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Testimonials

Client Testimonials

InSights Training Center has been teaching quality, fast-paced, informative courses around the country since 1990. We offer the most complete self-defense, firearms, and tactical training available to the Private Sector, Law Enforcement, and Military organizations. We have taught more than 10,000 students— private citizens, Law Enforcement officers and instructors, SWAT teams, corrections personnel, security officers, and Military Special Operations personnel.




I recently attended the Basic Handgun Class in Bellevue. The class exceeded my expectations. Paul and Stephanie put their hearts into the class. How the state of Washington does not require such a course for a new gun owner is beyond me. Scheduling the course was easy, Paul is a great instructor, and the follow up after the course was appreciated. Keep up the good work and I look forward to taking my next class!
~ Bob
Redmond, WA
Your training is a good blend of what should work when it is for real. None of us can foresee what gunfight our students or ourselves may be involved in. However, your techniques are a solid building block for emerging victorious in an actual shooting.
~ Mike W.
Birmingham PD

Thank you for the wonderful training I received in the Basic Handgun class. The classroom information was expertly presented with the proper doses of humor to keep it all in perspective. The range sessions were very professionally done and handled in a safe and controlled manner, but also a lot of fun! I am closer to making an informed and responsible decision.

 

~ Joan S.
Seattle, WA

I took my first InSights course on Nov. 21 in Harrisburg. It was excellent. The techniques were realistic and easy to remember. They were also taught and demonstrated in a clear and concise manner. It was obvious that the lesson material was well thought out and and tested.

Mr Collins was very professional and insightful. He answered every question he was asked and usually demonstrated the answer. You know somebody knows what they're talking about when they show you "why" rather than just tell you. I'm definitely going to take Unarmed next year.

~ Dave I, RN
Franklin County Prison, Chambersburg, PA

I truly believe that I not only got my money's worth but that I also received a personal life-altering experience. I gained not only practical skills but a sense of empowerment and capability (from "doing") that I had not hitherto known.

~ Brenda J.
Seattle, WA

I had no idea what to expect when my Mother invited me to join her for Unarmed Self Defense over Mother's Day weekend. I knew it would be good information; however I had no idea how *awesome* I would feel after completing the course! The instructor Nick Collins was great, giving a balanced dose of instruction, practice, and real life application. He also made sure all of our questions were answered and we understood the material thoroughly. The techniques are something that anyone can use, regardless of their physical build or previous training. I feel so empowered now that I have the basic skills to identify threats, deescalate and defend myself without a weapon. I think it's reasonable to say that every woman deserves this kind of high-quality training! We'll be back for more!

~ Hope M.
Edmonds, WA

I just wanted to write and say that the Unarmed Self Defense class that I took this past weekend was the best class I have taken so far. The intensity of the class was great and I feel the added stress of a live attacker (in a padded suit) really helped to enforce everything that was taught. Mike and Clayton did a great job. Also, if you have a "requests list" I would like to see CQC, Defensive rifle and of course DFK II in Harrisburg at some point.

~ Shawn B.
York, PA

After having completed your Intensive handgun Skills course two weeks ago at West Shore, I shot the IDPA qualification with my Beretta 92 that I used in your class.  I cut about 25 seconds off of my previous time and moved from Expert to Master rating for IDPA.  Thanks for the excellent instruction.  By taking my shooting position apart and putting it back together, you helped me push though my plateau that I have stagnated in for several years.  Interestingly, I didn't notice a large difference in speed during the class, but I came home and did not shoot for two weeks.  When I shot the classifier I was markedly faster and more accurate at the same time.

~ Steven P.
Maryland St Police Aviation Division Baltimore,

I was writing to say that I had a positive experience in the Unarmed Self Defense class this previous weekend. The class was very well done, and John and Tracy should be commended for their efforts. Thanks again, and I look forward to attending Insight classes in the future.

~ Richard A.
Seattle, WA

I attended GDH in Harrisburg on 16 & 17 Aug, 2003, and write to share my *postpartum* sentiments. I've fired 1000's of rds thru dozens of different handguns over the past 30 yrs, but GDH gave me more control over, and accuracy w/, my handgun than I thought possible. It's not just the InSights' technique, but also the excellent instruction that are responsible for my newfound proficiency. As a professor w/ 23 yrs teaching experience I was impressed w/ John Holschen's pedagogical expertise. This course should be required for anyone who wants to obtain a carry permit.  I'm looking fwd to taking Tactical Handgun next yr. Please put me on your mailing list.

