I had an amazing experience with McClaren Defense, especially with Malcolm as the instructor today…read more(May 9, 2026). His teaching style was engaging, never boring, and full of funny jokes that kept the class interested and involved the entire time. He made the environment feel comfortable while still taking the material seriously. What really stood out was how thorough the class was when it came to safety tips and firearm laws. Malcolm did an excellent job explaining everything clearly and carefully, making sure we understood not just how to handle a firearm, but how to do so safely and responsibly. The attention given to safety techniques and legal guidelines made me feel much more informed and confident. Malcolm also asked hypothetical questions that made you think....I liked that part. It had been a long time since I had shot a gun, and I'm much more used to shooting rifles than pistols. Malcolm personally took the time to help me with pistol handling tips that improved both my safety techniques and my accuracy. He was incredibly patient, understanding, and kind throughout the process. He never made me feel embarrassed or judged, and that meant a lot to me as someone getting comfortable with pistols again. I highly recommend McClaren Defense, and Malcolm especially. He is a fantastic instructor, and honestly, his father should give him a raise so he can finally get the Sig Sauer on his wishlist ;)

Great educational course. Affordable and informative to help you navigate through the California…read moreprocess. Worth taking to be a safer and proficient

I had an outstanding experience learning from Ricky. His ability to make complex concepts…read moreapproachable while keeping the training engaging really stood out. After completing my first three-hour course, I was confident enough to immediately sign up my entire family for additional training with him. Since our goal is to responsibly own a firearm at home, it's important that everyone understands proper handling and safety--and Ricky delivers exactly that. His guidance on the range is especially valuable; having a highly experienced veteran by your side, giving real-time direction, makes a huge difference--especially if you're new to firearms. I've now trained with Ricky twice, and each session has been both educational and enjoyable. Beyond the technical skills, there's a real sense of confidence that comes from learning in such a structured and professional environment. If you're serious about learning firearm safety and handling the right way, I highly recommend training with Ricky.

I've been taking classes with James "Rick" Sanders since 2023! I wouldn't even think about going…read moreanywhere else for any CCW courses or any other firearms training. A USMC veteran who has vast experience and knowledge. Get your training from Splitz Second Shooting, you will be extremely happy you did!

Great range, clean, friendly and they have everything you need. I took safety course also and…read moreeveryone was helpful and knowledgeable. It is worth coming back to my ccw course and to get my range time in. I also saw they have a great selection to choose from.

Smells ! To much lead , needs a new facelift a much needed remodel will go a long wayread more

I can't say enough good things about Patrick Russ and his CCW course. Patrick is extremely…read moreknowledgeable, professional, and clearly cares about making sure his students actually understand the material--not just pass the class. He does an excellent job explaining both the legal side and the practical, real-world considerations of carrying, and he takes the time to answer every question thoroughly. Nothing felt rushed, and no question was brushed off. You can tell he has real experience and knows how to teach in a clear, approachable way. The course was well organized, informative, and engaging from start to finish. Patrick creates a comfortable learning environment while still emphasizing safety and responsibility, which I really appreciated. If you're looking for a CCW instructor who is patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in his students, I highly recommend Patrick Russ. I'd absolutely take another course from him and would recommend him without hesitation.

I want to start by saying that I genuinely don't like writing negative reviews, especially not…read morewithin the firearms community, an industry I respect and have been part of for years. But after my third disappointing experience at North County Shooting Center, something needs to be said. As an experienced shooter, I came in with a reasonable request -- simply to use a tool for a minor fix I was fully capable of doing myself. Instead of any assistance, I was met with poor customer service, a dismissive attitude, and unprofessional staff behavior. The response I received felt smug and unhelpful, which is the exact opposite of what a well-run range should offer. What's even more frustrating is that this isn't an isolated incident. This range consistently shows a lack of support for customers, even those who clearly know what they're doing. Meanwhile, Poway Weapons & Gear continues to provide excellent service, respectful staff, and real customer care -- a night-and-day difference. Because of this ongoing pattern, I won't be returning, and I'll make sure other shooters know not to waste their time or money here. Places like this need to hear when their customer experience is pushing people away.

Phil is the man, I feel like this should be mandatory for…read moreCcw to be honest. You go through so many simulations in so many different things that can happen so that you can prepare. Phil is efficient super good guy. Great at communicating nothing but great review for this gentleman. I'm definitely gonna be bringing my daughters to come and train so that they can prepare for their Ccw's. Thanks, Phil.

One of the coolest things I've ever done... An absolute necessity for anybody who wants to carry a…read moreweapon. I will go back again for more training.

