Student Reviews

Word on the Street

Below is a sampling of some of the feedback our students have offered after training with CSA. We hope it gives you a better idea of what to expect when you take our classes. Maybe soon we can add your positive review to the list! To read more reviews or to add your own, please see our Google listing or visit our Facebook page.

Google Reviews

  • Awesome training and outstanding instructors. The instructors keep all the conversations lively and keep the participants engaged. The classes go beyond the basic course curriculum. I would recommend CSA for any firearm or self defense courses.
    Michael Kirby Avatar
    Michael Kirby
    3/12/2022
    First off, If I could rate this place 10 out of 5 I would, they are that good. I initially started my adventure into gun ownership and safety like my others during these crazy times. After some research, I stumbled upon Citizens Safety Academy and was instantly drawn in by the rave reviews and the instructors' impressive backgrounds. All the classes were booked up weeks out, plus I would be coming from Knoxville, almost 3 hours out, but that didn't deter me. After taking the Enhanced Carry course, I can honestly say I was blown away by the professionalism, knowledge, care, and understanding exhibited by Aqil and his team. Even at the most basic level, there was so much information given and I walked away with a newfound love and respect for firearms and their importance to our safety.

    Aqil, with the decades of experience and literal book of certifications, is a walking encyclopedia. His knowledge on gun safety made the class very enjoyable and refreshing. He did not cheat the process by just giving us information to memorize and an easy test like some other places. He took his time to make sure we understood the importance of safety, as well as some of the basic nuances of the guns we would be handling as well as others. His staff was just as helpful and friendly and made the experience more than enjoyable.

    I absolutely plan on taking more classes with CSA. I am excited to embark in this world I had no idea I would enjoy so much. If you have the opportunity, don't waste your time anywhere else. Go to CSA and get taught the right was by people who truly care.
    Chris Bros Avatar
    Chris Bros
    7/22/2020
  • Very knowledgeable staff! Aqil knows his stuff and can teach it to anyone. I will recommend taking his courses to all family members. You cannot go wrong under his instructions!
    James Brice Avatar
    James Brice
    9/14/2018
    My wife and I attended their Carrying Conceal permit class. Hands down, they are the best. We walked away confident and with so much knowledge. The Instructors were extremely thorough and professional. We will most definitely be back for their other courses. If you’re looking for the highest level of training, look no further, they are the real deal!!! I 💯recommend!
    Ben Crespo Avatar
    Ben Crespo
    5/14/2019
  • Had a great time, learned alot, teacher to student ratio was great, definitely happy I went to these guys.
    The Outlaw Eastwood Avatar
    The Outlaw Eastwood
    11/14/2018
    This is a great class. I had a very educational and safe learning experience. The class was so engaging. Aqui is an excellent instructor. I recommend this class to anyone who wants to obtain their carrying permits.
    Tamika Currie Avatar
    Tamika Currie
    9/05/2020
  • The instructor was very knowledgeable and helped the class all the way through. The small class setting ensured that everyone learned what needed to be. Not only did he help with the knowledge skill, he helped with the technical skill as well.
    Austin Colbert Avatar
    Austin Colbert
    10/27/2019
    This is an excellent place with excellent teachers. If you are new to guns or extremely experienced and in TN - this is where you want to go!
    Maria Bascetta Avatar
    Maria Bascetta
    9/14/2018
  • Aqil and Tiffany are excellent instructors who convey their material well, and in a friendly and supportive manner. Whether you've never touched a firearm before or you're an experienced shooter, you will learn much from training with them. Highly recommended.
    David H. Roberson Avatar
    David H. Roberson
    11/14/2018
    Nothing short than amazing. Great instructor, amazing class and very thorough. I will find another topic and train through Citizens Safety Academy again.
    J. Jenkins Avatar
    J. Jenkins
    5/12/2021
  • I just completed the NRA CCW Student and Instructor level courses with Aqil and Tiffany here in western NY. I have trained with many local and national trainers (as I am an Instructor myself) and I can say without any reservations that Aqil and Tiffany are without a doubt the finest I have yet to train with. Five stars are not enough to represent the quality of their depth of knowledge and presentation skills. If you are serious about real training and education don't miss the opportunity to train with them. I am an internationally certified martial arts instructor, retired Occupational Therapy Consultant, and an NRA Pistol Instructor/Range Officer (and I know superior professional quality when I see it. Get some training with them!
    A Spacone Avatar
    A Spacone
    8/31/2019
    Dude, i don’t even know where to begin. Supporting your local businesses are clutch! Tiffy, Ryan & Aqil, thank you for your hospitality and for a very much laid back class! I had so much fun, i will most def be back 👍🏽
    Mina Son Avatar
    Mina Son
    5/12/2020
  • Just down to earth class the staff was simply amazing worked one on one with each student didn’t make one of us feel left out
    Tillman Barnwell Avatar
    Tillman Barnwell
    7/12/2021
    Aqil is great to learn from!
    Rodney Grinstead Avatar
    Rodney Grinstead
    7/12/2021
  • Just finished my handgun carry permit class with Ryan and have only wonderful things to say about the class and the instructor(s). This was my first time using anything more than a BB gun and all of the instructors there went out of their way to make all of us feel safe and comfortable firing a handgun safely. This is just the first of many classes I plan on taking with Citizens as I increase my knowledge and comfort level.
    Criss Come Avatar
    Criss Come
    8/14/2019
    I really enjoyed my experience here. It was my first time shooting a gun and he had me shooting on target. Very detailed on laws and how to conduct yourself as a permit holder. I will definitely be taking more courses.
    Lakeisha Wade Avatar
    Lakeisha Wade
    10/14/2018
  • I took the Tn Armed Guard class, the instructor was very competent and thorough.. Time and money well spent.
    Corey Forshee Avatar
    Corey Forshee
    3/12/2022
    These guys are the real deal for firearms training. You won't get a more professional education with anyone else. I am humbled by the experience. Train with them and see for yourself!
    Justin McNeill Avatar
    Justin McNeill
    8/14/2019
  • The class I attended is hands down, one of the best and most informative classes I have attended, and I have attended many over the years. I walked away with lots of tools for the toolbox. Aqil and Tiffany are very experienced Instructors, and it shows. I drove four hours to attend, and will continue attending classes when I can. Thanks guys and keep up the great Instruction. If your serious about training, look no further, they are the real deal!!!
    Patrick Robilio Avatar
    Patrick Robilio
    4/14/2019
    Definitely worth your time regardless of being a newbie or someone who is familiar with firearms. Go see the instructors at CSA. They are all attentive and informative. You won’t regret it. I am a CCW permit holder from CO and needed the TN handgun safety course to apply for my CCW here in TN. Some of the textbook info was a refresher, but I also obtained some very constructive feedback that helped me tweak my grip and stance while shooting. I plan on taking more advanced courses in the future to put some of these techniques into practice.
    Jason Winsett Avatar
    Jason Winsett
    9/14/2018
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Facebook Reviews

