I've been very gun adverse my whole life. Terrified of them. My brother once brought home a paintball gun and handed it to me and I fainted (literally woke up on the ground) when I was in the 7th grade. My partner inherited a gun from grandpa several years ago and recently purchased a Glock for protection. I was involuntarily enrolled in a class by said partner. We met with Jesse from ShootSocal and just finished our class earlier this evening. I can confidently say I am much more comfortable with handling firearms after today. I'm still not going to run off and buy a gun of any sort. The class equipped me with the knowledge and understanding of responsible gun handling I never saw myself reach. After the education portion and handling of our unloaded Glock for 2 hours, we headed downstairs to put theory into practice. While obviously *very* loud, Jesse was really great at reassuring us at what we were doing, congratulating us at our success, and clearly putting a nice spin on our failures. Very important to add: our class was supposed to only be two hours. But after a slow-moving education period (we asked a lot of questions) Jesse still made it a point to help us at the actual gun range for almost a full extra hour. If you're new to firearms and want to learn, I cannot recommend this place any more. read more

I took my first shooting lesson earlier today and Javier was an amazing instructor! Informative, knowledgable, and patient. I appreciated both his attention to detail and teaching method - he answered all of my questions as they came up and offered helpful advice throughout the entire lesson, while also giving opportunities for self-reflection first. Definitely would recommend for anyone looking to get more proficient with firearms. read more

The workers were very informative and nice. The whole experience was easy and fun. I am definitely coming back again. Great experience overall. read more

Haven't shoot for a long time so is a bit slow but they are soo great taught me one on one. Definitely would go back for more fun activities. The price is not that high either and have a large selection of different guns. So definitely would recommend to give a try. read more

I took the 2-hour basic class with Dave yesterday, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Not gonna lie - I was pretty nervous as I had only shot a gun one time before yesterday; literally, one shot, too. I remember at the time that I could barely handle the gun and I was so afraid of recoil. When I got to the range, just hearing all those bullets made me even more anxious. At the beginning of the course, when I was starting to shoot, I was so nervous that my hands got so sweaty and Dave had to keep wiping the gun. Still, he said it was nothing to worry about, and he kept encouraging me to make me more comfortable. I am probably one of the worst students you can have as I have pretty weak arms and hands (I do not work out at all and I have bicep tendonitis). I kept having to take mini-breaks in between magazines as my arms could not handle the burn of the stance but Dave was very patient throughout the whole thing. For people who prefer to have someone they know just teach them basics so they don't have to spring for lessons, I would highly encourage you to take at least your first lesson from a professional such as Dave. I take guns seriously and am not about to have some joker try to "teach me what they know." Dave was in the military and competes in shooting so he definitely knows what he's doing. Wish I had the time and $$ to do this monthly but I will definitely make time to take his class at least a few times a year. read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

Had a pistol firearms training with our instructor, Ryan. I came to the range feeling anxious just simply hearing the sounds of gunfire at such close range, but came out of there ready to book a rifle training class. Ryan was an fantastic instructor. He broke down every little thing starting from the first minute he meets you at your car til the end of the session. His instructions were super easy to understand and he made sure you felt comfortable every step of the way. I finished his class feeling confident in having the basic fundamentals down. To think that I started off with one in the chamber to shooting two consecutive 8 round mags by the end of the session felt really dang amazing. Thanks Ryan! Side note for newbies: highly recommend wearing long sleeves, jeans, and a hat so the shell casings don't surprise you while you're shooting. I didn't have a hat and a few of the shells hit my forehead. They weren't that hot but they were a little uncomfortable. read more

See all

Yesterday I had my newbie handgun training with Ryan. I had never shot a gun before, and Ryan's instruction was clear, easy to follow, supportive, and patient. After going over the rules of firearms safety and showing me pictures of what to look for with the sights and target, he walked me through each step from posture/stance, getting my grip, taking a breath and exhaling into position, set up shot, breathe again, squeeze trigger and fire. With the first shot (a lucky beginner's bullseye), I had the fleeting thought of "what did I get myself into?!" But by the end of the lesson, I was getting comfortable with loading, racking, aiming, and shooting a Glock 17. As a chiropractor/yogi I'm a very body-oriented person, and I appreciate how astute Ryan is at detecting minute details that will improve your shot. His feedback about my posture, breathing, the way he noticed extremely subtle things to correct, all make him an excellent instructor. He noticed not only obvious errors like over- or under-gripping the trigger, but also moments I had the SLIGHTEST discomfort, that take a keen eye to see. Such valuable feedback and helpful corrections. Whether you are new or experienced and looking for outside eyes to improve your form, Ryan's your man! read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

