We help ordinary people

conceal carry

with confidence.

Everyone wants to feel protected.

But not everyone wants to feel like John Wick.

If you want the peace of mind that comes from concealed carry, but feel like you aren’t a “gun person”, you’re in the right place. We approach concealed carry from a practical approach.

Get the FREE Ohio CCW Training Guide!

Bonus: Includes 5 Real Answers to the concealed carry test.

Hi! We’re Kevin & Alisha

We created Armed2Defend because we want everyone to receive meaningful concealed carry training.

See, we were just ordinary people that decided to get our concealed carry license. (Kevin was a scientist and Alisha was a teacher.) But our training experience wasn’t good. The instructor didn’t care if we learned anything or not. We were there to fulfill seat time and jump through hoops.

Kevin decided to get his NRA Instructor credentials so we could help our friends and family get better training than we got. And that is how Armed2Defend was born. We didn’t mean to start a business. But we found a passion. And that passion grew into a business.

We love sharing our passion with thousands of students each year. We would love to have you in one of our classes.

Armed2Defend is the training we wish we would have received.

We want you to feel comfortable, confident and competent.

FREE Guide!

Avoid 4 mistakes most people make when taking CCW Training.

You deserve to feel protected.

We can’t wait to help you.

Mike Ellis
Mike Ellis
1732405546
Very informative, 10/10 would recommend to friends and family
Breana Trout
Breana Trout
1732029321
I recently took the firearm training/ccw all women's course at Armed2Defend. I have nothing but great things to say about both the in class training and the range training. Alisha is just a wealth of knowledge and does all she can to bring that knowledge to the classroom. A 6 hr long class sounds daunting but it just went so quick. I felt like I had known Alisha and Kevin for years! The range training was amazing, I have never handled a handgun/pistol before and they not only went over how to safely handle the firearm but how to load, unload, deal with mechanical or ammo failures and of course how to shoot. On the range, George was the instructor I worked most closely with and he was very knowledgeable but also fun and funny! I highly recommend Armed2Defend whether or not you want to get your concealed carry license...if you ever plan on handling a gun even for just home protection..take this course!!!
Eric Egger
Eric Egger
1731850426
"The class was informative and easy to follow. Would love to have a supplemental class going more in depth into the self defense legal side of things.George was great on the range, we had a really good conversation not just about shooting but about life
Susan Darfus
Susan Darfus
1731810427
Armed2 Defend has an online class coupled with a in person shooting range class. I never picked up a gun before but felt it was important for me to have the knowledge and ability to protect myself. I searched the internet for what suited my needs and found that Armed2 Defend was a great fit. The owners are a husband and wife team that are the total package. They were so informative that I pondered on the fact that being a gun owner is one of the biggest responsibilities one could possibly ever have that I thought I may have made the wrong decision to own a gun. So I took the course and with more and more knowledge I became more comfortable about my choice. Then came the shooting range. I had the best instructor, Tim was the best, he was patient and gave me great advice on handling the gun. It was very enlightening. This was the basic course. Keven and Alisha were the absolute best trainers and I highly recommend this class. You’ll walk away with a sense of accomplishment and also know that practice makes perfect! So I’ll be off to the range knowing I’ve been taught the correct way to handle my gun and respect it! They also have more advanced classes that I’ll be looking at taking. Armed2Defend cares about you and your safety!
Too many CCW instructors treat these classes like a formality and not a learning opportunity. Alisha and Kevin clearly have a passion for what they do and embrace educating their students on safely operating a firearm at all levels of experience. I appreciated Alisha’s engagement on the range and patience most of all as well as her ability to spot and correct mistakes. Thank you for providing the instructional experience I was looking for.
"I learn more each time on both gun techniques & laws"
Brian Hogan
Brian Hogan
1730918238
This class had all the information that I need to feel confident in subject matter. Range time and coaching was also good. I recommend the Sampler Package for those who have not purchased a firearm or are still look for the right firearm to carry.
Roger B
Roger B
1727537506
I just completed the instructors course. Kevin did an amazing job teaching the class. Highly recommend!!
Francisco Gomez
Francisco Gomez
1726408724
