I just finished my required 16 hours of training to obtain my CCW permit, and I can't say enough good things about Simon and the entire Double Tap team. Simon was an outstanding instructor -- not only did he connect with everyone in the class, but he also shared his personal life experiences and adventures in a way that tied perfectly into the lessons and information he was teaching. He went above and beyond explaining laws and regulations, incorporating role-playing scenarios that helped us better understand how to handle real-world situations. After the 8 hours in the classroom, we moved on to the firearms course, and that's where Simon's team really shined. The entire experience felt structured, professional, and focused on safety above all else. His team made everyone feel comfortable, offering encouragement and tips to correct small issues Simon pointed out along the way. I could go on, but I think you get the idea -- this was an incredible experience. Five stars for Simon and the Double Tap team! read more

I've attended several CCW qualification classes, and this was by far the worst experience I've had. Instead of focusing on CCW laws and proper instruction, a large portion of the class was spent listening to the instructor talk about his personal life--his first wife passing away in a ski accident, meeting his current wife on a dating site, her proposing to him, his mother's cancer, not being able to share a bathroom with his wife, her job at Cedars, becoming a police officer at 18 but not being able to buy his own firearm, being a Taekwondo champion who lost to an Olympic medalist, owning over 30 Glocks, and on and on. Roughly half the class time was spent listening to stories about how great he believes he is, rather than learning the laws surrounding concealed carry. We didn't even get a proper lunch break because so much time was wasted waiting for him to take cigarette breaks. The remaining time was spent being told there is only one correct way to hold a firearm--his way. If you didn't comply exactly, you risked being disqualified. He openly bragged about how many students he disqualifies each session. In my opinion, if a student is disqualified, it reflects a failure in instruction--especially when the issue isn't safety, but not conforming to the instructor's personal preference. He also went off on tangents about not feeling comfortable shopping or spending time in his own neighborhood in Sylmar, saying he prefers to shop in Santa Clarita because he believes his area isn't safe. On top of that, he aggressively pushed Glock firearms, claiming they are the only worthwhile option--conveniently mentioning that he also sells a Glock cleaning course. Overall, this class was a waste of time and money. If you want to actually learn CCW laws and receive professional instruction, save your money and find a real instructor--not someone more interested in talking about himself than teaching. STAY WAY - FAR, FAR AWAY - SAVE YOUR MONEY AND LEARN FROM A REAL CCW QUAIFICATION INSTRUCTOR read more

Simon and the team at DoubleTap Training Center were great. I learned a lot from the instructional sessions, especially since I hadn't kept up with the most recent updates. Safety, education, and proper training were clearly a top priority throughout the class. Very well run and informative -- definitely recommend! read more

The training was excellent. It went far beyond the minimum requirements, offering invaluable instruction on safety and technique which significantly enhanced my speed and accuracy under stress. The professionalism and focus on safety from the instructors were top-notch. I highly recommend this course to any CCW holder looking to genuinely improve their defensive skills, not just fulfill a renewal mandate. Thank you for the outstanding instruction. CJC read more

CCW Training with Simon - My Experience I'll start by owning that I didn't pass the class. I made mistakes. That part is on me. But what really stood out was the instructor's approach. On day one, Simon bragged about disqualifying six people in his last class. Instead of motivating, it set a tone of intimidation/ Petty & MOTO. Over two days, I did learn a lot--but most of it was about Simon himself. I now know where he hides his guns at home, that he swears only Glocks are reliable, and that he can shoot upside down (a fact he reminded us of several times). What I didn't get was the kind of constructive, hands-on training I expected. Day one had no range time. Day two included laws that could've been covered earlier, along with odd drills like dropping magazines in dirt. Breaks mostly served his smoking habit and more anecdotes. Jokes about "doggy style" grips and constant ribbing of students made the class feel less like training and more like an outlet for his frustrations. Compared to friends' experiences at other places. They were fortunate enough to have approachable, supportive instructors. This felt more like boot camp run by someone who wanted to be feared, not helpful. Simon clearly has knowledge, but his teaching style often got in the way of sharing it. I left feeling that this course would benefit from oversight and a reminder that students come here to learn--not to be treated like cadets in basic training. read more

Simon is a great instructor. Enjoyed his class and looking forward to return for additional training in the near future.

