Arizona Defensive Firearms Training is owned and run by a quality owner. I had an issue, but he got involved and made everything right. We all know things do not always go the way they are supposed to and that is just how life is. What is most important is when there is an issue that the issue is acknowledged and resolved quickly. Arizona Defensive Firearms Training is a company that does just that. If you are looking to get the requisite training certficiation for a CCW permit which is what I was in need of, then I encourage you to go to Arizona Defensive Firearms Training. The ownership is top notch, strives to provide a quality product (service) and has years of experience with firearms, therefore is well set up to provide you the certification you are seeking. I highly recommend Arizona Defensive Firearms Training. read more

Great class. I got a speeding ticket and took the course. Very well presented and I learned alot

I am glad that I attended the 2 hour concealed carry class, the class was very well designed and efficient. The instructor was very insightful and professional, and took care to highlight many of the important parts of the law pertaining to self defense. I was able to learn and absorb a lot of information in a relatively short period of time from Ken. Based on this class I will definitely be interested in taking some of their other training, as I'm sure it will be just as valuable and informative. The classroom at Ben Avery was very nice, and well equipped for the class. The chairs were very comfortable and I wouldn't mind attending a longer class there. All in all I am very satisfied with this class and would recommend it to anyone that is looking to be refreshed on Arizona personal defense laws. read more

I have been wanting to learn about guns for personal protection and the first step for me was the 4 hour CCW class with Ken. I like that this place is run by retired or current local officers and Ken seemed to know his stuff. They focus heavily on gun safety. Things you'd think are common sense but are always great to reiterate. For the 4 hour class you can rent a gun from them for the 10 shot shooting portion. Turns out I suck at loading the clip so they helped with that to move things along. I told them I had zero experience with guns and they were very helpful. They also give you the paperwork and do fingerprinting so you can just send off for your CC permit. I would be interested in other classes with them in the future. Specifically one, if offered, to test out various handguns to help determine which to purchase. Also, a sort of 'how to' as I don't have anyone in the state familiar with these things. read more

Best firearm training money can buy. Worth the time. Completely necessary and helpful. My dad and I needed a thorough introduction to firearms and to the responsibilities of a CCW. I recommend Ken and ADFT without hesitation. The seriousness of deadly force requires trained experts like Ken and ADFT. We learned safety, law, much more and talked through scenarios no one would want to encounter, I am appreciative for the education and experience provided. read more

$89.00 for registration to 3 Hour CCW Course (North Phoenix) Thursday Night September 30th 2021 6pm-9pm. Transaction ID: 42958351384 The class was great, instructor was knowledgeable and friendly, fingerprints were done during the class and paperwork was provided. Filled out the paperwork, sent the additional money order for the CCW the next day. Then waited... and waited... Knew it could take a few weeks but waited.. sent an email to info@azccw.com Wed, Nov 3 at 7:23 PM asking if there was a contact number to check the status. No response, then sent another one Fri, Nov 19 at 5:33 PM also with no response. Instructions are: Submit your pack (application, 2 fingerprint cards, copy of class certificate, cashiers check or money order to AZDPS) Note: If you were born outside the US you also need to include your proof of citizenship (a copy of your passport is fine) Your CCW permit should arrive within 2 to 4 weeks. While this is NOT the fault of Arizona Defensive Firearms Training, the lack of communication after two months is worth a 3 star review. read more

Excellent instruction and very well taught class. Ken makes it fun and interesting with some humor as well. Material is clearly explained. I attended the 4 hour concealed weapons class which included some time out in the range and Ken again gave us valuable information but did it in a way that was easily understood. This was a great class and I am looking forward to taking other classes that they offer. I highly recommend for others who want to get their CCW. read more

James was an incredible instructor for Arizona CCW Classes. My brother and I learned a LOT from the 2-hour course. The instructor is one of the best I've seen in any capacity, but the simple class we took was very insightful. Nobody was bored, everyone in the room was thoroughly locked onto his presentation and delivery. He's focused, clearly has an extensive history and a passion for what he's teaching and he's engaging. I'd recommend this class to anyone looking for a non-resident Arizona CCW in California. Reciprocity may pass soon! The class is family run and managed, and they're a class act. I bought 2 shirts afterward since I liked them so much. read more

Went to them for a CCW class in July. Very informative class with clear instruction. Highly recommend

I attended the 4 hour CCW class at Ben Avery. This is the class that teaches basic shooting techniques and takes you to the range. We shot about 10 rounds. The instructor reviewed each of our targets and told us how we can improve based on where our shots landed. Because of the tips that we're given in class, I actually shot better. The last 2 hours of class reviewed the legalities we need to be aware of if we choose to carry. This portion was very informative and eye opening. We were also given some practical information about what to say and not to say when the police arrive following the use of our weapon as well as insurance to provide added legal protection. I highly recommend Arizona Defensive Firearms Training. read more

