PAYMENT FOR COURSES, AIR RIFLE & GUN REPAIRS HERE
COURSE/AIR RIFLE & GUN REPAIR PAYMENT
$0.00
USFT, LLC reserves the right to not accept payment or refuse business from any individual or entity.
Looking for legal and insurance protection?
Firearms Legal Protection
Check out their three levels of protection and know you are protected 24/7. Once you are a member your yearly fee will never go up and you are locked-in for life. Check out the application within this webpage or call Dan at (602) 377-4405 and we will get you signed-up today.
ASRPA Club & Business Affiliated
CMP Affiliated Shooting Club
USA Shooting Affiliated Club
Programs
Concealed Carry Certification (CCW)
CCW Renewal Course 2-hours $105.00 ($85.00 for military Veterans-as of 12/31/2022) For clients who need to renew their CCW certification.
Standard course (5 to 7 hours depending on the student) $135.00 ($95.00 for military Veterans-as of 12/31/2022) Perfect for the first time shooter or anyone willing to attend a handgun marksmanship and safety refresher course. Client will learn tactical & empty gun reloading, handling malfunctions & stoppages, movement drills, drawing/holstering from concealment, & qualify shooting the equivalent of the Arizona Armed Security Guard firearms qualification course where the client will shoot from the 15, 10, 7, and 3 yard lines while completing reloading exercises and empty gun malfunctions.
Classroom portions can occur at the client's residence. There is no fee for fingerprinting. Both classes require fingerprinting to be accomplished. Other firearms training businesses do the minimum, just want your money, and do not train you to shoot your weapon. At USFT, LLC we are about making sure you are well prepared to win the battle.
Client will have their CCW application and fee ($60.00) to AZ DPS for processing and approval hand delivered by the instructor. Other firearm training businesses leave the paperwork with the client to get processed.
Client can choose to do the live fire for the standard course at a range near the client's residence.
We are available throughout the state of Arizona and give discounted costs to large groups. Schedule your course today.
GROUP RATE: If you recruit and get seven (7) or more people to register & attend within your group, you will receive a $10.00 discounted price.
Come get properly trained and prepared for carrying your gun(s).
LEOSA (Retired Police Officers)
$45.00 per-hour, per-person.
We will supply everything except the bullets & gun(s). If you need ear protection and eye protection, you can borrow a set from us.
The live fire course is mandated by the AZ DPS and is the AZ P.OS.T. firearms qualification course where the client will shoot from the 25, 15, 7, & 3 yard lines and shoot 50 total rounds. There is only three (3) attempts to qualify during one session. After the live fire clients will complete the required judgmental scenarios.
Clients can choose to qualify with both revolver and semi-automatic platforms during the session at no additional cost.
The client will need a certified or cashier's check or money order made out to AZ DPS for $20.00 prior to the qualification time.
Once done we will hand deliver your qualification package to the AZ DPS for processing and you will receive your new card within a few days of qualifying.
We are available throughout the state of Arizona. Contact Dan Palmer at azusft@gmail.com or (602) 377-4405 to schedule an appointment.
Other instructors and in-door ranges are charging $90.00 per-session and you will need to file your paperwork at the AZ DPS, so sign-up with us today.
Basic Firearms Courses
Basic Pistol (revolver or semi-automatic) & Rifle (Bolt, Semi-Automatic, Pump, Lever Action, etc.), Basic Air Handgun and Rifle, and Basic Shotgun, Firearms Training: (NRA courses are $165.00) (USFT courses are $185.00) per-day, per-client.
You will learn safety skills when handling and shooting, reloading, malfunction drills, using a holster, safe storage in the home, determining the right firearm for you and concealment methods. Client will learn proper cleaning techniques for the firearm(s). Client is responsible for own ammunition and firearms used. Firearms in the calibers of 9mm, .38, .357, .380, 40, and .45 can be rented from the instructor. For rifle courses the .22LR or AR15 can be rented from the instructor.
The differences between the NRA and USFT basic pistol course is that under the USFT courses you will immediately learn how to use a holster while carrying your gun and receive tactical skills to make you better. The difference between the NRA and USFT rifle courses is that in the USFT courses you will learn tactical skills to make you better.
You will receive an NRA or USFT basic firearms courses completion certificate upon the completion of your course training.
Armed & Unarmed Security Guard Training
Training and certifying Arizona's newly armed & unarmed security guards (16-hours) and re-certification for existing armed & unarmed security guards (8-hours annually).
