Gunsite Academy - Day Classes
Gunsite Academy - Day Classes
5
About
Gunsite offers firearm training to elite military personnel, law enforcement officers and free citizens of the US. Here at Gunsite Academy, you will spend a week immersed in training in defensive pistol, rifle or shotgun. Learning how to protect you and your family against harm is a life long skill you will have forever. This is a vacation to remember for the entire family.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
106 reviews
Excellent
104
Very good
2
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
WhaleDriver
Kirkland, AZ32 contributions
Jan 2023 • Solo
Love it when it all comes together!
Gunsite instructors—specifically Chris—made some suggestions for building my skills in a December class (and with the last-minute addition of a suggested optic for my pistol), after 42 days of “dry” practice between classes, I came to the January 14th Pistol Range Day — and it all came together for me.
My performance wasn’t perfect, but I immediately saw the benefits of their suggestions which have been the antidote to difficulties that have been hampering my progress… in that one perfect moment!
My instructors, Chris and Gary, don’t miss anything and certainly didn’t in my case. Not only did they notice the minor mistakes and errors made, they let me know what they observed and suggested the means of doing it the right way in order to be successful. While almost anyone can do a critique, they both were tactful yet professional, knowing that my success is also their success. After a couple of hours work, it all came together for me in that one perfect “WOW!” moment. Experiencing how it is done perfectly, I now have a template for repeating it perfectly again and again! Thank you, Chris and Gary… job well done! I appreciate your patient help in getting to this point!
Every Gunsite instructor I’ve worked with has done an excellent job. They’re tough, demanding, uncompromising when it comes to safety and class standards, hard to please, and exacting: each wants every student to reach their full potential, and that doesn’t come from letting things slide. That doesn’t mean that they’re unpleasant, because they’re not — and while no one wants to hear that they’re doing something incorrectly, the Gunsite instructors maintain their professionalism to help each and every student bring out their best. I appreciate that. You will, too.
What I also appreciate — even more — is that every instructor like Chris, and each Range Master, like Gary, keep the standards of safety very high. I want to assure anyone interested in attending Gunsite training that all of the staff have uncompromising high standards, not only in their instructor skills, but in maintaining the safety of each and every individual on the range.
Sign up for a class a Gunsite — and explore your personal potential. I dare you.
Gunsite instructors—specifically Chris—made some suggestions for building my skills in a December class (and with the last-minute addition of a suggested optic for my pistol), after 42 days of “dry” practice between classes, I came to the January 14th Pistol Range Day — and it all came together for me.
My performance wasn’t perfect, but I immediately saw the benefits of their suggestions which have been the antidote to difficulties that have been hampering my progress… in that one perfect moment!
My instructors, Chris and Gary, don’t miss anything and certainly didn’t in my case. Not only did they notice the minor mistakes and errors made, they let me know what they observed and suggested the means of doing it the right way in order to be successful. While almost anyone can do a critique, they both were tactful yet professional, knowing that my success is also their success. After a couple of hours work, it all came together for me in that one perfect “WOW!” moment. Experiencing how it is done perfectly, I now have a template for repeating it perfectly again and again! Thank you, Chris and Gary… job well done! I appreciate your patient help in getting to this point!
Every Gunsite instructor I’ve worked with has done an excellent job. They’re tough, demanding, uncompromising when it comes to safety and class standards, hard to please, and exacting: each wants every student to reach their full potential, and that doesn’t come from letting things slide. That doesn’t mean that they’re unpleasant, because they’re not — and while no one wants to hear that they’re doing something incorrectly, the Gunsite instructors maintain their professionalism to help each and every student bring out their best. I appreciate that. You will, too.
What I also appreciate — even more — is that every instructor like Chris, and each Range Master, like Gary, keep the standards of safety very high. I want to assure anyone interested in attending Gunsite training that all of the staff have uncompromising high standards, not only in their instructor skills, but in maintaining the safety of each and every individual on the range.
Sign up for a class a Gunsite — and explore your personal potential. I dare you.
Written January 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
KiloTango
Orange County, CA247 contributions
Sep 2022
Just finished the 250 Defensive Pistol course and have to say this is the best managed and maintained training I've experienced.
Instructors are top rate and while I've had a fair amount of (civilian) training, these guys really do a great job of balancing the basics with a level of competitiveness that forces you to improve. Ratio of instructors to students is about 4:1 so lots of individual attention and advise.