Took a 2 hour CCW Class and was fortunate to have Ken as our instructor. He forced all to actively participate and that made the difference. Being part of the class giving what we thought was right was a real eye opener. He explained in detail when we were right and made sure that we grasped the law when we were wrong. My wife and I came out of his class with a much better and broader idea of the law. Ken answered all questions leaving nothing not answered. And never feeling stupid when we were wrong. Ken is a great instructor!!! read more

Just finished our basic pistol training course with Ken Crane. Wonderful instructor breaks it down simply and makes it fun and interesting to learn to shoot. Will be taking more courses from Ken in the future. Thank you Ken for the instruction and for your lifetime of service both in the military and and for the Phoenix police dept. I would recommend Arizona Defensive Firearms Training to anyone. read more

I did a private handgun course with Ken Crane. The course was top notch. Ken is a wealth of knowledge and his experience shows. He is professional, patience, and listens to your needs. Though it was a 4 hour course, he didn't watch the clock and made sure all my questions and concerns were answered and addressed before leaving the range. He helped me identify my weak areas and gave me drills to use when I go practice on my own. I have seen improved results since attending the course. I would recommend Ken without reservation. read more

I took the 2 hour CCW class with Ken Crane and thought it was great. Ken took the time to explain the laws, policies, and a great deal more in regards to personal defense. He gave very good scenarios too that made you think. He added humor to the class which could be very boring if it wasn't for him. We were all fingerprinted for our licensing. Ken went over filling out all the paper work and what to include in the packet that needs to be mailed off. I would highly recommend Ken's classes and will take a class from Arizona Defensive Firearms Training again! read more

Rick was the instructor, and was very informative. I took the CCW course for firearms in November along with my wife and son. The course started with an overview of handguns, and which ones are appropriate for different shooters. This was huge knowledge, and a bonus that I wasn't expecting. It was like getting a training on guns while getting a training on CCW. Rick is a no-nonsense guy. If you don't listen expect to be asked to leave. If you can't follow instructions and fill out the forms correct the first time, you'll have to get your own forms. And in the case of the firearms training, if you're stupid enough to point a gun at another shooter next to you while loading it - as one shooter did - then you'll be asked to leave. He took the time with everyone, and the three of us were able to shoot with the same gun, and get our CCW certificates. It was a little stressful, but it was worth it. Is Rick dry? Yes, but his knowledge on law and rule of law is is valuable, and easily alone pays for the class if you can look past that. Is the class fun? It was a good experience. if you want to learn, you will walk away with a lot of real-life knowledge about guns and the laws, liability, what's legitimate defense, and what you can and cannot do with a gun. The above is key. Knowing what you can and cannot do is important. Don't take this lightly. I walked away educated and with perspective on where and when it's appropriate, allowed, or illegal to have, wear, produce or use a firearm. In his defense, Rick is also responsible for 20 or so people with guns in each class, and has my respect. If you review the laws required for CCW, you'll do just fine. If you walk in expecting to breeze through without an effort, then you may not have a good time. Bring your paperwork, and remember to fill out the forms correctly and in all capitals. Also, as instructed, leave your gun in the car when you arrive in class, just like he asks in the paperwork. read more

