There is a small group of instructors I consider the best in the industry. I have worked with many of them personally in various settings and can vouch for their expertise and teaching abilities. They excel in their fields and offer instruction for a wide range of skill levels. If you’re looking to improve, I highly recommend checking their schedules for 2025 and planning to attend their courses.

Bill Rapier, the owner and lead instructor of Amtac Shooting, brings unparalleled expertise from his 20-year career in the Navy. His service included time with SEAL Team 3 and over 14 years with Naval Special Warfare Development Group, where he held roles such as assaulter, breacher, sniper, team leader, troop chief, and senior enlisted adviser for the military working dog department. A lifelong shooter and expert in combatives, Bill is also a highly respected professional in CQB instruction. Beyond his professional achievements, he is a man of faith, which further shapes his character and teaching philosophy.

Centrifuge Training applies a systematic, data-driven approach to modern problem-solving, specializing in vehicle-based tactics (VCQB), low-light and structure problem-solving, K-9 integration, performance skill building, range management, instructor development, and product consulting. Founded by William Petty, a law enforcement veteran since 2003 with extensive experience as a Firearms Instructor, Emergency Response Team member, and Counter-Terrorism Instructor, the company also features instructors like Blake Buchanan, who began his law enforcement career in 2011 and has served in roles including Patrol, CID, SRT, and narcotics task force supervision. Both bring years of instructional expertise to deliver practical, high-level training for agencies across the U.S. and Canada. Centrifuge is the gold standard for Law Enforcement specific training.

Thunder Ranch, a renowned firearm training facility in Southern Oregon, was founded in 1993 by Clint Smith, who until recently was President and Director, and now led by Jack Daniel, the Director of Training.

Clint Smith, a Marine Corps veteran with two tours in Vietnam, brings decades of experience, including several years as a police officer specializing in firearms training and SWAT operations. He has held key roles at the American Pistol Institute and H&K’s training division, founded International Training Consultants, authored books such as Urban Rifle and Urban Rifle 2, and contributed to leading firearms magazines. Jack Daniel, with 19 years in law enforcement including roles as SWAT Team Leader and Lieutenant in Patrol and Investigations, complements Smith’s established doctrine with expertise in high-risk operations and curriculum development for civilian, law enforcement and military clients. Together, along with a highly qualified staff, have shaped Thunder Ranch into a premier training institution, offering programs focused on leadership, accountability, and preparedness, while consulting for the firearms and optics industry to refine tools and techniques for armed professionals and civilians alike.

While the instructors mentioned are among the best in the industry, it’s important to recognize the value of local instructors who may not have the same level of recognition or frequent class offerings. Seeking out local training opportunities can provide consistent growth and progress. Attending a class alone is not enough—you must commit to reinforcing good habits, refining your mindset, and adhering to protocols you establish for yourself. Training should be a daily practice. While courses from top-tier instructors are invaluable, they require a significant commitment, so focus on consistent personal development locally and pursue advanced training with these experts when feasible.