USFT-Youth Shooting Sports Program (Non-Profit Youth Program)
The purpose of this non-profit organization is the instruction, coaching and mentorship of firearms programs offered by the National Rifle Association (NRA), Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP), USA Shooting Sports, & International Shooting Sports Federation (ISSF), and any other formal certification training that youth citizens seek in order to participate in or manage shooting sports competitions and/or recreation. The organization is a sole agent teaching courses offering certifications offered by the organizations previously mentioned.
The ultimate goal of the non-profit organization is to provide training, education, and fair competition to youth involved in the air pistol/rifle or smallbore pistol/rifle sports and to provide financial services, such as; scholarship funding for matches, equipment, and school, provided that funding is available throughout the year to accomplish such a task and endeavor. Our second goal is to bring more awareness from the community concerning the shooting sports and competition by hosting and directing postal and shoulder-to-shoulder competitions that will lead youth athletes to sectional, state, region, and national level competitions.
Crosman Challenger Air Rifle Certified Repair & Service Center
Dan is a Crosman factory trained technician/armorer and received his certification at the main factory in Bloomfield, New York.
The refresh/rebuild services include replacing all seals, rebuilding the charging handle, inspecting & greasing the trigger assembly, cleaning & resealing the fill adapter, and resealing the gauge. We will also apply an rust protection coating that will extend the life and use of the air rifle. The air rifle is set to 525-575fps along with trigger adjustment & setting of second stage trigger at 1.5-2.5lbs, as per the National Standard 3-P and NRA RuleBooks.. Additional parts charged separately.
Pricing included within the payment area.
Testimonials/Recommendations
Chef Jet Tila: Thank you very much for an excellent class! Greg is a great instructor and exceeded my expectation. I wanted to be more comfortable with a carbine and I also got to shoot pistol, work on transitions and more. Greg was knowledgeable, patient and personable. Thanks so much for having the patience and waiting through the almost year and half from booking to the class. I would love to take another class with you and your team and I would recommend your team! Thanks again!
Daniel Schneider (NRA Instructor-Empower Training Academy, Inc.): Dan is an amazing human being, He is a wonderful instructor with the ability to reach students from every age bracket. He is patient, calm and focuses on safety, student learning, and fun. Dan was one of my first instructors I had and we became friends.
Leonard R.: So I've taken training classes from Up In Smoke in the past, and have been very pleased with the experience. A short time ago I asked for an upgrade on my Sig-Sauer P229. Sights, grips and trigger. I was surprised to find out that my 20 year old handgun was found to have pitting on the slide that could possibly lead to cracking. Dan Palmer did a fantastic job of detecting the fault and replaced the slide. I was able to shoot it yesterday and it's like a new weapon. The integrity of this company is one reason that I will continue to be a customer and I am happy to recommend them for your training and repair needs.
Pat D.: Just wanted to say thank you again for an amazing NRA Basic Pistol Course today. Best instruction I have ever had.
John W.: (Reference High Power Rifle Course) Thank you. You did make it exceptionally easy for to understand and also you remove all intimidation about using a gun. I am very grateful that I had the privilege of your teaching you have a unique style of making it so easy to absorb.
Adria P.: Exactly what I needed and more. Dan has been unbelievably patient with me, as a recent widow wanting to get comfortable with the things my husband used to take care of. It's working. Keith who taught the full day class was friendly and informative. I'm very pleased with the results I've seen already, and I'm not done yet. Thank you, guys!
Heather M.: I want to thank you for always inspiring me. I find myself leaving each of our lessons excited and motivated to learn more. I went to teach a fitness class right after our session today and was so pumped up! My poor students may not have been so excited about my extra energy as I was leading them through a HIIT workout. Thanks for everything! I look forward to our next lesson together.
Erica V.: I did have a great time learning new skills. Learned the difference between my aim with light and how it changed after dark. I can’t wait to hone my skills and get better. I’d love to do another night shoot with you again. Hopefully my husband Paul will be able to make it next time.
John S.: Many thanks for a great course. You more than exceeded my expectations and I want you to know how much I admire your teaching methods and to compliment you for keeping us entertained and engaged during a very long day in which I learned so much. Your personal experiences & relevant stories added greatly to making the course an absolutely top shelf experience. Thanks for your dedication in training us to help others enjoy a safe shooting experience (Reference to NRA RSO Course).
Jonathan L.: I had a great time this weekend (CCW course), you were an excellent Instructor! I look forward to meeting up with you on the range again!
Jalen W.: Great class yesterday. Thank you so much for helping me get my foot in the door of my dream career (reference NRA RSO course).
Robert F.: A lot to cover, but Dan Palmer made it go quickly with his teaching style. He covers all the material while including some real life experiences to make it real with hands-on exercises.
