I suggest everyone get one on one training if you are new to CCW or firearms in general. I took Paul's CCW class. He was outstanding, hard on us (as he should be), knowledgeable, informative, gave great scenarios to properly sober you with the gravity of ever having to use a side arm and he suggested a follow up session with Alisha. Alisha is perfect for anyone and especially women. I needed her perspective and instruction. I feel much more confident, trained, capable and calm. I'll next take an advanced class with 2A Firearms. If you're looking for personal protection training, contact them. They are affordable and conveniently located on Balboa next to the Range.

Just got my concealed carry training class here, very professional, small class and was easy to learn and ask as many questions as I wanted to. I had a last-minute illness and I had to cancel and they were nice enough to accommodate me and move me to the next class without any issues
Highly suggested, if you can't handle someone being blunt and straightforward, you might not like the class, but if you actually want to learn, you will definitely like it

Yesterday, I completed an 8 hour firearms safety and proficiency course, which is part of the application process for a CCW permit. I was very impressed with the classroom presentation and the practical range training. The instructor for both segments, Alisha Curtin, is highly qualified, competent and an excellent teacher. The classroom instruction was thorough, relevant and presented in an easy to follow format. Range qualification was conveniently offered at a range next door. Firearm safety is emphasized during all phases of the training. I highly recommend 2nd A Firearms Training LLC and the instructor for this class, Alisha Curtin.

The training was excellent, and I truly appreciate Paul's willingness, and honesty to push through my biases. He got me to think realistically about a CCW, and the skills and mentality required for responsible carry. Obtaining a CCW is just the beginning. In the unlikely event I do have to use my firearm to protect myself or a loved one from great bodily injury, can I do it in manner that is morally & legally justified? Without getting hurt or injuring any innocent bystanders? That is the purpose of having a permit, and their are many goals to pursue (continual training, practice, education, insurance, etc.) to ensure the best possible outcomes. Paul is very intent on getting the best from his students, and his laser focus on safety and responsible carry is hugely valuable.

I just completed the 4 hour renewal course for CCW with Paul. Excellent training with an emphasis on safety and consequences. Plan on scheduling more classes with Paul to improve my performance.
Highly recommend this facility for anyone seeking knowledge on pistol handling even if not seeking a CCW.

Paul was an excellent instructor and really knows what he’s talking about. The class is very interactive.

Paul is a Trainer's Trainer. He did not DQ me @ the range, yet give me a second chance. He is firm but passionate with regards to safety.

First off i gotta say Paul Gooding is a dam good instructor. I learn so much yesterday from him about safety and how to have a firm grip on the firearm. Paul is very clear on his instructions and he dont fuck around when he tells you to keep your finger off the trigger while training. The 8 HR class went buy fast but was never a dull moment, i recommend this class to anybody who is going for the CCW or is learning how to handle a firearm I would definitely be taking some more follow-up classes with Paul in the future. Paul you Rock . Thank You. Terrence S

I am a former police officer and attended an 8 hour training course required by the Sheriffs Department. The training consisted of about 7 hours classroom firearm safety and proper use including shooting range protocols and safety- and 1 hour of actual qualification shooting on the range.
The emphasis on firearms safety and handling was a huge part of this session. Paul Gooding is extremely knowledgeable, and won't let you get away with poor firearm handling or safety violations. Coffee, snacks and drinks were provided for students, there's a bathroom 2 doors down for convenience and there was plenty of parking arriving early. When we moved to the range, the attention to detail and firearm safety was further emphasized, and rightfully so. Paul was beyond helpful on the shooting portion, and even went as far to help you adjust your shooting grip and stance to be a better shooter. I would not hesitate to book your training with these guys, or any future training which I plan to do with them. You are getting your monies worth with this class, and the amount of experience Paul has to offer make this an absolute bargain. I can't wait to do some more training with 2nd and A firearms training in the future including bringing my wife and parents for additional training. Thank you.

Bill was a great instructor, and the hands on demonstrations really helped me understand the advantages and limits of a CCW. He also was a knowledge bank of information, and was able to articulate them to the class.

I will definitely be taking more training with these guys!

Top notch. I used 2nd A Firearms Training for my initial and renewal classes. First class was with Paul, second with Bill. Great instruction and they really care about the students being able to pass. See you guys in two years!

I completed my CCW training yesterday at 2nd "A" Firearms. I was a bit apprehensive before going, but it turned out to be quite fun. Paul Gooding was our instructor. I didn't want to consume a weekend with this, so their class offering on Wednesday attracted me. There were 7 people counting myself, in a class intended for up to 10 people. Paul made the course practical, informative, and FUN. There is an indoor shooting range next door, so the shooting portion of the course was convenient, and I discovered a new range I had never visited. Paul critiqued my grip and my gun felt much more comfortable in my hands, and I shot better. For all firearms training, especially certification for CCW, I highly recommend 2nd "A." If you are lucky you will get Paul.

What can I say about this place man!!! Paul is absolutely 100% the go to guy in San Diego county to get certified with whatever firearm you are trying to get on your CCW!!!!! Without a doubt the best firearms training course I've ever taken. Professional, unquestionable dedication, and his knowledge is just off the chain and you can tell as soon as you walk in! I'll definitely be back for other courses! Can't speak more highly about em!

I set up an appointment with Paul for private instruction and basic safety with a pistol I had never really been that confident with. After classroom instruction we went to the range. On my 2nd shot, I was hitting bullseyes and tight grouping when I did everything that I was told. I now have more confidence than I had a few years ago thanks to Paul and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to anyone looking to improve their knowledge and skills.