Safety is paramount and their attention to it is unflagging.
There were several medical emergencies during my week there (not firearm related) and they were dealt with quickly, efficiently and with great care.
Do get the box lunch (additional charge) if you don't bring your own as the facility is about 20 minutes from the nearest fast food.
Likewise if you stay on property (trailers or tents) you have a bit of a drive for dinner in Chino Valley if you don't cook for yourself. Prescott is about a 40 minute drive so OK once or twice but not every night.
Instructors are top rate and while I've had a fair amount of (civilian) training, these guys really do a great job of balancing the basics with a level of competitiveness that forces you to improve. Ratio of instructors to students is about 4:1 so lots of individual attention and advise.
Safety is paramount and their attention to it is unflagging.
There were several medical emergencies during my week there (not firearm related) and they were dealt with quickly, efficiently and with great care.
Do get the box lunch (additional charge) if you don't bring your own as the facility is about 20 minutes from the nearest fast food.
Likewise if you stay on property (trailers or tents) you have a bit of a drive for dinner in Chino Valley if you don't cook for yourself. Prescott is about a 40 minute drive so OK once or twice but not every night.
Written September 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Keith B
Los Angeles, CA8 contributions
Jan 2022
I just got back from Carbine 223, having previously attended 250 and 350. It is among the two best training courses I have ever taken. (Tactical Performance Center in St. George Utah is also outstanding but I only took one handgun mastery course there.)
Gunsite under Jeff Cooper basically created the modern gunfighting training philosophy. They are organized and professional and friendly but take very seriously their responsibilities. If you are considering adding serious gun training this should be your first stop.
What you should bring is on the website. I would also (if it's not on there) add a notebook. I take pretty copious notes because attending is like drinking from a fire hydrant. There is SO much to learn I write it down as fast as I can knowing it's too much to remember. Sunscreen and drink a lot. Thin gloves are recommended as well. I usually come home with a lot of cuts on my hands.
The experience is just superlative. I'm going to get redundant and perseverate but if you are considering seriously adding to your shooting skills, Gunsite is the place to go. Great learning and very professional but at the same time not scary instructors.
Gunsite under Jeff Cooper basically created the modern gunfighting training philosophy. They are organized and professional and friendly but take very seriously their responsibilities. If you are considering adding serious gun training this should be your first stop.
What you should bring is on the website. I would also (if it's not on there) add a notebook. I take pretty copious notes because attending is like drinking from a fire hydrant. There is SO much to learn I write it down as fast as I can knowing it's too much to remember. Sunscreen and drink a lot. Thin gloves are recommended as well. I usually come home with a lot of cuts on my hands.
The experience is just superlative. I'm going to get redundant and perseverate but if you are considering seriously adding to your shooting skills, Gunsite is the place to go. Great learning and very professional but at the same time not scary instructors.
Written January 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
lisal
Presque Isle, MI1 contribution
Mar 2023 • Couples
I reluctantly went to Gunsite for my husband. I ended up having more fun than I thought possible. The class, Pistol 250, was mentally intense but not overly so. I became much more safety conscience and a much better shot than I was before the class. Their biggest emphasis is on safety. I thought that the instructors would all be like drill sergeants as they are all former military and/or law enforcement. I could not have been more wrong. The instructors, we had three, were all very patient, encouraging and supportive. I would recommend Gunsite Academy to any woman who wants to learn more about shooting and gun safety.
Written March 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Billythekid666
Salt Lake City, UT186 contributions
Apr 2022 • Solo
I completed a 5 day defensive pistol class here at gunsite. This place is amazing, the instructors and range masters are experts in the field and have 100 plus years of exsperience combined. The class was technical, detailed and informative at the highest level. I recommend using gunsite for any firearms training you want with multiple courses available. Staff are friendly and welcoming like family. Facility’s are awesome and there was an abundance of range time. 100% thumbs up.
Written April 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Charlie A
1 contribution
Oct 2020
I have taken the 250, 350, 499, 223, and competed in the annual Gunsite Alumni Shoot - I cannot recommend taking Gunsite classes enough.
Taking a Gunsite class is an all around great experience. Not only do you learn invaluable skills in the safest and most professional environment, you meet some of the nicest and most interesting people. Members of my family have made life-long friends out of some Gunsite classmates and have gone back for classes year after year.
