Frequently asked questions
Where is your training held?
I do most of the training classes out at
California Tactical Academy in Piru.
6700 Holser Canyon Rd, Piru CA
What would I need to bring to class?
There is no cell or food service at the range. Please plan accordingly.
Bring the following your training:
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A Holster
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A Magazine Holder
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Eyes and Ears (protection)
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Plenty of water and snacks
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A minimum of 200 rounds. If you want to shoot more, bring more.
HOW DO I GET A CCW PERMIT IN VENTURA COUNTY?
To obtain a CCW permit in Ventura County, you must apply through the Ventura County Sheriff's Office. The process includes submitting an application, getting a livescan, and completing a certified CCW training course. Cal Guns Training offers the required CCW certification course to help you meet this requirement.
WHAT IS REQUIRED TO GET A CCW IN CALIFORNIA?
California requires CCW applicants to be a resident of the county where they apply, have a livescan performed, complete a certified firearms training course. Cal Guns Training is certified to provide the required training for both Ventura and Los Angeles County applicants.
HOW LONG DOES CCW CERTIFICATION TAKE?
The CCW certification course at Cal Guns Training is completed in an initial 16 hours and a renewal for 8 hours. It covers firearm safety, handling, shooting fundamentals, and California laws regarding the use of deadly force. Upon successful completion, you will receive your certificate of training to include with your CCW application.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A CCW COURSE AND NRA BASIC HANDGUN?
The NRA Basic Handgun course focuses on foundational firearm safety, handling, and marksmanship — ideal for new gun owners or anyone wanting to build core skills. The CCW course is specifically designed to meet California's requirements for a concealed carry permit application and includes California-specific laws and use of force training. Many students take the NRA course first before pursuing their CCW.
IS CAL GUNS TRAINING NRA CERTIFIED?
Yes. Shawn Lindstrom is an NRA training counselor who can training instructors with over 18 years of teaching experience and a background in law enforcement. Cal Guns Training is authorized to issue NRA course completion certificates for Basic Handgun and Basic Rifle courses.
CAN BEGINNERS WITH NO EXPERIENCE TAKE YOUR COURSES?
Absolutely. Cal Guns Training was built with beginners in mind. Shawn's approach is calm, patient, and judgment-free — many students have never touched a firearm before their first class. You will never feel rushed or intimidated. Every student moves at their own pace in a safe and supportive environment.
DO YOU OFFER PRIVATE ONE-ON-ONE FIREARM TRAINING?
Yes. Private firearms training is available for individuals and small groups. Private sessions are ideal for those who prefer personalized instruction, have a specific skill they want to develop, or have a schedule that doesn't fit a group class. Use the Request Private Training form on the Offerings page to get started.
WHAT CITIES DO YOU SERVE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA?
Cal Guns Training serves students throughout Southern California including Ventura County cities such as Thousand Oaks, Oxnard, Camarillo, Ventura, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Santa Paula, Fillmore, Ojai, and Piru, as well as Los Angeles County cities including Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Westlake Village, Santa Clarita, Woodland Hills, Chatsworth, Granada Hills, Northridge, and Tarzana. We also serve Santa Barbara County including Santa Barbara, Carpinteria, and Goleta. Private training can be arranged throughout the greater Southern California area.