I took the BPS class with my three daughters. Bertrand was extremely knowledgeable and very patient…read morewith us. The course was all about safety, which made me feel much better since I had no prior experience with guns. We all enjoyed our class. Thank you Bertrand!

I took the BPS (Basic Pistol Shooting) course with Bertrand, who was recommended to me by friends…read morethat had taken courses with him before. Bertrand is extremely knowledgeable and meticulous in his lessons, with safety always at the forefront of everything he teaches. You'll likely walk out with newfound confidence and competency about using firearms, I certainly did. The BPS course was broken up into 4 parts - a self-paced online course, an in-person classroom session, 2 hour private range practice time, and 1 hour gun cleaning session (sometimes the gun cleaning is done at the range, though that'll depending on timing). Detailed information about each section will be provided once you sign up for the course. The classroom session was a group session, and it went almost 6 hours for our class (you basically go over everything that was taught in the online course, and then do some dry-firing exercises). The range time was great because it was a private coaching session, and usually done at non-public hours at the range, so there are no other distractions. One caveat - Bertrand is a bit of a drill sergeant, and while this approach may work for some people, others might prefer a softer touch. That being said, he does make sure you walk out with a wealth of knowledge and is extremely passionate about teaching. I had previously tried shooting once before, and I was taught next to nothing compared to what I learned through this course. An excellent surprise bonus to this course was how well I was able to shoot in our range session, and I definitely give kudos to Bertrand for his excellent course and training. He offers a wide variety of courses and is super responsive. If you're looking to safely learn how to use a firearm, SFE is the way to go.

I had such a great experience with ASP Firearm Training. My instructor was extremely patient,…read moreprofessional, and knowledgeable--I learned so much in just a short period of time. The CCW training was especially valuable. It was very informative, with clear explanations and practical tips on how to be a responsible and confident concealed carry permit holder. I'm really glad I had the opportunity to train with this company. If you want to get quality firearm and CCW training in San Jose, I highly recommend ASP Firearm Training!

Perfect class for your initial ccw training/renewal. The instructors are very helpful and…read morethroughout.

I took Fighting Rifle 1 + 2 over the weekend and had a great time and learned a ton. I went from…read morenot knowing how to rack the rifle, to knowing how to zero a rifle, confident with manipulations, and knowing what my limits are in terms of shooting, stress, and movement. It was also a lot of fun Brian really donates all of his energy into this, and goes above and beyond. He's not here to give you a simple low effort easy experience that you can feel good about later. He wants to challenge you. He really wants you to grow as a shooter and share with you his passion for this activity and skill. I saw a few people here post about the drive up so I want to help inform others with this aspect-- I will say that its a very doable drive if you can drive twisties. I have performance driving experience and it took 50 minutes from the base of San Jose. I will say if you are less experienced, budget 1.5 hours. And if you lack confidence driving, budget 2 hours. Its not a difficult drive as in there is no risk, as long as you drive within your limits in terms of speed. Feeling not confident? Just slow down. Some people were driving 15-20mph which is totally fine for these roads. But if you are the type of person that cannot confidently put their car where they want it to go, I would skip this trainer and find a closer place to town. His range itself is off road. I would say its in the beginner off road level of driving. Meaning treat it like driving on road. There isn't really anything that can damage your car. But you will be driving on dirt, and if you are not used to that it might concern you. But don't worry off road is only tricky with hills, ruts, or rocks, which there are none. With a standard sedan, drive up to the bathrooms. Any further and you will get bigger hills. With fwd, if you are a confident driver you can make it down to the classroom building. However I would not suggest driving down to the range unless you have AWD as you may not have enough traction to go back up. I will say that if you do not consider yourself a skilled driver, do not drive back at night. Plan to pack up at 5 and leave at 6 minimum (assuming 7 is sunset). I drove back at night, and had to manage deer (saw two packs), fog, rocks on the road. It was raining that day so maybe my drive back was trickier than normal. These things are not an issue during the day, however at night you do need to be attentive.