I am so happy that I made this appointment! Right now with the state the US is in, I'm scared for our future and wanted to learn to shoot so that my family can arm ourselves in the event things turn deadly. I went in the website and selected an appointment for 2 hours that included everything we needed! I've never picked up a gun before so I wasn't sure what to expect. Dave met us at the office and was super warm & friendly. He walked us up and started informing us immediately. At first I was nervous, wondering if I could keep up and understand what he meant, but he was soooo AWESOME! He was with me every step of the way making sure I knew what to do! Long story short, I'm booking him again so that he can also teach my 10 year old gun safety too! You will not regret this training with Dave, which explains why he's so booked up! read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - My first time shooting with Dave! - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

Dave and staff are amazing. I've been here a couple of times using them as an FFL for online firearms purchase, but today was the 1st time I needed Dave's expertise as a gunsmith. Someone had inadvertently put the wrong slide back on one of my guns and it got stuck. After googling forums and youtube and trying to remedy it myself, there was just no way to get them unstuck. I messaged them on Instagram on their day off, and they replied right away to tell me to bring it on by the next day, and they'd take care of it. Once I got there, Dave took just a few minutes to get them unstuck and didn't charge me anything for the service. This level of customer service is so rare these days! You're a life saver, Dave. I'll definitely be back to have another gun milled and cerakoted for red dot, because their professional service and careful attention to detail. read more

I had excellent experiences in both of Ryan's AR-15 Rifle and Long Range Bolt Action Rifle courses. As someone with no prior weapon experiences, I found Ryan's courses a valuable introduction into sport shooting and firearm training. Specifically, we covered - Safety disciplines, crucial for every interaction with firearms - Shooting basics (posture, grips, trigger control, etc.) where the 1-on-1 format really helps in correcting my errors and preventing bad habits - Target training drills, which I can take home and practice by myself - Range etiquette and gun selection which will help me avoid pitfalls as I purchase my first firearm. Overall, I found tremendous value from Ryan's courses in setting me up for this journey into the firearms world. And I recommend ShootSocal to everyone interested in getting into firearms. read more

2 hr rifle class was fantastic! Dave is a natural instructor with a lot of experience in his resume. He kept it interesting and simple the whole time, as he downloaded a lot of info. I had taken my rifle in two successful hunts but wanted to learn more about my own mechanics and the use of the scope. For hunting i stayed in the 100yd-300yd range at the shooting range, after a few adjustments Dave had me hitting the small targets at 600yd. I left with a new level of confidence about my rifle. I will be a return student, and have already sent out texts to friends about the c Update Pic of perfect humane kill after our session read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

Today was my first time shooting today. Leading up to today, I was definitely nervous. Even when we arrived I had sweaty palms and felt weak. Hubby wanted to finally get our FSC and gun so this training was a must. Couldn't have asked for anything more from Dave. He helped me get over being timid. We were able to try different guns. By the end (see photos) both hubby and I were doing so amazing. We now are comfortable purchasing our guns and will continue working with Dave. I left with a huge smile more confident and eager for the next opportunity to come to the range. read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - Mine was top bottom was hubby. - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

We took a class with Ryan and he was the BEST! Learned so much, got a lot more comfortable with shooting and safety, and I also really appreciate how respectful he is. As a small woman I tend to get talked down to with other sports/activities (MMA, backpacking/outdoors skills, etc) and he never once pretended I wasn't standing right there as part of the class, assumed I couldn't do/understand something or made it awkward. All of this has happened plenty of times before so I tend to roll into new classes with the mindframe of I'll get whatever I can get from it and ignore the nonsense. I psyched myself up for nothing lol. Which means I got to focus on LEARNING and I got the instruction a super new person like me needs. I also live with an at risk person for the Rona and really appreciate how careful he and everyone at the range were. Def have zero issues recommending my mom, aunt, friends, etc go. Also plan on taking the kiddo once he's old enough to learn. Hoping to take another class soon! read more

