guns always scared me because I was never comfortable with them. The instructors, though, were always very helpful, respectful, and very nice. Chris is really professional and has some great advice, as well as being incredibly fun to learn from and talk with. Boris is this big intimidating Russian dude (who is really just a big teddy bear) who is adorable and isn't afraid to really let you beat him up in the hand-to-hand combat session. Bill and Cheryl Murphy are, of course, fantastic instructors. They are extremely knowledgeable and helpful. This program really is top-notch. I feel much more comfortable with guns now, and I feel that I could defend myself hand-to-hand if need be. More importantly, though, they taught us mostly about awareness and prevention so that we never put ourselves in dangerous situations. Everything about this class was worth while. I would take another class in a heartbeat. read more

Growing up in the Midwest I have been around guns all of my life and shooting since my early teens. The ladies class is the best I've ever participated in. As an experienced shooter I did not expect much. This class is just not about shooting but in all types of self-defense that can be utilized in many different situations. There are so many different ways to protect yourself it's incredible. Many things were pointed out that we overlook every day and put ourselves in danger. Learning the best response in various situations was very enlightening. I intend to take this course again in the future as a refresher. The instructors are fantastic, at no time did I feel intimidated or hesitant to ask a question for fear it was silly. Everything is well thought out and well planned. I have recommended this class to many friends and acquaintances. I shared what I learned with my husband and he also was very impressed. read more

My Wife & I took the CCW 2 day course this past weekend. I have to say these people are top notch; every single instructor was very professional, yet very very nice. They maintain the range to keep the students safe, and kept an eye on everyone. I don't know about you, but class work to me is usually boring and just no fun. Bill was our instructor for the class, and I must say-- it was the best darn classroom experience I have ever had. I think that FTA is a great firearms training course. Every person from a beginner to long term gun enthusiast will walk away with great gun safety and protection techniques. GREAT, GREAT Experience. read more

Second class today was excellent. Shotgun Home Defense. Very informative and thought provoking. Opened my eyes to a lot of things. The instructor was the co-founder and he was awesome. I learned so much and when we got out to the range there was an abundance of excellent men and women instructors and volunteers. They always corrected my mistakes in a thoughtful, respectful way...never made me feel bad or talked down to me. They had a positive encouraging demeanor and I was made to feel comfortable which just made me improve every minute. I highly recommend these classes to novices and experienced people. We had people in the class who had been shooting since they were youngsters and they too walked away with a wealth of new info, techniques and a high praise for the entire program. Great job FTATV! I'm coming back for more! read more

I took the CA CCW course here a few months ago. I was very happy with all of the staff and trainers. I did not experience any egos or attitudes as expressed by the very few negative reviews by other yelpers. Vast majority of reviews, I believe, are the true reflection of this school. The instructors made it clear that his is serious business, and they did not mess around, at the same time the mood was comfortable and easy going. I think the subject mater covered was a good mix of textbook, real world application, and story telling (I think necessary to fully understand the topics covered). I did not get the impression that any of the story telling was to simply tell the students "look how awesome I am" etc. I guess any course with multiple instructors can have good or bad days, or hit and miss individuals.... but there are multiple instructors on hand the entire two days and I think all did a good job. Some are more serious than others, some focus on specific topics.... just watch out for the crazy Russian!! Don't laugh unless you are sure he was joking! ;) He might have been in super serious mode as he takes the shooting portion extra extra serious! It seems that working at any firearms related shop/school these days require that you be an a-hole and have the ability to make people feel stupid.... that is not the case at FTA. The CCW course is their most serious course as they are putting their name on your ability. I really respected the fact that they sent one guy home about a qtr of the way into the shooting day. He simply was not ready to carry a firearm and was not able to properly handle one during training. Good for them for keeping on top of every student. I also went back to process a add-a-gun to my certificate. Steve was great as I was the only one there that day to add-a-gun. He was timely and professional even though I was the only one there and he had to set up for only one person. He is also a GLOCK armorer and installed my sights for me on my 42 (yes, he has the specific tools for the smaller 42 frame, front sight, etc.). I just picked up a P938 to carry as the 42 is not reliable so I will be going back soon to do another add-a-gun. This is a great course that meets the 16 hour training in two days. Some other schools are spreading the course out over many weeks and shorter night courses. read more

my wife and i recently took a firearm training class with firearms training associates and while ..yes they're not cheap.... we were both pleased with the training .....i have been shooting for most of my life and had picked up a lot of bad habits.. ...my wife had never shot a gun before even though she had been around them all her life.... .....she left the basic firearm safety course feeling confident in her ability to shoot and had a great time doing it ......the instructers were very good and helped with all of our questions and took the time to help each student individually if they needed it .... .......on the firing line they were very professional and strict as they should be .....for safety..... .......overall very pleased with the training and instructors but as mentioned before not cheap ........but we feel good effective training is money well spent....... would recommend them to anyone wanting to receive basic or advanced firearm training ........ read more

On June 20th I was participating in a shooting class and the whole team was professional and in particular one stood out, Boris, who was knowledgable in all the aspects. read more

I took the CCW 16 hour class a while back and learned a lot from FTA! Although I had to take another class from SBSD to qualify for my CCW (when I decided to actually go for it years later), I'm glad I took the class in FTA because they actually teach you basic fundamentals of handgun combat, which they don't teach at the SBSD CCW qualification class. I learned the difference between the combat variation of being "at the ready" position as opposed to the sports shooting variation, for example. I recommend these guys for anyone at any level! read more

I attended the CCW class on 1/17-1/18/2015. This was my first class with FTA and it definitely won't be my last. Bill was the instructor of the classroom portion and his knowledge of the subject matter is second to none. Bill combines his book smarts with tales of his real life encounters as a cop and hypothetical situations and in doing so has created a class which is both informative and entertaining. Steve was the primary instructor at the range. Steve's style is relaxed and entertaining, but safety is his first priority. Even the most advanced shooter can learn something on this course as Steve takes the time to explain, in detail every aspect of shooting for self defense. Each of the instructors is approachable and seems to enjoy teaching. Tim was especially helpful to me and took the time to correct me and offer explanations to make me a better shooter. The price of the course is extremely cheap in comparison with other companies and Bill throws in lunch on both days. If I could award 6 stars here I would! read more

I attended the 6/13 class and coming from Texas I was pleasantly surprised. The instructors at FTA were top notch! I would say because of Boris "the Russian" my skills were sharpened and enhanced. Definitely signing up for more! read more

Excellent group of professional instructors who, while making me feel comfortable, were still able to convey the seriousness of handling firearms in CCW situations. Their emphasis on mindset and potential repercussions definitely made me realize the importance of good fundamentals and training. Great job guys! Hope to return soon for more classes! read more