The whole experience was pretty great!!Super knowledgeable and would 100% recommend!!!
Great discussions of lethal force in the classroom including a variety of scenarios. Great education on preparation for before, during, and after an incident. The use of Mantis technology and training on the range with instructors is safe and effective to improve live firing performance. You will learn more and be a better shooter from this course. Provides excellent guidance and resources for continued training. Thank you Kevin & Alisha!
Jessica Fozzard
Jessica Fozzard
1726360106
Loved this class. Everyone was top knotch and I learned more than I thought I would. Kevin and Alisha are both very experienced and able to answer any questions I had!
Leah Miracle
Leah Miracle
1724858790
I learned a lot in the classroom and appreciated the real-life examples. I also learned a lot on the range. Kevin and Alisha are supportive instructors who seek to build up all their students.
Kim Riddlebaugh
Kim Riddlebaugh
1721600205
Kevin & Alisha were great. They answered all questions and were always around at breaks for additional questions.George was our range instructor and he was also amazing!!! He really helped to pinpoint where I needed to improve and suggestions for how to do this.Everything was very well organized from having a purchased lunch and drink options, and signs that made it extremely clear on where to go for the class and the range. The material was all arranged in a nice folder and with helpful note-taking documents which helped for the quizzes. Great place! Would highly recommend!
Great personalities, highly knowledgeable. Instructors were very thorough and patient, not intimidating at all. Highly recommended! I’ll be seeing them for future teachings for sure! Great job Alisha and Kevin!
Shannon DePouw
Shannon DePouw
1721155954
Back in June I started looking for recommendations on a women lead class for concealed carry. I received numerous comments and ultimately chose Armed2Defend in Canal Winchester. During class yesterday, the knowledge, advice and experience that I was given from Alisha and Melia was incredible. They both truly were great women and fantastic instructors. If you are thinking about getting your CCW or just want to be more comfortable and confident around guns, take this class! (Melia on the left, myself and Alisha on the right)
Tina Willis
Tina Willis
1717901246
I learn so much about how to handle guns and the instructors was very patient people.
ArcBlatt
ArcBlatt
1713712568
I couldn't have chosen a better experience for my family and myself. It was the first time we handled and fired a gun. We came out of the course feeling empowered and inspired to learn more and improve our safety. Kevin, Alisha, and their team were informative and fantastic overall. George and Roger made a difference in our day. My family and I plan to return for future training. Thank you again for your help, guidance, and encouragement!
ozmin
ozmin
1713075858
Everyone was by far the kindest people i’ve met in a while. They answered every single question I had with consideration and never made me feel dumb for asking questions. All of the instructors there work as a team to help you learn and makes you feel appreciated. Thank you Kevin and Alicia.
Solid information and very informative. Took time to answer our questions. Down to earth and laid back made the course a relaxing time.
Jamie Miller
Jamie Miller
1711228788
Took the women’s conceal carry class in March ‘24. It was amazing! The instructors walked us through the necessary training to get our conceal carry license, and also helped us get accustomed to handling guns before we went to the range to practice. Learning how a gun works, correct handling, grip, aiming, and shooting technique ahead of time really paid off during the range time. I was very nervous handling a real gun, but Alisha let me take my time to get comfortable, helped me to feel confident handling the gun, and was very encouraging! I have owned a gun for over 2 years, have only held it a few times and pulled the trigger twice, and now I am so excited to get in regular shooting practice, looking to shop for a second gun, and feel so confident walking into a gun shop and picking up guns. It’s a complete 180, and I am so grateful for this class! It completely changed my attitude about my firearm! Highly recommend for any women anxious about guns!
T R
T R
1710055538
I was so nerves because I didn’t know what to expect. With their patience and kindness I felt very confident. With fair pricing I learned a lot of what it takes to become a law abiding CCW carry. I highly recommend anyone looking to extend their rights.
Joe Gerencser
Joe Gerencser
1710032046
