TAC-1 is a great shooting school for all levels from the newbies to experienced shooters. I came into the 1A class knowing very little, but Shoji walks you through handgun manipulation and marksmanship like the clear pro he is, with an even balance between lecture and hands on training. He's not only a incredibly knowledgeable shooter; his patience and encouragement make him a wonderful teacher as well. I've found his classes to be so valuable that I've continued to train with him into 1B and his level 2 courses (shooting on the move is one of my favorites). I want to also mention that safety is always first priority in every class. You're in good hands with TAC-1! read more

I took the beginners safe start handgun course with Shoji Hattori as the instructor. I had never fired a handgun before and I'm glad I took the course to educate myself better on safe firearm handling and the basic mechanics of shooting. There's a lot of information on the internet on how to shoot but nothing beats having an experienced instructor in person to help correct and guide you through the process. The class had a nice progression that I think worked well for a new shooter like myself. First we talked about safe gun handling practices and gun laws followed by a demonstration of each component of a semi auto handgun. Next we talked about sight alignment before finishing the class with live shooting. Overall I think I gained some valuable information. I recommend this to anyone who is an absolute beginner with handguns read more

Shoji is the perfect instructor because of his demeanor and attention to detail. He made my wife and I feel at ease and safety was always paramount. Thank you so much Shoji we will be back! read more

Great place to learn for anyone trying to get educated on safe firearm handling and to anyone who wants to become proficient with firearms. I thought I knew a little bit about handguns and how to properly use them. I can definitely say I was humbled, there are so many factors and Shoji covers them step by step. I love that the classes are in depth and he repeats himself a lot to insure you learn what you're suppose to learn in the class. Highly highly recommend to anyone! read more

After posting my last Yelp review on TAC-1, I have taken 5 more TAC-1 classes ranging from Carbine-2 and different tier level pistol courses that also include concealed pistol, tactical low light, ballistic shield training, close quarter technique, and shooting while moving. One thing that I was surprised about was that the Carbine-2 class that I took this year was completely different from the Carbine-2 class I took last year. Both classes had the same lecture but the drills were different and are now timed with a shot timer clock. This made it more challenging and more fun. I have taken the same classes from other firearm training outfits and its basically the same thing and I got bored of it. The TAC-1 testing and evaluation are now done individually rather than a whole class doing it together with the exception of Pistol-1(A). TAC-1 has very reasonable prices for their 1-day firearms training courses and is taught by a LAPD Firearms Instructor. So don't spend money on worthless gun modifications. Use that money to take TAC-1 classes and become a better shooter! See you at the range. read more

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Excellent training that can take one from absolutely no experience to being a safe shooter with practiced draw and basic malfunction skills, all in one day. read more

i have been training with Tac-1 for several years now. The instructor is fantastic ! His attention to safety is at the highest levels and his ability to teach marksmanship and a combat mindset is why I continue to go back to his trainings. Many of his students repeat his classes numerous times, as i have, because the trainings involve drills that cannot be done at your local indoor or outdoor ranges but are done to develop critical skills including recovering from malfunctions and avoiding malfunctions. I would highly recommend Tac-1 to anyone who is serious about learning to shoot a pistol well and who wants to feel in command of the pistol under every circumstance. read more

Being a hunter, mentoring hunting and gun safety for over 35 years gave me nothing to help me with what TAC-1 (Soji Hattori) has taught me in his Pistol 1a class. How humbling, thought inspiring, and a confidence build it brings to understand a concept and methodology totally different from what I was accustomed to. Go in curious and without ego to learn the importance of (through science) trigger control and the foundation required to have it. read more

