VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED. Military veterans receive discounts on all courses.
(602) 377-4405 Business (623) 412-3682 Fax
PAYMENT FOR COURSES & CHALLENGER RIFLE REPAIRS HERE
COURSE/AIR RIFLE REPAIR PAYMENT
$0.00
USFT, LLC reserves the right to not accept payment or refuse business from any individual or entity.
Programs
Concealed Carry Certification (CCW)
Basic course 2-hours $70.00 ($50.00 for military Veterans-as of 1/1/2021) For clients who have already had a basic firearms course by the NRA or prior military persons with a DD Form 214.
Standard course 5-hours $90.00 ($75.00 for military Veterans-as of 1/1/2021) 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 clients residence.
There is no fee for fingerprinting. Both classes require fingerprinting to be accomplished.
Client will have their CCW application and fee ($60.00) to AZ DPS for processing and approval hand delivered by the instructor.
Client can choose to do the live fire for the standard course at a range near the clients residence.
Available in the Phoenix & Prescott/Chino Valley areas. 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.
LEOSA (Retired Police Officers)
$45.00 per-hour, per-person.
We will supply everything except the bullets, gun(s), ear protection, and eye protection.
The live fire course is mandated 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.
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 cashiers 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.
Available in the Phoenix and Prescott/Chino Valley areas.
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: $125.00 per-day, per-client. 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, .357, .40, and .45 can be rented from the instructor. AR15 can be rented from the instructor. NRA basic firearms completion card awarded.
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.
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, valve stem, rebuilding the charging handle, inspecting & greasing the trigger assembly, cleaning & resealing the fill adapter, and resealing the gauge. The air rifle is set to 525fps along with trigger adjustment & setting of second stage trigger at 2.5lbs. Additional parts charged separately.
Pricing included within the payment area.
Testimonials/Recommendations
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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 30-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 Basic Pistol & Rifle Firearms 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
- 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
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 state 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 First Aid/CPR/AED certified (American Red Cross)
ASSOCIATE FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR
Lead Associate Firearms Instructor: Chris Wilson has been mentoring and instructing people in firearms for 20-years. Chris retired as a police officer after 25-years and he started his LEO career with the AZ GFD as a Game Manager, then worked at the Scottsdale Police Department, & then retired with the AZ DPS. During that time Chris obtained his Masters Degree and worked undercover assignments specializing in illegal drug trafficking.
Chris currently holds the following certifications:
- Az P.O.S.T. Firearms Instructor
- Arizona LEOSA Firearms Instructor
- NRA Range Safety Officer (RSO)
Other Certifications:
- Terrorism Liaison Officer (TLO) certification under the ACTIC
- SWAT Tactical Operator School (Scottsdale)
- FBI Crisis Negotiations School
- Background Investigations (Az POST & AZ DPS)
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 50-years with my associate instructing and coaching with multiple firearm platforms compared to someone that just started out. Additionally most of your basic firearms instructors are not armorers. 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 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.
Kameron Edwards
ASSOCIATE FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR
AZ POST certified police officer (9-years) as an instructor in Pistol & Rifle, Field Training Officer, & MILO certified Instructor. Glock Armorer & AR15 Rifle Armorer. NRA RSO & Basic Pistol Instructor. AZ LEOSA & Armed Security Guard Firearms Instructor, Defensive Tactics Instructor, and CPR/AED certified.
ASSOCIATE FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR
Keagan Greenhalgh
NRA certified Pistol Instructor, NRA Personal Protection in the Home, NRA Personal Protection outside the Home.
I am a contemporary firearms instructor looking to help everyone of all ages learn to love the fun and safety of firearms. I’m all about personal protection, and I am a strong supporter of the second amendment and our great country.