I began my journey to become a firearms instructor in July of 2025. My search for a reputable training counselor lead me to TJ. All I can say is what a blessing. I have taken his Basic Pistol Instructor's Course, Refuse to Be A Victim Instructor's Course, Personal Protection Inside the Home Student and Instructor Courses, and his Personal Protection Outside The Home Student Course. After taking each course, it became evident TJ cares about his students. He makes every effort to ensure his students are prepared for real world scenarios and does not provide a passing rubber stamp simply because you paid for his class. Every certificate he issues is earned, not given. As a retired LEO, I was surprised to be put through new drills. He pushed me to become a better marksman. I am eager to take future classes from TJ, and I am so glad I stumbled across him. If you are seeking firearms training, TJ is the man. read more

I just finished taking the NRA PERSONAL PROTECTION OUTSIDE OF THE HOME - INSTRUCTOR CLASS at ALLSAFE. This is the premier CCW training curriculum. TJ is a wealth of knowledge and helped developed this course for the NRA, so we are getting training from the source. The most valuable part of this class was everything was taught from concealment and TJ made sure to give us the tools to teach these skills safely so our students can win a fight. The one surprising skill was learning how to teach concealment from a purse. This was eye opening. If you want the best use ALLSAFE. read more

My girlfriend and I attended a firearms basic class with TJ on 04/08/26 at Ft3 Tactical in Stanton TJ was our classroom instructor He covered pretty much everything you basically need to know about gun safety, and handling Once that was completed, we went down to the range and got to shoot several different guns This allowed us to select the ones that we felt most comfortable with The class is great, TJ was great as well All the instructors on the range were very patient and very helpful and the experience was awesome I think everyone that's a citizen of the United States should attend a class such as this Gun safety is super important, but the really important thing is that we know that guns don't kill people that people kill people Thanks, TJ! read more

The live fire on range to qualify is top notch because it's not just standing statically and shooting. The class honestly helps me keep up to date on California ever changing gun laws. Been going here for my initial and renewal for many years. Will continue to do so in the future. read more

I have been going to Tj's classes for maybe 8 years He is deeply involved in the firearm community and closely in touch with updates to ever changing laws with regard to firearms in California. He goes over real scenarios and cares about his students. I have been to other instructors and after meeting TJ I haven't gone anywhere else. read more

AllSafe Defense Systems - In class with TJ. - Firearm Training Near Me - Orange, California

The best firearms I have had in 30 years!!! TJ move through the material quickly but thoroughly! I'm looking forward to taking more advanced courses with him! read more

I took Allsafe Defense's 2-day training course for my CCW permit. It is an exceptional and comprehensive training experience for anyone serious about firearm safety and responsible gun ownership. The training starts in the classroom emphasizing gun safety, proper handling, storage, and situational awareness. At the ranges (outdoor & indoor), we engaged in dynamic drills that simulate real-world conditions, including engaging moving targets, using cover effectively, and managing scenarios involving multiple assailants. These exercises push students to think critically under pressure, rather than simply shooting at static targets. Also, TJ provides valuable insight into what happens after a defensive shooting, including the importance of understanding the law, interacting with law enforcement, and coping with the emotional aftermath of such an event. TJ and his instructors are highly knowledgeable, patient, and professional. If you are looking for comprehensive, real-world firearm training that balances skill development with legal and ethical responsibility, Allsafe Defense is the gold standard. read more

The class was very informative and a lot of fun. I think everybody in the class left thinking they'd wanna come back for more.

Great class for beginner shooters and those with more experience. Everyone is encouraging and helpful. If you have a shotgun for home defense get out and practice how to operate it, load it, and shoot it. read more

I rarely do reviews because I think they're silly! But I think people should read this because I don't want this to happen to anyone else! I was referred to T.J. by a great firearms instructor I've known for years. T.J. seemed nice at first. But when he asked me to meet much further than his original business area, I told him I needed to cancel. Then, when I asked for a refund, he said he didn't offer any. But then he said I can use the credit for future services... the moral of my story: If anyone feels cheated, they should be able to cancel and get their money back!! Be careful when doing business with this company!!! read more

TJ is a very knowledgeable instructor. Took the time to help the students and potential new instructors to be come proficient in the disciplines being taught. Highly recommend. read more

Tj continues to provide world class instruction in a safe comfortable setting with prices that are a fraction of other schools.