If you are reading this review, then you are most likely in a similar disposition I was in several years ago. At the time, I was unsure of the options available to keep myself and my loved ones safe. I was new to firearms instruction, and was uncertain if there was a good balance between quality, cost, and time needed for each course. I decided to use a general search engine query, a Yelp search, and ask the staff at the local outdoorsman store to get some tips. I was motivated and optimistic because my research yielded a few companies that looked promising. Knowing that developing a new skill takes time and investment, I decided to attend an introductory-level pistol program at three firearms instruction companies. My logic was to observe various methodologies, and to discover which system resonated best with me. One of those schools was TAC-1, and that was four years ago. Why did select Tac-1, and why am I a customer for life? Three very good reasons: 1) Compared to most - if not all - the other options, the cost is the best deal available. 2) The quality is superb because they place safety first while teaching the fundamentals of marksmanship to help improve shooting accuracy. The classes include lectures, and practical application drills to demonstrate understanding of the techniques that are covered. As one progresses in the training programs, the classes begin to introduce discussions and real-world scenarios to further enable the student to succeed in complex situations. 3) The highly skilled TAC-1 Team create a culture of enthusiasts who are confident, respectful, and overall good citizens of the community. They genuinely care about helping the general public with firearm instruction. TAC-1 has helped me improve my confidence and marksmanship with firearms, and I am eternally grateful for them. Thank you, Shoji! read more

I saw the recent 3-star review from a first-timer and wanted to give my own experience as someone who is brand-spanking-new to firearms who took the same course. I handled a firearm for the first time ever on Thursday, January 2nd. I signed up for the Jan 5 Pistol 1(a) course- Intro to Defensive Handgun, that very same night. At the start of Sunday's class, I was still nervous as it was only to be my second time ever handling a firearm in my life. I didn't even own a weapon, but rented one from the instructor. The instructor, Shoji, was extremely patient and made me feel welcome and comfortable. We had an extensive safety and information lecture about the pistols, proper shooting technique, and proper gun etiquette. You could easily tell he's been doing this for a long time and answered every question with care, always making sure we are following him at every step. He didn't make me feel stupid when I asked "beginner" questions that others in the course already knew. He was very encouraging and always positive. Although I was still a little nervous when we moved on to handling unloaded pistols, he walked us through each step slowly, making sure we weren't making safety violations. If we did, he would gently but firmly correct us before moving on to the next step; he was extremely professional and always kept his corrections positive. Not once did he raise his voice or make me feel inadequate. I found that if I repeated his instructions under my breath and just went slow, I made fewer errors. I'm pretty sure I said "chamber check" close to 1000x yesterday. By the time we moved on to live firing, my palms were no longer sweaty. I admit that I was not the best marksman in the class, but I didn't have a single shot off-target or any safety violations. And, with Shoji's instruction, I know what parts of my technique I need to work on. As always, he gave only positive criticism and praised us when we did well. My best shots were almost always right after he corrected me. Just a week ago, I was completely uncomfortable around guns; I didn't even want to think about taking a gun training course or even hold a loaded pistol. After just one 8-hour course, I found myself easily handling the firearm with proper gun etiquette without sweaty palms or shaky arms. I'm looking forward to going to the range on my own to practice my technique so that when I take the next course in the series in a few months, I can get top-shot. ;) I would highly recommend this course for anyone interested in becoming comfortable and better with handguns, beginner or otherwise. Shoji is top-rate and I couldn't have asked for a better instructor to teach me these basics. read more

Another great class today with the Hattori roll press to keep the grouping tight. Good work with close quarter speed and accuracy too. The am workshop started well with fundamentals that lead into more shooting on the move for the pm session. Special love to Shoji's mom today, too! read more

TAC-1 - Shoji shooting on the move. - Firearm Training Near Me

My teenage daughter and I took the Pistol 1a class (Intro to Basic Fundamental and Defensive Handgun) on 2/13/20. Great class for hands on training with how to safely retrieve a handgun from a holster, load, aim, and fire upon the target. Safety was a priority by Instructors Shoji "Sensei" Hattori and Hans as they discussed, and demonstrated each step and then had us repeat the steps over and over again under different conditions. Although beginners are welcomed and carefully instructed, you should still have some familiarity with the proper handling and loading of your firearm as well as the fundamentals of gun safety as stated in the website description for this course. This was a great next step in our family's journey on how to safely and successfully use a firearm in self-defense. We plan to continue our training and practice the skills of how to properly handle a firearm in self-defense situations. Thank you to both of our instructors for a worthwhile time! read more

I've taken several private lessons from Shoji. He is extremely detail-oriented and thorough. Excellent instructor. I recommend anyone go and work with him from beginner to expert. The guy knows his stuff. I will be taking more lessons and also group lessons from Tac-1. read more

