On May 29, 2010 my son and I completed John Hansen’s CCW safety class.  John has a homerun with this one!  We both loved the Beginning Handgun class, and are really glad we had that one before this class, as it helped us better understand the concepts John was presenting.  The CCW handouts were terrific, and are a great takeaway for occasional reminders.  John’s easy casual style and excellent classroom skills really helped make sense out of some complicated material.  He is very clear on the differences between criminal and civil laws, and how to behave to protect ourselves in complicated situations.  While not yet having access to what the new class will be due to law changes in a couple of months, John did a great job pointing out several things that are obviously going to be different.  The message here is to TAKE THIS GREAT CLASS NOW!!!  The time really flew by and is more than worth the cost.  During the class, we were fingerprinted on 2 cards, filled out our permit application, and were even provided a special envelope for mailing.  All we had to do later was drop in a money order, and add postage!  Our permits showed up less than a week later!  If you are serious about carrying a weapon, then I really recommend you take the Beginning Handgun class with John, and then the CCW class but hurry while this CCW class is still taught as is!!

Handgun owner and shooter

Edward L. H, II, MBA, PhD

In today's world where everybody is out to take your money  and run .John is the exception.I figured the course to be a 8 hours of  agony,well I'll admit I was dead wrong. John's teaching abilities,patience's and informative class made it a pleasure to do and made me wish I had taking it along time ago.If you have any doubts about where to do your CCW put them to rest and do it with John and it sure beat the SupreBowl (2/7/2010).

P. Reithmayer

Hi John,
     I took your CCW class on February 6, 2010 and I just wanted to let you know that it was very informative and enjoyable.  Your attitude and knowledge of both firearms and the law made the class fun and no question went unanswered.  Your scenarios and examples definitely made me think more about the responsibility of carrying and using a firearm.  With any luck it will never happen, but if the time comes that I must use a firearm to defend myself I have a much better chance of survival, thanks to your class.  I am going to tell everyone I can about my experience.  Thanks again!!

R. Bowling

Also agree on highly recommending John Hansen CCW class. I opted to drive a little further than a closer course being conducted and was glad I did. I even plan on taking other courses he has to offer. Anybody out there thinking about CCW should definately stop thinking about it and just do it. You'll be glad you did. Call or email John Hansen and make it happen. If you don't, you'll regret the moment that you decided to show, threaten or use your gun without this knowledge. There is so much that you do not realize that would ruin your life to include that of you family and financial well being. This is especially true for those that carry and show it to downgrade a situation, not realizing that you have already escalated the situation to a prosecutable crime. If you want to know what I mean about this...take the class, or else suffer the consquences of ignorance (which will not be an excuse to the statutes)

D W

That was easy as pie, smooth as silk and easy, very informative, a real eye opener.
John is a great instructor, up on the newest laws and has his hand on the heart of what is really going on daily.
There were a bunch of good folks from here that attended the coarse also, I'm glad Daniel changed his mind and came to this one, he had a lot of good questions that were answered.
Thanks again John, Ill be talking with you soon.

Mont of Phoenix Firearms

Thanks John.

 You did a nice job training us (10/10/2009). I actually walked away fearing carrying a concealed weapon. I have been taking my pistol on my ATV rides and I think I may have been illegal. The permit will now make me legal. I have had a machete in my truck for years for cutting through bushes. I never realized that that made me illegal also.

Grady

I first want to start out with giving Hansen's class (5/29/2010 class) a 5 out of 5 challenge coin approval as to giving it last!

Now reading into some other reviews about other ccw instructors giving wrong information or going to old war stories that have nothing to do with the class purpose at all. I wasnt really at all worried with that with John fro. another review I read a few months back from another member on AZS.

That was far from the case with John, every story he mentioned and or brought up do to current discussion was relevent to what we were discussing. I can say John is a true student to not only understanding the CCW law, but to the laws itself and making sure you understand it aswell.

One of the main points of the class was just because you have a CCW now doesnt mean you should be hopping into dangerous situations. You do everything you possibly can to stay out of the firefight and your firearm is to be used as a last means of defense not first.

Now considering the CCW classes used to be 16hrs in length now they are 8, John did an excellent job in getting the information across to you in that time period.