I don't write many 2-star reviews, but I think this experience warrants it. I took the firearm…read moresafety class with Brian, and unfortunately I can't recommend it. Brian was unprofessional, rude, and had a habit of belittling students. He made the learning environment uncomfortable by embarrassing people rather than constructively correcting them. While I understand that it's not an instructor's job to be friendly or to "hold our hands," there's a difference between being direct and being outright disrespectful--and Brian crossed that line. In terms of content, the class was heavily skewed toward theoretical discussions, such as legal frameworks for self-defense and broad topics on conflict and society. While some of this information was interesting and well-explained, it dominated the day, leaving little time for actual hands-on firearm training. The balance between theory and practical instruction was way off. Additionally, while Brian welcomed questions, he often responded by making students feel stupid instead of providing clear, direct answers. This approach, combined with his condescending attitude, discouraged people from asking questions at all. A firearms class should foster confidence and competence--not intimidation. I gave it 1 extra star because instructor Spencer was amazing. Overall, I did not gain much practical, in-depth knowledge about firearms or safety. If you're looking for a class that prioritizes hands-on training and a professional learning environment, I'd suggest looking elsewhere.

Robert and Matt are some of the best shooting instructors that I've had the pleasure of training…read morewith. They were professional, patient, and their attention to detail is second to none. If you're looking for a premiere firearms instruction company then Silicon valley Tactical is the choice.

Rob always provides a safe place to learn and practice all firearm skills. His courses are dynamic…read moreand interactive. He is knowledgeable on anything related to firearms. Highly recommended.

Truly one of the best gun stores in the entire Bay Area. Extremely knowledgeable, approachable,…read morefriendly, and experienced staff who will help you. If you are brand new to the firearm world there is probably not a better place to start than this shop. If you are just looking to buy just go in there let them know or ask their opinions and in my experience they will help you get what you want if its within their ability to do so. If your looking for more they can easily direct you to staff who offer group and private lessons who can take a novice shooter and make you better in a couple hours and are very supportive throughout the process. I really hope that Manzano keeps going and can set the standard for all other shops to strive for.

Great experience coming to Manzano's. My friend pointed out they had some availability here so I…read morecalled to check on the part and went to make the purchase same day. My firearms license expired so I was able to take the test again on the spot. It was a quick and easy process. The staff was friendly and helpful. They provided me with all the paperwork and details. Fast forward 10 days, picked up my item, no problems. Easy and carefree. Great selection of firearms all around. The staff is very knowledgable. Definitely will be back in the future.

I am not rating Dave Matthews. He appears to be a good trainer and owner based on the other…read morereviews. I am rating one of the other trainers who I randomly got for my ccw course. The good: He provided good information, was knowledgeable, and got the training done. The bad: No way would I use him again. I'm all for safety, but he was constantly threatening the class to throw us out for a mild infraction of safety protocols. Not all protocols are the same level. Yes, I would agree with him if someone pointed a l.g. at someone due to negligence. But he was maniacal with well intentioned people. Another insanity after every firing drill, looking over both shoulders. Someone is going to get a neck kink this way. It's fine to teach it, but after every firing round, this is just dumb. He just used threats to drive behavior which drove us crazy. Update: 2 star to 5 star...spoke with Dave the owner. He graciously called me to find out what happened, a sign of someone who cares. I think this particular instructor cares too and maybe was just new and a little rigid, which isn't always a bad thing when it comes to safety. I will definitely after this interaction consider FTI for my future training needs.

I recently needed to get my NRA Rifle Instructor certification. After looking around, a few people…read morerecommend Dave at Firearm Training Institute. I ended up signing up for two weekend sessions (Basic Instructor Training and a few weeks after that, Rifle Instructor). I have to say, Dave is an amazing instructor, he was well prepared, really knew the material, and overall did a fantastic job. I would highly recommend Firearm Training Institute to anyone (whether you are new to firearms to a seasoned pro).