Comprehensive, professional and absolutely worth every penny! I've had several random private training sessions with other teachers, but none of them come even close to what the guys at TAC-1 do. The 8-hours of introduction to defensive pistol went by like nothing. The course was informative, mentally & physically challenging, eye-opening but most of all... confidence-building. It's scary to think how many people own guns and yet have no clue how to use them correctly and safely. This course should come complimentary with every handgun purchase. Yes, it is THAT important. I particularly enjoyed the various dry drills we ran. "Shooting live rounds does NOT make you a better shooter" (Thank you, Shoji). If you're not sure which school/trainer to go with, look no further. I am signing up for their other courses immediately, as they fill up quickly. read more

I've been shooting revolvers and semiautomatics for years. I never had any formal training, just many pointers from whomever I happened to be shooting with. It was fun, but accuracy was always missing. My brother asked me if I'd like to join him for Pistol - 1(a), Intro to Defensive Handgun. I thought I'd give it a try. It was the best decision I've made in years. I had no idea how little I knew about everything: safely and quickly drawing from a holster; right-hand grip; left hand over grip; trigger sweep; breathing; and more. TAC-1's owner and instructor, Shoji, is a master instructor. He took our entire group from undisciplined target spraying to precise, well-grouped shots. I can't recommend the class enough. Let him teach you how to master your firearm. It's well worth it. read more

I took the Safe Start with Shoji and highly recommended it. The class was very informative. Shoji prepared me to have the right mindset for safely handling firearms and how to practice efficiently. read more

Exceptional training. Ive had instruction from a few "professionals", but my first class with Tac1 showed me immediately what professional really is. I teach self defense for a living and have been a martial artist for over 20 years. Tac1 is the best firearms training Ive had. I can't recommend them enough and I try to make as many classes as possible. *You will use ammunition, but a swordsman doesnt improve with a dull blade read more

Hands down the best firearms training you will ever get! I cannot express enough how knowledgeable and professional Tac-1 is! The training you receive is like no other! Not to mention the price is so affordable! A little about why I chose Tac-1. I have never owned a gun and honestly they made me nervous and fearful. My dad had started to get me over my fear so I can protect myself if need be. His motto was "never be a victim". I decided if I'm going to own a firearm I needed to learn how to safely handle one and feel 100% comfortable shooting one. I needed to know everything their was to know to get me over my fear. Then my search began to find a place to teach me. I first reached out to Oak Tree Gun Club by voicemail and email. I heard nothing back from them. I started a new search and so happened to come across Tac-1. I sent out an email and heard back from them right away. Shoji (instructor) answered all my lengthy emails filled with questions. I felt very comfortable going with Tac-1 so I signed up for their Safe Start Class. After taking the class my fear and lack of knowledge was a thing of the past! I actually fell in love with shooting! I needed to learn more! So I set up a few private lessons with Shoji. Shoji is so knowledgeable, patient, and the resume and experience this guy has would blow you away! I just recently took Pistol 1b class and again the training is like no other! Such a great atmosphere and everyone was so nice and helpful! I am so looking forward to my next class! I realized early on that everyone has their way of shooting and of course their way is the right way. That's coming from people who have never had training before. Ha! I'm telling you go with Tac-1 you will be so happy you did! read more

I was hesitant to take the basic Pistol 1A class because there was a lot of other options online ranging from $150-$400. Signed up for this class because it was close to my house at Angeles Crest. In short it was totally worth what I paid for the class, Shoji was a good instructor and you will learn a lot more in one day than just going to the range multiple times and figuring out how to shoot your gun, how to grip it, how to pull the trigger, etc. Going back for more advanced classes and no I did not get paid or even get a discount to leave this review, in fact they didn't even mention leaving reviews at all. read more

I worked with Lou at the LAPD when I was "forcefully" assigned to Davis Training Academy with the LAPD. He is very dangerous on the trigger. Which, in special ops - special forces - black ops and police, is the best you can get when hiring a firearms instructor! You will be hard pressed to find a better firearms instructor. I'm getting close to having my kids attend his course, and my wife. He's the best and I hope to be a part of his training cadre someday. Connor MacIvor read more