With the new CCW law going into effect in 2 months Im glad I took the course when I did and I can say you should do the same. Not so much for having a permit but just the information alone will serve you better then the round chamered in your firearm.

If there was anything I could add to the class it would be nothing but maybe see if John could have a class alone just on the laws and going into more detail on carrying a CCW that would be well worth the money spent!

John thanks again for an excellent class but also being an excellent teacher! I was the one in the blue colared shirt the was one of the last ones to leave, you gave me a few tips on shooting since I was pulling to the left with my shots.

Thanks again

sharpshooter08, AZWEAPONSITE.COM

Today I attended and completed the AZ CCW class (3-1-2009). I just wanted to put this up so if anyone in AZ is thinking about taking it I would really like to recommend the guy that put on my class. It was John Hansen at www.blackwolfccw.com... It was a very professional class and also very relaxed so everyone felt very comfortable asking any questions, even the dumb ones! I have been involved with firearms and hunting my entire life and learned a ton of very improtant info. It also cleared up alot of misconceptions that I had. The class is only $40 and $30 if you prepay. That also included the fingerprinting of two cards and everything else. I recently had to get fingerprinted for work and that cost $25 by itself. There were a couple of people that were very nervous at the range and he made them feel like they were the most important people and was very patient. After taking the class myself im going to attend it again so my girlfriend can get the knowledge that I found. Also if you are just attending in support of someone else or if they want to attend and not apply he doesnt charge them. He has a tremendous resume and experience with every aspect of the class. I definately know that I am a much more educated person having attended and know that if a situation ever presents itself that I have the knowledge to make the right decision for myself and everyone else involved.

Corey Nash

My son and I just attended (5/22/10) the Beginning Handgun Class presented by John Hansen of Black Wolf Defense.  I am a professional developer of Trainers in my job, and I want to say that John presents one of the best classes I have seen.  His mix of content mastery, interpersonal skills and questioning and listening techniques are extremely advanced.  In addition, John’s great blending of Adult Learning Principles and Learner-Centered techniques have produced an excellent introductory level handgun class.  I admit, when I first thought of attending a basic handgun class, I was worried about hearing a bunch of war stories listing the instructor’s prowess with weapons, and all this talk of needing large caliber hand cannons and all the bad guy situations under the sun.  To me, hearing all this stuff instead of using the time to shoot is the real downside of the hobby of shooting.  I was really surprised!  John immediately set the class up as all about US, having us shoot and then making mild suggestions as we moved through structured exercises.   Each of us got individual attention, and received mild coaching broken down in small steps that we could achieve easily.  It was a fantastic experience!  I became comfortable with my new gun, and I watched as I got better and better hitting the target exactly where I wanted.  This was a delightful class in a true no-pressure environment.  It is a terrific investment, and I recommend it to anyone REGARDLESS of their level of experience as either a refresher or a chance to learn a new weapon.  John’s coaching and guidance was very useful, not condescending, and given in a very friendly and respectful manner.  This class was so great I am going to take more classes (maybe the whole curriculum!) from Black Wolf Defense!!  Spend your training dollars here, it is the best investment and highest quality training and coaching you will find.

Sincerely,

Handgun owner and shooter

 

Edward L. Hunt, II, MBA, PhD

Hi John,I took your class on 8/24/08 I thought you did a great job lots of info I needed to know to be safe and prepared.Its a great thing you do.everyone who owns a firearm should take your class I applaud you. I have all ready handed some of your cards to friends of mine and I highly recommended your class to them.keep doing the good work you do.we all appreciate it.thank you again.     

Eric Smith

I took Arizona CCW class on 08/24/2008 and my card was in the mail today. Just wanted to thank John again for making the class fun, not to mention dirt-cheap. As far as I'm concerned, John is the man to go to if you need your AZ or UT permit. I also think John deserves all our support for dealing with the worst of the worst scum out there on a daily basis. Thanks again, John and be safe out there.

Ed

I was at the 8/24/2008 class and thoroughly enjoyed the instruction from John. You will learn a lot and I can guarantee
that the class won't remind you of your U.S. History class in high school. By that I mean this is fun, interesting and
invaluable. I also received my CCW card yesterday and will be carrying today. Tell everyone you know that if they
are looking to get a CCW that they would be foolish to go anywhere else. John is a great guy and you feel important
while your there.

