Reviews

I wasn’t sure what to expect from a 16-hour class, but James kept it engaging the entire time. His teaching style is clear, confident, and focused on real-world application. I especially appreciated how much time he spent on the legal aspects and situational awareness. The shooting portion was handled with professionalism and safety, and I left feeling completely prepared. If you’re serious about carrying, this is the class to take.

Tim from Hamburg NY

Top-notch class from start to finish. James makes you feel confident, prepared, and ready. Highly recommend FTWNY.

Sue from Orchard Park NY

I was nervous about the tests that NY requires, but in the forst 5 minutes of class, James took that worry away by explaining how easy the teste were and that nobody could or has failed ever. James and Chris broke everything down so clearly that it felt easy. Great teachers, great energy, and super helpful.

Madeline, Queens

I took the NYS/NYC approved 16-hour concealed carry class in Buffalo with FTWNY and couldn’t be happier. The instruction was professional, detailed, and focused on real-world scenarios. James made the legal portion easy to understand and the live fire training was excellent. If you’re in Erie County and need pistol permit training, this is the class to take.

Erin, Amherst NY

The most professional and informative firearms class I’ve ever taken. James is the real deal.

Sgt. Blake Westbury NY

I took the NYS 16-hour concealed carry class on Long Island with FTWNY and was thoroughly impressed. James provided clear, professional instruction that covered everything from legal requirements to live fire training. It’s hard to find a class that’s fully approved for NYC pistol licensing, but this one is. Highly recommend to anyone in NYC, Suffolk or Nassau County looking to get their pistol license.

 Stacy, North Hempstead NY

Took the 16-hour concealed carry course with James and Chris, I can’t stop recommending it to people. You’ll learn more than just how to shoot — you’ll understand how to carry responsibly.

Tina, West Falls NY

The instruction was top-tier. The class was serious, but still enjoyable. I left feeling informed, confident, and ready. As a PA resident that travels to NYC often, I was amazed that James said I could get a Non Resident NYC Carry license. But James was right and I now have a NYC Carry License.

William, Philadelphia PA

James is the type of instructor who makes you want to take more classes. Clear, calm, and motivating.

Alan, Buffalo NY

FTWNY offers the best concealed carry class in Long Island — no question. I drove in from Queens and it was 100% worth it. The course is NYS and NYC approved, and James made complex topics easy to understand. If you’re looking for pistol permit training near NYC, this is the course to take.

Jamal, Queens NY

FTWNY offers the best concealed carry certification class in Western New York. The course was approved for Erie County and NYC, which made the process simple and straightforward. I learned about the legal responsibilities of concealed carry and passed the qualification with confidence. Highly recommend this to anyone in Buffalo or Niagara looking to get their pistol license.

Wendy, Buffalo NY

Highly recommend FTWNY. The class was informative, professional, and surprisingly enjoyable

Ahmed, Oyster Bay NY

Not your average class — this was professional, detailed, and extremely well-run. I now feel 100% ready to carry safely and legally. I am not kidding when I say I would take the 16 hour class with them again.

Joraima, Staten Island NY

This was a fantastic experience from start to finish. I attended the 16-hour pistol permit class in Alden with FTWNY and walked away fully prepared to carry legally and responsibly. James is a knowledgeable and engaging instructor. Whether you’re from Erie, Niagara, or NYC, this NYS-approved carry class is worth every minute.

Laurie, Elma NY

FTWNY delivered everything I needed and more. The two days flew by, and I walked away way more knowledgeable than I expected.

Jackie, Williamsville NY

This was hands down the best training experience I’ve had. And I say that as a Law Enforcement Instructor myself. James creates a comfortable, respectful learning environment — even for beginners. He made sure we understood not just how to shoot, but why certain decisions matter legally and ethically. I never felt rushed or talked down to. I left the class with confidence and a new level of awareness.

Lt. Nelson, NYPD Retired

I appreciated how much emphasis was placed on safety, legality, and situational awareness. This wasn’t just about shooting — it was about mindset and responsibility.

 Tiana, West Seneca NY

If you’re searching for a concealed carry class in WNY, look no further than FTWNY. In November of 2022, I found that James runs the only class that is approved for both Erie County and NYC. The classroom material, hands-on training, and legal guidance were all top-notch. This is a great choice for anyone seeking pistol license certification in Western NY and the NYC area.