***The actual ADFT course itself does not even account for half of my nightmarish experience. My review isn't the shortest, but it certainly is descriptive and accurate. I can only hope you read it in it's entirety. I was BLACKMAILED and verbally and emotionally ABUSED by NUTJOB Rick Barkett and ADFT. This poor excuse of a professional is abusive, and belittling to say the least and needs to be exposed.*** --------------------------------------------------­--------------------------- IN THE CLASSROOM... In Feb 2013, I attended a concealed carriers permit course with instructor Rick Barkett. During the sit down portion of the course he ran an informative Power Point. Blazing through each slide at a rate of about 10 seconds; he chose his "favorites" in the class as well as the ones he would treat like COMPLETE SKUM. There was an older gentleman in the course who had a lot of questions throughout the Power Point. Big deal, we're here to learn, right? Every question this older man asked was answered in a condescending, "I don't have time for you" kind of way. I was also on his crap list. Simply because I asked him a few times if he could go slower while shuffling through the Power Point slides. --------------------------------------------------­----------- OUT AT THE RANGE... By the time it was my turn to practice at the target I was shaking with nervousness from witnessing the way the attendees before me were treated by Rick. Anyone that made a mistake was literally DOWNGRADED, YELLED AT and DAUNTED for it. Rick even went as far as lifting up one gentleman's ear muff and SCREAMING, literally screaming into his ear. I came equipped with my own gun and am very experienced with it. But each time I went to cock my 45, a bullet would get jammed in the barrel due to Rick's rampaging. I asked him twice if he could assist me with the jam but he just huffed at me and stormed away. The third time it happened, I just sat there because I was too PETRIFIED to do anything else. ------------------------------------ BACK IN THE CLASSROOM... It was the end of the class and Rick was passing out certificates of completion. Upon finding mine, he simply walked up to my table, CALLED ME PATHETIC tossed it on my table in front of the whole class. There were about 4 attendees that went up to me after the dismissal of the class and tried to console me and ended up exchanging contact information. --------------------------------------------------­--------------------------- THE NEXT MORNING... I called ADFT to complain. (That was my first mistake because Rick OWNS ADFT!!!) I told the gentleman over the phone I was unhappy with the treatment I received from Rick. The gentle man said "NO, Rick would never do that." I responded by saying I had two witnesses from the class to verify my claim. I then gave him their information. The man on the phone proceeded to say that if I was "unhappy with the course instruction" that he had no other choice than to revoke my certificate. I explained that it wasn't the education I was unhappy with but rather THE WAY THE INSTRUCTOR TREATED ME. But there was no reasoning with him. Then I received a call from Rick stating that he was issuing a refund and indeed revoking my certificate. Not even an hour later I received calls from my witnesses saying that they couldn't speak out against Rick because he threatened taking their certificates away if they did. BLACKMAIL. BLACKMAIL. BLACKMAIL. ----------------------------------------------- The next day I filed a complaint with the BBB in attempt to keep my certificate. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 MONTHS LATER! ! ! Rick told BBB that he would reinstate my certificate if I DENIED ANYTHING AT ADFT EVER HAPPENED. (I filed with BBB for some closure. So of course I didn't deny anything.) I was then issued a refund by ADFT because I didn't comply with Rick's subhuman request. It was all a very a long and hurtful ordeal for me and was baffled at what had happened. Rick Barkett SUUUUUUUUUUUUCKS. read more

Just got out of my AZCCW class in California and wanted to leave a quick Yelp review. The classroom training was very instructional and thorough. James made the class fun and entertaining to listen to while still being very informative and conveying all the information that he did. Would recommend to friends and family. read more

I only took the 2hr version of this course in Dec 2014 so I can't comment on the entire 4hr version. I personally believed I was proficient enough in CCW shooting that I could just skip the range time and basic firearms instruction. The 2hr version covered the important AZ-specific laws for CCW, which was really what I was looking for. That being said, if you think a 4hr CCW course will give you the technical skills to proficiently shoot under stress (e.g defensive scenario), then you're sadly mistaken. Start shooting matches and taking stress shooting courses. read more

I did the two hour class, which ended up being about 3 hours. Ken, our instructor, was no doubt the best CCW instructor I've had going thru a class like this. He was knowledgeable, professional, and gave many example scenerios to get your mind thinking. Recommended read more

CCW class with Arizona Defensive Firearms Training with instructor Ken Crane was great. The class was over the AZ laws, filling out needed paper work, and fingerprinted. Ken answered all question over personal defense and many scenarios to made you think. I would highly recommend Arizona Defensive Firearms Training classes. read more

Ken Crane and Trevor did a fantastic job with the 4-hour CCW class! It was informative and fun! I have been shooting for many years and learned a lot in the class. I highly recommend this training for any gun owner. read more

Class was a great value for the cost and well worth the drive from Prescott. Ken does a great job at explaining all the important details of Arizona law as it pertains and provides realistic examples in order to clarify laws. Will be returning to ADFT for more classes. read more

My husband and I took the 3 hour CCW course and it was well worth the drive from the East valley! Ken Crane was our instructor and we couldn't of asked for a better, more knowledgeable instructor. We will definitely recommend this class to anyone we know looking to obtain their CCW. read more

Excellent class and highly recommended. Our instructor, James, was very knowledgeable with helpful information throughout the entire 4 hour class. Anyone can benefit from this class, whether they've never handled a firearm before , or if they have used them their entire lives. read more

This review is for Ken Crane! I had little to no experience before I took the 4 hour private one on one Fundamentals of Defensive handgun class. Ken was my instructor for the day and couldn't be more pleased. At no point did I feel like I was being rushed or felt intimidated. Ken runs his class at YOUR speed which is what ever you're comfortable with. I came out of this class being proficient in basic fundamentals and then some. By the end of the class I was able to put multiple rounds on target accurately in a quarter of a second. Over all this class has given me the confidence and tools to effectively wield my firearm. 10 out 10 and will definitely be scheduling my next class as soon as possible! read more