David C.: Dan your Saturday class for the beginner CCW course was amazing. I had so much fun, I can't wait to take more classes from you and your staff.
Bob D.: Dan and his team are true professionals sharing immense knowledge and experience that was priceless. My wife and I spent two days attending classes with Dan and his amazing team and took away more knowledge and training than anticipated. I will continue to support USFT and trust their leadership. I whole heartily recommend choosing Up in Smoke. You won't be disappointed!
Stevan A.: I am most happy with Dan Palmer's company Up in Smoke. He spent an entire day plus four hours with my wife and I, providing training for concealed carry of firearms and live fire training. I am a retired physician who had no experience with firearms. I also have a disability; early stage Parkinson's disease, which has produced a tremor in my upper extremities. Dan has been very patient with me. He has gone out of his way to find the right firearm for me and has taught me how to compensate for safe usage of my gun. He has an easy and pleasant manner and we also had a lot of fun working with him and I believe we have found a new friend. I heartily recommend Up in Smoke Firearms Training to anyone seeking knowledge and experience handling firearms.
Karen A.: I have taken an 11-hour firearms training course with Dan Palmer and can not say enough about how much I respect him, his knowledge, background and wonderful personality. I had a concealed carry permit in New York State from 2001 - 2014 when I moved to Arizona. I had not shot my pistol for almost 14-years and only remembered my basics. Dan proceeded to teach me so much more than I had learned before regarding safety, state laws, and proper handling and cleaning of my firearm. From there we moved on to range training. I am right hand dominant and left eye dominant which was affecting my shooting. Dan, with his great patience, and soft spoken ways, ensured me that I could overcome this difficulty and that I would just do fine. He has a very special way of instilling confidence in one's ability to succeed and that leads to success. Dan's other end of his business is as a skilled gunsmith. I entrusted to him four firearms left to me by my father, not knowing anything about them except their poor condition. One by one Dan took them apart, cleaned them, repaired where he could and then gave me a very special gift. One pistol was from around 1900, but the barrel was so damaged it could not be repaired. The second was from the 1920's and had similar damage. These were the first two firearms he ever had to "retire", and he presented them to me beautifully mounted in a shadow box on which I can now place a plaque in my father's name. His extreme kindness brought me to tears. The other two pistols were repaired and now can be used on the range. Dan is not only my firearms instructor for life, but I consider him a friend. If you are looking for firearms training or a qualified gunsmith, I strongly suggest that you contact Dan Palmer at Up in Smoke Firearms. You will not regret your choice.
Keith D.: A HUGE thanks to you for your tremendous course (RE;NRA RSO Course). Your dedication and commitment is abundantly evident after attending class on Friday. I am very thankful and honored to have attended. So much thorough information was provided, and your personal stories/experiences made the topics all the more relevant and relatable. Went home and talked my family's ears off until their eyes glazed over. I also learned several habits of my own that although are not unsafe/detrimental, can definitely be improved and revised.
Harrison D.: Phenomenal and very patient instructors. I thought I would be prepared for a dangerous situation in the real, but I was proven wrong and I learned a lot. Definitely recommended to anyone looking for competent instructors who they can trust and learn from.
Steve S.: I have been to many recurrent ground school classes over a 30+ year career in aviation. Dan is a natural at giving a class and I have to say his 'Range Safety Officer' course was one of the best classes I have ever been to. The day went by very fast. Before I knew it, the sun was down. Dan kept my attention the whole day and at my age that is outstanding.
Ryan M.: Up in Smoke provided a great training course. It was a great balance of structured curriculum and open forum dialogue, which I believe is the best way to relay information to a broad audience effectively. I look forward to the chance to take another course with Dan. Drawing from a wealth of experience in the area of firearms safety and application I feel that anyone and everyone would benefit from spending time in one of his courses.
Pat D.: I had the privilege of performing my 2021 LEOSA qualification with Dan (Up in Smoke FT) on 2/15/2021. Dan was able to get a range even on Presidents Day in order for me to get my qualification done without having to take any time off work. Thank you Dan! I look forward to my next training event soon. I would highly recommend Dan and Up in Smoke FT for all your firearms training needs.
Kasia K.: This is one of the best classes I have ever taken. Dan is an incredible Instructor for all stages. We had a ton of first timers in our class and also some people that have shot before. Everything went so smoothly and we all learned so much. Thank you for a very informative class. Can't wait for our next class to keep practicing our mad skills. Thank you for making the class not only fun but serious at the moments it needed to be... forever grateful. Pete, Jim, Mike and Bob- thank you for all you did as well.
