In fall 2023, I took the Alameda County required 16 hour CCW training and qualification class with Joe Leonardo and his team. I can't imagine better training and a safer environment!
In addition to all the great things Dylan S. noted in his review of 1/21/2023 with which I fully agree, I particularly appreciated Joe's critical focus on safety during the training and live-fire exercises (which also extends to how one should always handle firearms at home and concealed as well). Knowing some people will attend this class with little prior handgun-handling experience (or an inflated sense of their skills), Joe makes sure that everyone follows carefully proscribed procedures to help keep us safe. And when someone does not follow these rules, putting everyone in danger, Joe and his team are very quick to correct. And if necessary, they won't hesitate to remove someone from the live range to discuss further training needs. It may also mean they're not ready for a CCW, which increases safety for everyone in the community. This is really important given the seriousness of firearms, and something I highly value from Joe and his team.
I returned to LDC recently to add a new gun to my CCW license, and instead of just offering the qualification part again, since it is a relatively new gun to me, Joe insisted I do the second half of the CCW course - the 8-hour live range training with this new gun. And I could not be happier with that recommendation, because in addition to reinforcing all the skills taught the first time I took the course (that goes into concealed draw, scenarios, and much more, not just target shooting), the coaching I received on the new gun immediately improved my handling technique and markedly improved my accuracy throughout the day. Plus, when it comes to firearms, continual training is critical. As we are "students always" I look forward to continuing my training with LEO Defensive Concepts! read more