"At first I thought the length of classroom instruction would be difficult but I was WRONG. The day moved very quickly. I'm glad I am a USCCA member and read every CCW Magazine edition from cover to cover (I also have the January 2013 edition of Michael Martin's book from USCCA) because it helped in my understanding of the material Kevin discussed in class. The range work for me was outstanding. I want to specifically thank George for paying attention to my grip. He made a few suggestions that greatly helped my "shot group" from the first 2 rounds fired to the last 6 rounds fired. There is no doubt in my mind that I will be back with Armed2Defend for more work in the very near future. In my opinion is was an excellent experience and I will have zero issues recommending people to take the course. I wish I could convince my wife to attend but I'm not expecting miracles. Thank you for all your efforts."
James Porter
James Porter
1710004035
I took part in ccw class on the 25th of March, great class. Met some really great people in the class and instructors were extremely knowledgeable and helpful thanks for all you do in the class Jim porter
This place is awesome they make u feel very comfortable and teach u everything loved this class
Dan Chester
Dan Chester
1709939679
Classroom information was clear and presented very well, our instructor at the range was great, got great tips on grip style as well as small things to work on to improve my accuracy. An overall amazing experience.
Armed2Defend is a excellent concealed carry class I had a ton of questions about the laws of being able to conceal carry and no answer to any of them before I signed up for there class But after taking there course I'm extremely confident about the laws as well as handling and carrying my gun highly recommend them to anyone who needs more answers for the laws of concealed carry or those who need help with operation of there gun in my opinion there probably the best instructors in the state.
oday ghaly
oday ghaly
1700839265
They are the best and the most kind trustworthy small family business in Ohio,
Johnny Comacho
Johnny Comacho
1697935392
Had my 2hr range time today. What great instructors! They made everyone feel comfortable and took time to help everyone with questions we had.
Wow I just can say AMAZING experience, they’re amazing, excellent staff, I’m super grateful with all of you, thank you so much. Specially thanks to kevin’s dad.
Libdho jams
Libdho jams
1688785335
Good training
M France
M France
1682685905
Thorough, Passionate and Caring about what and how CCW is taught. Lynne and I were not sure what to expect, but definitely exceeded our expectations.....Tks, Matt"
Brian Moss
Brian Moss
1680303098
Kevin runs an outstanding organization....look forward to many more classes with Armed2defend....
Russell Sowers
Russell Sowers
1655539575
I had taken outher on line ccw class with no luck but armed 2 Defend is the best one I took on line class was great
Kayla Barker
Kayla Barker
1649714544
Really happy with this CCW class. The online portion was concise and informative, and the in-person portion was really helpful. Both Kevin & Alisha gave me personal instruction on how to safely shoot more accurately and went out of their way to give me tips. I’d recommend this class to anyone!
Red Machine
Red Machine
1646097839
best class I've ever taken. Kevin and his team are very professional and helpful. you will leave classes feeling very confident and proud.
Kelly Foster
Kelly Foster
1632443161
Have nothing but great things to say. The instructor/sensei was very knowledgeable. I strongly recommend! Kelly Foster
I went through this course yesterday. I assumed it was going to be a boring 8 hours. I was wrong. It was fantastic. Everyone was great and I actually learned way more then I thought I would. I can’t recommend them enough. One of the best decisions I ever made. Thank you
J C
J C
1628462328
Awesome CCW/CHL training. Kevin and Alisha are top notch instructors who are passionate and knowlegeable about their field. Their style of teaching accommodates newer and seasoned firearm enthusiasts. They covered state requirements while also ensuring student questions were addressed on the spot. Finally, the range time was relaxed while prioritizing safety at all times.
christine bowen
christine bowen
1615155358
I had an incredible experience with the class yesterday. I had some knowledge as to what was to be expected. The class was informative and educational. For me the best part of the day was the drive home, my 22 year old son was with me and the knowledge he gained from the experience. I would highly recommend this company.
Joseph Gaynor
Joseph Gaynor
1615152196
As someone who has taken NRA Pistol classes before, I was happily surprised that the range training for the CHL featured 5+ NRA Instructors, as well as the leaders of the training, Alisha, and Kevin who are NRA Instructors themselves. Most other training providers I considedred don't provide instruction during the training process, and the investment in qualified NRA Instructors made me feel much better about this training over the others that I investigated before applying for my CHL. This is a great Company to use whether you're an experienced shooter, or have never shot a gun before. You will feel more comfortable with a firearm, and understand the responsibilities you have as a firearm owner by going through this company. Would highly recommend.
