I don't write many 2-star reviews, but I think this experience warrants it. I took the firearm…read moresafety class with Brian, and unfortunately I can't recommend it. Brian was unprofessional, rude, and had a habit of belittling students. He made the learning environment uncomfortable by embarrassing people rather than constructively correcting them. While I understand that it's not an instructor's job to be friendly or to "hold our hands," there's a difference between being direct and being outright disrespectful--and Brian crossed that line. In terms of content, the class was heavily skewed toward theoretical discussions, such as legal frameworks for self-defense and broad topics on conflict and society. While some of this information was interesting and well-explained, it dominated the day, leaving little time for actual hands-on firearm training. The balance between theory and practical instruction was way off. Additionally, while Brian welcomed questions, he often responded by making students feel stupid instead of providing clear, direct answers. This approach, combined with his condescending attitude, discouraged people from asking questions at all. A firearms class should foster confidence and competence--not intimidation. I gave it 1 extra star because instructor Spencer was amazing. Overall, I did not gain much practical, in-depth knowledge about firearms or safety. If you're looking for a class that prioritizes hands-on training and a professional learning environment, I'd suggest looking elsewhere.

While I do think Brian had knowledge to share, the way he goes about sharing it was fairly off…read moreputting. He prides himself in using a "Socratic method" of teaching by responding to students' questions with another question. Even if he considers himself some sort of philosopher I would personally appreciated it if a simple question from a student such as "how does this work?" could be addressed more directly instead of being answered with "how do YOU think it works?" Simply said, it would have been a more efficient and pleasant experience for everyone if he could just put his narcissism and fragile ego aside. All in all, I have some gratitude towards Monarch because I did learn something over the course of my time there. However, since then I've moved away and sought training elsewhere I've realized that there are many training centers and instructors out there that are much much better, both in teaching methodologies and credentials, especially you're willing to leave California.

Bertrand is one awesome, no nonsense guy. First, he was great with the communication via email…read more The class was a full 5 hours and nothing less! He used every minute to teach me the basic fundamental of what I needed to know. He knows his subject and he is very experienced. He got me in a private class in a hurry since I needed the certificate. Thanks man!! I'd definitely refer him to friends and relatives. His class is a must do! He is worth every penny and more (your safety and the people around you when it comes to using firearms).

I took the BPS class with my three daughters. Bertrand was extremely knowledgeable and very patient…read morewith us. The course was all about safety, which made me feel much better since I had no prior experience with guns. We all enjoyed our class. Thank you Bertrand!

You should 100% take the Fundamental Rifle course if you want to learn about and shoot different…read moretypes of rifles (bolt action, semi-auto, PCC, hunting/precision shooting) from a licensed firearms instructor.  This is more convenient than renting a gun (BTW, in California if you don't already own a gun and you want to rent a gun, you need to bring someone with you.  No exceptions.)   I took the rifle course since I'm in the market for a rifle.  Chao, our instructor, gave us a great introduction to different types of rifles and we also learned a little bit about the different types of firearm competitions you can try.  He also gave us some insight on some of the training and testing he does with the military. I will be taking other courses in the future. Tip:  If you have something specific you want to shoot or learn about let them know ahead of time to see if they can accommodate your request. We had a chance to try a pump action shot gun from a special request from one of the participants.

From the owner: At Legacy Firearms Academy, we are passionate about providing safe and effective firearms training…read moreto law-abiding citizens like you. For over 15 years, we have been helping individuals of all skill levels, from complete beginners who have never even held a gun before to experienced home defense enthusiasts, learn and improve their shooting skills.

Absolutely top-tier FFL shop. From the second you walk in, you're treated like family. Warm,…read morewelcoming, and genuinely happy to help. The staff behind the counter are incredibly knowledgeable and more importantly, they're actual shooters with real experience. You can tell right away these guys live the lifestyle and know their gear inside and out, not just random internet keyboard warriors pretending to know what they're talking about. They take the time to answer questions, give honest advice, and make sure you leave confident in your purchase. No pressure, no ego, just solid people who care about their customers and the shooting community. Rare to find a shop with this level of professionalism and authenticity these days. Easily one of the best FFL experiences I've had. Highly recommend supporting this place. I've been coming back since they opened and the service has stayed consistent

Great experience coming to Manzano's. My friend pointed out they had some availability here so I…read morecalled to check on the part and went to make the purchase same day. My firearms license expired so I was able to take the test again on the spot. It was a quick and easy process. The staff was friendly and helpful. They provided me with all the paperwork and details. Fast forward 10 days, picked up my item, no problems. Easy and carefree. Great selection of firearms all around. The staff is very knowledgable. Definitely will be back in the future.

Took a class at the EOS Training & Consulting center to apply for a Utah CCW. The instructor, Ari…read moredid a great job, was willing to answer all questions. They have other classes as well like private instruction at a range in Santa Cruz. I would highly recommend checking out their web site at www.eos-tc.com. " note they are buy appointment only, must sign up for classes on line" They are located on Camden Ave in San Jose in a building complex with plenty of parking. The inside office are has a "free" coffee machine that make mochas, cup of latte,

One other lady and myself experienced a very poor course lead by an instructor that had horseshoe…read morebaldness but blonde hair. He made the course particularly difficult for me, resulting in my failing the class when I have been an instructor for a few years. He pushed heavily on the need for more NRA Training Councelors, if this was my only experience with the NRA I would never have anything to do with the NRA again. Fortunately, there are other NRA instructors in the area who have been a much better experience. As a female I would and will pursue training elsewhere.

Jeff and the crew of instructors were friendly and professional…read more They provided great instructions on the course materials and made the course very interactive. 10/10 would recommend.

As a first-timer that only got the level one guard card class for now, my experience was pretty…read morestraightforward and neutral since I arrived early and on a Saturday. When I was scheduling, it said that there was like 25 spots open so I jumped in on it. When you actually get there though on a Saturday, there's actually a decent amount of students. There will be a line to get checked in. There is a lot of parking and a 7-Eleven across the street if you get hungry during one of the couple of breaks that they give you during the class. Everything was extremely efficient from my point of view. They were able to condense 8 hours of material into around four to five. I mean, level 1 is extremely common sense as some say, but I did learn some things about the do's and don'ts about being a security guard. Not a lot of people had questions so it went by pretty quick. The test itself is pretty easy so as long as you're taking notes on important things and pay attention to the practice questions. I'm looking forward to my level two and three guard card classes and will update my review accordingly

Unable to attend due to some major life events, so I can't speak on the class itself any other…read morereviews on here can speak to the class itself. However, beware of their strict policy canceling six days in advance cost me 100% of my money. I'm sure they have their reasons for the policie existence but it feels a bit dishonorable to take 100% of my money for doing nothing.

Mike, the owner of Threat Spectrum Inc., demonstrated self defense techniques in a comfortable…read moreenvironment that helped to not make it overwhelming. Each movement was clear and concise making for an easy learning experience. He had medical and self defense supplies with him at all times for any unforeseen occurrence.

From the owner: Threat Spectrum's services division works with government, commercial and civilian clients seeking…read moreto protect high value assets, be they facilities or human resources. Martial arts and weapons skills are taught in group classes and private lessons. Security consulting services can include site surveys of private residences, commercial offices, and digital networks for target hardening and disaster preparedness. Armed security guard services are available with several weeks notice, but our rates are not very competitive due to overqualification; guarding people, rather than places, is bodyguarding, and that costs more because it requires a much broader skill set, is more dangerous, and the client consequences are higher.