Experienced Firearm Training Instructors

At Bill's Gun Shop & Range, our firearm training instructors are some of the best in the industry. We go above and beyond to make sure you receive the proper training to be comfortable, safe and effective when handling all types of firearms.

Meet Our Instructors

Interior of Bills Gun Shop & Range with firearms and shooting lanes showcased.

Years of Experience

  • 4 years active duty in the United States Marine Corps as Security Forces and Infantry
  • 20 years Law Enforcement
  • 9+ years as LE firearms instructor
  • 2+ years NRA and USCCA firearms instructor

Qualifications

As a Marine Corps veteran and Law Enforcement Officer, James takes pride in his work and enjoys teaching others how to both safely and proficiently handle firearms. James values ensuring people get the most up to date information on their rights when it comes to firearms. James has been a firearms instructor with Bill’s Gun Shop team for over two years and is available for Multi State Concealed Carry, Renewal, one on one, and group instruction.

Classes Taught

Multi State Concealed Carry, One-on-one, Two-on-one

Wide selection of firearms and shooting range at Bills Gun Shop & Range. Expert staff and quality ammo for all your shooting needs.

Years of Experience

  • 12+ years Marine Corps Active Duty and Reserve. Corrections Specialist, Battalion Armory Chief, Company Training Chief, and Battalion Primary Marksman Instructor.
  • 2+ years NRA Certified Pistol Instructor
  • 2+ years USCCA Certified Firearms Instructor

Qualifications

Having grown up in the Rocky Mountain areas of the northwestern United States, Eric has spent most of his life around firearms. Having served several years in the U.S. Marine Corps he strengthened his knowledge of firearm safety, proficiency, and mechanics. Having stayed close to firearms as an enthusiast after the Corps, Eric has continued training and became certified as an NRA Certified Pistol Instructor as well as a USCCA Firearms Instructor while working at Bill's Gun Shop. Training and instructing have and always will be a passion for this Instructor.

Classes Taught

Multi State Concealed Carry, Basic Handgun Familiarization Course, One-on-one, Two-on-one

Well-lit interior of Bills Gun Shop & Range showcasing wide selection of firearms and shooting accessories.

Years of Experience

  • 5 years Instructor at Bill's
  • 35 years Professional Martial Artist
  • 20 years Defensive Tactics & Officer Survival Instructor for Federal & Local Law Enforcement
  • 7 years USCCA Certified Instructor & Training Counselor
  • 15 years Executive Protection

Qualifications

As a professional martial artist, Mike prides himself in his teaching and his ability to connect to a student, understand their needs, and help them reach their individual goals. This has transferred seamlessly to his firearms training and instruction. Mike has an unique perspective from his time as a Contractor and Executive Protection Agent and brings that to his classes and private training. In his free time, Mike enjoys hunting, fishing, and anything outdoors.

Class Taught

Multi State Concealed Carry, Basic Handgun Familiarization Course, One-on-one, Two-on-one

Friendly staff at Bills Gun Shop & Range, your local firearms expert.

Years of Experience

  • 20 years MN BCA and NRA certified firearms instructor.
  • 18 years MN DNR certified Hunters education instructor
  • 31 years avid outdoorsman and hunter.
  • 1 year Law enforcement experience with WI DNR
  • 1+ years’ experience with Nuclear Security

Qualifications

I grew up in Northern Minnesota in a traditional hunting family and where firearms and firearms safety came at an early age. I attended UW - Stevens Point for environmental law enforcement and worked for the WI DNR as a LE Park Ranger at Willow River State Park.

I trained and worked Nuclear Security at Prairie Island Nuclear Generating Plant for apx 1.5 years before joining Bill's Gun Shop & Range in 2005. Shortly after starting I joined the instructor group as an NRA certified instructor. I worked the next 14 years full time for Bill's Gun Shop as a Store Manager, General Manager, and as one of the directors of the management team. During which I spent 8 years as Training Coordinator.

I have had the pleasure of teaching everything from Basic Handgun courses to tactical and advanced pistol and rifle courses as well as personal protection and home defense classes. Since leaving Bill's full time I continue to share my passion for teaching the basics as well as permit to carry classes.

