Testimonials

I just completed the CCH training with Todd Martin. I wanted to comment on the experience. Mr. Martin is a wealth of knowledge with regard to gun laws, gun safety, gun handling and the proper use of a firearm. Before and after the class Mr. Martin is jovial and funny and is very easy to converse with. During the class, Mr. Martin is serious and makes it a point to let his students know this class is not taken lightly. He makes it clear that carrying a concealed weapon is serious business and wants his students to be responsible and knowledgeable. He breaks the class up into several parts which I thought was perfect. Classroom discussion and going over the literature is separated by gun safety and drills to show us how to hold a pistol, check the pistol for safety and proper grip. I learned a great-deal from Mr. Martin and I have owned pistols for over 20 years. The grip he showed me and the proper way to load and discharge the magazine is far better then how I was doing this previously. (Faster & Safer) The time at the range was all business and handled with the utmost safety and professionalism. I will recommend Mr. Martin's class to anyone I speak with that is interested in obtaining a CCH permit. I can not imagine the class being more enjoyable, informative and eye opening when it comes to carrying a concealed weapon. A serious class for a serious permit should not be taken lightly. One more thing, practice, practice, practice. You will get that reference after you take the class.

Ken D.

Todd:

I REALLY was not looking forward to this class... I looked for a one
day class mainly just to get it over with quickly. After all, I'm a
smart guy - I even use to teach a firearms course myself (albeit 30
years ago) - so how could this class possibly make me smarter?

Was I ever wrong! Your class was both interesting and informative.
Your professionalism and the seriousness with which you approach the
CCH class really made me think about the deadly serious responsibility
that we have when we carry a concealed handgun. There were many
aspects of the CCH privilege that you covered that I had never really
thought about. Your practical approach and your hands-on teaching
method made the day more rewarding than I ever anticipated. While I
always considered myself fairly well-informed regarding handgun safety
and a decent marksman, well - wrong again. You taught me how to be
methodically safe - not just seat-of-the-pants safe. The number of
suggestions that you had to improve my shooting proves itself every
time I go to the range. Thanks for a day well spent and for all of
your wisdom and guidance. Can't wait to take the CCH Pistol Craft
Class!

Mike H.

I recently took Todd Martin's NC CCH course and I wanted to share some thoughts while they were still fresh in my mind. For starters, I am an NRA certified instructor, a 10 year concealed carry permit holder (FL), and Master class competitive action pistol shooter. Having attended and taught firearms courses I am always looking forward to learning new material. Todd did NOT disappoint.

Safety should be and is the primary driver in Todd's course. Taking it an important step further, the safe actions of the student start before they even touch a handgun. The subtly observed actions of the students from the time they park their car to the beginning of the course help Todd to tailor his presentation and address the many elements required to demonstrate the student's competence to earn the permit. Todd treats the material with a high level of professionalism, while interjecting "real world" examples which help the student place themselves in "what if..." scenarios as they pertain to NC handgun law. Safe, hands on familiarity with either your handgun or one of Todd's meshes with the course written material. The students get to put the instruction into action with a visit to one of the local ranges to demonstrate safe gun handling and a chance to fire several rounds on target. (30 rounds – 40 rounds)

If you are serious about maximizing the time investment to obtain the NC CCH permit, then put Todd Martin's course on your contact list. In addition to the state requirements, you will get additional relevant, factual information, that will make you a safer, and better shooter no what your current level happens to be.

Tim H.

My wife and I recently completed Todd’s CCH course. We were both looking for the one day class to get the class requirement over as soon as we could. Although we didn’t expect to enjoy our day, we absolutely did! We had a good time with Todd during the course of our day, and we were very impressed with his professionalism and the seriousness he was able to stress throughout. While Todd is friendly and personable, Todd’s ability to convey the seriousness of gun ownership and carrying concealed was outstanding. We would definitely take the class with Todd all over again, as the class size was perfect (it was me and my wife) and the personal approach Todd takes in conveying safety, the legal ramifications of concealed carry (and gun ownership) and gun handling is second to none. As an attorney, I was impressed with Todd’s knowledge of the law, his ability to convey the intricacies of the law to his students and the continued emphasis on the legal ramifications of concealed carry. Whether you have handled a firearm in the past (as I have), or whether you have not (my wife), Todd was extremely supportive in helping us become safer and more responsible gun-owning and carrying citizens.As a vet tech, my wife loved Jodi. You will too!Sincerely,

Rick and Kelly W

Todd:
Thank you for the concealed carry training instruction I received this past weekend.
The course was most pleasurable and informative. I don’t remember if I told you, but I had taken the concealed carry course at a previous location in Wake County over five years ago. I let the permit expire and that was the reason behind my taking it again.