The training is world-class quality. Classes are packed with lessons taught by some of the most knowledgeable instructors in the country. Classes are worthwhile for individuals of all ages and skill levels. Instructors are incredibly professional and patient.
I would suggest avoiding the summer months as it is very hot in the desert and days may be cut short in the afternoons by sudden rain storms in July/August. Also, it can be tough to find good places to stay if you do not book lodging far enough in advance of your class (especially if it's around the alumni shoot in October!).
Taking a Gunsite class is an all around great experience. Not only do you learn invaluable skills in the safest and most professional environment, you meet some of the nicest and most interesting people. Members of my family have made life-long friends out of some Gunsite classmates and have gone back for classes year after year.
The training is world-class quality. Classes are packed with lessons taught by some of the most knowledgeable instructors in the country. Classes are worthwhile for individuals of all ages and skill levels. Instructors are incredibly professional and patient.
I would suggest avoiding the summer months as it is very hot in the desert and days may be cut short in the afternoons by sudden rain storms in July/August. Also, it can be tough to find good places to stay if you do not book lodging far enough in advance of your class (especially if it's around the alumni shoot in October!).
Written June 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Slcgatos
Prescott, AZ1 contribution
Sep 2022
While I'm fortunate enough to be able to shoot at Gunsite monthly, thanks to the Well Armed Woman Gunsite Chapter, taking the Pistol 250 class in September was a whole new experience... 5 full days of training with superbly professional instructors, and a class of students of all ages from across the USA who were also supportive and helpful. It's a terrific and remarkably humbling learning event. Our weather happened to be beastly hot, and the instructors made sure we stayed hydrated and safe. Bring your ibuprofen and muscle/joint creams if you're of the arthritic age, because every day is intense.
At the end of the week, you'll have a sense of accomplishing something significant, because of the creative drills provided by the instructors, and the exhausting level of new information to internalize and practice. I recommend you know gun handling basics before attempting this class.
At the end of the week, you'll have a sense of accomplishing something significant, because of the creative drills provided by the instructors, and the exhausting level of new information to internalize and practice. I recommend you know gun handling basics before attempting this class.
Written October 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Suzanne
7 contributions
Oct 2022
This is the 8th year several of my girlfriends and I have attended Gunsite Academy. The instructors are the best and the confidence they instill in us is incomparable. We learn how to defend against home invasion, car jacking, and robbery in a public setting. We're already booked for 2023.
Written October 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Marilyn P
2 contributions
Sep 2022
All out great and wonderful training experience. We were onsite at Gunsite for a total of 9 days - 5 days for the 250 Defensive Pistol Class, 1 day for GAS, and a couple extra days on each end for camping as we were coming and going. ALL of it is top-notch!
Training is all phenomenal and camping facilities are incredibly clean. Hoping I can go again someday soon.
Training is all phenomenal and camping facilities are incredibly clean. Hoping I can go again someday soon.
Written October 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Steve
1 contribution
Apr 2019
Gunsite is a very special place in this world. Respectful of individual needs/capabilities, extreme safety, valuable practical tactical skills taught by the worlds finest instructors. I had the great pleasure to train there some years ago (medical conditions have interrupted that), but have gone to Range Days. But can't wait to get back there this fall. I am pulling together several friends to accompany me. My level of competency and sense of safety and security has been enhanced greatly by their training.
Written March 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for the kind words. They are greatly appreciated. See you in the fall.
JA
Written March 4, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Do you train Security Professionals from the Caribbean ?
R.D. A
71 contributions
I believe as long as you can provide the necessary background checks and information they will.
Charles D
Virginia Beach
level 0f improvement in shooting skill for cross sect
ion of class
Chrispy5664
Fairbanks, AK75 contributions
Everyone improved their shooting skills
What is the cost? I would love to give this for a birthday present for my husband
gunsiteacademy
Paulden, AZ
Each class is priced individually depending on the amount of days it is offered. Most of our classes are 5 Day classes. You can find the link to the 250 Pistol class on our website at Gunsite com, the cost of which is $1695.
Gunsite Academy - Day Classes (Paulden) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Gunsite Academy - Day Classes
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- (0.17 mi) Raven Roost Bunk House
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- (8.13 mi) Essence Kitchen & Bar
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