TJ of Allsafe Defense Systems is a knowledgeable and patient instructor who I would strongly recommend to anyone. His credentials are impressive as well! read more

TJ is an absolute master in this space; he, along with his brother are just a couple of sweet "old-timers" who run a safe, educational, super super fun course-I've taken both CCW and urban rifle and I can't recommend enough. read more

Another Great class for anyone wanting real training on the use of a handgun. TJ and his staff are all professionals and teach what you need to survive a violent encounter. Anyone can buy a gun, that gun is useless unless you train how to use it under pressure. AllSafe provides that training read more

TJ and Michael did a great job of coaching the 2 Day CCW class this week! Their detailed tips on safety and defensive gun handling skills were invaluable. I highly recommend attending! read more

Great culture and environment here. The staff are really knowledgable and friendly and made the experience of the basic handgun training course really enjoyable. Thanks to all the staff for making it fun! read more

I have now taken both the indoor and outdoor basic handgun training course and both were exceptional (and fun!). The indoor course is a bit more condensed and perfect for someone who wants to get started but doesn't have the time for the longer outdoor course (trust me, you will make time once you've done the indoor course). The outdoor course offers considerably more shooting opportunity and more exposure to the amazing instructors (who are volunteers by the way) whose sole goal is that you have a great time and improve your skills. They are with you at absolutely every turn to make sure you are safe while also providing encouragement, imparting their valuable knowledge and just being straight up great humans that are fun to hang out with. I am a 63 grandmother who never imagined I would ever be interested in guns. During a recent visit w/my aging father he gave me a small pistol that was my mothers. I decided I should at least learn how to use it and chose TJ and AllSafe due to the many 5star reviews. I can honestly say that due to TJ's incredible teaching ability (and he is a cool guy to boot) as well as his impeccable team, I have become a confident and certainly more skilled and motivated gun enthusiast. I intend to continue this journey (I'm coming for you Ryan!) and will take other courses with AllSafe in the future. Thanks TJ and team! read more

Yesterday I completed my first, live fire training course with All Safe Defense. I found the course very helpful, conducted with the precision of a Swiss watch with complete focus on safety. It's clear they have been doing this for quite a while. The staff was perfect, taking the time to answer questions, providing tips to improve timed drills and at no time "barked" at trainees like some other places do. They maintained order and kept everyone's muzzle pointed in the right direction. While there were some challenges that I found difficult (holding 12ga shotgun shells between the first and pinky fingers for reloading while moving) I saw the benefits of every drill. Our class had it all...amateurs who never fired a shotgun before to highly trained combat soldiers who zipped through the timed drills with enviable efficiency, accuracy, and speed. This really helped us to appreciate the value of the training and the potential we all have with both live fire and at-home practice with dummy shells. Perhaps the most surprising revelation was the tone and tenor of the course. It wasn't "military" (as I expected) at all. The course was relaxed, enjoyable and because of the kind and understanding nature of the All Safe Defense coaches...everyone in the class was supportive and encouraging as well. The time just flew by! TJ was especially patient and replied to all my emails in the weeks before the course (I sent way too many) and having been trained elsewhere...recognized the superior attention to detail he exhibited. TJ sets the customer care bar so high, other self defense trainers need to charter a plane just to see it. If you seek quality training that's fun...this is your choice. All Safe Defense is unique in that all the students were smiling throughout the course. No "drill Sergeant mentality" here. Take one class...you'll be back. read more

AllSafe Defense Systems - Firearm Training Near Me - Orange, California

It was my first time with Allsafe, with the 3-hr Skill Builder class for advanced beginners to intermediate shooters (about 250-rounds). The class content, the drills, and the insights from TJ convinced me that going with them on a "heatwave" morning was the right decision. Not only was I able to shake down my new gear - a Level 1 retention holster, a tactical belt, bifocal shooting glasses, and a new pistol, the Gen 3 Glock 21SF in 45ACP, it allowed me to identify deficiencies in my own shooting. Foremost is the "shooting from retention" to the A-zone, and second is the development of the NPA (natural point of aim) with the eyes closed. Thank you for the opportunity TJ! read more

AllSafe Defense Systems - Skill Builder - Glock 21SF in 45ACP, Safariland 7390 with Level 1 ALS, Safe Life Defense tactical belt. - Firearm Training Near Me - Orange, California