I intended to re-take the course at the same facility as before but I searched and found PDFS of NC. I noticed you limit your class size to five. My last class had at least 20 and we didn’t get the opportunity to cover the material in depth because the instructor was forever answering questions. We were constantly pressed for time. Having been a technical instructor for five years I am aware of the time restraints that can result from large classes so I decided to have PDFS of NC provide my re-certification training. It was the best decision I’ve made in some time.

I’ve been shooting a handgun for some years and consider myself reasonably proficient and safe. But when I watched you inspecting my range bag and sidearm I could tell your knowledge of handguns was second nature and far exceeded mine. And when you mentioned having participated in IDPA events, I had the feeling I could be in for a treat.

The best part for me was the personal instruction you provided concerning stance, grip, range procedure and safety. What I had been doing was acceptable, but you showed me a better way including nuances that allowed me to be a safer and more accurate shot. The new grip was much better for handling recoil. The method you showed me of mounting the weapon made it easier and faster to obtain a sight picture. And the end result of it all showed itself at the range when my groups exceeded anything I had managed on my own.

Before I left you spoke of your course fee being a bit higher than others and thanked me for not letting that be a deterrent. You have no reason to apologize. Consider that the price of any product or service is equal to its cost divided by its value. The first class I took was nowhere near as informative as the instruction you provided, and therefore of less value. I would rather pay a bit more and get the level of instruction I received than to save a few dollars and walk away without that knowledge.

Thank you again for your time and expertise.
Lamar B.

I recently relocated to North Carolina from Houston, Texas with my job. I am an old timer and have had a Concealed Handgun License in the state of Texas since it was 1st passed into law in the mid 90’s; in fact I was one of the 1st 1,000 people in Texas to obtain my CHL. When I relocated to NC, I decided that with what I consider rather archaic NC gun laws, and to continue my love of firearms and support of the 2nd amendment, I would need to obtain my CCH. I have set thru four CHL classes in Texas, my initial class and 3 renewals in the past almost 20 years so I knew pretty much what I was looking for in a class and an instructor; a small class, and a knowledgeable and enthusiastic instructor. Also, he had to be a Shooter.

I searched the internet and asked around and one name kept coming up, Todd Martin. I tracked down Mr. Martin, which was not very hard, he has a very very informative Internet site; I paid my monies and showed up ready to see how they do things here in NC. I showed up about 7:45am, met Todd and went thru the amenities of introduction with Todd and the other students. The class was small, but diverse with skill levels from beginners to seasoned shooter, at 1st blush, I thought to myself that Todd may have a bit of a challenge on his hands keeping the old timers interested while not running off and leaving the newbies lost.

At 8:00 am straight up we started, and Todd did not disappoint. He proved to be extremely knowledgeable on everything from firearms safety to NC law to gun basics and much to my surprise and appreciation advanced marksmanship, gun handling and of course, again firearms safety. Todd walked us through the "Red Book" making what normally would have been at best drudgery, there's nothing like legalese, actually seem pretty interesting, he kept my interest. He then walked us thru dry firing exercises, a new expereince in CHL/CCW classes and worked to develop muscle memory in loading, obtaining a ready position, adjusting our grip on the weapon, and unloading and clearing our weapons. I don't believe that the less experienced attendee knew how much he started them along the pathway to learning good habits instead of bad, and I was extremely happy that I wouldn't have to deal with your stereotypical newbie waving his pistol around like he was directing a symphonic orchestra. Todd was all about handgun safety and teaching what I discovered to be a vast knowledge of shooting and "Gunmanship".