Classes Taught

Multi State Concealed Carry, Basic Handgun Familiarization Course

Indoor gun shop and shooting range with firearm sales, expert staff, and training services.

Years of Experience

  • 10 years hunting experience with firearms
  • 9 years informal service as firearms instructor for family and local ranges (handguns)
  • Bills gun shop certified instructor 2 years

Qualifications

As a lifelong firearms enthusiast, Jesse has been part of the shooting community since he was old enough to understand the importance of muzzle awareness. When he’s not at the range, Jesse works in IT consulting, where he applies the same passion for problem-solving and helping others achieve their goals that he brings to firearms instruction. Jesse enjoys working with shooters of all experience levels, from beginners learning the fundamentals to more advanced students looking to sharpen skills in tactical, defensive, or recreational settings. He is available for private, 1-on-1 instruction as well as group lessons.

Classes Taught

Multi State Concealed Carry, Basic Handgun Familiarization Course, One-on-one, Two-on-one

Clean, professional indoor gun shop and range in Billings, offering firearm sales, rentals, and shooting lessons.

Years of Experience

  • 14+ years of armed physical protection of critical infrastructures
  • 1+ year NRA certified firearms instructor

Qualifications

With a degree in Law Enforcement, Corey specializes in the physical protection of critical infrastructures. Throughout his professional career he has been trained in the safe and tactical use of firearms. He is an NRA certified firearms instructor and currently provides oversight of the security training and qualification program at his full-time employer. Corey joined Bill’s team of instructors to help others learn the safe handling of firearms along with responsible gun ownership for both recreational and personal defense use. When not working, Corey enjoys spending time with his family and actively volunteers at his church and children’s school.

Classes Taught

Multi State Concealed Carry, Basic Handgun Familiarization Course, One-on-one, Two-on-one

Interior view of Bills Gun Shop & Range showcasing firearms and shooting lanes.

Years of Experience

  • 20 years Marine Corps, 12 Years working in the S3 (Training and Operations) Training marines in different weapon systems from Pistol to 120 mm smooth boar cannon
  • 22+ years certified Federal Agent / Training Officer, training federal offices in Basic and Advance Pistol, Rifle and Shotgun and Tactics.
  • NRA certified Firearms Instructor

Qualifications

As a Marine Corps Veteran, and a Federal Training Officer, Richard takes pride in his work and enjoys teaching others how to both safely and proficiently handle firearms. Richard joined the Bill’s Gun Shop team having worked as a Federal Agent and Trainer for the last 22 years. Richard enjoys recreational shooting as well as being able to instruct a wide variety of shooters from beginners, to advanced, and tactics.  Richard is available for private, 1-on-1 instruction as well as group instruction.

Classes Taught

Multi State Concealed Carry, Basic Handgun Familiarization Course, One-on-one, Two-on-one

Wide-angle shot of Bills Gun Shop & Range interior featuring firearms and shooting range facilities.

Years of Experience

  • 10 years

Qualifications

Bill's Range Manager

Classes Taught

Basic Handgun Familiarization Course, One-on-one, Two-on-one

High-quality firearms and ammunition available at Bills Gun Shop & Range, your premier destination for shooting sports.

Years of Experience

  • 10 years

Qualifications

Robert brings expansive knowledge and experience to his classes. Robert’s firearm experience started when he was a child with hunting and competition shooting. From there his experience grew when he joined the Army as a Combat Engineer. During his time in the Army, he also held the positions of Armorer and Firearm / Weapons Instructor.

After being Honorably Discharged from the Army Robert received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice studies and from there has held many different position where he continued to train people in the proper use of Firearms. These positions are and were Corrections Officer, Victims Advocate, Bail Bond Agent, Armed Security, Executive Protection, Private Military Contractor.

Additionally, Robert is also a NRA Certified Instructor in Basic Handgun, Personal Protection in the Home, and Personal Protection Outside the Home, North Dakota Certified Concealed Carry Instructor and Test Administrator, and Minnesota Concealed Carry and Test Administrator. Robert is a Life Member of the National Rifle Association (NRA) and has been a lifelong 2nd Amendment and personal self-defense advocate. Robert in his free time dedicates his free time when

Classes Taught

  • North Dakota Concealed Carry
  • Basic Handgun Introduction
  • NRA Self Defense Inside the Home
  • Self Defense Outside the Home
  • Minnesota Concealed Carr
Luxury firearms and shooting range in Billings, Montana for firearms sales and training.