I attended one of Simon's classes and really enjoyed it. Simon really cares for his students, is fair, and wants you to succeed. He takes safety seriously and will continuously point out your mistakes, teach you, and makes sure you get it right! He teaches the law and goes above and beyond in making sure his students understand how to not only handle a fire arm and the legalities that go along with it, but what to do if you become a victim. I am looking forward to doing future training with him in the future. Simon and his team are awesome! I highly recommend taking one of his classes. read more

Attended the CCW certification class this past weekend, the experience was incredible. Simon has great communication on class requirements and what he expects from the attendees. He maintained a safe environment at all times and accepted nothing but 100% effort from everyone. Simon being ex law enforcement, I really began to feel a police academy style presence. That really helped me pay attention and succeed. If you're looking for a cert class for CCW look no further. read more

I just took my CCW training with Double Tap and it was one of the best experiences of my life. Head instructor Simon Cruz is the real deal. I have been shooting for 30 years, 15 of which have been since my accident leaving me with one good arm. Simon, and his instructor Mel, gave me great instruction helping to break some bad habits I've developed over the years and helped to improve my pistol handling and shooting. I plan to attend all his courses and have my children attend as well. Best firearms training there is, hands down! read more

Just a brief update to my initial review after attending a second training with Simon and his team at Double Tap Training Center: What a professional! Unfortunately sometimes, a student must be disqualified for unsafe actions on their part. I believe it takes a professional rangemaster like Simon to recognize when to take that action. I'm happy to report it wasn't me, however I'm sure the student in question was both disappointed and relieved to be kept safe, as was I. Future advanced training opportunities are scheduled, and I look forward to becoming more comfortable, skilled and safe handling my weapons, as well as a myriad of training scenarios. Once again, if you're shopping and seeing this review, STOP and schedule with Simon now! You will be very pleased you did. read more

Phenomenal instructor. Very professional crew. Simon is the absolute best. Definitely recommend for anyone at any level.

I'm currently in the process of taking all of the Double Tap pistol courses, and will be posting a thorough review after I complete all of the training. So far I can confidently say that this is the some of the best training I have ever received. If you came across this Yelp listing wondering if you should take a Double Tap course, do not wait any longer. Take the course, you'll leave more knowledgable and prepared than you ever imagined! read more

I've taken NRA Rifle Instructor training and CA Concealed Carry training with Double Tap. My instructor was primarily Simon Cruz. I can say that I'm very impressed by the quality of the instruction and highly recommend their services. Thumbs up! read more

I reached out to Simon Cruz because I was having issues with groupings shooting my bolt action rifle. I am getting ready for elk hunting and really needed to get better at shooting with with bolt action rifle. He invited me to participate in his Rifle Course today with some of his staff. Not only did my skills improve but I actually had an awesome time. His challenges are interesting and fun and drive you to get better. It was money well worth spending. read more

Simon Cruz is an incredibly experienced and professional instructor and teacher. He knows his stuff and presents it to you in an engaging way and does exercises that aid in information retention. I'm currently taking the NRA Instructor course and will continue to take classes at Double Tap. Definitely the place to go if you're in the Los Angeles area. read more

Chief Instructor Cruz teaches all his students, young or old, from beginner - intermediate - expert with utmost professionalism and enthusiasm each time he is out on the range. We have known Cruz since 2011 when my eldest son took his first gun safety course with him and has continued on to teach my two other kids the same thing and others. Instructor Cruz has not lost any of the fire and enthusiasm over the years, if anything, he's gotten better at it. This training center is like no other, they teach everyone like their reputation is always on the line. They are always on top of everything. If you're serious and want nothing but the best. This place is it. If you just want a cheap thrill then I suggest you go elsewhere. read more

Have trained with these guys before after obtaining my guard card and exposed carry permit. Great attitudes and experience. Can't recommend them enough. read more

Simon is an excellent teacher. No nonsense and entertaining. He knows his stuff. You are not bored in his classes. He teaches with passion and lots of experience. I would definitely take another course from him. I took the RSO and he was excellent. Great class! read more

Took the beginning pistol course with Dean, under Simon's supervision. Professional, thorough and efficient. It was exactly the course I was looking for and I would highly recommend it to anyone. I'll be back for the intermediate course and others I'm sure. read more

This review is long overdue but well deserved. Simon and staff are exceptional at what they do. Before ever contemplating on shooting a gun I wanted to make sure I do it the right way, that is to learn how to properly handle and shoot a firearm. I did a search in the valley area and didn't find a whole lot out here (note this was number of years ago and there weren't too many at that time in the valley area ) until I came across Simon's double tap training center. They offer numerous courses, everything from beginner to advanced, and even basic armorer courses, I like that they have so many classes to offer. Simon is very well qualified and holds numerous certifications and that is what I looked for when I was initially searching for firearm instructor and classes, I wanted someone who had the experience and knowledge and Simon definitely fits that qualification while being down to earth and personable. The training center cater to all, men, women, and kids, and I like how safety is their number one priority as should be with any firearms training center. They hold small classes sometimes in the valley, and actual hands on firearm instructions along with classes at a private outdoor range at Angeles Outdoor Shooting Range, you can usually find them out there Sunday afternoon. Price is reasonable for the courses and are listed on their web site. Simon also has a dedicated staff members that help him out, they are all equally good at what they do and are NRA certified firearm instructors so the student to instructor ratio is very small and everyone gets individualized attention. Simon also makes sure the staff member's skills are always updated and trains them regularly, great bunch of guys and gals! I have been going there for few years, off and on, and while I haven't been there in a while due to my schedule, I know I can always depend on them if I ever need some practice. They cater to beginners to advance shooters and I highly recommend them, check them out! read more