With the rise of the Galactic Empire and the subsequent formation of the Rebel Alliance, we thought it be prudent to be educated in the options of self defense and protection of home. The location of a Jedi Academy was not attainable, but we came across the next best thing - Ryan at ShootSocal Firearms & Training! Although my wife had some shooting experience from growing up, for me this was the first time I had ever shot a gun or been to a range. We really didn't know what to expect or if we would even feel comfortable in the range environment, but Ryan made us feel comfortable right away! The range is a spacious and clean outdoor space where masks are required, which is appreciated...because how else can you identify the Stormtroopers from the Rebels?! The constant sound of various loud firearms at all times (it's far from the pew-pew noises of a Jedi Academy) is at first a bit jolting and unsettling, but you lose yourself in your lesson and don't really notice as much. Ryan's instruction was excellent! His was patient, informative, observant, and genuine. He covered basic safety and general use of the firearm before you ever touch a weapon, and then shares all sorts of valuable information and reminders along the way. He made us feel safe, comfortable, and confident firing a weapon. We will definitely be setting up another training session with him in the near future! The Force is strong with Ryan! read more

Great class for anyone looking to improving their skills or new to shooting. Ryan was a patient and thorough instructor who makes you feel very comfortable. I would highly recommend this company. I will be back for more classes. read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

Went in today with my boyfriend for a rifle training with Sergio. IT WAS AN AMAZING TIME! Highly recommend this company! Even more so our instructor-Sergio. He is very passionate and knowledgeable about firearms and safety. We both didn't have any experience with rifles but he made it so fun, safe and took all the nerves away with the knowledge he taught us. My boyfriend was so happy! He made his birthday so memorable. I am so grateful I had him as our instructor. read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - Amazing Experience! - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

We met Ryan for some handgun training for my girlfriend as a first time shooter and myself. He was very well prepared, patient, friendly, attentive and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend! read more

Dave was an AMAZING instructor! My bf and I had been dying to learn how to properly handle and use a pistol and came across Dave while searching online. Our session with Dave was very informative + empowering, we learned how to load/ unload, shoot (on various pistols) + aim, all while being as safe as possible. Dave really tailors the lesson to your needs + abilities, he is beyond qualified and we had a great time! Communication + signing up was a breeze, highly recommend this place! read more

See all

Signed up for Shoot SoCal's Rifle Training course for me and my son. Ryan C. was amazing, going over the fundamentals of gun safety, weapon operation, zeroing in our rifles, and proper shooting form. The lesson was never rushed, and I really appreciated his skill at adapting his training to our level. We were quickly hitting iron at 100 yds (love that sound!). Definitely recommend all new gun owners get professional training, and Shoot SoCal has top notch instructors. read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - Hitting that iron! - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

See all

Dave and his staff are amazing and very knowledgeable! Highly recommend! If you want your firearm custom painted this is also the place to go! Recommend you checking them out on social media! read more

Spoke to Dave about needing some training using a red dot on my handgun. Ryan ended up calling me to hear what I'm looking for in the session and how he can help. I Had my training session done with Ryan today and it was great, I really enjoyed it. Safety first, we went over the basics in the classroom along with some grip, stance, etc. I've been shooting guns for years but Ryan was able to see where I needed help for consistency with various techniques that all link together. Went down to the range for live fire and helped zero my red dot and practice using it. I never felt like I needed any training from an instructor as I felt that I was a decent shooter but now it's making me think different. Definitely thinking of repeating some more training sessions with Shoot SoCal to ensure I'm shooting consistent. You can tell the passion that they have for being an instructor by the effort they put in it when teaching you. read more

When you're a new firearm owner, this course should be an option to purchase with your handgun! Ryan was our fantastic instructor. We are new firearm owners and he really made us comfortable for visiting the range. He explained the anatomy of the range, safety rules of all ranges and the basic anatomy of your firearm. After that we got into the mechanics and technical aspects of handgun shooting. My wife who has never been to a gun range was comfortable after the first 30 minutes from shooting 1 round per magazine to unloading 10 rounds accurately into a paper target from 25 feet away. We'll be back for more shotgun, rifle and pistol courses with Ryan. I don't think you can never have enough training. If you're still reading this review, stop and go sign up on their website. It's super easy to see the instructor's availability. read more