Anyway, all-in-all Todd conducts a very enjoyable class and he is a very knowledgeable instructor, he even taught this old dog a few new tricks. I rate his class right up there as one of the best of the five classes I have attended. I highly recommend him to everyone from the new handgun owner to the grizzled old veteran. Check him out, you won’t be disappointed

Todd:

Wow! What a day. Allow a re-phrase: What an instructional day!

To all you folks who are reading this who are thinking about a taking a CCH class and don't know which one to choose: Select this one; you will
not be disappointed.

Safety first, last and always,

Ken S.

I attended Todd's CCH class and thoroughly enjoyed it. Todd stressed the importance of gun safety and we reviewed the concealed carry laws twice, which I appreciate. Our class size was small, 3 people total, and we each received personalized attention during our time in the classroom and at the range. Todd's knowledge of pistols and pistol shooting is excellent and he was able to comprehensively show us how to operate our guns safely and efficiently. I love that the class was completed in one day, including range time, and that it was offered on a weekday. We had fun, too! I would recommend Todd's class to anyone who wants an informal (yet professional) class setting, personalized attention, and who is serious about getting a CCH. I have referred two people to Todd's class so far, and I look forward to taking his CCH PistolCraft class once I receive my permit. Many thanks to Todd, and Jodi (the comic relief).

Valerie M.

I just completed the CCW training with Todd Martin. It was a great experience. Todd is a wealth of knowledge with regard to gun laws, gun safety, gun handling and the proper use of a firearm and reaffirmed everything I had been taught over the years. Todd makes the class fun and the time flies by. Todd is serious about this class and makes sure all the students know that there is great responsibility when you have a CCW permit. The class is made up of several parts so it never gets boring. Classroom discussion and going over the literature is separated by gun safety and drills to show us how to hold a pistol, check the pistol for safety and proper grip. I learned a great-deal from Todd and I have owned pistols and rifles for over 40 years. The grip he showed me and the proper way to load and discharge the magazine is far better then how I was doing this previously. (Faster & Safer) The time at the range was all business and handled with the utmost safety and professionalism. I will recommend Todd's class to anyone I know that is contemplating a CCW. This is a serious class for a serious permit should not be taken lightly. The key that was stressed was practice so the techniques are always fresh in your mind and the motor skills are automatic.
Thanks for a great class!

Rob G.

Thanks so much for providing such a wonderful "concealed carry handgun" course. Your emphasis on safety and the law was very much appreciated. The one-on-one personal attention not only assured safe and successful training for the one handling the weapon but was also very valuable for the other class members to watch and hear your instruction and guidance without the "pressure" of handling the gun. So, The wife and I was able to learn as much from watching you work with other students as I was when you were working individually with us. Your thoughtful approach to the day that allowed for "dry practice" in your home individually, then at the range, and again at the end of the day at your home was a perfect way to practice, practice, practice so safety is always first and foremost in mind. Your patience and willingness to answer our questions at any time during the course was also much appreciated. The booklet, your discussion and the video made certain we knew the laws pertaining to concealed carry. It was a full day well spent and I feel very confident pursuing the process of obtaining a permit for concealed carry. And thank you “Jodi” for making us smile and laugh…

Richard N.

Todd,

Thanks so much for the CCW training. I truly enjoyed the class. I truly appreciate your focus on safety in your class. While I have been shooting guns for a number of years, I realized I did not have proper technique and your guidance truly made a big difference. My comfort level has increased greatly as a result of attending your class. Also, I will admit that while taking the written exam I felt very comfortable with the material but gained a much more in depth understanding as we discussed the material as a group. I truly felt this deepened my understanding beyond just being " test ready". Overall, I could not be happier with my experience and really enjoyed the intimate class size too!

Thanks,
Mike L.

Todd

I wanted to thank you for a job well done. Before I took your class, I had no idea of the many laws for conceal carry. You also opened my way of thinking when it comes to safety issues. You kept that at the top of your training. (Safety,safety, and safety ) I look forward to attending your PistolCraft class. I've also convinced my wife to attend your beginner’s class.
Once again, Thanks!

