My wife Heidi and I recently attended the CCW course taught by Mike Moffat in Junction City, Trinity County. We are of a liberal background and had our concerns about taking this class. Even though I have a strong law enforcement background, rearming myself was not an easy decision. My wife shared my concerns, but we both agree that a breakdown in civil society and the rise of senseless violence across all of society necessitated this move. Along with rearming, it made sense to carry it through to obtaining our CCWs. My wife is a shooting novice, having run just a few hundred rounds through her new .45. While I qualified Distinguished Expert in my academy class, it was years ago, so I put myself in the frame of mind as a novice also. I'm glad I did. I had heard good things about Mike, but the reality far exceeded expectations. I can state unequivocally that I learned more in the 8 hours we spent with Mike than in the several months I spent on the range in the academy. His continued emphasis on safety was palpable. His technique tips were spot-on. I think everyone in the class left as a better shooter than when they arrived. One of the things that had held me back from rearming was the issue of a shooter's liability. In direct contrast to what I had feared, that our instructor would be a macho shoot-em-up kind of guy, Mike repeatedly stressed that de-escalating a situation with no shooting would be a solid win. He continuously stressed the negative impacts that a fatal shooting would have on the shooter and his/her family: civil, possible criminal, emotional, and financial. On this train of thought, Mike pitched FTI's recent collaboration with USCCA, the United States Concealed Carry Association. It provides for unlimited civil and criminal legal representation. We signed up and feel great about it, not only for the legal representation, but they provide a host of solid training materials that we will make good use of. Five big, bright stars for Mike Moffat. read more

Mike Moffat and Gary provided excellent instruction for the class I participated in, Renewal for a California CCW permit. Class started and finished on time, the information was presented in a clear and concise manner. Written instructions and class materials were formatted in an extremely professional manner. There was time for questions and more in depth discussion of a topic should a student request it. During the actual qualification session, individual instruction was provided to those that requested/required it. Above all, and critically important in a class like this, safety was stressed and stressed again. I consider myself lucky to have had the opportunity to fulfill my requirements with a class from Mike, Gary, and NFI. They were the first on my list of providers to return my call and Mike was able to fit me into a class that was scheduled for Saturday when I only called on Thursday. And luckier that the quality of instruction was as professional as it turned out to be. Having been through a few of these type classes over the years, I can say without reservation that the instruction provided by Mike and Gary ranks near the very top of any list I could make. If the other NFI instructors are equal to those two, I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone looking to take a class of this sort. I will likely be attempting to find time to take more instruction from this provider. And I believe anyone in the areas NFI serves would be provided with a professionally instructed class to fit their needs. Congratulations Mike and Gary, and a big thank you to Mr Lidie for starting and keeping this company going. read more

I can't say enough good things about NFI. I've gone through them for the last 5 years for all my CCW initials & renewals having lived in both Tehama and Shasta Counties. Firearms training can be intimidating and nerve-wracking, but you'll quickly realize how enjoyable and comfortable they make the process. Each and every one of the staff is pleasant, professional and easy-going. No one makes you feel belittled if you're not the best shot in the world. They help you through it and will spend time with you one-on-one until you get it right and understand your mistakes. They WANT you to succeed. Today I had a renewal at the range with Seth S. and Ted O. It's been a couple years and I almost forgot how fun the whole thing can be and how enjoyable they make it. NFI offers Zoom classes for those that want to do the in-class part from home, which I think is awesome being that we now have to put in 8 hours to renew. It helps to simplify the process for those of us that don't want to do it all in one day. Jen O. instructed that part with us yesterday and was wonderful as always. If you're considering getting your permit, but question it or feel nervous about it, just go for it and let NFI be the ones to train you. In no time you'll realize just how passionate your instructors are about the job they're doing. There's a lot of knowledge amongst all of them and they're eager to pass it on. In these crazy days, protecting yourself is of the utmost importance. There's no better time than now and no better group of people than NFI. I look forward to next time. read more

I have trained with rifles before and am comfortable shooting them. However, handguns have always intimidated me. (There's a lot of variables to contend with.) Be that as it may, I was a little irked when I found out I had to take an 8 hour class to get my CCW. I understand why but figured I'd be hearing the same things I already knew. (I'm a brat, I know.) I just completed the CCW class yesterday with Mike and was beyond impressed with him, the venues, and the curriculum. Not only did I learn tons from him in those short 8 hours but I laughed the whole time. Mike is an excellent teacher and knows how to keep you engaged! He's patient yet to the point. He knows how to read his audience and would elaborate when he felt it was needed. At the range, Mike sensed who was insecure in handling their firearm (Me), paid extra attention them, and helped build our confidence. Those he knew had previous firearms training, he high-fived, congratulated, and occasionally teased. I never felt judged by my crappy shooting and was encouraged to keep practicing. Mike is DEFINITELY someone I would recommend learning from! If NFI has the same standards of instructors as they demonstrate with Mike, I will be taking many more classes with them and actually look forward to it! read more