Once again, TAC-1 exceeded my expectations. Pistol IIA was the first time that I ever experienced the necessity for having taken the classes' pre-requisites. Unlike other schools, TAC-1 Pistol IIA picks up right where you left off in Pistol I. Shoji and Lou are the... Scully and Mulder, Bridges and Dominguez, Crockett and Tubbs, Sheriff Andy Taylor and Deputy Barney Fife, Starsky and Hutch, Simon and Simon, Bert and Ernie, Cheech and Chong, Andy Sipowicz & Bobby Simone etc. ...in the world of firearms instruction. In other words, they are informative and a joy to work with. Shoji is a machine. His movements are precise - no waste - his aim is true and quick. In the words of Jerry McGuire, he "...makes me want to be a better shooting enthusiast." The anecdotes that Lou shares are excellent. They anchor what we learned or were about to learn, to real world examples of how the techniques came about or the consequences of not using them. Pricing is appropriate. Pacing is perfect for student retention. If the state were to legislate the need for gun owners to seek firearms instruction, they would be wise to model their legislation and training requirements after TAC-1. Sign-up! read more

I attended Tac-1 Edged Weapons course with a few friends and we all basically have the same thing to say about it, Wow. This class is a must for LEO and a great learning opportunity for non-LEO. From my perspective this class really taught me how to use some techniques in a proper and efficiant way rather than just swinging a blade out at someone hoping to scare them off. The non-officers in the group like myself really loved it. The lecture was so much fun and full of great knowledge from Joe Nepo. Not your average lecture, it was both fun, educating, and funny all at once. He really took the time to make things interesting. A handout with great sparknotes version of the laws was given out in the class and basically everything you need to know about CA law is in there. He also mentioned many different uses for a variety of different knives and blades. NOW HERE IS THE IMPORTANT PART: For LEO, TAKE THIS CLASS. The officers in my group really opened their eyes after this class. One of my friends was literally putting together an order for knives after we got home because he feels the need to carry one on duty everywhere he can. He got really scared of what can happen to him with even the smallest sharp objects. From his perspective he told me he was going to let all his officer friends know about this and have them take this course. If i was an officer I can say that the knowledge i gained out there on saturday can really help you both protect yourlself and potentially save your life out there. Knives are no joke, and its not a fashion statement to have it just hooked on your belt or inside your pocket somewhere. Its an actual deadly weapon that like a gun or anything else should be taken seriously and you must learn techniques on how to apply that weapon in a situation where it can save your life. I HIGHLY recomend this class to everyone on here and say that YOU MUST take the class if you are an officer or carry a knife on you at all time. read more

Just finished my first Safe Start beginners class and it was absolutely needed and perfect. Instructor: Shoji..He was the best I could ask for. Patient, thorough, professional, safe, calm, attentive, not intimidating nor judgmental at all. Felt very comfortable with him even though my shooting was awful. Shoji is an experienced LAPD and instructs in the police academy so this guy is legit! Police get a lot of negative heat and Shoji was just a breath of fresh air and honestly brings hope for me with the law enforcement. Good cops do exist! Lessons: Includes safety, gun range etiquette, handling of gun, safety, shooting, discussion of laws involving transport in vehicle, home protection, your rights as a gun owner, safety, and will individually work with you on your shooting. I left learning a lot and though I have A LOT to work on as far as skills, I have a new respect for guns, people who are good at shooting, and again, safety. I highly recommend TAC-1 and will tell anyone to work with them. It's great quality work with great quality people! read more

My boyfriend set up our training with Shoji. I just want to say that Shoji is a really knowledgeable teacher. I've shot a gun only twice in my life and after today I learned so much. From stance, gun safety, gripping, and trigger control. I felt very comfortable holding a gun after today. I would definitely recommend Tac 1 and Shoji. read more

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I found TAC-1 thru friends on Facebook and decided I should probably take a handgun class even though I owned a gun for years and had been to the firing range many times - boy was I wrong about every single preconceived notion I had - the instructors are top tier Profesionsls and broke down the mechanics of the draw, trigger press, loading, clearing malfunctions - everything I thought I new from watching too much TV - these guys broke it down like a science - I highly recommend there starter courses even to those of you guys (and gals) who think you know or had previous so-called experience - for me it was a case of "I didn't know, what I didn't know" TAC-1 instructors will get you on your way to being educated on safety and tactics - worth every penny - they treat the newbies like me with dignity and patience. Schedule your first class NOW ! read more