Roel Z.: Outstanding course! Dan Palmer has a gift for connecting with all students, regardless of their experience and comfort level. His attention to detail makes me feel confident that I can use my weapon safely and effectively in tense situations. I highly recommend this course! (Ref. CCW Course)
Shawnda P.: Excellent class! Dan was super knowledgeable and an exceptional instructor! This was my first class ever and first time shooting. I was extremely nervous. Dan helped to calm my nerves! I'm looking forward to taking another class with Dan. I highly recommend Up in Smoke Firearms. Dan was so patient with me! I was terrified, but he calmed my nerves. Now I’m meeting with him next week for another class!!! Thank you, Dan
Karen M. Dan & Pete were so amazing. Thorough, knowledgeable, patient I learned so much today that I never knew even after taking 2 other classes elsewhere. I highly recommend them for anyone wanting to learn anything about shooting, safety and weapons and getting your CCW.
Patricia B.: Very professional and knowledgeable organization. They were able to work with novices and experienced people in a professional way.
Patrick P.: The CCW course was informative. I also thought that Dan was an excellent instructor as he provided safety and was patient with newbies like me. I became better at handling my gun and for that I am grateful.
Karin P.: I learned ALOT! Dan is a very fun and dedicated instructor and made sure he had sufficient safety coaches on the field. I would highly recommend his 5-hour CCW course to those who are looking to become confident in their shooting ability's and aware of many legal aspects of bearing arms.
Mike S.: Pretty amazing class. Can't imagine taking this class on-line. Very professional and comfortable instructor. Great positive attitude. Hands on firearms, different actions and diagnosing malfunctions. A++
Robert A.: Outstanding instructor! Dan Palmer is very knowledgeable and patient to ensure clients thoroughly grasp the course material. I highly recommend Up in Smoke Firearms Training for coaching or learning new skills, whether you're a novice or already experienced with firearms.
Joe S.: Dan, Chris, & Kameron are professional, thorough and go out of their way to ensure each client understands the material and is comfortable with their firearm. Most other courses we found did not include range time. To us that was unacceptable! Thanks to Dan, Chris, & Kameron for their awesome hands on training. You guys are great!
Leonard R.: Great one on one training. Well detailed course of fire. Would highly recommend Up in Smoke. Matter of fact, I will be scheduling my daughter for training with them.
Shay H.: Really great training - very fun. Dan is quite knowledgeable and creates a great learning environment.
Kameron E.: Dan is a great instructor and full-on great knowledge. Class was very knowledgeable and easy to participate in.
Wes A.: The training Dan provided was excellent! His clear no nonsense approach to our 2-day class was a lot of fun.
Sean H.: Amazing class and instructors no complaints, had a great time.
Jose M.S.: It was an excellent experience.......I learned a lot in this class.
John O.: The training I received and the instruction was very good. He had a focus on the basics which I really liked. I am an experienced shooter and I learned a lot in the class.
David E.: Great introductory class that teaches fundamentals and operation of pistols. Dan is a very knowledgeable instructor and worth the investment of both your time and money.
Lorrie O.: Dan brings many years of experience and knowledge to train in a professional way. Dan is patient and helpful. I learned a lot and I will continue other training sessions in the future with Up in Smoke.
Bill E. Jr.: Dan always does a great job on LEOSA re-qualifications. He makes it fun!
Daniel S.: Great RSO class, Dan is a wealth of knowledge with real life experience. The best combination when it comes to the Firearms industry. I will be back for more classes and more training. You can't go wrong with this company.
Bob J.: Dan is a great guy. Very knowledgeable. Got my shotgun up and running. Stayed in touch during the entire process.
Dustin D.: Dan did a fantastic job leading and educating myself and those that I attended with during our 5 Hour CCW course. During the course I was able to receive direct 1 on 1 feedback both in the classroom and during our target practice to ensure I would properly qualify for my CCW. I highly recommend Up in Smoke and will be referring anyone I know for these types of classes.
Richard W.: The handgun instruction that I received from Dan was top notch. I am a novice when it comes to gun handling. I walked away from the course with a sense of confidence in knowing how to properly operate my gun. Thank you Dan.
Augustine P.: Dan and Chris were awesome instructors. Very knowledgeable and forthcoming with a lot of information. They took us through numerous firearm malfunction drills and were always explaining along the way. Throughout the class firearm safety was always a priority. I consider myself a knowledgeable gun owner but came away from the course having learned so much more. You know 'old dogs new tricks'. Thanks Dan and Chris, Up in Smoke Firearms Training gets 5 stars from me.