Years of Experience

  • 16+ Years Tactical Paramedic
  • 4+ Handgun & Carbine Instructor
  • 2+ Red Dot (RDS) Instructor
  • 1+ NRA Firearms Instructor

Qualifications

Ben has over 33 years’ experience in public safety, specifically working in EMS as a paramedic. In addition to working as a paramedic, Ben has been an ERU and SWAT team member for two different county agencies over the past 16 years. These assignments require advanced firearm training and qualifications that resulted in is interest to increase his knowledge and skills in the firearms field. Ben lives in Hudson and instructs the basic handgun fundamentals course (BHFC) as well as private 1 on 1 or group lessons

Classes Taught

Basic Handgun Familiarization Course, One-on-one, Two-on-one

Interior shot of Bills Gun Shop & Range with firearms display and shooting lanes.

Years of Experience

  • 24 years law enforcement
  • 26 years’ experience as firearm instructor
  • 18 years as NRA certified Firearms Instructor (all at Bill’s)

Qualifications

24 years of law enforcement experience. Training and experience instructing variety of different firearm platforms. 18 years of instructing at Bill ‘s Gun Shop and Range.

Classes Taught

Multi State Concealed Carry, Basic Handgun Familiarization Course

High-quality firearms and ammunition in a trusted gun shop & range. Expert staff ready to assist.

Years of Experience

  • 20 years United States Army active and Reserve, Combat Arms. Served in the Cold War and Desert Shield, Desert Storm.

  • 12 years as a Veteran Service Representative with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, proudly serving Veterans.

  • 15 years Volunteer Youth Training Instructor, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

  • 5+ years United States Conceal and Carry Association Certified Firearms Safety Instructor.

Qualifications

Seasoned firearm safety instructor with 40 years of experience. Qualified in small arms, pistol, rifle, and more. Instructed adult and youth classes. Over 350 conceal and carry firearms classes taught. Friendly and professional trainer, experienced in groups and one-on-one instruction. I am enthusiastic about teaching people to use firearms safely and effectively.

Classes Taught

Multi State Concealed Carry, Basic Handgun Familiarization Course, One-on-one, Two-on-one

Happy customer at Bills Gun Shop & Range with expert firearm assistance.

Years of Experience

  • US Armed Forces Veteran, US Navy (LT SWO) and US Army (CPT Artillery)

  • Competitive shooting experiences in bullseye, IDPA and USPSA.

  • 7 Years as an NRA Certified Instructor

Qualifications

Blake loves shooting and started teaching because he really enjoys sharing his passion with others and challenging students to do things they never thought was possible.  While his #1 goal is firearm safety and responsibility, you will be sure to go home with new skills and smiles.  Blake particularly enjoys precision handgun shooting at extended ranges and can work with beginner to more advanced students.  He is available for 1:1 instruction as well as classes listed below.

Classes Taught

Multi State Concealed Carry, Basic Handgun Familiarization Course, One-on-one, Two-on-one

Modern firearms and shooting range in Bills Gun Shop; expert staff, quality guns, and safety training.

Years of Experience

  • 10 years as a Basic Handgun instructor and MN Concealed Carry
  • 15 years firearms sales
  • 5 years ND Concealed Carry Instructor

Qualifications

30+ years doing something with firearms. From Boy Scouts to his professional career Mike enjoys teaching safety and marksmanship to everyone that he can. Mike Joined Bills Gun Shop & Range in September of 2015 after 15 years of working with firearms in all manner of aspects. Mike is an avid deer hunter, target shooter and an ND BCI accredited Concealed Carry Instructor.

Classes Taught

  • ND Concealed Carry
  • MN Multi State Concealed Carry
  • Basic Handgun Familiarization Course
  • 1 on 1 Courses
Wide shot of Bills Gun Shop & Range, showcasing firearm displays and shooting range facilities.

Years of Experience

  • 2 Years

Qualifications

8-year Marine veteran who served as a Small Arms Repairman. After getting out, I went to school to be a gunsmith, getting certified and soon after started working at bills.