CCW Class More Than Worthwhile

I can’t think of 8 hours in recent memory more well-spent than yesterday. A few weeks back, I mentioned John Hansen’s CCW Class.

John is in Law Enforcement, so he offers a great perspective. He has a down-to-earth, easygoing style that makes the material interesting. Students were 100% comfortable asking questions in the classroom. His knowledge of the material presented was clearly current, and accompanied by the appropriate references. Training materials were complete and well-organized. His experience allowed for lots of anecdotal evidence to reiterate his points, without embellishment or bravado. The range portion had folks at all levels of expertise - John kept range procedures firm, yet relaxed enough that new shooters were not uncomfortable or intimidated.

Topics covered included firearms safety, legal issues, use of force, concealment laws, threat analysis, conflict resolution, home defense planning, non-lethal defense, and shooting fundamentals. The course was approximately 8 hours, with roughly 2 hours spent at the range. Students have to pass a written test, as well as a practical shooting test.

John does more than just cover the mandatory material, though - he fingerprints you and assists everyone in filling out their CCW application. Literally, when you leave that class, all you have to do is get a money order or cashier’s check for the DPS fee ($60), put postage on the envelope, and send it in. Best of all - this class will run you 40 bucks. I haven’t seen one for that price anywhere. This is one of those rare cases where you get more than what you pay for.

Seriously, I would recommend this class to anyone who has even the faintest interest in firearms. Whether you are interested in a CCW Permit or not, the information presented in this class is interesting and important. Ladies - fear not. There were a couple of gals in our class, and I think John went out of his way to make them feel comfortable and they were considered equal members of the class.

If you have ever considered taking a CCW Class - or not - DO IT! Check out John’s site Black Wolf Defense for FAQ’s, schedules, info and more.

Marshall McFarlane

John,
My wife and I took your CCW class on March 7, 2009.  We received our permits yesterday (May 6). 
Your class is an incredible value.  You offer the same type as training as many other organizations in the valley, but offer it at a VERY reasonable price.  Thank you!

John Simon

Took the class yesterday (10/18/2008) with John and I gotta say, it was EYE-POPPIN! 

Even more important than being able to legally carry - are the potential consequences from NOT knowing the legal ramifications should it ever be necessary TO shoot.

John brings the class down to earth with current events and local stories that we've all heard about on the news, but never knew just how complicated the rules of engagement are!

I will always act to protect my family and myself - but after John's class I am vastly less likely to end up behind bars for doing the right thing!

TAKE THE CLASS! YOU'LL BE GLAD YOU DID!!

Kurt Larson, Glendale

Hi John,

      I wanted to thank you for your 5/24/2009 class. I have been around firearms most of my life, but i had never received any formal training. I was able to walk away from your class with some new knowledge and feeling confident in becoming a CCW permit holder. You were very professional yet not pretentious and seemed to make everyone feel comfortable in the class. I appreciate the time you took to answer everyone's questions. Somebody that is new to firearms, or even someone such as my self who has owned firearms for quiet a few years will be able to learn something new and feel comfortable in your CCW class. I definitely plan on following up with some of your other class offerings.


Thanks,

Elery

Great Class! Had a great time with the class and the hands on portion too! Well written and thought out sections. That showed me a polished and experienced instructor who cares about the students. This class was recommended to me and I will surely emphasize this class to those who ask or may be interested in a obtaining their CCW.

Jim, 12/20/2009.

Hi John,

 

I wish to express my appreciation for the wealth of knowledge you imparted on my wife and I in your CCW class in proper firearms safety, use and application from your real world experience as law enforcement Deputy Sheriff!  My wife and I wanted to take our personal defense to the next level so, we researched other CCW classes charging as much as $100.00 and were holding off until a former student of yours highly recommended we take your class for only $40.00 or, $30.00 with pre-pay registration.  He said your class was more informational as you are in law enforcement and bring real world examples to the class.  I’m so glad we contacted you and registered immediately for your CCW class.  You make the class fun, interactive and stress free for the new or current handgun owner but more importantly, your examples of real life situations mentally prepare us if we encounter similar circumstances.  Your class is a true value as you teach actual application and mindset in addition to the book knowledge that will stay with us as responsible CCW permit carriers.

