I was a first-time shooter prior to my session with Paul. I took his Introduction to Handguns…read moreclass, 1on1. Went into the class nervous, a bit shaky--all the things you'd expect for one's first time shooting. Around four hours later, I left the class feeling confident, informed, and empowered! Paul's attentiveness, friendliness, and wealth of expertise make him the premier resource for anyone looking to learn how to safely use a firearm. If I had children, I would recommend them to Paul if and when the time came for them to have their first training session.

There's a reason for Paul's google map rating! The training was way better then expected as Paul…read morewent above and beyond. He definitely knows how to work with different audiences, skill levels, and ages. My teenager, I quote "enjoyed it, and felt supported, especially at the range". Thank you!

My wife and I took this course together, and it was an awesome experience. Mark brought great…read moreenergy, made the class fun, and kept everyone engaged the entire time. He's very knowledgeable but explains everything in a way that's easy to understand, no matter your experience level. You can tell he cares about people actually learning--not just getting through the class. We both walked away feeling confident and well-informed. Highly recommend

I took the 1-day "Renewal Course for DC Concealed Pistol License and/or Maryland Wear and Carry" in…read moreJuly 2026. I took the full 2- day course for the initial permits 2 years prior. My comments apply to both. Mark Briley (Capital Defense Instruction LLC) and George Lyon (DC Learn to Shoot) did an outstanding job with their tag-team style of instruction. From the beginning, the Capital Defense website for course registration was easy to navigate, and the various classes are offered regularly, making the entire sign-up process a breeze. The classroom instruction was excellent, with both instructors able to offer insights and tips based on their vast personal knowledge and experience. Both were able to deliver a common sense approach to self-defense, going beyond just the required curricula and legal aspects and explain in plain language how to think about various self-defense scenarios. The live-fire range test was equally satisfying, with a flexible scheduling process and Mark providing helpful insights, tips, and encouragement during the actual live fire. I plan to return for my required renewal training in the future.

Trained with Scott and Frank, and had an absolute blast (pun intended)…read more Highlights and notes: - excellent pacing and smaller classes make it easy for people of all experience levels to have a good time. - instructors are very nice and helpful, providing constructive feedback on body position, trigger work, movement, staying relaxed, etc. - the range is not covered, so sunscreen is recommended, and you'll have to help clean up brass afterwards, so I'd suggest bringing gloves as well. - Water is provided, but pack extra drinks for hotter days. You'll be shooting outdoors for 6hrs straight with minimal breaks, so be sure to fuel up appropriately with a BYO lunch and snacks as needed. In summary: if you're looking to take your shooting skills to the next level, I highly recommend these guys - I had an excellent time and will definitely be back!

So found Loudoun Tactical through Facebook Ads in 2021 and was always interested in taking a class,…read morebut felt insecure as I never had any real training other than friends giving me tips and advice. My wife surprised me with a Red Dot pistol course as an early Christmas Present in November of 2021. Now, I looked them up, saw a sketch Reddit thread, but it was already paid for and gave them a shot. I approached the class as the newest shooter and definitely insecure about my ability. Every one looked experienced and based on early conversations, the other classmates had taken classes before with them. Our instructors was Andy, the founder and one of his principal instructors, Scott. They were intimidating but friendly. Started off with a classroom session learning about Red Dot optics on pistols and it was very informative. As we moved into the actual shooting portion, I was full of nerves and insecurity. Judging on the first drill, I was out of my league in terms of skill compared to the other students. But to my surprise, Scott and Andy were really encouraging and supportive. My insecurities began to fade away and I started to feel more confident in my ability. Lots of positive feedback and encouragement throughout the day. From when I started to when I ended the day, my shooting was night and day difference. Lots of positive feedback and criticism to help me improve. At the end of the day, I had such a blast and great time. So great that I signed up for a rifle 1 course and last weekend, the rifle and pistol 1 course. I have learned so much, had fun, and become a better shooter. Andy and his Cadre have been nothing but supportive, fun and informative. Im already planning to take more courses and improve my shooting more. They really make it fun and engaging and ensure you learn. They're extremely patient with students trying to learn and boost your ego with a lot of positive reinforcement. I have absolutely no regrets about any of my three experiences and have planned more courses in the future. If you're on the fence, do it. If you read the reddit review, ignore it! You will not be disappointed with your experience from beginning to end.

