Gun Training Courses in Ohio: Vanguard 2025 Brings Elite Firearms Training to the Buckeye State

It starts with a decision.

A decision to stop settling for mediocre range time. To stop watching YouTube videos hoping your shooting gets better. To stop wondering how you’d perform under pressure—and finally know.

In 2025, that decision leads you to Vanguard.

This summer, HOP Munitions is bringing its Vanguard Shooting Instructors to Ohio, and they’re unlike anything you’ve experienced before. These aren’t your typical weekend warrior classes. They’re elite-level firearms training events, taught by real-world-tested professionals, designed for serious shooters who want to get better—and aren’t afraid to earn it.

And the best part? You don’t have to fly across the country to find world-class training anymore. It’s coming to your backyard.

From Average to Elite—Without the Guesswork

Let’s face it: finding the right gun training course can be overwhelming. Ohio has no shortage of instructors, but how many of them have real-world experience, not just certificates?

The Vanguard Program is different.

It’s not built around theory—it’s built around application. Every course is structured to teach you how to think, move, and fight with your firearm like the professionals do.

Whether you’re a concealed carrier, first responder, or competition shooter, this training bridges the gap between what you know and what you can do under pressure.

The Vanguard Lineup: Instructors Who Live What They Teach

At the core of Vanguard is the belief that great training starts with great instructors. And HOP Munitions didn’t cut corners when assembling this crew.

You’re not just taking a class—you’re learning from people who’ve done the job.

Take Rick Crawley, for example. A Marine Corps veteran with three combat deployments, SWAT team experience, and the founder of Achilles Heel Tactical. Rick’s classes aren’t just about shooting fast—they’re about thinking fast. His sessions are laser-focused on performance under pressure, with an emphasis on mindset and mission-driven execution.

Or Scott Jedlinski of Modern Samurai Project, a man who’s transformed the red dot pistol game. With a martial arts background and a resume that includes training the Pentagon’s elite response teams, Scott’s instruction is fast, focused, and brutally efficient. If you carry a pistol with a red dot, this is the guy you want to learn from.

Then there’s Paul Costa from Broken Arrow Defense. An active-duty LEO who’s spent nearly two decades kicking down doors and training tactical teams. He brings the perfect blend of competition and real-world application to the range, helping students translate speed and precision into usable skills.

Nick Young from Velox Training Group is a USPSA Master who teaches practical rifle and pistol fundamentals with movement built into every rep. His sessions are perfect for those looking to push their pace without sacrificing accuracy.

And Hunter Freeland of HF Shooting—a former Cav Scout, contractor, and competitive shooter—combines tactical experience with coaching insight. His approach is all about helping shooters find efficiency in movement and clarity in execution.

Finally, Ryan Patete of Rifle & Pistol Defense Training brings the local firepower. A K-9 handler and SWAT officer near Cleveland, Ryan has been in the thick of it—barricaded suspects, high-risk warrants, and CQB. His instruction is grounded in real-world threats and how to meet them with precision and control.

Each instructor brings something different. But the one thing they all share? They’ve walked the walk—and they want to see you level up.

Why Vanguard Gun Training Courses Are a Cut Above

✅ You’ll Shoot. A Lot.

Each course includes 500 rounds of HOP Munitions ammo. No extra fees. No ammo runs. Just show up and shoot.

✅ Smaller Classes. Bigger Gains.

Forget overcrowded line drills and getting lost in the mix. Vanguard classes are intentionally kept small to ensure individualized instruction and real feedback.

✅ VIP Treatment

You’re not just training—you’re being taken care of. Catered meals throughout the day, premium gear giveaways, and a relaxed, professional atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the team.

✅ Saturday Bonus: Bourbon, BBQ & Brotherhood

After a long day of training, kick back with your instructor over BBQ, bourbon, and cigars. Talk gear. Talk mindset. Ask the questions you’ve always wanted to ask—and do it with good food and even better company.

Who Should Take a Vanguard Course?

Whether you’re a responsible concealed carrier, a patrol officer, or someone who just wants to sharpen your edge, Vanguard has a course for you. With a mix of pistol, rifle, red dot, and CQB-focused training sessions, you can tailor your experience to your goals.

These aren’t beginner classes—but they’re not elitist either. If you’re ready to show up, train hard, and learn from the best, you’ll fit right in.

Bonuses for Law Enforcement and Veterans

If you’re an active or retired member of the military or law enforcement community, Vanguard has your six. You’re eligible for a $100 one-time coupon—just email [email protected] with proof of service or ID.

Final Shots: Don’t Miss This

We’ve all taken classes that left us underwhelmed. That’s not this.

The HOP Munitions Vanguard Program is the real deal—premium-level gun training courses led by instructors who live and breathe this stuff. It’s the kind of training that changes how you think about self-defense, firearms, and performance under stress.

And in 2025, it’s right here in Ohio.

But here’s the thing—spots are limited, and they will sell out.

So if you’re ready to go beyond average and invest in training that’s as serious as you are, don’t wait.

Explore Vanguard 2025 Courses and Reserve Your Spot