 

I had a wonderful experience from your CCW class; I wanted to take my pistol handling and knowledge to the next level taking your Basic Pistol Marksmanship 1 class.  Raised in a law enforcement family, I’ve used firearms for hunting and target shooting but had limited exposure to pistol marksmanship and felt this class would improve my pistol handling skills.  I reviewed your class on your website http://www.blackwolfccw.com/basic_pistol_marksmanship_1  as well as the pictures and looked forward to the day at the range.  Wow, what a class!  It was so much fun learning from an actual firearm instructor of how to handle the pistol from many different positions and situations.  What a positive experience…learning how to handle the firearm from the standard strong handed position to support hand, single strong and support hands, trigger reset, shooting on the move, behind obstacles and proper reload etc.  You taught us tactical and personal defense positions developing new pistol skills.  It was exceptional and, did I say fun!!!  By the end of the class, my groupings improved dramatically to where my pistol handling confidence has soared!  I now practice using the techniques you taught so that they become second nature that I can rely on if placed in a pressure situation.  Your Basic Pistol Marksmanship class is necessary for any pistol owner!  I may take the class again as it was such a wonderful learning experience and fun, fun, fun!

 

Thanks.

Steve Sunder

          I came to John Hansen at Black Wolf Defense/CCW as a “rookie” shooter. I had taken my new S&W Sigma out once one my own, and had only shot once before that with my grandfather, over a decade ago. I had no idea how to correctly shoot my gun. I could put the bullet on target, but I had no “grouping” what-so-ever.

          I took John’s Beginning Handgun class. He showed me how to hold the gun, pull the trigger, and sight alignment. He showed me minor details to hold the gun in strong hand with support, weak hand with support, strong hand only, and weak hand only. John also showed me Trigger Reset. This minor movement keeps your sights on target in between shots. My “grouping” was better at the end of the two hour class, but not where I wanted it to be.

          I was then able to take John’s Basic Pistol Marksmanship 1 class. Again, he touched the basics such as how to hold the gun, how to pull the trigger properly, sight alignments, and all four hand positions that you can use to shoot. He also pushed Trigger Reset even more in this class. This little detail alone, brought my “grouping” even closer. He even demonstrated on how you are supposed to let the gun “surprise” you when you pull the trigger. That way, your body does not try to compensate for the upcoming impact. We used his specific targets for multiple drills. These drills begin to prepare you to defend yourself, your family, and your property. He does not use just “bulls eye” targets. He uses human silhouette targets, so you can prepare your brain for pulling the trigger against a real human threat. He also throws in three “fun” drills. He starts to give you the basics of shooting while moving, how to shoot from behind barricades, and how to return fire, while exposing the least amount possible. By the end of this class, my stationary shot “grouping” was within a fist size on the target. Well worth the three hours of my weekend.

          I was also able to take John’s CCW Class under the Arizona Laws that are being outdated later this year (2010). John completely covers everything you will need to know to take the written DPS test. He covers it in such a way that you have full understanding, not just how to answer the questions. He has no problem stopping the class to answer questions. He knows the laws for the CCW inside and out. He gives you a small folder packed full of information that you can take home and review any time that you need to.

John showed an extreme amount of patience. In the Basic Pistol Marksmanship 1 class I was in, he had an older gentleman who was hard-of-hearing, and even more so with earplugs. John had no problem stating his instructions to the rest of the class, and then looking directly at the older gentleman and repeating the instructions just for him. I cannot explain how much respect I have for John as a shooter and instructor. You will NOT find a better person to learn from. All of his experience and stories that he shares, are always related to the topic on hand. I will continue to return to John for his new classes as well as refreshers. Give John a call and take a class. You will not be disappointed.

 

--Robert R. from Buckeye, AZ (6/2010)

John,
I just wanted to pass along my thanks for the excellent course you taught (3-16-2009).  As a group, we have received quite a bit of weapons training over the years, but all 18 of us agreed your training was head and shoulders above what we have received in our careers.  Your training was superb and well tailored to our experience level.  The practical and legal aspects of self defense were extremely well covered, and you were patient with our questions.  Thanks again for your instruction in Concealed Carry and firearms safety!

Major Bob Churchill
301st Fighter Squadron
Luke AFB AZ