The security business is not what most people think. The images of a nondescript security guard…read moregiving directions at a mall, on patrol at an apartment complex, or checking bags at a concert are what most people imagine. But there's more to the job and the industry. A lot more. Security officers are professionals who serve a vital role and not one that is devoid of danger. A significant number are killed in the line of duty every year. Many because their training was inadequate or incomplete. It's a serious and hazardous business. A profession that can be unforgiving. So if you want to get into the business or keep your skills sharp, you need the best training available. The instructors at A Security Training Academy are the best in the Metropolitan DC area by far. They're tough and direct when it comes to learning your lessons, but that's what's needed if you're going to succeed and survive. They're in business to prepare you for some very serious work and how to get the job done correctly, professionally, and, of course, safely. The owner of A Security probably has more security-related qualifications than anyone in the region. And his team of instructors is every bit as dedicated to the students' success as he is. I've attended several classes at the school for various disciplines: Armed Security, Patrol Rifle, Tactical Handcuffing, Baton Usage, Pepper Spray Deployment, and Basic First Aid. At the end of every course, I knew I was not only more effective at doing my job, but I was also a more desirable employee at any security company I went to work for. Don't take chances with instructors or schools that are less experienced and knowledgeable. If you're entering a no-nonsense business like security or are continuing your education in the field, you need a no-nonsense approach to learning the trade. Your success, and your life, depend on it.

First, I read the prior reviews well before I registered for the training. I noted in the negative…read morereviews, the owner commented on each one with facts that were impressive. Now that I spent 60 hours in training there, I have NO issues withe the program or Mr. Bonnacci's training skills. He teaches with wisdom from decades. Old school, hell yes, and it was very, very necessary. He is outstanding, his company, very professional, his staff personable.

I had the honor of training with Mr. Syed Iftikhar (Mr. Safe) at CDL Safe Driving Academy, and I…read morecan confidently say he is the best CDL instructor out there. His teaching style is clear, patient, and practical--he focuses on real-world driving techniques that prepare you not only to pass the CDL exam but also to drive safely and professionally afterward. Mr. Safe is extremely accessible and easy-going, always making time for his students. He works tirelessly every day until 7pm to ensure no one is left behind. Beyond being a skilled instructor, he is a kindhearted, genuine gentleman who truly cares about the success of his students. His professionalism, encouragement, and deep knowledge of CDL requirements made the entire process smooth and stress-free. A special mention also goes to his assistant Jimmy, who is a great man as well--always supportive, respectful, and ready to help students succeed. Together, they create a very welcoming and motivating environment. Because of their guidance, I passed the Virginia CDL exam and now hold my CDL license. I highly recommend CDL Safe Driving Academy to anyone serious about getting their CDL. If you want instructors who are patient, dedicated, and sincerely invested in your success, Mr. Safe and his team are the best!

Safe driving academy is one of the best in the DMV area. Not only did they teach me how to drive…read morewhen I was a teenager but they also keep me a safe driver by all the courses they offer to only improve my driving skills. They have all your bases covered as far as driving goes, highly recommend to everyone and anyone!

Classes for every photographer! CPC has classes and events for everyone. I love going "in the…read morefield" shooting and learning from instructors and students alike.

Marie Joabar is an excellent instructor! I took the Getting off Auto class and learned so much. She…read morewas super approachable and welcoming to everyone, and was very knowledgeable about a variety of camera types. She asked what we each were trying to learn and gave us tips throughout the class. I'd definitely recommend this class to anyone starting out.

St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School has been a great experience for my kids, who are in 4th and 6th…read moregrade this year. My 4th grader has thrived, especially in art where she has discovered a love of clay, and in science where learning is hands on and the teacher has brought in some truly fantastic guest speakers with interesting science related careers. The lower school campus is magical, with multiple playgrounds and big grassy fields to play in. Middle School on the other hand has been a big step up in academics and overall expectations, but my 6th grader is enjoying the independence and appreciates his advisory group as a supportive space. He recently participated in the district orchestra program hosted by SSSAS, tackling challenging music that left him feeling proud and accomplished. I think it speaks volumes that even my middle schooler loves his school. Both of my kids love SSSAS and couldn't imagine being anywhere else.

My child spent 13 years at the school, they missed his reading and ADHD problems! They do not look…read moreat the individual child. Because he did well the teachers just pushed him along. Because the ADA requires schools to provide help, they are incentivized to ignore problems. I have another child who went to SSSAS. The college counselor discourage her to reach for the best colleges. Fortunately she was strong willed and determined and got into a top 10 university. The college counselors were more interested in statistics such as "% of colleges acceptance ". If you are considering SSSAS be very carefully you will be spending hundreds of thousands of dollars.

I recently completed three Green Ops pistol courses: Advanced Application of Pistol Fundamentals,…read moreDefensive Pistol 1, and Defensive Pistol 2, and they were outstanding. The instructors deliver exceptional training at a very fair value. Every instructor I worked with was extremely competent and clearly brought deep experience from law enforcement, military shooting, and competition backgrounds. Across the three courses I had a mix of returning and new instructors, which meant I benefited from multiple perspectives, different teaching styles, and constant constructive feedback throughout the training. One thing that really stood out was the student-to-instructor ratio, which never exceeded roughly 5-6 students per instructor. That meant everyone received real coaching and corrections instead of just standing on the line burning ammo. The learning environment was excellent. There were no egos among the instructors or students, which is honestly rare in the firearms training world. The instructors were down to earth, approachable, and connected well with the class, which made the training both productive and genuinely enjoyable. Spending full days on the range can be a grind, but these guys made it fun. They also did a great job of accommodating different skill levels without slowing the class down or rushing anyone. The training simply flowed in a way that kept everyone progressing. The facilities were more than adequate for the course material and allowed the instructors to run drills safely and effectively. I've spent 27 years in the military and now work in executive protection, and I've trained with a lot of different instructors and organizations over the years. Green Ops is absolutely among the best. If you're serious about improving your pistol skills, these classes are worth traveling for.

the best shooting and tactical performance training company in the DMV by far, these guys are the…read morebig leagues. Dont spend your hard earned money on these janky "tactical" training companies with under qualified bozos. Green Ops leads the way in professionalism , resources, knowledge base, and qualifications. look no where else, these guys are the best in the business

I recently conducted a FFL sale with Protect & Defend. Top rate company. My experience was…read morefantastic. I will definitely return and highly recommend.

I had a great experience with FFL. I will definitely use them again in the near future.read more

Our family was looking for a good intro to firearms and safety and we found it with SDTG. Joe is…read moreknowledgeable and sincere in his effort to train us for safe and intelligent use of firearms. We appreciated his instruction style and guidance, and we'd recommend him to anyone looking for a good introduction to firearms and home or personal defense. His course was just what we needed.

I reached out a couple of times and even scheduled a call and no one even responded or called me. I…read morefound a couple of other places to try.

Over the last twenty-plus years, I have attended and hosted more than thirty-five professional…read morefirearms training classes conducted by nationally recognized instructors. In 2025, I participated in the Open Arms Red Dot class (twice) and the Low Light class. The quality of instruction and the safety provided have exceeded many of my prior training experiences. Open Arms excels at providing efficient and clear instruction. Matthew R.

I have been taking classes with Adam for nearly 5 years. Every class has moved the dial forward on…read moremy confidence and competency as a shooter. He is serious about safety and gun handling, but also encouraging and engaging. His classes can accommodate a variety of skill levels, enabling each person to achieve his or her own success. I train regularly, and Adam is a regular on my training schedule. Give him a try, you won't regret it!