WELCOME!

If you’re new to all of this and don’t know where to start…you’re in the right place.

First and foremost, welcome. You’re stepping into an incredible world of firearms, shooting, and combatives. Choosing to take responsibility for your own protection is one of the most important decisions you can make, but it can also feel overwhelming. There’s a lot of information out there, and a lot of people trying to sell you something.

I get it. I know how that feels.

Like you, I’m a student and an end-user. I started my training journey in 2012 after leaving the military. Since then, I’ve invested thousands of dollars into training and gear that worked… and tens of thousands into things that didn’t. It’s a frustrating process at times, but it’s also part of the journey. I’m still refining my skills and dialing in what works best, just like you will.

When you train with me, my goal is simple: meet you where you are and help you become a more capable protector.

I’m a straight shooter (no pun intended). I’ll give you honest guidance on what gear actually matters, and what doesn’t. More importantly, I’ll help you focus on the skills that will make the biggest difference every time you step onto the range.

No two classes are exactly the same. My instruction evolves constantly to stay aligned with proven, real-world methods and equipment that actually work, not trends, not hype.

This is about building confidence, capability, and a mindset that carries beyond the range.

GEAR

“What firearm should I get? What about holsters? Flashlights? And what about that super comfortable tactical belt I saw on social media?”

Here’s the honest answer. Keep it simple.

Like I mentioned before, I have spent a lot of money chasing trendy gear, and I have seen firsthand how often that stuff fails when it actually matters. The reality is, you do not need the latest or the flashiest equipment. You need gear that is reliable, proven, and consistent.

I keep my setup simple on purpose.

Everything I carry and use has been tested through real training and has met my personal standards for reliability and performance. If it does not hold up, I do not use it. Period.

Below is a list of gear that I have tested, trust, and recommend. These are not based on hype or marketing. They are based on what actually works. This is not a complete list, but it will get you started!

Firearms

  • Glock MOS Series - 19 / 17 / 45 / 47 / 43X / 48

  • Smith and Wesson M&P Series (No Thumb Safety)

  • Walther PDP Series

  • Springfield Echelon

  • Ruger RXM

  • Palmetto State Armory PA15 (budget friendly)

    • Get a version of the PA15 with a free floating barrel. Barrel life is roughly 7K-10K rounds. Having a free floating system will allow you to change the barrels out very easily in the future!

    • Upgrade your barrel at the 5K round mark with a Ballistic Advantage barrel. If you have the extra cash, upgrade with a barrel from Criterion Inc.

  • Bravo Company USA AR15 Upper Receivers

Inside the Waist Band Holster and Magazine Pouches:

  • Tier 1 Concealed

  • Tenicor Holsters

  • LAG Tactical

    • Use code “HighDesert” for 10% off at checkout.

Outside the Waistband / Competition / Duty Holsters, Belts, and Magazine Pouches:

  • Alien Gear Rapid Duty Level 3 Holsters

  • Safariland Level 2 Holsters

  • High Speed Gear

  • Wilder Tactical

  • Blue Alpha Gear

  • Esstac

  • Krydex (Budget brand found on Amazon. Decent nylon gear.)

  • Hunter Constantine EDC Belt

    • Use with jeans, sweatpants, and gym shorts!

  • Comfort Concealment Belt

    • Highly recommended by the women led Cakes Concealed training group.

Off Body Carry Bags

Range Bags / Hauling

Sighting Systems:

Weapon Lights:

Slings:

Handheld Lights:

Trauma Medical:

  • North American Rescue

    • Purchase directly from NARescue.com to avoid copycats. The only trauma medical brand I trust to save lives.

Knives:

  • Shivworks Products Group - El Nino Push Dagger

  • TDI Ka-Bar

  • Black Triangle Group

Other EDC Items:

Range Safety Gear:

Misc Items:

  • 550 Cord

  • Shock Cord

  • Tattoo Gun Tape

  • Hockey Grip Tape