Kevin G.: Used this Gentleman to do LEOSA qualification for my wife. She was very happy with the service he provided. Very professional. Gave us a lot of information and additional targets for practice. Also hand delivered paperwork to DPS. We highly recommend him for firearms training matters.
Steve M.: Dan was an amazing instructor and I really felt he cared about me, and helping me be successful. He took the time to help me work thru issues during the training and provided me with a ton of knowledge and skills to further my ability with a firearm.
Thomas H.: Dan Palmer is a excellent Firearms instructor very well versed and knowledgeable in his instructing patient, ensuring that the fundamentals of shooting understood by his trainees, before moving on to more advanced training. The sessions were very serious but at the same time it was a fun learning experience. I came from a different police agency and I learned a lot from Sgt. Palmer. I was blown away with some of the training we did... very experienced and knowledgeable, great person.
Dee S.: It was great working with Dan. He's a very patient and thorough instructor. Dan was able to help me relax and improve my confidence. I'll be reaching out to him again for future courses.
Marco S.: I had a great experience at Up in Smoke Firearms Training.
Danny V.: The course was extremely informative. Especially for prior law enforcement officers it's a great refresher course. I will definitely apply for other courses through Up in Smoke Firearms Training.
Patric K.: As a former US Army and Law Enforcement Officer, attitude is key to not only performance but, execution of the knowledge you retain. But, in order to do that one needs to teach and train so the students can grasp and understand the subject of safety of firearms handling. I believe Up in Smoke Firearms Training (Dan Palmer-Owner) delivers that key component in his program. He also(clearly projects his attitude and passion) to his assistant (Greg), who was also helping to teach his training class. Being in the business a little, I believe Up in Smoke Firearms Training to be one of the best places I have trained at and it was worth my time and trip from the Midwest. Thank you. USFT, I'll be back soon!
Michael P.: Amazing service. Quality staff. I look forward to working with him again.
Glen T.: Yesterday, I completed a two day course for NRA Level 1 Pistol Coach. Usually, I don't leave responses regarding my experiences. I'll leave one today because I found the professionalism of Dan Palmer one that warranted comments. I had a long and successful career in law enforcement, and I found the quality of the this training to be one of the best I've received. I recommend Dan Palmer with no reservations or your future needs.
Michael G.: I had a great time at the CCW training and Keith did an excellent job. He was thorough, knowledgeable, and made it a fun class. I will definitely be recommending to others that they take your classes.
James T.S.: Dan is quite knowledgeable and an excellent instructor and communicator. He explains both the how and why for techniques and methods. During live shooting he is very observant and detects technique faults and instructs how to correct them which had a significant impact on my ability to hit the target and gain confidence. I did learn what I wanted from the course. I now feel confident in handling the Ruger .22 and can safely go to a range to practice using proper technique. I have been doing some simple drills to grip the pistol correctly the first time. I think the two key items for me are breath control and trigger control - releasing only to reset. Keagan was very helpful too. I'd like to follow-up with the CCW class in the next few months. I'd also like to spend some time with you learning the SA XDM 9mm.
Kathryn R.: Dan, Chris, and Kameron at Up in Smoke were very knowledgeable and professional. I feel so much more comfortable now that I have completed training through them!
Jose M-O.: It was an excellent experience.......I learned a lot in this class.
Robert S.: Courteous and professional service with a focus on safety with legal issues thoroughly covered and provided in a timely manner.
Keagan G.: Amazing job, made the course better & enjoyable. I will definitely be a return customer.
Hailey G.: I highly recommend Up in Smoke Firearms Training. Dan gives you thorough hands on training and is very patient. Most importantly, you gain the knowledge to handle weapons in the safest manner and he makes the classes fun. My experience was great!
Jasmine C.: I highly recommend this company because not only does it give you hands on experience but the instructors there are amazing they don't push your limits they also go at your pace, and most importantly you have fun during the classes. My experience was the best and I hope yours will be too.
Greg M.: Very informative and insightful. Totally up to date with recent laws. Teaches anyone from very beginners to former firearms instructors.
Rafe A.: An incredible instructor who teaches real world situations while at the same time teaching to control breathing and technique to make the shooter proficient to win the fight. Cant say enough of the lessons I learned in his instructions. Thank you Dan!
Norm B.: Known Dan for over 30 years. Observed him as a department firearms instructor and as a LEOSA instructor. I have found him to be highly skilled and knowledgeable on these issues. I would highly recommend his services. firearms training
Scott H.: I was very impressed, Dan is an extremely well experienced instructor that can speak to both the experienced or inexperienced shooter. I highly recommend this company for all of your firearms instructional needs.