 

~ Mark S.
Lititz, PA

Hi, I attended the tactical pistol course last month at Snoqualmie Falls PD and wanted to let you know that I thought the training was excellent.

 

~ John K
Clackamas Co Sheriffs Oregon City, OR

I just completed the 3 day InSights "Street and Vehicle" tactics class. Last fall, I took the companion three day InSights "Home Defensive Tactics" class. Unlike most "gun" classes, neither of these classes involved firing a single live round. Rather, the classes addressed topics much more realistic and important than how to cut your split times, quicken your draw, or blast a tighter group. These classes address how to avoid getting shot or otherwise victimized. Home Defensive dealt extensively with flashlight use, pieing corners, stairs, windows, etc. Role play with other students (all done with dummy guns), interaction with law enforcement, etc. A very full 3 days.

Street and Vehicle covered all sorts of stuff. A review (for me) of building search, corner pieing, etc. How to respond to all sorts of attacks on cars, carjackings, how to creatively exit the car, how to draw right in front of an assailant without it being seen, etc. A review of clips from an Al Qaeda (sp?) terror training tape (made by Al Qaeda) so you know what to watch out for. One afternoon dedicated to Simunitions training scenarios (real guns with barrels replaced so they fire paint cartridges. They sting, so you are motivated to do it right.) Lots of discussion on topics brought up by the class, etc. No wasted time.

If you are reasonably competent with your handgun, you would be well served to look into the InSights tactics classes. I have taken a total of 18 different shooting or tactical classes around the country. They were all useful, and some were outstanding. The info doesn't get any more valuable than what is taught in the InSights tactics classes. For most people who have or carry a self defense handgun, this is the next logical step.

~ Bob C.
Pasco, WA

Stephanie, after our conversation on the phone, I wanted to take a moment to give you some feedback in writing. I attended your Basic Handgun Course on Saturday (June 14th).

It was great! I consider myself a hard-sell where training is concerned since facilitating is my career choice (I am a Corporate Trainer at The Bon Marché; Merchant audience, Buyers and Planners). I am so impressed with your team, delivery was truly impressive. Paul (and John from the segment that he taught) was informed, patient, and well prepared. Not only that, the content, pace and practical application packed into a 10 hour day was astounding.

I left with a better understanding (considerably less apprehension) and familiarity of handguns than I expected. I am glad that we had a chance to practice on such a wide range of weapons.

Lastly, again the practical knowledge and safety that was woven throughout the day is so helpful. I definitely recommend your class to others and would attend future courses myself. Well done. Thank you.

~ Dana T.
Seattle, WA

Hi John! First off, thank you for the great instruction and training that I received during the Intensive Handgun course. It was an excellent class, and I have done nothing but benefit from it. I know that from this day on that I will be a better shooter and know what I need to change when my shots aren't placed exactly where I want them.

The class was great. Period. Thank you. Hope to get my ass kicked (as well as learn some things) soon in Unarmed or some CQ courses. Take care.

~ Vance S.
Seattle, WA

I had the opportunity to attend list member Greg Hamilton's Intensive Handgun Skills 3-day class. The class was taught by John Holschen, who is the real deala very competent instructor able to improve everyone's performance in the class by a substantial amount. The class had a very high round count with most firing between 1800 and 2500 rounds in the three days.

When I heard the round count I looked forward to firing that much, but thought that some of that might be wasted. Looking back, I cannot remember a time when we pulled the trigger where the shooting was not carefully designed to instruct a clearly stated lesson. John described the class as being an effort to desconstruct our shooting to the smallest components of our technique. I think I was able to do this and felt that my three days were very well spent. I can recommend this class to anyone looking for a great tune up or, in my case, to get me out of a rut in my pistol shooting.

~ Dan K.
Oregon City, OR

I took the GDH March 9-10 with Tracy, Ben and Kevin. Great class. This is my first experience with Insights but it was a great one. I will end up coming back and taking additional classes.

I came down ill the first day about 5:00 but the class was going so great I gutted it out so I wouldn't miss any of the material. That in itself is a testament to how much I liked the class. Thanks and keep up the good work.