W. Perry

I would like to offer a sincere thanks to Todd for teaching the seriousness and responsibilities of not only concealed carry but also firearms ownership. The knowledge I received from taking the class with Todd far exceeded my expectations. I cannot say enough about the personal attention you get in this small class environment.
True this will not be the cheapest CHP class you will find but let me say that after speaking with others who have taken the "cheap" classes you get what you pay for. As for Todd's class, I feel like it was a bargain to get so much hands-on instruction and insightful discussion on the law, rights and responsibilities of firearms ownership.
I would enthusiastically recommend Todd's class to novice and experienced firearms owners alike. You will not be disappointed.

Justin P.

Todd,

Thank you again for the Concealed Carry class I attended... The course material, while mandated by the state, was comprehensive and useful. Add to that your familiarity with the material and overall knowledge made the class an excellent learning event. Your teaching style and focus on safety, safety and more safety really resonated with me and was exactly what I had looked for when researching classes/instructors. Many places offer the course, but what really caught my eye was your class size of 2-5 students. I saw some being offered with 15, 20, even up to 50 students sitting in a class. I don't see how the same level of personal instruction could possibly be matched. Not only in the classroom, but out on the range. I can't imagine being surrounded by a couple dozen people, who are most likely novices at best, all with pistols in their hands. Second to safety, the laws surrounding the responsibility I'm about to undertake was very important to me and you did an excellent job explaining the key points and answering questions that I had. I will recommend you without hesitation. Your assistant did an outstanding job keeping things from getting too monotonous. For anyone attending, scratch Jodi under her collar and you'll have a friend forever.

Scott S.

Todd:
Thank you for offering such a thorough course. You cut no corners. I learned that I had a lot of misconceptions about NC gun laws, and your focus on safety was a great refresher. I even learned a few things about my new Walther PPK. I learned to shoot a .45 about 40 years ago in the Marines, and your coaching improved my stance, grip and score. You taught an old dog some new tricks. I think every handgun owner should take this course, whether then plan to carry a concealed weapon or not.

Todd was very knowledgeable. The class was well-organized yet informal and comfortable. As a novice woman, I was hesitant and nervous about attending the class. I was pleasantly surprised by the personable nature and the accessible curriculum of the class. I feel comfortable and confidant in the instruction I received and my ability to apply that knowledge. I have and will continue to recommend this course. Jodi kept the class entertained and lively--a great teaching assistant! Woof (that's for you, Jodi!),

Kim C.

Todd,
I enjoyed the class very much. I didn't realize how much I did not know about safety. I would encourage and recommend to anyone who owns firearms, whether they want to obtain and concealed weapons permit, or not. The safety techniques I learned in your class are lifesaving.

Pat S.

Todd,

Just wanted to drop you a quick email to thank you again for presenting my family the Concealed Carry Handgun Training Class through your private class program. Your comprehensive format presented North Carolina laws, Handgun Safety, Presentation Techniques, and Maintenance in class instruction, coupled with field exercises covering Proficiency Drills, Live Range Firing (qualifying) and Marksmanship Fundamentals. Despite the volume of information covered, your consistent and repetitive technique for presenting course material allowed for clear information retention and enhanced by your patient tone creating a low stress learning environment. Your practical examples shared throughout the day also helped demonstrate key lesson points encouraging critical safety functions, and NC laws throughout the instruction. On behalf of my family, we would most definitely recommend your course to anyone considering your CCH training program.

Bill M.

I had limited experience with weapons when walking into class. After completion, my comfort level went from a 3 to a 9, largely in part due to Todd's lessons regarding safety. Above all else, this course will teach you how to not only implement better saftey practices, but be constantly aware of the danger of owning and carrying a hand gun. Todd is an excellent teacher who takes his time to make sure you understand the lesson being taught. Todd also shares his expertise in competition shooting, to show you the right way to hold and fire a weapon. Another excellent aspect of Todd's teaching is the way he explains the current NC laws surrounding CCH issues. I am extremely confident I know when I have the right to use deadly force, and when I don't, which is something someone holding a CCH permit should know. Lastly, my only other class mate was Jodi, Todd's beautiful, friendly dog. She provided ample entertainment for us! I couldn't have asked for a better, more informative class than Todd delivered.

Thanks again Todd,
Chris P.