I keep going back because the training is relevant and applicable. TJ is a great instructor. Safety is foremost. Skills are learned or improved on every class. Highly recommend! Marty Gresham read more

TJ has been the best instructor I have had the privilege of training under. His wisdom and teaching skills make you want to be better. I've learned so many great teaching techniques that have made me a better instructor. If you are looking for a great firearm instructor, TJ is a must. read more

About 40 years ago I went through a Reserve Police Academy. The "Outside the Home" self-defense, CCW Personal Protection course that I completed this last weekend was far more extensive. T.J. Johnson and his team at Allsafe were extremely professional educating the class while also maintaining safety as paramount. I am looking forward to taking more courses from Allsafe! read more

I attended the Basic Handgun training (outdoor session) with TJ and the AllSafe team, I had a great time and the experience exceeded my expectations. It allowed me to gain confidence before purchasing my first handgun. Things that made this experience great: 1. The Instructors: all the instructors were incredibly knowledgeable and helpful in providing positive feedback. Throughout the day the instructors are always by your side to provide a safe environment and make sure the training runs efficiently. 2. Range Training exercises: the progression of exercises allows you to naturally build on your skills and gain confidence throughout the day. The outdoor trainings sessions are dynamic and fun. I highly recommend this training. read more

TJ Johnston (and AllSafe Defense Systems) is hands-down the finest firearms instructor in Southern California. I have taken the NRA Pistol Instructor Course, the NRA Basic Pistol Class, as well as several TJ-led defensive pistol classes through my shooting club. All were outstanding owing to TJ's incredible teaching ability. He has mastered the art and science of teaching sometimes complex subjects in a manner that is both engaging and successful as far as knowledge retention. I will be taking more courses with TJ and AllSafe Defense Systems. read more

I've gone through TJ's NRA Certified Basic Pistol course, twice. Why twice? Because I let the certification lapse. I love the format that he teaches from, specifically the total participant involvement concept. He doesn't just teach about it, it is the method he teaches from and it makes for more impactful learning and retention of the material. If you want to learn how to be a quality firearms instructor, I highly recommend TJ and his courses. read more

I've spent the last year comparison shopping different training companies within driving distance of Orange County, and AllSafe might just have the best balance of value and quality for new and experienced shooters alike. I took the Intermediate Handgun course taught by TJ, Michael, and their associates at Burro Canyon in December 2020. It was a fun class and ran students through not just holster use and intermediate techniques, but also a variety of IDPA-style scenarios. There were even steel targets which are more fun with the instant audible feedback. I'm not a new shooter and have limited competition experience, but I came away from the class both feeling accomplished and with clear goals to work on. TJ and his associates show a balance of professionalism, knowledge, and passion for the hobby that I haven't found elsewhere. I was also very pleased with the instructors' ability to manage a large class size while still paying attention to everyone and maintaining the quality of instruction. During the buying panic that started in summer 2020, many basic and intermediate training classes in the area were quite bloated in student-teacher ratio and suffered because of that. I will be coming back to take some of the more advanced courses that focus on difficult subjects like weak hand shooting. I also feel comfortable bringing some new shooter friends to take the Basic courses if it's any reflection of what I experienced. Thank you TJ and Michael! read more

AllSafe Defense Systems - Starting the final Intermediate Handgun course of fire. - Firearm Training Near Me - Orange, California

Definitely the place to go when in need of your CCW certificate. The course of fire is extensive, running practical and possible senerios one might come across while out with your concealed weapon. You will not find yourself just shooting at static targets but rather trained and given a better understanding of your abilities both strengths & short comings. TJ takes safety very seriously and takes the time to be sure you are both compedent and safe before each course of fire. The information and Q&A on the second day with a professional in the field of concealed carry was very informative and helpful in understanding your responsibilities and rights as a CCW. 16 hours goes by fast (2 - 8 hour days) filled with so much information and training it is WELL worth every cent. Not to mention a proper understanding of what it really means to have your CCW and its responsibilies. THANK YOU TJ, definitely will be seeing you soon on some other courses you provide. read more

AllSafe Defense Systems - Firing Reverse retreat arriving behind low barrier shooting. - Firearm Training Near Me - Orange, California

I have used Allsafe several times now and every time was beyond satisfied by their service,