~ Chris K.
Redmond, WA
Very rarely, if ever, do I enter a room with such little or NO prior subject-knowledge and walk out 10 hours later with not just more knowledge but real, very "practical", psycho-motor skills hardwired into my mind, my hands, and my psyche. The InSights Defensive Folding Knife program is not only comprehensive and the essence of progressive skills building, but the techniques integrate seamlessly into other sound, unarmed defense and even handgun techniques.
~ Rolf T., Sheriff's Deputy
Prince George County, MD
First off, Anna and I would like to say "thank you" so much for a great job of instruction. We were both so pleased with your calm and very re-assuring instruction style. We felt that you had a very positive way of instructing, and that when you corrected students, you did it in a very professional way. I have not always had that type of experience in firearms training, and it really shuts a student down. Your style, however, just wants to make us take more and more classes from InSights. Tell Greg to raise your pay!
~ Chad O.
Redmond, WA

Please forgive my tardiness in sending you accolades for the Basic Handgun Class. It was wonderful, every aspect of it. Paul was an excellent instructor, blending the dissemination of serious information with humor, all done with great enthusiasm. As far as I could tell, everyone enjoyed the class immensely. I'm looking forward to the next phase, which will be with my own weapon, once I've figured out what that will be. Apparently there aren't ranges in Bellingham, and though there might be instruction, I am so very glad I came to you.

~ Tracy E.
Bellingham, WA

Thanks again for teaching the class last weekend. I learned a tremendous amount and feel that my skills improved dramatically over the 3 days. I particularly appreciated the "why" portion of how you train as I absolutely learn best that way and can apply and extend the knowledge far better with that fundamental understanding. Thanks again and I hope to be in another of the classes you teach again soon.

~ Mike W.
Woodinville, WA
Thank you for conducting the General and Intermediate Rifle Class in Conyers Georgia last week.  Outstanding content and presentation. A real physical and mental workout. My Rifle and I are in better harmony now. Please keep me informed of any other classes you offer in the Atlanta area.
~ Barry G.
Atlanta, GA

Of all of the courses I have taken from InSights, I think that this is their best one. Highly recommended!

~ Ricahrd W.
Florence, SC
Intensive Handgun Skills: I forgot to turn in my comments after the class, so I'll do my best to reproduce them here. I was expecting a more advanced defensive class, but it seems that's to be found in Intermediate Defensive Handgun (as Greg pointed out, there's no "Defensive" in "Intensive Handgun Skills. However, I'm very very pleased I attended this class. My shooting, or rather hitting skills are higher right off the bat, but more importantly is that I learned the proper way to do things and to notice more details for improvement, and have had success in teaching that to others. And for all that, there wasn't any disinclination to discussing defense related matters, particularly during break. I really like Greg's history lessons, both for the perspective and the way he tells stories, so there certainly was not too much talking on Friday before lunch. Oh, and little quips, such as "professionals don't practice it until they get it right: they practice it right until they don't get it wrong." I also was glad for the opportunity to drag my gear through the sand and mud, as it were, when it rained in the gravel pit Saturday afternoon, to see which components, my grip and posture included, worked and which didn't. John and Derek were also very helpful in offering reinforcement and interpretations. Thanks so much for offering these courses.
~ Tommy Duffy
Kirkland, WA
I have taken many courses from InSights Training, and all of them have exceeded my expectations. I worked at an indoor range, and by taking these courses, I have become more accurate and have learned some life saving techniques. Insights Training Centers is by far, the most professional and intensive training, with a staff that has a great curriculum. I highly recommend taking any of the InSights courses whether you are a novice or an experienced shooter (or any knife, unarmed, baton, etc. courses) that's looking to hone one's skills. Two thumbs up. Thanks InSights!
~ Vance Sakado
Seattle, WA
Greg and his team of highly qualified instructors came to Alaska to train our PSD teams in preparation for an OIF deployment. When our Soldiers were complete with the three weeks of training they all said it was the best three weeks of training they had received. Greg not only trains you on the physical aspect but also the mental. His competency, knowledge from past experiences, and professionalism contributed greatly to the success of our training and actions in combat. If you are looking for this type of training, look no further than InSights.
~ Mark
Barstow, CA
Most people don't consider or they underestimate the spiritual aspects of self defense training. Women especially have an inherent myopia when it comes to envisioning and pursuing what they could be. It takes a special type of person to broach that divide. Needless to say, I'm impressed with your ability to do just that. Self esteem is probably the most important inner trait for women, and you have helped us to increase our shares by being the successful, bright, funny, competent, attractive warrior you are, doing just what you are doing. It's an important service with enormous spiritual implications, and it's your niche. All men should aspire to that level of desirability. You have my thanks. I'm looking forward to learning all I can from you.
~ Deborah
Seattle, WA
Please relay to Greg and John my profound thanks for a great job and a good time!!  It was great fun and extremely informative.  In addition, I used what Greg taught me (as best I could, still practicing!!) at my local IDPA match.  Prior to the class I was shooting the Novice class.  After two days with Greg and John, I shot up two levels to Expert!!!!  I'm very pleased.  Most of the cops I shot with thought I was an IPSC ringer, but I gave all the credit to Insights.  I even turned a few shooters on to your Web site, so hopefully they will be contacting you in the near future!!!  I look forward to attending another Insights seminar in the near future.
~ Jerry S
Seattle, WA
Over the last 15 years I have attend several very well known national training facilities. Insights integrated fighting system is second to none. This is no accident. Greg and his dedicated team of professionals have developed and continue to refine a comprehensive continuum of force fighting system which is easily understood and with practice mastered. The focus is on both physical and mental combat. I highly recommend you explore taking a sequence of classes that will help you develop the skills important to you.
~ Chuck Weitzel
Portland, OR
I recently attended the "Basic Handgin & Responsibility" class in Issaquah, Washington and thought the course was exceptional.
~ Alvin F. may
Renton, WA