I was extremely pleased with Todd's class. With the small class size, Todd was able to give us personalized and specific instructions as we practiced. While at the range, we were able to see a class of 30+ students. This class was not getting any instruction at all. We were fortunate enough to have Todd right next to us every step of the way, making sure we had proper grip, even down to the position of each finger. ("Recoil Control / Safety / Speed is Merely Economy of Motion") It Was Great... I learned in-depth about the new laws and am very confident in my ability to handle a firearm and in the understanding of the laws.

Chris S.

Todd,
Fantastic CCH Course!

I wanted you to know how much your course was worth not only for the content but, more importantly, the manner in which you teach the course. You are a true professional in every sense of the word! As a former Marine who has experienced combat (albeit over two decades ago), I understand the critical importance of gun safety and proper technique to achieve success without harming the innocent. Your patience and understanding to those in class, regardless of experience level, was exemplary. Any individual who goes through your course absolutely leaves a far better and safer gun owner.

In closing, I would like to add that if a hidden camera had been in your training class for the entire course, any North Carolina gun safety entity-state or private-would point to your course and proudly declare "that's the way Todd does it in North Carolina...the right way".
Thank you for being a true professional Todd.

Sincerely,
Mark V.

Todd,
Just wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed your class. It was very informative and thorough and we came out of the class with an appreciation of handgun safety and the laws governing them. We feel more equipped to actually purchase and practice with a handgun, as well to continue to learn and become more proficient in the use of our choice of a handgun. Needless to say Jodi is a great dog, and wonderful comic relief!! We will certainly recommend your class to those who are looking to obtain their concealed weapon carry permit.
Excellent job and many thanks...

Joe & Jane M.

Todd is a good guy and a terrific instructor. I had experience with long guns but not with pistols. My wife and I both took the basic pistol safety class which was very informative. It focused very intently on safe gun handling and shooting.
I followed that up by taking the concealed carry class. It offered a plethora of information including; gun safety, legal issues, specific laws that pertains to concealed carry and, home and self-defense.
A booklet published by the North Carolina Justice Academy served as the "text".
Class duration, in hours, is dictated by the government. Even though it was an all day affair, the time passed quickly.
I would highly recommend Todd as an instructor.

Al & Sandy B.

I have found Todd to be very helpful and resourceful in choosing the right
personal pistol, and making sure the pistol has excellent holster options
for concealed carry. After attending the concealed carry class, and
successfully obtaining a permit; I sought additional training with Todd,
taking his pistol craft class on two occasions. I felt really good about the
safe progression of heightening skill levels with his training. The facility
for shooting multiple scenarios in 3 directions was excellent for gaining
real skills in a short period of time. I went from novice to feeling
competent and comfortable with my weapon in a short period of time. I can
draw my pistol from a concealed holster, quickly, safely and acquire targets
with accuracy. I feel good about my ability to change magazines and reload
my pistol with speed under duress. I would highly recommend Todd's one on
one Pistol Craft training.

Marc G.

I highly recommend personal defense & firearm safety to anyone who is considering purchasing a firearm or getting your conceal carry permit. Todd is very thorough and reviews very thought provoking topics which help you understand the seriousness of having not just a firearm but the responsibility of a person is accountable for when having your CCH permit.

Great class, excellent instruction, will definitely go back for follow up instruction...

Nancy C.

I took a private conceal carry class with Todd and I couldn't be more satisfied. He made scheduling easy for me and was even tolerant of me having to run home to let my dog out. (Scheduled break) I described his course to some of my friends who had taken other courses and they all were surprised by the level of detail Todd went into in his class. The beginning of the class was a lot of book work to prepare you for the written test Todd did a good job keeping it interesting while deceptively filling my mind with the information I needed to know for the test. After going through some basic drills and proper handling techniques we took off to the range. As a type A person I put up a bit of a fuss on being a passenger, once again Todd obliged and rode shotgun in my car. At the range I took my qualifying rounds and thanks to Todd I was already a better shot but more importantly a safer shooter, with Todd's instruction I went 30/30 on my qualifier. I would strongly recommend anyone take Todd's course as I learned quite a bit beyond the standard requirements that I would need to just pass the test. 8 hours is a long time to spend going over a small handbook worth of information Todd did a great job making the most of the time his focus on safety has made me much more knowledgeable and comfortable carrying either open or concealed. Jodi (Todd's dog) was also there to provide moral support and occasional comic relief and yes Todd I did want to take her home just like you said I would!
Thanks Again,
Dan B.