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.

I can not say enough good things. I took Defensive carbine 1 and 2. Matt, lead instructor and his…read moreassistants were amazing. Very humble yet confident. Safe learning environment with an emphasis to pushing learners skill and confidence to next level. I now want my boys to go through his class before they commit to any military academy. Thank you Green ops. Looking forward to next class soon. Jonas Retired Fire Captain

I signed up for the conceal carry class on Groupon. I then signed up for range sessions with Keith…read moreJordan. The Trouble Defense team is very professional! Sheena is very responsive to schedule sessions and Keith is very patient. He has a very calm teaching style that made me feel very comfortable. Since my training, I am more educated on self-defense laws, have my conceal carry training certificate and feel comfortable going to the range by myself to shoot my personal firearm. The instructor helped me choose my first firearm that I fit my needs. I recommend Trouble Defense to anyone. From individuals not comfortable with firearms to experienced people that want to sharpen their skills. As a result of my awesome experience, I plan to continue to use their services!

I highly recommend! The instructors are phenomenal! They are very knowledgeable, professional ,…read morefamily oriented, and friendly. They were able to answer all of my questions and helped me face my fears. Not only were they kind but they were extremely patient with me. They made sure I was comfortable and guided me every step of the way. If you are looking for firearm training, safety seminars, etc; Trouble Defense is the place to go!

Excellent course, the instructors were great as well. They really care about the knowledge and…read moreshowed us the proper ways to handle fire arms.

Very informative, educational, and engaging teaching. I've been in multiple classes that they offer…read moreand each time I've enjoyed myself and learned something. I've been around things that go pew for a few years and still came out learning something and improving. Jon and his team are retired/active law enforcement, so you're getting wisdom from those who use it. I strongly recommend you go to them for your educational needs regarding things that go pew.

Took this course yesterday and really learned a lot! The instructors are true professionals and…read moreknow their guns and gun safety and share their knowledge in an easy-to-understand format. It was very 'hands on' which was great for this beginner since I knew next to nothing about guns. The classroom prep was vital before actually getting on the range and shooting real ammo. I will definitely need lots of range practice, but I feel like I am well on my way to knowing how to defend myself. I plan to take the Family Safety Training Center's First Aid/CPR class as well!

From the owner: We offer a range of training related to personal, family and community safety. Our classes are all…read moreclassroom based, with the exception of when practical training and evaluation is necessary off site. Private one on one training is available, as well as training for groups off site. We can teach and certify you in the areas of First Aid, CPR, Wilderness First Aid, and Blood-borne Pathogen Awareness. We also teach a variety Firearm Safety, Concealed Carry and Home Defense course. We aim to create a training organization that engages students and leaves them with the knowledge that they have received a comprehensive skill set, and a trust that they have an family organization they can return to time and again for new skills. Through proper training we can have more citizens ready with the skills they need not only for their family and employers, but also to serve their communities.

As a civilian enthusiast who loves to go training, I can honestly say that the JDC team is hands…read moredown the best training experience in the Washington DC / Northern Virginia area. I have participated in their low light pistol, shotgun and precision rifle classes: Each time was a terrific experience. I learned a ton of new techniques, got customized instructions from their top notch trainers. I will definitely be returning for more fun and classes!

From the owner: Our experienced, professional instructors provide world class firearms training in Northern…read moreVirginia for law abiding citizens, police, military, and competitive shooters. We develop your skills through a fun, engaging, coaching intensive program where you will receive one-on-one feedback from our instructors and structured exercises to help you develop after class.

The Absolute WORST camp ever!! My kid camp home with bruises and bloody nose!! The owner tried to…read morecover it up!!!! Instead of telling me. Don't send your kids here if you expect transparency and SAFETY!!!! The owner lacks INTEGRITY!!!

we had the pleasure of working with Scigenie in a workshop setting. Kids of all ages--preschool…read morethru 4th graders--were enamored with the experience. It was fun, it was educational, and it was hands on! The workers obviously loved kids, were so engaging, and were saintly on how many questions they answered. Cannot say enough good things!