This was the first time I've fired in an actual range facility and was pleased with every aspect. Instructor Ryan was not only understanding, but provided excellent wisdom in marksmanship that will help me continue to become better. The rest of the staff makes safety their #1 priority. Will definitely be back! And thanks again, Ryan! No more texting and driving for me haha ;) read more

DAVE IS A GREAT INSTRUCTOR! My wife and I only shot a gun once before 10 or so years ago. I found Dave on yelp after searching for lessons on how to operate a handgun and booked him for his private 2 hour all-inclusive lessons. It turns out Dave is a grand master army marksman who continues to train soldiers going to combat. Here are the highlights: - Dave goes over the basics - how to hold, load, unload, aim and position yourself to safely and accurately shoot a gun - all while actually shooting. - We had the opportunity to shoot 4 different handguns and discovered we actually had a gun preference. We're thinking of buying a gun in the future, so that was a big plus. - Dave and his wife, Stephanie, made us feel very safe. They kept an eye out on the people around us to make sure no one was operating a weapon in an unsafe manner - even calling someone out at one point. - Dave is very matter-of-fact and detailed, but also very personable - exactly what we were looking for in an instructor. Each time we shot a new clip, we improved thanks to Dave's instructions, all while making us feel comfortable. - By the end of the lesson, every bullet my wife and I shot hit the target! A far cry from where we first started. Highly recommend! Especially if you're looking to learn how to operate a weapon for the first time! read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

Today my husband and I stepped waaaaay outside our liberal box and hired Dave, a grand master army marksman, to teach us how to shoot a gun. I've never held a gun before today, let alone shot one. Same as my husband. I was so nervous I asked Dave if he's ever had anyone cry: he has. I thought I might. I was afraid the gun would recoil and maybe I'd accidentally shoot myself. A lot of preconceived fears about shooting a gun. He was calm and reassuring. My hand shook so badly the first couple times I thought I'd probably shoot the ground, but I didn't. I actually hit the target. By the end of the day I even hit a few bullyseyes which was very satisfying. And always, Dave was very reassuring. Reminding me to keep my eyes open, squeeze not pull the trigger, hold my arms straight. To breathe and relax. So, what did I learn today. Guns are both frightening in what they can do and less so than I expected. While I know we have a right to bear arms in this country, I can't conceive of owning a firearm and not being trained on how to properly use it safely. Dave really helped to put us at ease. It was actually enjoyable, much like a driving range is. There's a certain amount of total focus you need to devote to 'ready, aim, fire' that it actually squashes out the other little voices for those milliseconds here and there. And that was a surprise that I could enjoy it and find an unexpected peace. Bottom line... I'll definitely be back to a shooting range and will look forward to more lessons with Dave. Can't say I'll ever be a grand master marksman, but I'll certainly be competent and safe and able to properly shoot a gun and I think that's probably not a bad thing to know how to do. Thank you Dave. It was truly a pleasure to learn from you. read more

See all

My brother introduced me me to Shoot SoCal. I've bought a lot of product there and found that they have always been great about help and suggestions The one issue that I had wasn't even their fault, but when I got the right part, they installed it at no charge. Great selection of both the toys and the accessories. ( check out the drive way snow cleaning device ) . It is well worth a trip there. read more

Took the all inclusive firearms training class which included eyewear, ear plugs, 3 different types of hand guns and bullets and targets. I never shot a gun before and was really looking forward to learning the right way after hearing great things from husband, about Dave and his instruction, who also took the class before me. Dave was a great teacher, patient and explains everything and answered all my questions. I learned a lot and his technique and advice for beginners really worked for me. Looking forward to more learning and one day purchasing my own gun. I feel lot more at ease around guns now- before I was pretty scared. So glad I had this experience. read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

Always an excellent experience at Shoot Socal. Dave and company have performed many services for me (FFL transfers, new purchases, slide milling and cerakote). A+ all the way around. Today I brought a new shooter friend who is in her 80s. The staff was so patient and helpful as she decided on a red dot to add to her Glock. Highly recommend Shoot Socal. read more