I would highly recommend coming here if you're looking to train or need further firearm courses. The class I took was extraordinarily insightful and humbling. Paul truly has a natural talent when it comes to instructing. He was able to keep the attention of 5 of us for 8 hours straight while covering what could have easily been very dry information. Look no further than here, Paul is funny, professional, and serious in all the right ways. If you're looking for a place to train look no further.

Paul Gooding is an awesome instructor. The class started on time, finished on time. And I learned far more than I expected. I plan on going back for personalized instruction with Paul.

Paul Gooding is an excellent instructor. I learned so much about firearm safety. I have been handling handguns for forty years and the last eight hours was very enlightening. I plan on scheduling a private session to work some more with Paul to perfect the methods of pistol shooting. His rates are very reasonable and he is very focused on safety. Even for experienced shooters, I believe that this is a worthwhile class.

I just finished their 8hr ccw class, and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. I've previously went through CCW classes in other states, and they were nothing like this class. Paul did an excellent job in the classroom answering any and all questions we had. He stressed the importance of what carrying a firearm actually means, it's not something that should be taken lightly. The emphasis on firearms safety and handling was a huge part of this session. The instructors are extremely knowledgeable, and won't let you get away with poor firearm handling. Coffee, snacks and drinks were provided for students, there's a bathroom 2 doors down for convenience and there was plenty of parking arriving early. When we moved to the range, the attention to detail and firearm safety was further emphasized, and rightfully so. Paul and Dave were beyond helpful on the shooting portion, and even went as far to help you adjust your shooting grip and stance to be a better shooter. I would not hesitate to book your CCW training with these guys, or any future training which I plan to do with them. You are getting your monies worth with this class, and the amount of experience the instructors have to offer make this an absolute bargain. I can't wait to do some more training with these guys in the future.
Thanks again!

Just completed my renewal training with Paul and David as my instructors. Super grateful for the new skill sets on the range and for the information relayed through the class. I missed my first appointment due to some untimely oral surgery knowing they had a 48hr window to cancel, I paid for a 2nd class as I'm getting close to my lic. expiration date. They called me and inquired and refunded me the initial class. That is solid business in my opinion and I'll be happy to recommend this company to anyone.
Excellent training, excellent business practices, this is as good as it gets right here.

I attended CCW certification class in December 2022 and had the best firearms training I ever had. I decided to add another weapon and enrolled again so I can add new weapon on my permit. I paid $90 for the additional firearm and tonight I received a call from Paul informing me I over PAID the class by $25 and immediately credited my credit card. Wow! I am very much impress regarding their integrity and honesty ! Will definitely recommend 2nd A Firearms Training to my friends !

Excellent place to get your firearm training. Todd was an amazing instructor
. 8 hours never went by so fast. I would highly recommend this facility for all your training needs.

Eye opening course that was well worth it!! Paul is thorough and will make you think about the importance of life or death scenarios. Highly recommend!

Had my 8 hr CCW class today. I have been handling and shooting guns for over 40 years. I went in with an open mind but figured I knew everything there is to know about shooting and handling of firearms. Well humble pie, I was impressed With Paul, I feel he really went above and beyond for the class. Safety, safety, safety. His preaching of safe practice and control, real world scenarios, etc were repeated over and over! Range was no different, I really enjoyed this class and look forward to more classes with him. Thanks again, really opened my eyes to several things!

I just finished my 8 hour CCW training class. I must say 8 hours never went by so fast. Paul is an excellent instructor who speaks to you in a way that is very easy to understand. His dedication to safety during the class was paramount. He's entertaining and very knowledgeable. I look forward to extending my training with him to improve my conceal carry skills. This class is not intimidating in any way. It's a very friendly environment to learn in.

Bill is simply outstanding! His engaging teaching style and thorough knowledge of the subject make him a truly exceptional instructor. I highly recommend Bill if you are looking for CCW training.

Phenomenal experience today! Paul showed me many firearm options and explained the pros and cons of each. I had a lot of questions and he thoroughly answered them all. His classroom is conveniently located next door to The Gun Range where we shot 3 different firearms to help me chose the best one. Can't wait for the 10 days to be over. After shooting he gave me a lot of valuable tips and things to look out for when buying accessories and other guns in the future. The value Paul provides is amazing. Especially for the price. You won't be disappointed!

Awesome period of instructions, easy to register on there site and great staff who work with you every step of the way. Thanks again Mr. Gooding you were outstanding.

I signed up with Paul and took my ccw class with Bill McLaren and let me tell you, I've been doing this for a long time and I learned a lot from Bill. He knows his stuff, straight to the point, doesn't waste time and is very results driven. Every minute of this class was well worth it and he also taught me a few things on the range to improve my grip. I'm in a wheelchair and Bill and his coworker helped me up to 2nd floor so I can take this class. They went above and beyond to accommodate for me and really treated me well. Definitely recommend these guys and I'm so glad to have knowledgeable instructors like Bill that will teach you stuff you will never see on YouTube or gun groups online. Also I'm signing up my lady to do some training with Paul and I'll be definitely coming back for more class time myself.. Thank you for everything guys!

Paul really takes the time for you to understand the responsibilities and risk involved with handling your CCW, along with great range advice. Highly recommend if your looking for training or help attaining your CCW.

Great class! Instructor even came out on a holiday and let me shoot with him after the class was over for free! Very knowledgeable, professional, and always a safety first mentality.