  • Aqueel is the best! Great instructor and all around great guy! I was able to pass my Requalification test for my employer to land a awesome job! I recommend him to anyone especially the ladies if your not good with shooting.
    Krystal Montgomery Avatar
    Krystal Montgomery
    1/15/2018
    One of the most highly educated firearms instructors in the country, with a gift for teaching!!
    Richard Smith Avatar
    Richard Smith
    3/28/2017
    positive review If you're looking for a fun and knowledgeable class to get your gun permit, this is the one to pick! My dad and I learned a lot and had a fun time while doing it. The 8 hours went by quick.
    Heather Adams Avatar
    Heather Adams
    6/19/2019
  • positive review My REVIEW is a BLOG I just wrote = 5 STARS!!! https://thecompletecombatant.wordpress.com/2018/10/18/in-a-nut-shell-refer-attend-tiffany-johnsons-nra-women-on-target-clinic/
    Shelley Luehder Hill Avatar
    Shelley Luehder Hill
    10/18/2018
    If you are looking to learn to enhance the safety of yourself and your loved ones, CSA is THE place to go! Not only did Aqil teach me the skills I needed to save my job, he taught me a skill set that could potentially save a life. Is there a better set of skills to have? Go see him!
    Crissy Rogers Avatar
    Crissy Rogers
    1/25/2018
    Definitely worth your time regardless of being a newbie or someone who is familiar with firearms. Go see Aqil, Marv, and Tiff at CSA. They are all attentive and informative. You won’t regret it. I am a CCW permit holder from CO and needed the TN handgun safety course to apply for my CCW here in TN. Some of the textbook info was a refresher, but I also obtained some very constructive feedback that helped me tweak my grip and stance while shooting. I plan on taking more advanced courses in the future to put some of these techniques into practice. �
    Jason Winsett Avatar
    Jason Winsett
    3/06/2018
  • positive review This is an extremely interesting and well run course. The teaching techniques are outstanding, I have been an NRA Certified Training Counselor for more than 40 years and found this course valuable in improving my techniques and learning newer ways of helping students to learn. Well worth the investment.
    Budd Schroeder Avatar
    Budd Schroeder
    8/27/2019
    positive review Each lesson empowers me to continue to master myself in all areas, not just safety.
    Dayna Jaye Avatar
    Dayna Jaye
    8/29/2018
    Very knowledgeable and professional instructor! Highly recommended!