Classes Taught

Basic Handgun Familiarization Course, One-on-one, Two-on-one

Indoor gun range and firearm store offering guns, ammo, accessories, and professional firearm advice.

Years of Experience

  • Lifetime

Qualifications

A lifetime member of the NRA, John is also a 25-year Certified DNR Firearms Instructor, NRA Certified Instructor and s certified instructor and Bills Gun Shop & Range

Classes Taught

Basic Handgun Familiarization Course, MN Multi State Concealed Carry, One-on-one, Two-on-one

Indoor gun range with firearm sales and expert training in a friendly environment.

Years of Experience

  • 10 years Marine Corps and Marine Corps Reserve including Desert Storm Active duty as a Machine Gunner
  • 16+ years certified Federal Agent / Training Officer
  • 1+ year NRA certified Firearms Instructor

Qualifications

As a Marine Corps Veteran, and a Federal Training Officer, Scott takes pride in his work and enjoys teaching others how to both safely and proficiently handle firearms. Scott joined the Bill’s Gun Shop team having worked as a Federal Agent and Trainer for the last 16 years, the last of which has been spent as one of their Lead Firearms Instructors. Scott enjoys recreational shooting as well as being able to instruct a wide variety of shooters from beginners, to advanced, and tactical. Scott is available for private, 1-on-1 instruction as well as group instruction.

Classes Taught

Basic Handgun Familiarization, Multi–State Conceal & Carry Renewal, Multi–State Carry

Male with a gray beard and glasses indoors at Bills Gun Shop & Range, specializing in firearm sales and range experiences.

Rickey has been a firearm enthusiast for most of his life. He served in the MS Army National Guard from 92-98. He began teaching firearms safety and fundamentals while teaching Hunter Education in the state of Mississippi. He coached youth archery and shotgun teams early in his career.

Throughout the years he has shot in multiple GSSF matches and enjoys his weekly range sessions. He has been an NRA certified instructor since June 2016, teaching an Enhanced Concealed Carry course in Mississippi. He is currently NRA and USCCA certified. Prior to moving to Minnesota, He was an assistant principal and served his school district as a Crisis Prevention Instructor.

He moved to Minnesota in 2021 as a pastor and began looking for a place to shoot. He came on board at Bill’s in June of 2022 after making the Circle Pines store his regular hangout for all things firearms related. 

Man aiming pistol at indoor gun range, firearm safety, shooting practice, Bills Gun Shop & Range.

Sean was born in Fargo ND, he has been shooting since July 2003 and has had formal training from various places since 2006. Sean really enjoys practicing defensive shooting tactics, fundamentals, and precision marksmanship

Multi-State Carry Shooting Qualification
Authorized Personnel

Bill’s Gun Shop & Range maintains a team of certified firearms instructors who are authorized to conduct safety courses, range qualifications, and shooting certifications. The individuals listed below have been approved to facilitate the shooting qualification for the Online Multi-State Carry Class.

Robinsdale, MN

  • Andrew Tran
  • Evan Haakenson
  • Muhammed Jackson Jr.
  • Brady Taipale
  • Brandon Monson

Circle Pines, MN

  • Jacob Humphreys
  • Caleb Nesseth
  • Anthony Murry
  • Aaron Ottman
  • Brandon Monson

Fargo, ND

  • Jacob Stangle
  • Mike Price

Hudson, WI

  • Ben Gonzalez
  • Kathryn Kolakowski
  • Dan Walstead
  • Brett Wallace
  • Quinton Walber
  • Alec Brisson

Class Descriptions

View descriptions of popular classes such as Basic Handgun Familiarization (BHFC), Multi-State Concealed Carry (MSCC) and Online Concealed Carry & Renewal.

Training FAQs

Have questions about prerequisites, what to bring, or how to prepare? Our FAQ page covers everything you need to know before your class.

Can't Make it to Class?

Life happens—we get it. If you need to cancel or reschedule your class, please contact us in advance. Our full cancellation and refund policy is outlined on the dedicated policy page.

Have a Question?
We're Here to Help!

Reach out with any training questions you have or contact us to schedule private training. Just stop by your nearest Bill’s Gun Shop & Range location or fill out the contact form and one of our team members will get back to you as soon as possible.

Contact Bill's Gun Shop & Range

Bill's Gun Shop & Range

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