I just completed the 2 hour California class. James was awesome. He explained situations and scenarios to the point you would think you were there. I appreciate the fact that this class is offered to those of us that can't make it Phoenix for the 4 hour class. Two huge thumbs up. Knowledge is power and ADFT can give it to you. Highly recommended. read more

Thank you! I have been putting off taking CCW course. As a former Marine, I thought I would be bored and not learn anything. James was great, and I'm thankful for this course. I took the 4 hour course today 1/17/2016. I learned a lot, and really enjoyed the class. I feel much better about knowing my rights as an armed citizen. Looking forward to taking future courses with Arizona Defensive Firearms Training. Thanks again! Scott read more

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!! A friend and I took the 4-hour CCW class with Ken Crane, he is extremely knowledgeable and did an excellent job explaining not only how to use a weapon but breaking down the legislation into practical terms. I plan on taking the 4 hour defensive training next! read more

I appreciate the very professional comment left by the new owner, although it was back in 2016 (I didn't see it until just now). I will be sure to give him a new chance as soon as I can, and take him up on his kind offer. read more

First time taking a course like this one and it was extremely informative! Staff was very professional and helpful, not arrogant or know it alls, the instructor made the course enjoyable and made time go by fast, great info and food for thought in giving great examples and scenarios. I would highly recommend ADFT to anyone and would do this again! read more

Officer Ken Crane was very informative and professional I truly enjoyed the insitefull class room training very well done I highly recommend this class All my questions were answered promptly.Job well done AZ Defensive firearms.with firearms you never stop learning.and this class will be a big part of your firearms training. read more

Very informative and fun class! Learned about a few laws that I didn't know about, great examples and stories,Also cool shirts!

I'm a 50 year old Marine Vet who finally got permission from the boss (my wife) to purchase a handgun, which happened only a week before attending the class. Since I only wanted to have the ability to carry my sidearm concealed with little restriction, I only planned to take the 2 hour course. But I figured that, since I hadn't handled a weapon since the late 80's, it might be a good idea to take the 4 hour class to get a refresher in basic handgun safety. Within the first 20 minutes of the class, I quickly realized I made the right choice having discovered that didn't know what I didn't know. I guess it's human nature to believe we know everything. James, Rick and associates were extremely professional and to the point. The instruction was well organized and presented in a logical manner and I knew that I made the right choice when selecting ADFT. When questions were raised, James and Rick respectfully and efficiently answered them. I've read some of the other reviews and for the life of me can't understand what could have happened for the negative posts. But I'm a 50 year old, demanding business professional and I'm typically the first one to find fault in a presentation. I can assure anyone who reads this to look beyond the negative reviews and select ADFT for your defensive firearm training or to obtain your CCW. read more

Great foundational course! Ken was great! We went over legalities and many scenarios. We also got some time to practice. We will be back for more courses in the future. Very informative! read more

Just had AZ CCW training by James. Very informative and educational. Can't wait to receive my permit.

Had my CCW class this morning. Our instructor Ken was great. He gave us a lot of useful information. This was my first time ever firing a hand gun. I was very nervous but the instructors were willing to help and have helpful ( non-condescending ) advice. I will definitely be signing up for more training. Thank you Joe read more

Instructors were great, felt like I actually learned a lot from use of force, victim chart, laws, real stories and more. 21 day exact turnaround from mailing everything in to state after class to receive. read more

Terrible class! I can't believe I paid for this. instructor is rude, degrading and actually mocks students repeatedly. There is other classes around town that offer the CCW training don't spend your money here. If you do good luck I warned you! read more

Very good CCW class. I learned a lot! Very informative and interesting. The instructor is very qualified and knowledgeable. Also he is easy to understand. For future reference, if the class comes to Northern California, do not miss this class! Well worth the time and money spent, oh and take extra cash, the t-shirts are awesome! read more

I cant recommend these guys only because they are not very friendly. I understand the seriousness of this business but we take a class to learn....not to prove you read the material and now you are at the class proving that you know this stuff already. My experience was similar to many others and was even yelled at once as well. I came ultra prepared since my friend took the class weeks ahead and warned me about the instructor and I listened carefully and still overlooked a small fact that got me in the hot seat for a moment. The instructor did seem to warm up afterward and was nicely answering questions toward the end. I found myself feeling sorry for his lack of people skills but I figure that's from years of being a police officer. I am leaving a 2 star because I did learn stuff and by the end the class wasn't as bad as a prison I suppose. read more