Dream Big
Dream Big
1607048904
This was a very informative class with great instructors, they did a awesome job with engaging and involving everyone in the class. Also huge shout out to Instructor George at the range, Doing an awesome job!!
L Atcherson
L Atcherson
1607004036
Great class! Very informative. I was nervous at first, but I learned so much. Kevin and Alicia were awesome. The sampler pack at the range was quite helpful in helping me to choose my own firearm.
Next Reviewsjs_loader
Very informative, 10/10 would recommend to friends and family
Mike Ellis
Mike Ellis
1732405546
I recently took the firearm training/ccw all women's course at Armed2Defend. I have nothing but great things to say about both the in class training and the range training. Alisha is just a wealth of knowledge and does all she can to bring that knowledge to the classroom. A 6 hr long class sounds daunting but it just went so quick. I felt like I had known Alisha and Kevin for years! The range training was amazing, I have never handled a handgun/pistol before and they not only went over how to safely handle the firearm but how to load, unload, deal with mechanical or ammo failures and of course how to shoot. On the range, George was the instructor I worked most closely with and he was very knowledgeable but also fun and funny! I highly recommend Armed2Defend whether or not you want to get your concealed carry license...if you ever plan on handling a gun even for just home protection..take this course!!!
Breana Trout
Breana Trout
1732029321
"The class was informative and easy to follow. Would love to have a supplemental class going more in depth into the self defense legal side of things.George was great on the range, we had a really good conversation not just about shooting but about life
Eric Egger
Eric Egger
1731850426
Armed2 Defend has an online class coupled with a in person shooting range class. I never picked up a gun before but felt it was important for me to have the knowledge and ability to protect myself. I searched the internet for what suited my needs and found that Armed2 Defend was a great fit. The owners are a husband and wife team that are the total package. They were so informative that I pondered on the fact that being a gun owner is one of the biggest responsibilities one could possibly ever have that I thought I may have made the wrong decision to own a gun. So I took the course and with more and more knowledge I became more comfortable about my choice. Then came the shooting range. I had the best instructor, Tim was the best, he was patient and gave me great advice on handling the gun. It was very enlightening. This was the basic course. Keven and Alisha were the absolute best trainers and I highly recommend this class. You’ll walk away with a sense of accomplishment and also know that practice makes perfect! So I’ll be off to the range knowing I’ve been taught the correct way to handle my gun and respect it! They also have more advanced classes that I’ll be looking at taking. Armed2Defend cares about you and your safety!
Susan Darfus
Susan Darfus
1731810427
Too many CCW instructors treat these classes like a formality and not a learning opportunity. Alisha and Kevin clearly have a passion for what they do and embrace educating their students on safely operating a firearm at all levels of experience. I appreciated Alisha’s engagement on the range and patience most of all as well as her ability to spot and correct mistakes. Thank you for providing the instructional experience I was looking for.
"I learn more each time on both gun techniques & laws"
This class had all the information that I need to feel confident in subject matter. Range time and coaching was also good. I recommend the Sampler Package for those who have not purchased a firearm or are still look for the right firearm to carry.
Brian Hogan
Brian Hogan
1730918238
I just completed the instructors course. Kevin did an amazing job teaching the class. Highly recommend!!
Roger B
Roger B
1727537506
The whole experience was pretty great!!Super knowledgeable and would 100% recommend!!!
Francisco Gomez
Francisco Gomez
1726408724
Great discussions of lethal force in the classroom including a variety of scenarios. Great education on preparation for before, during, and after an incident. The use of Mantis technology and training on the range with instructors is safe and effective to improve live firing performance. You will learn more and be a better shooter from this course. Provides excellent guidance and resources for continued training. Thank you Kevin & Alisha!
Loved this class. Everyone was top knotch and I learned more than I thought I would. Kevin and Alisha are both very experienced and able to answer any questions I had!
Jessica Fozzard
Jessica Fozzard
1726360106
I learned a lot in the classroom and appreciated the real-life examples. I also learned a lot on the range. Kevin and Alisha are supportive instructors who seek to build up all their students.
Leah Miracle