Upon entry for the first time, it felt clean and organized, with a nice layout. I followed…read morerecommendation from a friend and was not disappointed. Steven was great; very helpful, went above and beyond if you ask me and just all around a good guy. In general, staff is awesome and seems knowledgable. I'm already passing along recommendations to friends, similar to what brought me in to the shop initially. This place needs to stick around for a long while.

Very knowledgeable and stand up people working at Gunther's. Thanks for all the good information…read moreyou provided while there.

These guys are top notch…read more I had a blast working with these guys. It's simple calm instruction with some great people. You will learn the ins and outs of CQB in the classroom then get to deploy those movements on the "live fire" part of the building. Speaking of the building they have the perfect one. The old Escondido police station makes for the perfect venue. It's got elements of several environments. The fact that it's partly broken down (but safe) adds to the ambiance of the place. And the instructors are nice and knowledgeable. Dave, the lead instructor, has loads of real world experience that he has off loaded into his staff. Matt was the one who worked with our crew for the day. He was able to teach us how to conquer the rooms and be effective. You could tell he knew what he was talking about! All in all, it's a place we will return to!!!

Warfighter Academy has taken over the old Escondido Police HQ and is turning it in to a school…read morefocusing on the next level of weapons training. This academy is a new concept in firearm and security training. This facility IS NOT a shooting range. The instructors here teach people of all walks of life and skills the next level in firearms handling. You can target shoot most anywhere but Warfighter will teach you what to do if confronted with an armed person. The techniques and tactics that are taught here are something that had been previously available only to top level military and special forces personnel. They have classes for everyone from stay at home moms to experienced military. I believe you will be able to buy and attend single classes or multiple thru a membership program. Classes will range in skill level and difficulty and you can progress from one class to the next by completing each lower level. They will teach everything from basic firearms handling and techniques to low light, no light and urban warfare training. I was able to attend one of their pilot classes recently and had a great time. The class I attended was almost half women which is awesome. The instructors are all former military combat veterans or law enforcement. They all have experience in their respective fields and have all been taught by the best in the world when it comes to firearms handling and tactics. The class consisted of part classroom instruction and part hands on using tactical/military style paintball guns. The hands on portion is video taped to allow you to review what you learned with the instructors then improve from there. The point of the classes is to improve your chances of winning a gunfight in most any situation. The class selection, amenitiies and products offered will increase as they get going. When I attended there was still some amount of re-modeling going on, but look for big things very soon. I am excited to come back here for another class soon!

Best shooting class I've ever taken. I was able to hit at 800 yds on the first shot on day 2; The…read moreinstructor is a no BS true professional and expert. The support staff was courteous, professional, helpful and just as knowledgeable. You will understand equipment needs and set-up also. Even if you are a good shooter already, you will walk out of the class way better than you started. I wish I had taken this years ago.

From the owner: Over 20 years experience in training. Prior Navy SEAL. Private outdoor ranges and shoot house…read more Private training groups and events. Long range shooting, handgun, rifle, CQB and more. Check out Instagram page for more info.

An excellent place to learn Krav Maga and all sorts of self defense. The trainers are very well…read moreskilled and made all of us feel comfortable with guns. You'd learn a lot even from the very first class.

I have been searching for Krav Maga classes that I have been missing since I moved to San Diego…read morefrom Chicago a couple years ago. In my search, I have gone to a few trial classes around the area but could not find the same intensity, the aggression, skills, and the same workout that I was used to getting in Chicago. I was about to give up on my search until one day I stumbled across Caliber 3 on one of my random Sunday morning searches and thought that I would check it out. I was immediately impressed with their facility, none that I am used to, not your typical neighborhood hole in the wall gym. The entire staff is extremely friendly and helpful. I could tell that they were passionate about teaching and everything that they do as they were walking me through the facility as well as giving me a history on Caliber 3, originating from Israel and how they wanted to bring their knowledge to the U.S. The instructors are the real deal, all first hand skills and teachings from former IDF. They are great teachers, accommodating to anyone that wants to learn. May you be young or old, nerd or athlete, beginner or advanced, first timer or Bruce Lee. Don't be intimidated to try, you will not regret it. You will get the workout and learn practical self-defense all at the same time. "Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try"

A fantastic, well-stocked and clean gun store staffed by very polite, accommodating and…read moreknowledgeable individuals who deserve your business. They were able to assist me with a complicated issue that was made less complicated as a result of their expertise and eagerness to assist. It would be crazy not to come here again and give them my business. Any gun owner would be pleased with their decent variety of firearms and supplies. As for pricing I'm not generally a "value" buyer so I don't have too much of an eye for cost comparisons; I just purchase as my needs dictate.

Knowledgeable guys and never tried to push more than I needed. Good selection and the prices are…read moreon par with other shops. I was able to find what I was looking for at a good price.