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I have never been shooting before and I was never interested much in guns at all. My brother is in the Marines and we had talked about going shooting, so I decided to take the TAC-1 Safe Start class to get myself started. The class was an amazing experience. There student to instructor ratio is kept to a minimum to ensure the high quality training and education that TAC-1 provides. My instructor for the day was Lou and assistance from Mike. Lou is a true expert in the field with his extensive background and years of experience. He educates you not only on gun laws, self-defense, mechanics of the gun, marksmanship etc, but also uses real-life examples and stories from his 30+ years in the field. Mike was quick to answer any questions and provide help, instruction, and advice with his training and experience.They also tailor the training based on how fast you are progressing and answer any questions you have. The Safe Start class was a blast (no pun intended). I realized how much more it is than just target practice. The methodology and philosophy TAC-1 brings to Firearms Training is unlike anything I've heard from before. They make it into a true martial art. I was surprised how much fun it was and I can't wait to take the next Pistol 1A Course to continue my training. read more

I took the Pistol 1 course with Shoji, Tom and Lou. A very good course based on developing safe routines and marksmanship. The instructors are all very skilled, knowledgeable, experienced, and helpful. There are no signs of complacency with these guys. If you are just getting into shooting, or self defense this is the course to take. Even if you've been at it for a bit but don't have formal training this one's for you. The class size was small enough to get a good amount of 1 on 1 time with the instructors, so you get your flaws pointed out until you correct them. All in all a wonderful class for a great price. I'll be going back for the Pistol 2! read more

I attended the Pistol A1 class yesterday as a new owner of a pistol. I was under the impression that this was a newbie class and was anticipating becoming more comfortable and confident with my firearm. After 4 hours of lecture, and speaking with the other participants it became obvious to me that this was NOT a class for someone new to pistols. Most of the class participants had taken firearms training, some with the very same instructor or had some background. I am not that person and made multiple mistakes that were consistently and repeatedly pointed out by the instructor. With every failure, instead of gaining knowledge and skill, I become less and less confident and more and more uncomfortable. I am sure it was a great class for those with some experience but I cannot recommend it for someone like me who is new to this skill. I felt my presence was unsafe for the others in the class and declined to participate in the actual firearm use. I left the class early for the safety of my fellow students. I am left having spent $200 resulting in the exact opposite of my intention to become comfortable and confident. read more

I have taken 2 classes so far and will continue to take more. The training is top notch! It is great for beginner and advanced shooters. No matter how big or small the class is, you get some one on one time with the instructors. Keep up the great work! read more

TAC-1 - Pistol1B - Firearm Training Near Me

This class exceeded my expectations! Shoji was a fantastic instructor and was great for a newbie! Shoji takes you through safe handling, legality, proper aiming, stance, and trigger control. I picked up some awesome tips and I've never shot better than after taking his class! Thanks, Shoji! See you at the next class!! read more

Took the Safe Start course with Shoji. Great information in the classroom and on the range. Feel much more confident and competent. I highly recommend this course for new gun owners. Shoji was extremely good at teaching all materials. Look forward to more advanced courses through Tac-1. read more

I had a bit of pistol shooting experience before the TAC-1 Pistol I class, but had never practiced drawing from a holster, manipulating the safety, etc. I have taken my family to the range several times but we didn't have much focus in our shooting sessions. In other words, we were just there to shoot, with no clear objectives. so I was grateful to find the TAC-1 courses, which are local and broken down into single day formats that are more digestible than the multi-day formats of other courses and fit our schedule much better. The classroom presentation was useful, with the emphasis on legal and safety issues that helped to form an overall strategy for home defense. The pace of the class was perfect - it wasn't overwhelming by any means and by the end of the day I had a couple of specific things to keep in mind that made a dramatic difference in my shooting. The instructors quickly identified the source of my initially poor shooting performance and were very clear in their instructions. Tom was able to coach me from being all over the target vertically to ending the day with a 198/200. I appreciated that the instructors never rushed us, and they were patient with my wife and my teenage son, taken special care to ensure that they understood the movements in the drills. The experience was so enjoyable for my wife now she wants to go to the range and practice what she learned in the class! We were all having so much fun that we didn't notice the class was running over by about an hour. Big Thank you to Shoji, Tom and Lou for sharing your wealth of experience with us in this class! read more