Paige, Lancaster NY

From someone with zero firearms experience, this class made me feel welcome and confident. James is an outstanding instructor.

Sydney, Springville NY

This is the only Long Island concealed carry class I found that is approved for both Nassau County and New York City where you can take it without having a premise permit. Because you use the instructors Simunition gun during class (which is a blast, pun intended). The instructor, James, was extremely knowledgeable and made me feel confident throughout the entire 16-hour course. I now feel prepared, educated, and ready to legally carry in New York. FTWNY is a must for anyone in the NYC area looking for pistol license certification.

 Elijah, Brooklyn NY

Clear instruction, patient teaching, and real-world examples. This class set the bar high. I actually took this class elsewhere only to find out it was not even recognized by my county. Now I see why FTWNY was the first class approved for Erie county and took over a year to certify the second instructor. I see why everyone has so much faith in James and his class. This was AMAZING!

Neena, Tonawanda NY

I’ve taken other training before — this was on another level. James teaches with purpose and passion.

Wanda, Buffalo NY

Great class! James made sure everyone understood the material and felt confident before moving forward.

Nevaeh, Manhattan NY

FTWNY runs a tight, professional program. James breaks down complex material into understandable, real-life scenarios that stick with you. He doesn’t just teach you to shoot — he teaches you how to think, de-escalate, and carry with responsibility. I walked away more knowledgeable and confident than I ever expected. Worth every second and every penny, he should be charging twice as much for this.

Kai, Amherst NY

The shooting test was fun and practical. The classroom portion was packed with info I never knew I needed.

Lisa, Cheektowaga NY

If you’re in WNY and need your pistol permit class or as it is also called concealed carry license class, do yourself a favor and sign up for THIS class.

Blake, Alden NY

No fluff, just real training from a pro. James is the instructor you want.

Kristy, Batavia NY

The 16-hour class seemed intimidating at first, but it flew by thanks to how engaging and well-organized it was.

Jenn, Rochester NY

James runs the class like a true professional — informative, structured, and with just enough humor to make 16 hours fly by. The legal portion was eye-opening and incredibly important. I appreciated how he handled questions with patience and real knowledge. The shooting qualification was smooth, safe, and well-executed. I highly recommend this to anyone serious about carrying legally and responsibly.

Jacques, Huntington NY

This class was worth every penny. I now feel legally and mentally prepared to carry.

Sara, Angola NY

As someone who had anxiety about firearms and testing, I couldn’t believe how at ease I felt just 10 minutes into the class. James has a gift for making people feel confident, regardless of skill level. The course was informative, respectful, and empowering. I walked away understanding the responsibility that comes with carrying and knowing I’m prepared. 10/10 — I’d take it again in a heartbeat.

Bree, Hempstead NY

James made a complicated process easy to understand. His experience really shows.

Ella, Eden NY

FTWNY’s NYS 16-hour concealed carry class in Buffalo is the most comprehensive and professional firearms training I’ve ever taken. James walks you through everything you need to legally carry in Erie County, NYC, and beyond. It’s clear he has years of experience and knows how to prepare his students for the real world. This class is a must for anyone pursuing a New York State pistol permit.

Wayne, North Collins NY

As someone who has spent over three decades teaching public speaking at the collegiate level, I’ve had the privilege of listening to thousands of speakers — from polished professionals to passionate amateurs. That said, I can say without hesitation that James is one of the most commanding and effective public speakers I’ve ever encountered.

His presence in front of a room is magnetic. James communicates complex, often serious material with absolute clarity, purpose, and genuine passion. He strikes that rare balance of authority and approachability — keeping his audience engaged, informed, and at ease. What impressed me most was his ability to adapt to all experience levels in the room, connecting with everyone from complete beginners to seasoned professionals.

In short, James is not just a firearms instructor — he is a master communicator and a true educator. If you ever have the chance to learn from him, don’t miss it.

Dr. Collins, Professor of Public Speaking & Communication

CLICK HERE for classes scheduled in the Westchester, New York City, Nassau, Rockland and Suffolk County area

CLICK HERE for classes scheduled in the Western New York Area

CLICK HERE for class schedule for WOMEN ONLY CONCEALED CARRY CLASS