Let me start by pointing out that I'm in Gaithersburg, which is in Montgomery County. I had been meaning to get my HQL for several months but I wanted to do the appropriate research beforehand. I noticed that there were many programs in my vicinity but the prices varied and it seemed as though they were just doing the HQL course as a side hustle. When I came across John's site and his videos, I just got a great vibe that he was a stand up guy and is truly in it to instruct and focus on the important thing: SAFETY! I had reached out to a local company and it took them over a week to get back in touch with me. I was very impressed with the quick response I received from Susan at Fortress Training. I was also somewhat overwhelmed knowing that there were multiple "stops" to make to finally apply for the permit. It really put my mind at ease knowing that everything I needed to do could be taken care of at one place and all at the same time. I took a 9am Saturday morning course in Ellicott City at a local establishment. It was about a 45 minute drive but it was absolutely worth the drive. The course was a lot of fun and everyone I interacted with from Fortress Training had a great sense of humor, so it calmed my nerves (having never fired a handgun before). John introduced himself at the beginning and stuck around for the first half but Dean was our "official" instructor. Both of them had a wealth of knowledge and offered up advice if anyone asked. I really liked that they gave an in depth explanation of MD gun laws, so we left with some excellent and practical information. They were very patient with each student that had questions and their honesty was appreciated. It was also nice to know that they weren't trying to sell me anything. They had several options for things they offered ie small fee for filling out the HQL permit for us, fingerprinting on site (which has to be done before applying for the permit regardless) but you could tell that they didn't NEED our money. I just wish everybody conducted their business this way. Susan was extremely organized and was sharp as a tack with all the forms and paperwork. It was a totally streamlined process and I'm glad I didn't have to run around town putting together everything needed just to be able to apply for the permit. I look forward to taking another course in the future. These guys are the way to go, especially since they're locals and have been around for a while. read more

I'm active duty and these guys are 100% LEGIT you'll learn exclusive things that nobody else will teach you 1000% recommend!

Fortress training makes the process of getting qualified to own and learn how to use firearms seamless. All the individuals there are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about what they do and it shows. The staff is very friendly and organized, and willing to assist you in any way they can. Additionally, I love the one-stop-shop process they have for getting your MD HQL, as they make this process very simple. I highly recommend Fortress Training for all of your firearms training needs. I look forward to taking more classes with them in the future! read more

This place was pretty close to my house and their website looked reputable. They invested in their image. I liked that. It shows that they take their business seriously. Also, they are a one stop shop. My time is limited. I don't have the time to do all the paperwork. (That's a lie. I am lazy.) They take care of it all, for a fee. But I believing in outsourcing whenever I can. Anyway... The class was pretty small and a mix of ages and races. I was initially concerned because, let's face it, the ideal gun toting American looks a little unfriendly to people who read books and don't go surfing in mud. When I walked in, I was pleasantly surprised. Young, old, men, women, Black, and white. No Asians but I think that was just happenstance. The instructor...I'd dreamt up some leathery faces ex marine who smokes a pack a day. Instead, John was a regular guy. Seriously. He looked like one of my dad's golf buddies. He looked like the type of guy who'd give a stranded stranger lady's battery a jump instead of kidnapping and killing her. (Too much Criminal Minds, I know.) The actual training...I have an extensive background in delivering training so I'm a hard audience. But John kept my attention. He seemed genuinely excited to pass along his wealth of knowledge. That goes a long way when a class is four hours long. He was also relatable. I should warn that he tells some pretty sad cautionary tales about careless gun use. The room may get dusty and your eyes may water just a tad bit. I won't go into too much more detail but know we went over Maryland laws, safety, handling the gun, etc. In the end, I can totally see how people get into firearms. He made it fun. But keep in mind, guns are not toys! read more

if you want to get educated on gun safety and your hql, come here. john, dean, and susan make an amazing team. learned a ton in the class and they are readily available to address any future questions. fortress training gives practical knowledge and training. they don't just read off a textbook of a law book. highly recommend! read more

I am ADHD. That being said, I took John's Maryland Concealed Carry class and added the Arizona CC class a few months ago and I can still recall everything. I had previously taken another persons HQL/Utah CC class and retained very little. John does not lecture you or just dump laws and rules at you in a monotone voice like he is reading from a script, his teaching methods grab your attention and keep you engaged. These guys take the "one stop shop" a step further with their signature service. They go hands on and help you or take care of all the paperwork. I compare it to buying a grill. I can get the one in the box and figure my way through assembly, OR I can have it delivered to my door fully assembled ready for me to drop charcoal in it and cook for 20 guest. SO GLAD I was refereed to these guys. read more

I was fortunate to have a small Saturday HQL class! it was a very attentive intimate setting that was almost like 1:1 counseling. John (the instructor) was PHENOMENAL; he was personable, professional, used humor and stories to teach us. There was an information portion with a booklet and sometimes a PowerPoint for you to add notes and have the information. Next, there was a hands-on session in which we learned how to safely handle, deconstruct and clean, then we were each counseled on our shooting posture. Ive gone to ranged and am no stranger but I learned so much and left the class feeling confident. Additionally, they have a number of classes to continue learning/honing your skills which I cannot wait to try. Lastly, they also have great tactical gear at a fair price-- I even purchased a discreet taser and John sat with me to show me how to use it. HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS COMPANY-- I am not easily impressed but this is a no brainer! read more

Had the Maryland HQL class the other day and may i say this class was by far the best. Ive heard from friends that this class was going to be boring like theirs, but indeed it was not! John, Kevin, and Susan all new how to keep the class alive! The perfect balance of seriousness and having a bit of fun! Hands down would recommend to anyone interested! read more