CJ.: Dan is very professional but most of all a good teacher. He not only has the expertise in firearms training but has a lot of patience when you start as a beginner. I learned so much in a short amount of time and felt very confident in retaining all the information that he gave me, showed me and then watched me as I demonstrated what I learned. I would highly recommend him to show you new skills or work on getting better.
S. P.: Dan is an extremely knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and patient instructor. My friends and I needed some self-defense skills before heading off to college, and we chose Dan for his outstanding background and certifications. Although he has many years of experience, he was able to teach us the skills that we needed to learn in a way that we could understand and remember for years to come. I went back to Dan for several more lessons before I traveled abroad, and he was even willing and able to give me self-defense tips when I was encountering a challenging situation in Asia. I'm so glad I had taken lessons with him! I would happily recommend his lessons and his services to all who are seeking the knowledge and skills they need for self-defense. My friends and I give him 5 stars for his spectacular work.
Elizabeth G.: Incredible experience! I had reached out to Dan when I was looking for somewhere to complete the Level I Rifle Coach Training. I planned to travel to Arizona for training, as there are no trainers in Colorado currently offering this class. When I explained that I was preparing to lead a Youth Air Rifle Team at the school I work at he did absolutely everything he could to help me! After many attempts to get many people signed up for his class, we began to realize that there was not as big of turn out as anticipated. In fact there were two of us signed up to take the class, and a third person that joined me for the Basic Pistol Class. Dan still took the time to travel here to Colorado Springs, on his own dime to instruct THREE people! Yes, we all paid for the classes, but he paid more to get here than what he made. He was professional, thorough, and just an amazing Instructor, human being, and fellow American! It was truly an honor to meet Dan and be blessed enough to get training from him! Thank you Dan!!!
Seth K.: I highly recommend Up In Smoke! Dan is an amazing man and wonderful instructor. He is fun to learn from and has amazing attention to detail. I've taken multiple classes with him and I loved them all!
Neil R.: I just completed the NRA Level 1 Rifle Coach course with Dan. Thanks to the team at the Air Force Junior ROTC unit at Deer Valley High School for hosting and supporting this great event. In short, I have been teaching 4 position, known distance rifle shooting for over 45 years. Dan's presentation is the most comprehensive approach I have yet to experience. I learned a great deal not just about the technical aspects of rifle shooting but how to teach it from a master teacher. Dan is a rare combination of a guy who can shoot and who can teach people to shoot and who can teach coaches how to teach others to shoot. Long winded, I know, but that is a rare skill set. Do yourself and your team a favor. Take his class. Semper Fidelis!
Vaughan W.: In my opinion, Dan Palmer is the best in the biz. With his incredibly busy schedule he has carved out time and care in helping develop my AFJROTC Junior Marksmanship Air Rifle team at Deer Valley High School, Glendale, AZ. He has donated time to personally training me as a coach and some of my cadets, delivered NRA classes to certify us, donated resources to improve the program, been present at school award nights to honor cadets with accolades, and hosted air rifle competitions. Dan leads from the front inspiring and motivating others to be better than they thought. I hope our friendship and business relationship continues well into the future as we build a Championship team and honor all Veterans, especially American Legion Post 144 who has had our "six" for 2 years and counting.
Bryan T.: I recently renewed my LEOSA with Up in Smoke and once again had a great experience. The trainers sent the paperwork to me in advance and helped me submit it properly upon completion of my quality. They gave me the extra time to qualify with my second pistol as well. Thanks again !
Clayton S.: Great informative class with an awesome instructor! Will definitely be taking more classes through Up in Smoke Firearms Training.
Russ S.: Today, I took the NRA Basic Range Safety Officer with Dan Palmer teaching in the official capacity as a NRA Chief Range Safety Officer. He is well versed as a subject matter expert in this area. His public speaking and leadership are exemplary. He took material that is often talked about in oft repeated talking points and made it super interesting. The NRA, the Ben Avery Shooting Range & the State of Arizona are all very fortunate to have somebody of Dan's caliber instructing and teaching here!!
Richard F.: I recently took the NRA Basics of Rifle Shooting with Dan Palmer. He was proactive in reaching out to students prior to the class. He taught the class "textbook." I enjoyed that he thoroughly covered all types of rifles, which included diagrams, demonstrations, and hands-on operation of each type. Compared to other rifles classes that I have taken, which focused exclusively on Modern Sporting Rifles, it was refreshing to cover each type of rifle in Mr. Palmer´s class. Despite many years of firearms experience, I still found myself learning tidbits here and there. Mr. Palmer was also patient with his class. He appeared to be an ideal instructor for a student that does not have any experience shooting. He also presented the material with enthusiasm, which helped me paying attention during the all day course. I am glad that Mr. Palmer offers the NRA Basics of Rifle Shooting course.