I've taken TJ's "Basic Handgun" course 3x (introducing friends to guns so I take it with them, never hurts to have a refresher) and just took his "Intermediate Handgun" for the first time yesterday. "Basic" gives you classroom training and instruction before going out to the range and shooting. For that class no gun is required and you can try out different kinds (he brings several), see how you like or dislike the various models. You learn a lot and you have fun at the same time. "Intermediate" is all at the range, outdoor, and is fast-moving. In this class you need all your own equipment including gun, holster, extra magazines and a holder, and plenty of ammo. You learn how to draw from your holster and how to shoot from behind cover, in a kneeling position and in the prone position. It's a gunfighting class. It's a ton of fun and I will take it again. TJ and his instructors take safety very seriously and are always teaching handling and range protocols and making sure everyone adheres to them at all times. Allsafe just does a terrific job from start to finish. read more

A great business to get NRA Instructor training. TJ was highly recommended by mutual friends for my son and I to take the NRA Certified Firearm's Instructor training with. He is a great instructor. He taught things I wouldn't of ever thought of and techniques that I can't wait to try with my students. I personally highly recommend Allsafe Defense if you are planning on taking classes on Firearm's Safety or if you are interested in becoming a Certified NRA Firearm's Instructor. read more

I have been a student of ADS for the past 7 years. TJ and Michael are so knowledgeable and are amazing trainers. I always look forward to their classes. As a CCW holder I come back every two years for my renewal. I just had a class yesterday and as usual it didn't disappoint! read more

Grown men and women screaming as they shot the final stage in the CCW Challenge! Space goes fast and now I know why. It was an amazing practice, filled with a full spectrum of skills and personalities. Amazing time...! read more

AllSafe Defense Systems - CCW Challenge Night - Firearm Training Near Me - Orange, California

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Excellent refresher training, once again. Woke up the areas I need to spend more time and effort on, as well as identified my weak areas.

My main goal of taking a firearm class was to get rid of fear and build confidence but I have achieved way more than that. From learning basics to choosing the right gun for yourself by trying different brands and models, you won't regret. I found this institute through the CCW certified vendor list and took the AllSafe Basic Handgun class. There are two classes (indoor and outdoor), which you only need to take one but I wanted to have more experience so I took both. Practice makes it better! And, I made the best decision ever. Indoor class takes 4 hours (two hours of lecture and two hours of practice at the range) and outdoor class takes 8 hours (two hours of lecture and six hours of practice at the range.) If you have the time and want to learn more in details, I strongly recommend outdoor class since it has more shooting activities and the instructors are more thorough. TJ is a wonderful instructor. He is very patient, keen and fun! And, the other instructors are very passionate and knowledgeable. The instructors are all volunteers so don't forget to thank them after the class. Thank you, TJ for everything you have taught me! I will continue to improve my skills and move on to your intermediate class. Can't wait! read more

TJ Johnston is among the absolute finest instructors you will ever meet. He doesn't just teach, but actually passes on knowledge and skills to thos who attend his classes, the classic teach a man a fish and not just give him one. If you're looking just to be a student or to become an instructor yourself, I can't think of a better person and organization to choose than TJ and Allsafe Defense Systems. read more

If you are looking for self defense training, do yourself a favor and take a class with TJ Johnson at Allsafe Defense System. I recently took an advanced firearms class with TJ and cannot say enough good things about the experience. He is very knowledgeable and reassuring. The locations we used for the class and ranges​ were convenient and well organized. At the end of class, we offered a critical debrief of the instructor and the course. My class had seven knowledgeable students and we all came to the same conclusion, our time with TJ was time well spent. I would encourage you to consider TJ for your defense training. read more

I took my first class from TJ and John and loved it. I learned so much. They were friendly, knowledgeable, and fun. I look forward to taking more classes with them in the future. read more

AllSafe Defense Systems - Reloading - Firearm Training Near Me - Orange, California

Had my first skill builder class this weekend with TJ and Allsafe absolute Top notch... great class, fun and informative! Will be attending more of his courses this month. Appreciate the opportunity. read more

I have been a customer for twenty years now. Yet every time I do a renewal or a class, I learn something new. TJ is an excellent instructor who shares his years of knowledge and expertise, making his courses a positive learning experience. Thanks for keeping my family and I safe. read more