I really loved all the staff and the safety course I took for pistols. Sergio was really, really good, patient and answered all my questions quickly. He was also very encouraging as I learned and went the extra miles to show me some things that were not listed in the official course description. I'll definitely come back here and if you get a chance, ask for Sergio when you need a refresher course or anything else! Thank you!! Jeanne O'Keefe read more

My husband & I took a 2 hour session with Dave, and it was the most informative training course for us both! We worked on safety & technique with an expert, who was patient, easy going, and definitely an amazing shooter himself. It was an awesome experience with a good balance between fun & education & we are amped to return very soon for more training. read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

See all

Did a private transfer today and Dave ended up helping us! Great guy, humble and helpful. Smooth transaction and great guy ---down to earth service. Wish i would have picked up some "ShootSoCal" stickers to share with friends and co-workers! Not to worry I will be back soon in the very near future. I would definitely recommend this place to others. Keep up the great job in these challenging times Dave!!!!!!! read more

Sergio was a great instructor! I highly recommend - it's important to learn about guns. Note that google maps has the turn off in the wrong spot for whatever reason, so keep going and turn into Angeles Firing Range to check in. read more

It's very fitting that Anderson operates a gunstore, since he is essentially a one man army. Saw a gun online that you want? You can ask him if he can get it for you on his website (if he doesn't already) or if he can do the transfer/DROS for you. He both charges less and does the background check quicker than your big chain gun store. Got the gun, but want to get better at shooting it? He can train you, your SO, your best friend, and your entire family circle if you wish. You will start to understand what you need to do in order to start hitting bullseyes. You will understand what it is you need to do in order to shoot tighter groups and catch yourself making mistakes that might veer you off your bullseye with the training and knowledge he gives you. That way, you can take what he teaches you to any range you practice at and develop yourself. Got the gun, got some training, but want to put a cerakote to make it look baller and/or give it a stronger coating? Got some new sights that you want put in? He can do that too. It's an American ideal to see a local business strive to serve strong quality service and aid all while offering several branches for business. I'm very glad to have found him and hope many others experience what ShootSoCal has to offer fellow Californians. Cheers! read more

So GLAD I found Dave!!! Being very rusty on my firearm technique I found myself very calm and collected after a few simple pointers from Dave....Great instruction in a clear and concise manner. He knows his stuff and makes it a fun day at the range. He brought an arsenal of various handguns for me to try...who doesn't like variety? :) I have have already scheduled my next training session. I recommend ShootSoCal to anyone looking to gain experience/confidence with firearms. Prices are reasonable too, which is amazing and they really know their stuff! read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - working on my stance! - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

See all

Awesome shooting range with lots of room outdoors. Friendly staff supervising the area. You need ammo, they sell it there.

I'm glad I came across Dave's business. A lot of firearm training has you conduct in-classroom training, but Dave's training is straight to the point and hands on. Taught me everything I need to know about firing a 9mm (which is what I was interested for home defense). He teaches thoroughly on how to hold a gun, firing, breathing, aiming, everything you need to know for owning a gun. read more

In these times with the Covid-19 I believe we need to be prepared to protect our loved ones. With the lines being so long at Gun Shops and business hours basically 9-5 Dave was our angel. He's super nice and really, really has convenient hours. He had what we need. Prices are great too. We're gonna stick with Dave and ShootSoCal Firearms & Training. Thanks, Dave. read more

Very professional and friendly. Ryan was great. Would highly recommend.

My boyfriend And I took a two hour class with Ryan for handgun beginners , it was my first time there and was very nervous to shoot for my very first time. I walked in there with no knowledge of firearms and left knowing not only how to properly hold a handgun but left almost have hit a bullseye! Ryan teaches you everything you need to know from beginning to end and was very very helpful and really goes at your pace which helps take the edge off a little if it's your first time! I highly recommend him if you're looking to take a class with an instructor. read more

ShootSocal Firearms & Training - Gun/Rifle Ranges Near Me - Stanton, California

Had a lesson on 9-15-20 with Ryan Castillo. Couldn't have asked for a better instructor. I have some experience but learned so many new things. There was also a first timer who was very nervous and fearful of firearms. She felt at ease immediately and left having a great time. We already plan on going back to Ryan one more time before officially becoming owners. Thanks so much! read more