We are not a military boot camp
We are not a law-enforcement training academy
We are ordinary people. Just like you.
Our instructors work diligently every single year to get the training and knowledge necessary to responsibly own, use or carry a firearm to protect themselves and their loved ones, to confidently enter firearms competitions, or to simply and safely enjoy spending time on the range plinking targets. Just like you.
Our core instructors have each amassed nearly 400 hours of instruction over the past eight years in defensive pistol skills and other firearms disciplines. They are certified by credible organizations such as the NRA. We believe that constant learning makes us better teachers because we have sat in a classroom and stood on the firing line with that familiar sense of nervous anticipation and uncertainty. Just like you.
We understand how you feel and we are here to help.
We are on a journey toward excellence. Just like you...
We offer training under the auspices of our two brands
Sub Rosa Firearms Training offers basic, intermediate and advanced pistol instruction
Southwest Pistol Training will offer New Mexico concealed carry training and certification
We Do Not Profit from the Training We Provide
Frequently Asked Questions
What's this no-profit stuff mean?
We educate people about the safe and responsible use of firearms as a charitable endeavor. Our core instructors are not paid. Any money leftover after paying our expenses is donated to the Los Alamos Sportsmen's Club (LASC), a not-for-profit shooting range with which we are not affiliated, other than through membership and volunteer work. We also are considering donations to other not-for-profits that support and promote the shooting sports or have strong support for our Second Amendment rights.
Do you teach private groups or classes?
We would consider teaching private classes or groups, but because our goal is to maximize donations to LASC, the class size and goals would need to be such that they would be worthwhile for the students, instructors, and our beneficiaries. Please contact us to discuss your needs and goals.
What does Sub Rosa mean?
The phrase "under the rose" signifies something done in-confidence or secrecy. We strongly believe that people who keep their firearms skills to themselves, and who are thoughtful in all manner and speech, are much less likely to be targets of violence or to have to use violence or force to defend themselves against evildoers. Discretion is the better part of valor.
Do you guarantee your results?
Because everyone learns at their own pace and because everyone has different abilities, we make no guarantees about the progress you will make in each class. If you feel you didn't learn anything, we will refund your tuition or allow you to repeat the class again for free. That said, we want everyone to feel like our classes have value, so we are happy to work with you to help you become a successful student.
Are you former military or law-enforcement members?
Unless specifically noted, our instructors are not former military or LEO members. We are ordinary citizens who realized the importance of receiving constant training if you are going to carry a firearm, particularly for self-defense. We enjoy shooting so much that we are passionate about teaching everyone to become safe, responsible, law-abiding gun owners. I guess some people might say we are firearms evangelists, and that's just fine with us.
What about safety?
We prioritize safety over all other considerations and we will expect you to do the same. Those who, for whatever reason, demonstrate an inability or unwillingness to conduct themselves in a safe and responsible manner will be asked to leave the class. Safety is not negotiable.