Todd,

I would like to thank you for the concealed carry class, all the information,
instruction, helpful insight, and very well structured course. Also the food
and entertainment. I really enjoyed your method of teaching and I feel a lot
more comfortable with the safety aspect of handling not only my handgun but
you have made me more aware when using my rifle and shotgun as well. I have
been to the range a couple of times and not only am I aware of how I handle
my firearm but pay more attention to how other people handle theirs as well.
Thanks again for everything.

Tony N.

Todd,
Thank you very much for your class. Coming from a rookie who has never fired a gun before, I felt incredibly comfortable the entire day. I learned more than I ever thought possible. The lessons were completely thorough focusing on safety as the #1 priority at all times during the class while adhering to the law in all circumstances. I appreciate the constant repetitions to make sure that I had everything down before moving on to the next topic...but even at the end of the day we went back over everything we learned (safety 1st) to make sure I had a firm grasp on everything taught; and the class covered all I needed to know to be safe, obedient to the law, and effective if needed. I would be more than happy to highly recommend Todd to anyone who has any interest in purchasing a gun, getting a concealed carry permit, or the basics in handgun safety and operation. Thank you, Todd for your valuable, educational, and enjoyable class.
God Bless,
Brian C.

My sister and I took Todd's CCH Class and were very pleased with everything about the class. He did a very good job making sure we understood the material that we were going to be tested on. He was very thorough in teaching gun safety and made sure we were both very comfortable by the end of the day handling a hand gun. We had plenty of practice with the fundamentals of handling the gun. I liked the idea that Todd does small group classes and my sister and I actually had a private class. Everything was very individualized and overall we had a great experience. I would definitely recommend Todd's class to other people.
I just wanted to thank you for everything today...
My sister and I really enjoyed the class and both of us feel a lot more comfortable handling a handgun. We especially enjoyed Jodi, (Todd's dog) she definitely kept us entertained. Thanks again for everything and I definitely let my parents know about the class and they are interested, they just need to find a time when they can do it. I will have them contact you when they figure a time out. Thanks again for everything.

Kristen L

I recently took the NC Concealed Carry Handgun Course taught by Todd Martin. This course was very informative from beginning to end. This was a semi-private class with only 3 other students. The class was setup to be completed all in one day and Todd kept it on track all day long. You will learn something in this class no mater the level you are at with handguns. The course is set up as if you have never held a handgun and is a great review for students who have had some experience with handguns. Todd is very good at what he does and he will teach you what you need to know and more. He is a very good instructor and answers any questions you or the class may have. I enjoyed this course 100% and I would recommend to anyone I know to take this class with Todd.

Todd,

I wanted to thank you for the (Private) concealed carry class. I learned so much that without your class I would have been unprepared for the responsibility of carrying a handgun. I really appreciate the attention to detail on the safety part of the class, that was awesome. Thanks for working with me on the handling of my gun. You are the best Todd, I will refer all my friends to you. Now I feel confident about carrying a (Concealed) handgun.

Thanks,

Tim N.

I would highly recommend this class, "with this Instructor", to anybody wishing to obtain a CCW permit. The atmosphere is friendly and professional. The instruction is very good and you will not walk away without learning something. I needed to take the class before a certain date, and all of the major classes were booked up for at least two months. Todd at PDFSNC was able to organize a GREAT semi-private class for me to attend, in less than 1 week after I e-mailed him expressing interest in taking the next possible CCW class. I think the pro's of taking a private or semi-private class for nearly the same amount of money as any other CCW class are enough that anyone, who wishes to obtain a CCW, would benefit from contacting Todd at PDFSNC right away!

Jared P.

Todd,

I found the course extremely well designed and time well spent. I have
a great deal of experience with firearms, and part of my motivation in
taking the course was to have an expert scrutinize my shooting safety
and technique. I found your examination and guidance of great
value alone. The legal use of lethal force was made very clear
by your presentation. At no time did I feel like I was wasting time
as your delivery is tremendously engaging. Thank you for a most
exceptional experience.

Sincerely,
Gary Y.