This was my renewal Class with Ted and his Team. Two years ago I went through Teds class for my initial CCW. Ted made sure everyone was comfortable and well informed as to what was going to take place. I was pretty nervous, and for your first time it can be a bit intimidating. Ted was very reassuring all the while letting us know what was expected and needed to keep everyone safe, and to pass the Class. Teds team was very helpful to everyone, and those who needed extra help were treated with respect and given the time and reassurance that they would get all the help they needed to be successful. Ted sets the tone for his entire team, always professional and extremely helpful, and you can tell that he really cares about everyone's safety and success in passing the class. There were a few students who didn't bring enough ammo, and or drinking water, and Ted made sure they got what they needed, and that they passed the class with confidence. I give NFI a 5 star rating , and especially Ted Lidie. he is just a great guy, with massive experience all the while making everyone feel informed and confident when they leave. Kerry Bickham. read more

We have taken CCW classes from Ted and his staff at Northern Firearms Instruction for years. Yet again, our instructor made a subject that can sometimes be dry very interesting. Kevin was our instructor and he was VERY knowledgable about guns and the laws around weapons. Any question that was asked of him, he did not have to think about an answer...he knew his topic. If someone did not pass the minimum qualifications of making 16/20 shots per weapon, he spent the time with them to figure out the exact reason why they were shooting off center. One person didn't even hit the target once during the entire 20 shot first round so Kevin fired her weapon and figured out why she was shooting so far off. She ended up passing the second round (she made 16/20) this time only due to Kevin taking the time to figure out what she was doing wrong. He let us know about advanced classes NFI offers to improve our shooting. From start to finish, safety was number one. They were very proficient, organized, and started on time. We have taken renewal classes three times from NFI and will never go anywhere else!!! read more

I took the initial California CCW course with Mike Ramsay and loved how thorough and detail oriented he was. He was helpful, offered good critiques on shooting and made some really nice tips to improve. The renewal class was with Tom and Andrew (I think it was Andrew, but honestly I don't remember dudes name, which is such a shame because I was so impressed by him) and I was blown away. Tom knew how to be sassy and fun, while still being incredibly informative and knowledgeable. And then the shooting portion was done with Andrew (? ughh) and this was by far the highlight of the experience for me. He was sharp, paid attention to all of the shooters, and held to the strict compliance of the laws and requirements by county. It is SUCH a comfort as a CCW holder in California that these instructors take the shooting portion so seriously, and that if you can't shoot, you don't get your renewal. I was really pleased by the entirety of the class, and so happy to have such upstanding instructors taking the lead locally. Thank you guys for all you do! read more

Warning, a bit of a read. I had found out my previous instructor was no longer available for classes. So I was on a search for another great class in town. I found it! I just did my renewal last weekend with Ted L. I did 1/2 in a zoom class & 1/2 on the range. The zoom class was great. Refreshed all the basics, learned quite a bit of new information, and overall enjoyed it. It was very easy, Ted L. sends all the info to you multiple times. Reminders and step by step instructions on how to get into the zoom, as well as the manual he goes over. He gives you chances to ask questions and is very engaging. The range with Ted O. was great as well. He was VERY knowledgeable, understanding and patient. He explains everything very well and is generous with his time in working with you. He made the range a very comfortable class. The class isn't packed, so you aren't overwhelmed with too many people and too many distractions. I think there may have been 10 of us renewing. Overall, highly recommended. HIGHLY! read more

Mike Moffat is the best! I signed up for a renewal class that is about an hour away so that I could get in a nice motorcycle ride as well. Mike called me 4 days before class and said I was the only one who signed up and asked if I wanted to meet him at the Redding Gun Club on the day of the class instead? I said "Sure!" since it is only about 4 miles from my house. I lost out on a nice ride but had a terrific private renewal session with Mike and saved a couple of travel hours in the process. Mike is SUPER knowledgeable and VERY passionate about the 2nd amendment and in doing what he can to make sure that we all will continue to have the right to defend ourselves and our loved ones with firearms if the need should arise (God forbid...). I first met Mike at my initial CCW course and he has been an instructor at my five renewals as well. All of NFI's instructors that I have met and worked with have been great! I highly recommend NFI for all of your firearms training!! read more

