What to look for in an instructor?

Since Maryland went “Shall Issue” in June of ’23, firearms instructors have seemingly popped up on every street corner to try and get a piece of the pie..  What are their credentials?  Current or ex law enforcement?  Active or retired/discharged military?  Special Ops?  They run the gamut.  I’ve been doing this since 2015 and specialize in small groups & personal attention.

I excel at teaching, am patient, skilled at presenting and detail oriented.  The vast majority of people are looking for basic to advanced training to protect themselves and their loved ones while being safe and having fun. Are you at a point in your life where you have decided to buy a new handgun or want to learn how to safely store, use and maybe even clean the gun you already own?  Some want to learn how to make themselves and their home less of a target to predators, and a smaller amount want to take it to a higher level learning defensive shooting techniques and apply for their Maryland Wear & Carry or explore the action shooting sports.  Those are my specialties and why you should train with Condition One.

I’ve invested many years and many dollars studying,  taking training and earning a number of certifications from the USCCA & NRA.  I also compete in USPSA practical or “action shooting” sports because it’s the best way to safely train under stress while having fun.  My accumulated experience helps me guide you through your learning experience and have a ton of tips & tricks to improve anyone’s skills.

Be realistic.  Don’t get swallowed up in the “tactical” hype.  Start with and master the basics.  OWN the basics.  Build the base of your training pyramid deep and wide.  That’s more than enough for most people.

Monty W

I'm a USCCA & NRA Certified/MD State Police Qualified Handgun Instructor . I actively compete in USPSA practical shooting matches to hone my skills and have a ton of fun! My goal is to offer a relaxed, personalized training environment that facilitates easy learning and encourages meaningful dialogue. No sitting anonymously in a classroom with twenty other people at Condition One! I have many years of competition and teaching experience including: USPSA Carry Optics B class and rising IDPA Marksman AMA Pro/CCS/WERA/SMUSA Motorcycle Racing with a National Championship (2002 WERA National Challenge-Formula 2) and dozens of Regional Championships. AASI Snowboard Instructor-2000-2003 20+ Years of mountain bike racing including 24 hour endurance events. I have the ability to DO and to relate HOW to do which is why you should consider training with me.

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