Well...this is pretty much as good as it gets, guys. I have experience shooting, but wanted to take it to the next level. Lou and Shoji (and the other instructors too) are incredible. Whether you have never held a gun in your life or you are an experienced competitive shooter, they will guide you and give you everything you need to know. Also, I know a lot of females who are hesitant to spend time on the range because they are usually the only girl. Gals, trust me...you will feel right at home at Tac-1. They really stress that shooting is NOT just a guy's sport!:) Having said that, you will be hard pressed to find better firearms instruction anywhere. Love love love Tac-1!:) read more

I took the Pistol 2a and 2b classes with Shoji. Excellent classes covering topics that were of interest to me including movement, use of cover, and alternative shooting positions. The stuff you can't normally train at a range. While I have found many of those running shooting instruction programs to be difficult to deal with, Shoji is very responsive and an excellent instructor. I came up from San Diego for the 2b class and enjoyed it so much I came back for the 2a class and hope to do more classes with TAC-1 read more

Cant recommend them enough...went with my wife and we had allot of hands on as well as information. Was our first class I will def be going back even if your wife is not into guns it is well worth the training and.safety was number 1. Will def be going back read more

If there was a way to give these guys more accolades for what they do, I would do it. Great seasoned marksmen with a tremendous amount of experience teaching law abiding citizens how to handle weapons safe and effectively. I highly recommend these guys to anyone who wants to learn, or improve their skills in handling weapons. Their curriculum is methodical, disciplined and complete. Their instructors are down to earth, informative and friendly. You will not be disappointed taking lessons from TAC-1. read more

Carbine 1 was awesome! I am REALLY looking forward to carbine 2!!! It was pretty awesome to be the first civilian group to get that training from Nate! I definitely understand my rifle better, and the training helped me to appreciate it as a tremendous tool for self-defense. I think it is very noble of the instructors to share their knowledge with us. It struck a chord with me when Lou said, "he teaches because he has seen too many innocent people become victims." I want to do everything within my power to protect myself and loved ones from harm, while staying within the confines of the law. Tac-1 provides the highest level of training in a friendly, responsible, and accessible way. I would recommend Tac-1 to anyone looking to improve any of their shooting skills and knowledge. read more

Great instuctor. Shoji is very patient and addressed our needs. Highly recommend tac-1. Instuctor is highly skilled. Definitely recommend one on one practice. read more

I took the Pistol-1 class yesterday, which was instructed by Lou, Chris and Shoji. First let me say that these guys really know what they are talking about. Combined, they have decades of experience. One of the things that I liked the best about what they had to offer is that they are teaching based on first hand experience. I think that it is human nature to beg the question "why." Throughout the entire course, every instructor would answer the "why" before you even get the chance to ask. They have seen what happens, they have tried and taught these techniques, and they know what works. They've seen what works. I definitely enjoyed the class and will definitely be taking more of their courses in the future. I have been shooting for a few months now, but I have NEVER shot tighter groups than I was after the instruction that they provided- I honestly couldnt believe it. I am trying to get into law enforement, and am really glad that I found these guys. For anyone ready this review, I HIGHLY recommend it, whether you are an active LEO, want to get into LEO, want to be able to use your pistol for home/self defense, or just enjoy the sport of shooting and want to be as safe as possible. Thanks again to Tac-1 for the spectacular courses that they provide! read more

I took the Pistol 1(a) and 1(b) classes and couldn't be happier. I am a long time, self taught shooter so I knew going in that I had some poor habits to break. The entire staff were supportive and really positive in their feedback. I learned what needed to be changed and I was pleased that I came away from the classes with so much knowledge. We covered a lot of ground in both classes but the best part was the balance between discussion of technique and the executing of that technique through practice and repetition. Hard work but worth it. I plan on continuing with TAC-1 through to more advanced classes and am looking forward to a shotgun class in my future. read more