I have taken courses led by Greg Hamilton,John Holschen and Mike Warsocki with other instructors assisting. In all cases the didactic instruction and physical training is top notch.The constant preparation of mindset, tactics, strategy and skill is brilliantly planned and executed. I am a true believer in the training method and what is taught. The system where all skills are developed from a central core makes for a reliable and effective set of tools to be used if needed, and prevention principles may obviate such a need.I am amazed at how much more competent and confident one becomes after only a day or weekend course. I probably will end up taking all of the courses at least once.

Mario  NY

~ Mario
NY
The women's shooting league is the highlight of my week. I've gained so much confidence over the course of the league. I went from never having shot a handgun (I took the Basic Handgun class and the following month joined the women's league) to feeling completely confident with handling and shooting my gun in a matter of just weeks - thanks to the solid instruction and coaching provided. The non-threatening degree of competition adds to the excitement. For less than the cost of renting a lane at a firing range (not to mention greater privacy than the public ranges) I have much more meaningful practice with plenty of individual coaching adding value, focus, and purpose to every round fired. It is amazing to me how much improvement I've enjoyed in just a few weeks. I can't recommend enough the Women's Shooting League to anyone wishing to gain confidence in shooting and handling their handgun with greater accuracy, precision and speed. All the women are encouraging to one another as it is exciting to see each of us improve from week to week. The fun shoot at the end is pure fun!
~ Deborah L
Redmond, WA
The Utah CFP class was very informative. In addition to what is legally required for the permit, Insights also provided excellent practical advise. Kinda a teaser for their full blown courses, which I plan to take.
~ Ron Barchi
arlington, WA
Since I had been shooting for years, and reading websites related to concealed carry, I was worried that taking General Defensive Hangun wouldn't provide much value. I sure was wrong about that! There were so many things I learned that I had no idea I didn't know. I'll cetainly be taking more classes at Insights.
~ Dan R
Bellevue, WA
THANK YOU FOR A INCLUSIVE AND VERY INTERESTING CLASS! THE INSTRUCTORS WERE PLEASANT AND RESPECTFULL TO THE STUDENTS, FULLY EXPLAINING AND ANSWERING QUESTIONS. I ALSO WISH TO ADD THE INSTUCTORS WERE SKILLFUL, HOLDING THE INTEREST OF THE STUDENTS, WITH DELIVERY AND KNOWLEDGE OF THE SUBJECT! DAN
~ DAN PHILLIPS
PORT ORCHARD, WA
General Defensive Handgun was well worth the money. The instructor and coaches were helpful, knowledgable, and provided everyone enough time to practice what we learned in a safe environment. The live fire drills, dry fire information, and practical exercises significantly increased my confidence and accuracy. I've noticed a huge difference in my shooting, and will definately be taking more classes in the future!
~ Gerald Sexton
Seattle, WA
Yesterday I finished General Defense Handgun. Today I'm tired, I hurt in odd places, I lost my voice, and I can tell you I just had the most enjoyable 18 hours I can remember. I cannot compliment the instructors enough. In two days my skill with my pistol has been greatly improved - by the end of the class I was able to safely, quickly, and accurately perform tasks I wouldn't have even thought about attempting four days ago. Thank you!
~ Hugh
Sammamish, WA
The class that my wife and I took was a great class. The instructors were top notch. I learned to shoot when I was around 6-7yrs old and I learned a tremendous amount with the class. My wife never held a gun and she was very confident and feels safe handling hand guns now. I would and do recommend your training!
~ Stephen Clapsaddle
Brier, WA
I took the GDH class recently and it was a wonderful experience! I was most impressed with the professionalism and depth of the instructors and their methodical approach. They also showed patience as there were varying levels of experience in the students. I walked out of the 2 day experience feeling a whole lot more confident. I will be taking more classes from Insights as I feel they are truly the best.