Robert Z.: Between Dan's military and civilian law enforcement careers, he has been there, done that and has the t-shirts to prove it. You would be hard pressed to find someone with his experience and knowledge regarding his expertise in firearms, training, and tactics. From basic courses to advanced, Dan can provide it. The best part of training with Dan is that he is excellent at tailoring his training to anyone no matter what your level of experience is. If you are a total beginner, he will cover everything you need to know without any kind of attitude, and answer any questions you could have i.e. no throwing out a bunch of words or phrases you don't know or understand. On top of all that, Dan is very honest person and his integrity is beyond reproach, and he truly enjoys teaching people. I can’t recommend enough the training you will receive from Dan and Up in Smoke Firearms Training.
Britton P.: Excellent class. I learned a bunch and had a good time doing it.
Josh D.: Great class! It's great knowing your being taught by people who know what they are doing and have a law enforcement background! These guys truly want you to understand your rights and be comfortable carrying.
George A.: Sergeant Palmer is the best instructor I've had the pleasure training with. His extensive background in law enforcement is what made me want to learn from him. I feel good knowing both me and the people around me are safer after taking his courses. I recommend him to the fullest extent.
Gilbert C.: Although it was cold at 7 am and did not warm up for a few hours, the class was quite informative. I learned new things about handling a firearm and self protection.
About Us
DEDICATED INSTRUCTORS
- Owner/Master Firearms Instructor:
Dan Palmer has been mentoring and instructing people in firearms for 35 plus-years. Dan currently holds the following certifications:
- Az P.O.S.T. Firearms Instructor
- Arizona LEOSA Firearms Instructor #351
- Arizona Armed & Unarmed Security Guard Safety Trainer/Instructor
- Az P.O.S.T. Background Investigations (AZ DPS)
- Az P.O.S.T. General Instructor
- MILO Training Simulator Instructor
National Rifle Association (NRA):
- NRA Training Counselor Course
- NRA Basic Pistol & Rifle Firearms Instructor
- NRA CCW Instructor
- NRA Chief Range Safety Officer (CRSO)
- NRA National Coach Development Staff (NCDS) Pistol & Rifle Coach Instructor
- NRA Level III (Advanced/International) Pistol Coach
- NRA Level II (National/State) Rifle Coach
USA Shooting Sports Program:
- Human Kinetics/ASEP Coaching Principles & Sports First Aid
- Safesport Trained/Certified
- Background completed
Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP):
- Garand-Springfield-Enfield-Military (GSM) Master Rifle Instructor. Certified by Gary Anderson (Olympic Gold Medalist, Past CMP Director)
- JROTC Military Instructor Certification (JMIC) Rifle Coach
Next Level Training (NLT):
- Short Indicating Resetting Trigger (SIRT) Training Pistol Instructor
Remington Arms/Defense:
- M4/M16/AR15 Rifle Armorer
Sig-Sauer:
- Semi-Automatic Handgun Armorer
Glock:
- Semi-Automatic Handgun Armorer
Colt-Defense:
- M16/AR15 Carbine Diagnostics Technician
Bushmaster:
- AR15/M16 Carbine Armorer
Crosman Corporation
- Certified Challenger PCP Air Rifle Factory Trained Technician/Armorer & Repair Service Center
National Tactical Officer Association (NTOA):
- Advanced Crisis Negotiations School
- SWAT Command and Supervisor School
Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI):
- FBI Crisis Negotiations School
- Executive Leadership (CTFLI)
- Task Force Commander (CTFLI)
Department of Homeland Security (DHS):
- Security Liaison Officer (SLO)
- Security Clearances Officer (SCO)
- Classified Storage Custodian (CSC)
- Derivative Classification & Markings
- Protected Critical Infrastructure Information (PCII) Program Officer & Administrator
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
- Anti-Terrorism & Counter-Terrorism Schools through the AZ Department of Emergency Management (DEMA), FEMA, and USAF)
- Active Shooter (FEMA)
- Community Disasters & EOC Preparedness-Response-Awareness (FEMA)
- Emergency Preparedness & Emergency Program Manager (FEMA)
- National Response Plan & Role of Agencies in Emergency Management (FEMA)
- Single Resources & Initial Responses (FEMA)
National Cryptologic School:
- OPSEC Fundamentals
United States Air Force (USAF):
- Sniper Sustainment
- Emergency Service Team (EST-Tactical Entry Team Member/Operator)
- Combating Trafficking in Persons
- Air Base Defense (ABD) Flight Sergeant/Non-Commissioned Officer In-Charge (NCOIC)
- Desert Warfare Survival Training
- Extreme Cold Weather Survival