Just finished my fourth Northern Firearms Instruction (NFI) renewal course for the Calif current CCW requirements. As routine as it may seem, I have never considered weapons training as burdensome or mundane. What I take away from NFI and Mike Moffat is solid training techniques with a whole lot of safety for everyone. Mike instills a reinforcement of disciplined skills required as a Gun Owners. Mike's methods are very effective, with clear explanations of the mechanics of safe weapon handling for the day-to-day responsibilities, as well as situational discharging a weapon in the event thereof. In addition to meeting the current statutory requirements, Mike provides a clear update on the complex and ever-changing Laws our elected officials have enacted. I especially appreciated the additional resources and information made available for specialized Training and Liability protection via the USCCA. A solid investment. Thanks Mike, Semper Fi. read more

The CCW class the NFI put on in Tehama County this past weekend was nothing short of amazing. All too often CCW renewals are just sitting in a boring class for a few hours then hitting a range to show that I can shoot and then I'm done, basically checking a box. But not with NFI, they are engaged with the students and are genuinely training you on how to properly use your firearm, not just shooting. When I was in the army we would train as we fight and our instructor, Jennifer O'Hara, reminded me of that during her instruction. She not only knew her stuff she also demonstrated it on the range as well. This was my second renewal with her and both times she was very professional and was a wealth of knowledge that all CCW permit holders need to know especially in the world we live in today. You will definitely get your money's worth with NFI and I am looking forward to taking some of their more advanced classes. read more

Communication before and during the class was excellent. Both Seth and Phillip were great. They worked well together and made the class just the right combination of serious instruction and entertaining group dynamic discussion. The fact that they are practically twins physically took a minute, but what are you gonna do? That's what the name tags are for! I'd also add that in a full class, they took the time to answer questions from the newer folk, but kept the 'off on a tangent' questions of the less time conscious students under control. I spoke with both women in the class with me, both whom were first timers to CCW permit process, and they both felt very comfortable with both instructors. Seth and Phillip seemed to have just the right amount of care, understanding and individual instruction needed to help them out, and keep the class flowing in the right direction. read more

This is by far the best handgun safety and CCW education offered in Northern California!! Ted and Jen are extremely well versed in handgun safety and training. Both instructors were easy to talk to, answerEd all questions with ease, and they made the class FUN!!!! I went in scared of my hand gun and couldn't shoot a target and left with more confidence in handling my handgun and obtaining my CCW. On another note, I have taken a CCW class in the past with a different organization, and I failed the shooting portion of the program. I left that class feeling self defeated, questioning if I needed glasses, and truly self doubt about handling my handgun appropriately and safely. I am truly thankful for the professional and expertise wisdom of the Northern Firearms Instruction class. I can't wait to sign up for more classes with this organization!! Truly top notch!! read more

I recently had the pleasure of taking Mr. Ted Lidie's three day "NRA Pistol Instructor course". I have had hundreds of hours of instructions & simulation with over twenty different instructors and Ted is the best I have found. Ted is the example of what all teachers should strive to be, a perfect blend of passion, purpose and ability. His wisdom of his craft and professionalism are apparent with the first email you will receive. He is detailed and concise in every aspect of his class room, teaching and range work. Whether you are just getting started or one of the many trying to further your education without feeling like you went to "Basic Training", you have found your home. I plan to attend more of Ted's classes until he runs out of things to teach me. I hope to meet you there! P.S. I will be driving four hours each way to attend his classes. He's that good! read more

What led you to this site was a need to research CCW courses and read reviews from others. Well save your time and look no further. My wife and I made our choice 8 years ago to sign up for our initial CCW course with NFI's Instructor and Founder Ted Lidie. We are very happy to have selected NFI and the renewals that have followed. Shasta/Trinity Regional Director of Training Mike Moffat and Senior Instructor Gary Pickle have been our renewal instructors and they take the time to make sure everyone is comfortable with the class time and hands-on firearm use and safety. The entire NFI group always make themselves available by phone or email with any questions that you may have before or after the classes. Stop looking today and pick up your phone and get on NFI's website to find an opening in one of their many courses. You will be glad you did. read more

My experience today was awesome. I've grown up using firearms my entire life, but, until today, hadn't realized how little I really knew. My instructor, Mike Moffat, emphasized firearm safety throughout the training. He was extremely knowledgeable about laws and regulations and fully answered all questions. I left the morning discussion with a much clearer picture of concealed carry laws and regulations. Once at the actual firing range, I was extremely impressed with Mike's emphasis on firearm safety. He fully demonstrated each technique, all the while putting each shooter at ease, allowing for maximum accuracy. I especially appreciated the extra time he spent with me to correct habits I had developed. With no hesitation, I would recommend this training program to anyone. Sincerely, Greg F. Hawkins read more