~ Tom Leonidas
Bellevue, WA
Second time I've taken General Defensive Handgun. First time with Kevin and this time with Tracy. I brought my friend Jeff along this time. You guys are great! I was able to concentrate on the little things I missed last time. Never hurts to take these classes more than once. I'm feeling good about moving up to intermediate. Thanks again Tracy! See you next time.
~ Fred White
Silverdale, WA
Nature gave me a trigger finger. I bought it a gun. Insights Training brought them harmony. You'll find the Instructors to be safe, professional and accessible; and the classroom environment to be engaging and focused. Read the course description and know you get what you pay for.
~ Brian E.
Bonney Lake, WA
My daughter and I just attended the March Unarmed Self-Defense class this weekend. The class was awesome, and John and Jamin did an awesome job of instruction. I appreciated the mix of lectures on Mental Preparation, self defense techniques, and group practice. I've been around martial arts for many years, but the Insights CQC system is convincingly a simple yet effective set of techniques that will work in real life situations, and yet can be learned by anyone. A really fun and worthwhile weekend for my daughter and myself. Great job guys.
~ Keith Short
Redmond, WA
I recently took the Basic Handgun Safety and Responsibility class, this is the most interesting class I have ever taken. The instructors were great, the main instructor was very clear and easy to understand and he kept it very interesting. The safety levels were a very important part of the instructors teaching. Thank you and the instructors.
~ Phil Lecato
Seattle, WA
I just completed the Utah Conceal Carry Coarse, was very impressed by the instructors at being able to provide the information for all of the individuals taking the the class as it was a vary broard range of ages and races. I myself am 65yrs, upgrading my knowledge as to do more traveling. Thanks to Stephanie Kerns & Allen Hines.
~ James Stumpf
Stanwood, WA
Just finished the Defensive Folding Knife II course, and like all of the Insights courses, it gives you experiences and skills you hadn't imagined. Just realizing the fact of having to use a knife defensively in a real-time encounter is intimidating enough. At least now, I know better what to expect, what to do, and more importantly, what NOT to do!! (hint; like forget your gun!!) Big thanks to John Holschen!
~ P. Johnson
syracuse, NY
I got my Utah CPL class from Insights Training Center recently. The information I got was well structured and easy to remember. Even though it was a 4 hour class, it didn't seem to take a toll on us. We had a lot of fun and gained some helpful knowledge. The overall experience was very enlightening.
~ Vince
Mercer Island, WA
Hello Stephanie, I wanted to thank you and your team for an excellent 2 days of training this past weekend. John and John were both very patient with me and the other students as we needed to be "reminded" on the proper form and procedures we needed to follow to be better shooters. I learned more in 2 days than I have in 40 years of shooting on my own. I will be signing up for my next class very soon but i want to practice all the new shooting techniques I was already given before i add even more. Thank you for a very professional and FUN class. Randy McCurdy
~ Randy McCurdy
Sequim, WA

Training Locations

Our classes are held at a variety of West Coast and East Coast locations nationwide. If you cannot find a class that matches your location or schedule, you may also sponsor a class in your area and receive free training. If you have a specific location in mind, we are happy to work with you to accommodate your club, group, or organization.

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InSights Training Center has been recognized by numerous organizations and publications as one of the top firearms and self-defense schools in the world. We continue to offer world class training from world class instructors. We are one of the select few schools consistently designated as being among the best of the best.
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