    Joe Porter
    Certified NRA Instructor & NRA Training Counselor ( Instructor's Instructor)
    Joe Porter Avatar
    Joe Porter
    3/28/2017
  • positive review The staff is well versed in personal security and convey that knowledge to the students efficiently. They use the combination of books, training aids, and PDF presentations for their classes. Aqil Qadir, Tiffany Johnson, and Ryan McCann are very enthusiastic instructors. I like them both professionally and personally.
    Greg Knox Avatar
    Greg Knox
    9/09/2019
    positive review My experience at CSA was outstanding. It was the best money spent on myself in a long time. I received top notch training from professionals and personal attention on things that needed correcting. The staff was very professional and yet approachable. By the time I left class, I learned the information I came for and gained confidence in my skill, even if I did have trifocals, and felt as if I had now access to people who would help me with questions if I needed them.
    Angela Lamb Avatar
    Angela Lamb
    3/24/2019
    This is the class to take! Aqil makes you feel so comfortable and safe. He's amazing. His years of experience make him a great instructor. Looking forward to taking more classes from him.
    Karen Stutzman Quant Avatar
    Karen Stutzman Quant
    4/14/2018
  • This was the best time spent on handgun safety to earn a permit to carry! I plan on using the services much more in the future. The instructor earned my trust immediately. I have no reason to look any further for firearm training or advice.
    Elicia Powell Avatar
    Elicia Powell
    4/30/2017
    positive review Took my TN Handgun Carry permit class today. What a great class and the instructors are top notch. They took time to answer any questions we had in the class and on the range. I will be taking more classes with CSA! So happy I picked CSA to take my class.
    Wade Jones-Ray Avatar
    Wade Jones-Ray
    3/11/2019
    positive review great instructors, training, culture and just all around good people to work with!
    Dre Drennon Avatar
    Dre Drennon
    10/03/2018
  • I worked and trained with Aqil. He is an awesome guy and Amazing trainer. People that take his class are well informed and well trained. Best of luck in the future!!
    Paula West Maynard Avatar
    Paula West Maynard
    1/29/2018
    If you really want to learn carry a gun and defend yourself go to Citizens safety Academe aqil Qader h's a more than wonderful teacher and everyone who works with him really learned a lot This guy does not let you go before you understand everything honestly...
    With thanks and appreciation.
    Hana Thayab Avatar
    Hana Thayab
    3/05/2018
    I am someone that has been afraid of guns and gun culture for a while. I knew that if I was going to find a place to learn I wanted it to be a safe and supportive environment led by people that know their stuff and can meet students where they're at. I am so happy I decided to do my carry permit class at Citizens and I will definitely be back for more advanced classes. They took the time to make sure each student was comfortable and the instruction was top notch and professional.
    Maria Bascetta Avatar
    Maria Bascetta
    6/24/2018
  • Just went through the handgun safety course yesterday, far more comprehensive and professional than I might have expected. I highly recommend Aquil and staff for all the thorough information imparted during the class as well as at the range. Great job gentlemen. Folks this is the place to go
    To have all your fears removed.
    Donald Tanner Avatar
    Donald Tanner
    6/17/2018
    Instructor is very knowledgeable and made the class enjoyable. I plan on attending more of his classes.
    Nikki Hills Avatar
    Nikki Hills
    5/17/2017
    positive review I had a good time and learned alot, all of the instructors were great, go there! you won't be dissatisfied
    Clint Page Avatar
    Clint Page
    10/28/2018
  • positive review Simply put, the staff at CSA are absolutely superb. Friendly, professional, and knowledgeable, they have the kind of high standards that will make you into a better (and safer) shooter. Whether you've never touched gun in your life, or you're trying to find room for your 2nd gun safe, the Citizens Safety Academy is the place for you. Many thanks to Tiffany, Aqil, Ryan, and Jam for the excellent service and professional instruction.
    John Charles Sartain Avatar
    John Charles Sartain
    4/01/2019
    positive review Fantastic instructors, hilarious, with the know-how to back it up. Both are Rangemaster grads, and still pitch in with Tom Givens’ events. Go find a class. You won’t regret it!
    Memphis Beech Avatar
    Memphis Beech
    8/16/2019
    positive review I cannot say enough for the team of fantastic instructors at Citizens Safety Academy. The level of comfort and encouragement that these men provided was exceptional. As a first time attendee and complete novice to gun safety, my fears have been eased and brain filled with knowledge and experience. I look forward to learning more for this great group of instructors and people. Thank you, Ryan, Jam, and Aqil.
    Ferrol Thomas Avatar
    Ferrol Thomas
    3/11/2019
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