Art, Sal & Joseph are an awesome group of guys. I took my initial CCW course here in Jan of 2021 & just today (7/30/22) qualified with another firearm for my CCW. In a few months, I will be renewing my permit yet again at DTS. I honestly feel I will be a life long customer as long as the doors are open! The expertise, insight & wisdom these guys have is hard to come by nowadays. Yet, everyone here is down to earth and are extremely approachable when you have questions or concerns. It's my understanding they are now offering a new class for beginners... so they really have everything you need here. Whether you're a newbie when it comes to firearms, or you've been shooting your whole life, there is something here for you. I have been fortunate to not have been in a situation where I have needed to use my firearm to protect myself or my loved ones, but I can attest that through my initial course (both in the classroom and downrange) I have learned skills that could potentially save lives. Great location (the road down to the classroom is always fun to drive), great instructors and a friendly, non-judgmental environment makes this an ideal place to brush up on skills or start from ground zero and work on fundamentals. They also have a pretty cool obstacle course next to the qualifying stations (so be extra nice and see if they'll let you run through it)! I only wish they had more advanced classes because I would definitely sign up. I will be referring all my family, friends and aquatints to DTS. Thanks Art ! PS...I rarely post reviews, so that should say something about how much I like this place! read more

First time CCW class for the wife and myself. I couldn't have chosen a better place to certify with. My brother told me about it! Wasn't sure if it was 8 or 16 hours, turns out it was 8 hours only. The instructors (Art and Sal) made the class portion very interesting and kept us engaged. Very knowledgeable individuals and everything made total sense. The wife was a bit apprehensive initially but once we got into the training she was all in. I'm definitely sending my daughter's to this class!!! The range portion was awesome. We felt very safe in the hands of both Art and Sal. We truly enjoyed our day at the facility. Sal shocked all of us at the end and said "you have all just earned your certificates". We all thought we were still practicing . Thank you both for the instructions and techniques given during the class. This was actually my wife's second time shooting her S&W 40 to qualify!!! Art told her the 40 cal is snappy and to purchase a 9mm barrel and mag. Sal said, she shoots her 40 cal better than most men and told Art to leave her be. Positive, friendly environment and great instructors. I could hangout with these guys just to sponge up the knowledge. Thank you both at DTS!!! We will be back. Oh, they also had Dave from the USCCA there with information about the insurance for CCW holders. Both of us signed up, got a 10% discount thanks to the wife's profession and walked away with two ammo cans filled with helpful tips and information. Thanks again read more

I recently completed my initial CCW training with Defend to Survive, and I can confidently say it was an outstanding experience. Sal and Art the entire instruction team were phenomenal. The training was hands-on, practical, and incredibly informative. They don't just go through the motions they take the time to make sure you truly understand what you're doing, why it matters, and how to apply it in real-life situations. You can tell they genuinely care about safety, responsibility, and building confidence in every student. The environment was professional but still very approachable, which made it easy to ask questions and stay engaged the entire time. Whether you're new to carrying or just looking to sharpen your skills, this is the place to do it. If you're serious about getting your CCW and want quality instruction that actually prepares you, I highly recommend Defend to Survive. I'll definitely be back for more training. read more

Renewed my CCW today! Can't say enough great things about Art and Sal. Great instruction and teachers. Highly recommend Defend to Survive to get your concealed carry permit for the 1st time, or just a renewal! Been two years since I got my CCW and the class was just what I needed to refresh my knowledge on being a holder! Driving 10 minutes to the location on the outskirts of Hughson was a bonus too! Everyone is so helpful and want you to learn what everyone should know about CCW's! read more

I had an excellent experience! I would highly recommend this course, hands down without a doubt! Experienced, knowledgeable, and well trained instructors that took their time to teach what's important and necessary! I am very thankful for their support and experience!! I'll continue to go back for refreshers to gain more and more time on the range. Check it out, you won't regret it!! read more

Art runs a sensible and efficient operation at DTS. I appreciate the way that he and the team respect the value of client time, and the care that they give in maintaining a safe learning environment. If you are an initial CCW applicant, or a current permit holder looking to renew, Defend To Survive will not disappoint. Great coffee, too. read more

Art and his staff are awsome. Make all who come feel welcome. They cover all the required topics plus many more that everyone should think about before carrying a weapon. They always keep your saftey in mind while your there. This is my third renewal with them and I plan on coming back as long as they are there. read more

I've done 2 CCW Renewals for Stanislaus County with Art Provides solid, engaging classroom instruction Fair and patient on the range as long as you come prepared Went the extra mile and emailed me my certificate so I didn't need to scan it. I got a file that was ready to send to the Sheriff read more

This place has been awesome I'm on my third renewal from my CCW. Super knowledgeable probably one of the best sites to shoot at in the area and they have an on-site shooting scoot and long range available. Training has been one of the best places that I've experienced!!! read more

Relaxed environment, and thorough training. Art, Sal and everyone on the range were excellent instructors and went out of their way to make you feel safe, comfortable and confident while training. read more

Best in the business! Art and his staff are very knowledgeable and professional. This is my 3rd time with them. Perfect location. Was a beautiful day to renew my ccw. read more

I took my initial ccw class here and a renewal. The instructors are well trained and pass on real world knowledge. The range portion is well run and safe. read more

Art and Sal have a great team. They do a great job on making you feel comfortable with your gun, And teaching every aspect of carrying a gun. read more

Excellent class! Very professional, organized, and informative. The staff is well trained and easy to work with. Highly recommend!

it was a great experience, I renewed my ccw and everything was very well explaine, straight forward and I had a good time.

Outstanding experience. This will be my training facility choice from now on. Will 100% return.