- Anti-Terrorism & Resource Protection NCOIC
- Force Protection NCOIC
- Central Security Control (CSC) NCOIC
- Operations & Cyber Security
- Security Police Academy (7-Level in Security/5-Level in Law Enforcement)
- First Sergeant's Academy
- Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy (SrNCOA)
- Non-Commissioned Officer Academy (NCOA)
Arizona Counterterrorism Information Center (ACTiC):
- Terrorism Liaison Officer (TLO) certification under the ACTIC & prior AZ state TLO coordinator
Other Certifications:
- Bleeding Control Basics-Stop the Bleed (American College of Surgeons-Committee on Trauma)
- Continuous Chest Compression & AED Course (City of Peoria Fire Department)
- Adult & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED certified (American Red Cross)
Why you should hire us
My firearms instruction business stands out from others, because you will be working with someone that has over 30-years of experience and a combined 85-years with my associate instructors with multiple firearm platforms compared to someone that just started out.
Additionally, most basic firearms instructors are not armorers, and we have that covered for you too. If you hire them and they are not experienced armorers, who will repair your weapon when it fails during the training they are giving you?
Having this business is not about making money to me, but it is about sharing my knowledge and experience with others. What good is it unless I share it?
We love teaching, coaching and mentoring others. Doing so is in our blood and DNA. It helps being around people who have the same passion to learn and grow with firearms.
Our Motto
Instructing with a smile and a great attitude to allow you to learn at the best of your abilities by providing quality training with pride.
LEAD ASSOCIATE FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR
Greg McDiffett
LEAD ASSOCIATE FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR
Greg is a retired Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) with the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General in criminal investigations where he was trained in officer safety and survival, and was a certified Federal Firearms Instructor achieving an Expert qualification in pistol and Distinguished Weapons Expert.
Greg is a certified sub machine gun instructor where he achieved the Sharpshooter ranking with the H&K MP-5 sub machine gun and Colt M-4 sub machine gun.
Greg is an armorer with the Glock semi-automatic pistol and he is currently certified as a NRA Pistol Instructor, NRA Range Safety Officer (RSO), and NRA Level I Pistol & Rifle Coach.
Greg is certified by the State of Arizona as a LEOSA Instructor and Armed/Unarmed Security Guard Instructor. Greg is also certified in CPR/AED & first aid through the American Red Cross.
Greg can be reached at (623) 792-0124 or gregmc.azusft@gmail.com.
ASSOCIATE FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR/COACH
Associate Pistol/Rifle Coach and Range Safety Officer
Leonard Rheaume
Leonard (Len) retired from the Az Department of Public Safety as a certified police officer (Trooper) and senior pilot for the Aviation Bureau. Len was the pilot during six administrations of Arizona Governors and had the honor to be the pilot during their trips within and outside of Arizona.
Len is a certified NRA Level I Pistol & Rifle Coach and Range Safety Officer (RSO). Len is also certified in CPR/AED & first aid through the American Red Cross.
Len can be reached at lenr.azusft@gmail.com.
Associate Firearms Instructor & Range Safety Officer
Keith Drabik
Keith is passionate about clients being properly trained while applying the proper safe gun handling rules. He also believes that the client should receive the best training that an instructor can offer.
Keith is a NRA Pistol Instructor and Range Safety Officer (RSO).
Keith can be reached at keithd.azusft@gmail.com.
Associate Range Safety Officer and Pistol & Rifle Coach
Mike Schoenle
Mike is a certified NRA Range Safety Officer (RSO) and Level I Pistol and Rifle Coach. Prior to his certifications Mike retired from the U.S. Marine Corps and as a civilian electrician. Mike is also certified in CPR/AED & first aid through the American Red Cross.
Mike can be reached at mnkschoenle@yahoo.com.
Associate Range Safety Officer, Pistol/Rifle Coach, and MILO Instructor
Charles Gilbreath
Charles is a certified NRA Level I Pistol and Rifle Coach, NRA Range Safety Officer (RSO) and is a MILO Instructor. He is also certified in CPR/AED and first aid, and has become an instructor in both through he Red Cross.
Charles can be reached at charlesg.azusft@gmail.com.