Leah Miracle
1724858790
Kevin & Alisha were great. They answered all questions and were always around at breaks for additional questions.George was our range instructor and he was also amazing!!! He really helped to pinpoint where I needed to improve and suggestions for how to do this.Everything was very well organized from having a purchased lunch and drink options, and signs that made it extremely clear on where to go for the class and the range. The material was all arranged in a nice folder and with helpful note-taking documents which helped for the quizzes. Great place! Would highly recommend!
Kim Riddlebaugh
Kim Riddlebaugh
1721600205
Great personalities, highly knowledgeable. Instructors were very thorough and patient, not intimidating at all. Highly recommended! I’ll be seeing them for future teachings for sure! Great job Alisha and Kevin!
Back in June I started looking for recommendations on a women lead class for concealed carry. I received numerous comments and ultimately chose Armed2Defend in Canal Winchester. During class yesterday, the knowledge, advice and experience that I was given from Alisha and Melia was incredible. They both truly were great women and fantastic instructors. If you are thinking about getting your CCW or just want to be more comfortable and confident around guns, take this class! (Melia on the left, myself and Alisha on the right)
Shannon DePouw
Shannon DePouw
1721155954
I learn so much about how to handle guns and the instructors was very patient people.
Tina Willis
Tina Willis
1717901246
I couldn't have chosen a better experience for my family and myself. It was the first time we handled and fired a gun. We came out of the course feeling empowered and inspired to learn more and improve our safety. Kevin, Alisha, and their team were informative and fantastic overall. George and Roger made a difference in our day. My family and I plan to return for future training. Thank you again for your help, guidance, and encouragement!
ArcBlatt
ArcBlatt
1713712568
Everyone was by far the kindest people i’ve met in a while. They answered every single question I had with consideration and never made me feel dumb for asking questions. All of the instructors there work as a team to help you learn and makes you feel appreciated. Thank you Kevin and Alicia.
ozmin
ozmin
1713075858
Solid information and very informative. Took time to answer our questions. Down to earth and laid back made the course a relaxing time.
Took the women’s conceal carry class in March ‘24. It was amazing! The instructors walked us through the necessary training to get our conceal carry license, and also helped us get accustomed to handling guns before we went to the range to practice. Learning how a gun works, correct handling, grip, aiming, and shooting technique ahead of time really paid off during the range time. I was very nervous handling a real gun, but Alisha let me take my time to get comfortable, helped me to feel confident handling the gun, and was very encouraging! I have owned a gun for over 2 years, have only held it a few times and pulled the trigger twice, and now I am so excited to get in regular shooting practice, looking to shop for a second gun, and feel so confident walking into a gun shop and picking up guns. It’s a complete 180, and I am so grateful for this class! It completely changed my attitude about my firearm! Highly recommend for any women anxious about guns!
Jamie Miller
Jamie Miller
1711228788
I was so nerves because I didn’t know what to expect. With their patience and kindness I felt very confident. With fair pricing I learned a lot of what it takes to become a law abiding CCW carry. I highly recommend anyone looking to extend their rights.
T R
T R
1710055538
"At first I thought the length of classroom instruction would be difficult but I was WRONG. The day moved very quickly. I'm glad I am a USCCA member and read every CCW Magazine edition from cover to cover (I also have the January 2013 edition of Michael Martin's book from USCCA) because it helped in my understanding of the material Kevin discussed in class. The range work for me was outstanding. I want to specifically thank George for paying attention to my grip. He made a few suggestions that greatly helped my "shot group" from the first 2 rounds fired to the last 6 rounds fired. There is no doubt in my mind that I will be back with Armed2Defend for more work in the very near future. In my opinion is was an excellent experience and I will have zero issues recommending people to take the course. I wish I could convince my wife to attend but I'm not expecting miracles. Thank you for all your efforts."
Joe Gerencser
Joe Gerencser
1710032046
I took part in ccw class on the 25th of March, great class. Met some really great people in the class and instructors were extremely knowledgeable and helpful thanks for all you do in the class Jim porter
James Porter
James Porter
1710004035
This place is awesome they make u feel very comfortable and teach u everything loved this class