Took a class at the EOS Training & Consulting center to apply for a Utah CCW. The instructor, Ari…read moredid a great job, was willing to answer all questions. They have other classes as well like private instruction at a range in Santa Cruz. I would highly recommend checking out their web site at www.eos-tc.com. " note they are buy appointment only, must sign up for classes on line" They are located on Camden Ave in San Jose in a building complex with plenty of parking. The inside office are has a "free" coffee machine that make mochas, cup of latte,

As a first-timer that only got the level one guard card class for now, my experience was pretty…read morestraightforward and neutral since I arrived early and on a Saturday. When I was scheduling, it said that there was like 25 spots open so I jumped in on it. When you actually get there though on a Saturday, there's actually a decent amount of students. There will be a line to get checked in. There is a lot of parking and a 7-Eleven across the street if you get hungry during one of the couple of breaks that they give you during the class. Everything was extremely efficient from my point of view. They were able to condense 8 hours of material into around four to five. I mean, level 1 is extremely common sense as some say, but I did learn some things about the do's and don'ts about being a security guard. Not a lot of people had questions so it went by pretty quick. The test itself is pretty easy so as long as you're taking notes on important things and pay attention to the practice questions. I'm looking forward to my level two and three guard card classes and will update my review accordingly

I am out of San Mateo County and during my application process was given a list of 10+ CCW renewal…read morecoarsest to choose from which to chose. This is about my 6th time renewing and it pretty much sucks each time due to the current California restrictions. "These guys", however made it pretty pretty, pretty, good. The Sports Field in San Jose is a great spot for the gun enthusiast. Properley run range in a world class setting. Just don't shoot the Swainsons Hawks. The class to take for a CCW Renewel was a little awkward ( due to coordination with Exposed Carry security guard qualifications." Attitude of staff made it flow a little easier, as this class was scheduled 1200 to 2000 hrs. The mood was dark. The class began with aa bit of waiting and then some basic gun training. Hard to hang in due to hearing issues ( skeet next door, live fire to the right ) Any way : excellent tips,pointers, reminders, lessons. Live Fire: This section of the class was handled safely and professionally. Each county had to qualify for their particular range scenario. I was taught a good lesson during this qualification process. I have to say that this was the first Renewel I had been to that didn't kick someone out due to just being dumb and unsafe At the end: pick up brass, go to front dude, computer bs, done. Good to go. If this is a convenient local to get to. go with McGrew and Associates Good Experience Highly Recommend.

Mike, the owner of Threat Spectrum Inc., demonstrated self defense techniques in a comfortable…read moreenvironment that helped to not make it overwhelming. Each movement was clear and concise making for an easy learning experience. He had medical and self defense supplies with him at all times for any unforeseen occurrence.

From the owner: Threat Spectrum's services division works with government, commercial and civilian clients seeking…read moreto protect high value assets, be they facilities or human resources. Martial arts and weapons skills are taught in group classes and private lessons. Security consulting services can include site surveys of private residences, commercial offices, and digital networks for target hardening and disaster preparedness. Armed security guard services are available with several weeks notice, but our rates are not very competitive due to overqualification; guarding people, rather than places, is bodyguarding, and that costs more because it requires a much broader skill set, is more dangerous, and the client consequences are higher.

I love this art class with Ms. Nika, because I love this place at Seven Trees Community Center!read more

I absolutely love Seven Trees Community Center because they have a nice layout, just underneath the…read moreSeven Trees Library on the first floor! They sell snacks and drinks at the front Desk, take card and cash for purchase. The Community Center has tables and chairs on the first floor, and they've got a Gym for members and also Ping-Pong for the elderly. Overall the staff is friendly and are approachable and is good to have communication. Enso forever! Books for sale from Friends of the library the book are located to the right after the front doors, its pay by the honor system. Clean. Near Capital Expressway. "Artists are like the Phoenix, they periodically have to self-immolate, burn off an aspect of themselves to give birth to something new" - Alex Grey