Classroom information was clear and presented very well, our instructor at the range was great, got great tips on grip style as well as small things to work on to improve my accuracy. An overall amazing experience.
Dan Chester
Dan Chester
1709939679
Armed2Defend is a excellent concealed carry class I had a ton of questions about the laws of being able to conceal carry and no answer to any of them before I signed up for there class But after taking there course I'm extremely confident about the laws as well as handling and carrying my gun highly recommend them to anyone who needs more answers for the laws of concealed carry or those who need help with operation of there gun in my opinion there probably the best instructors in the state.
They are the best and the most kind trustworthy small family business in Ohio,
oday ghaly
oday ghaly
1700839265
Had my 2hr range time today. What great instructors! They made everyone feel comfortable and took time to help everyone with questions we had.
Johnny Comacho
Johnny Comacho
1697935392
Wow I just can say AMAZING experience, they’re amazing, excellent staff, I’m super grateful with all of you, thank you so much. Specially thanks to kevin’s dad.
Good training
Libdho jams
Libdho jams
1688785335
Thorough, Passionate and Caring about what and how CCW is taught. Lynne and I were not sure what to expect, but definitely exceeded our expectations.....Tks, Matt"
M France
M France
1682685905
Kevin runs an outstanding organization....look forward to many more classes with Armed2defend....
Brian Moss
Brian Moss
1680303098
I had taken outher on line ccw class with no luck but armed 2 Defend is the best one I took on line class was great
Russell Sowers
Russell Sowers
1655539575
Really happy with this CCW class. The online portion was concise and informative, and the in-person portion was really helpful. Both Kevin & Alisha gave me personal instruction on how to safely shoot more accurately and went out of their way to give me tips. I’d recommend this class to anyone!
Kayla Barker
Kayla Barker
1649714544
best class I've ever taken. Kevin and his team are very professional and helpful. you will leave classes feeling very confident and proud.
Red Machine
Red Machine
1646097839
Have nothing but great things to say. The instructor/sensei was very knowledgeable. I strongly recommend! Kelly Foster
Kelly Foster
Kelly Foster
1632443161
I went through this course yesterday. I assumed it was going to be a boring 8 hours. I was wrong. It was fantastic. Everyone was great and I actually learned way more then I thought I would. I can’t recommend them enough. One of the best decisions I ever made. Thank you
Awesome CCW/CHL training. Kevin and Alisha are top notch instructors who are passionate and knowlegeable about their field. Their style of teaching accommodates newer and seasoned firearm enthusiasts. They covered state requirements while also ensuring student questions were addressed on the spot. Finally, the range time was relaxed while prioritizing safety at all times.
J C
J C
1628462328
This class was one of the best classes I've taken. It was fun and entertaining as well as informative. I felt the upselled everything, yet everything they sold was only high quality products that they believed in. Now I believe in them too. They're motto, "It's a lifestyle." is something I've already learned to adapt.
Aaron Bowen
Aaron Bowen
1615155650
I had an incredible experience with the class yesterday. I had some knowledge as to what was to be expected. The class was informative and educational. For me the best part of the day was the drive home, my 22 year old son was with me and the knowledge he gained from the experience. I would highly recommend this company.
christine bowen
christine bowen
1615155358
As someone who has taken NRA Pistol classes before, I was happily surprised that the range training for the CHL featured 5+ NRA Instructors, as well as the leaders of the training, Alisha, and Kevin who are NRA Instructors themselves. Most other training providers I considedred don't provide instruction during the training process, and the investment in qualified NRA Instructors made me feel much better about this training over the others that I investigated before applying for my CHL. This is a great Company to use whether you're an experienced shooter, or have never shot a gun before. You will feel more comfortable with a firearm, and understand the responsibilities you have as a firearm owner by going through this company. Would highly recommend.
Joseph Gaynor
Joseph Gaynor
1615152196
This was a very informative class with great instructors, they did a awesome job with engaging and involving everyone in the class. Also huge shout out to Instructor George at the range, Doing an awesome job!!
Dream Big
Dream Big
1607048904
Great class! Very informative. I was nervous at first, but I learned so much. Kevin and Alicia were awesome. The sampler pack at the range was quite helpful in helping me to choose my own firearm.
L Atcherson
L Atcherson
1607004036
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