.: TDSA Guestbook :.
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We'd love to get your feedback on TDSA classes you've attended, as well as any other TDSA experience you'd like to relate.  Even if you'd just like to say hello, please click on the link below, fill out the form, and your comment will be added to our guestbook page.
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Randy dunlavy
Oologah Okla. - 07/28/04
E-mail
July 27, 2004

My name is Randy Dunlavy. I attended TDSA/Tulsa’s Advanced Pistol I class this past weekend and I want to tell you what I think about it while every thing is fresh in my mind.
IT IS THE NEXT BEST THING SINCE GUN POWDER WAS INVENTED.

In my working life I spent right at 30 yrs. in the trucking industry doing every thing from sweeping the floors to being service manger in class 8 dealerships with as many as 35 people in my dept. I attended a lot of 2 day to 2 week classes every year to keep up with the industry. When I started arranging training for my people I wanted the best, not the most, training for the money. I feel that I received the best for my money with TDSA/Tulsa.

Two years ago I started shooting IDPA. This year I’m shooting IDPA and IPSC. I am fortunate enough to have a wife that shoots with me. She has attended TDSA/Tulsa’s Lady’s class. We are both going to attend the next available AP I that has open slots..

Marshall Luton is the Director of Operations and Lead Instructor.

The first time I met Marshall was at an IDPA match. After I shot the first stage he came over and started telling me how I could improve if I gripped my pistol correctly. I had been holding it my way for 30 yrs. So I listened politely and thought to myself what does he know. Then it was his turn to shoot. Then I had to re-evaluate. Who was this masked bandit who had just cleaned every ones clock? Now I had to find out who and what he was.

After doing my research I decided to spend my money with TDSA. Linda went first. She came home juiced up, said she needed a new gun and a lot more ammo because there was going to be more practice and she was going to shoot more matches. This really broke my heart . We went shopping the next day!

The instructor to student ratio would have been a little low if the instructors had not been so proficient. I believe there were 6 inst. and 24 students. The students were for the most part fairly experienced. There were 3 that had NO experience with a pistol. On the first day these 3 were afraid they would be intimidated (read treated like dummys). Not so. Each one was taken aside and received one on one training. The second day they jumped right in with new found confidence and all they wanted was more trigger time and someone to load their mags, so they could shoot more.

The instructors were very impressive. Not one brought their ego with them. They all taught with constructive reinforcement not criticism. What ever they were teaching you they first showed that they could do it and then instructed you how to do it until you could do it. NOT if you didn’t get it the first time you’re a dummy go to the back of the line and let some one up here that can do it so the inst. doesn’t have to work. These guys worked all the time.

I could go on but I feel like I’m preaching now. For what ever reason you own a pistol, until you go to this class you have no idea what you don’t know.

Randy Dunlavy
rnldunlavy@earthlink.net
Jack Weakley
Tulsa, Oklahoma - 07/28/04
E-mail
I took the API course a second time on July 24-25. After my first time through the course I thought that I was on my way to becoming competent with a handgun, but I quickly learned that gun-handling skills are perishable. Target shooting and speed/combat-type shooting are vastly different environments. But Marshall Luton and his TDSA staff got me back on track. The first time I attended API I improved about 35%, and I improved about another 35% the second time I attended. I am already making plans to attend APII. For those in law enforcement or the military, the AP series of courses is an absolute must for your survival. A number of the students in the course were law enforcement: a state trooper, a few deputy sheriffs, and several police officers. To a man they all declared that the TDSA training was far superior to any of the training they received in their academies. Read through these testimonials, and you’ll discover what I’m talking about. But aside from the training, there is yet another aspect of the TDSA training that I want to tell you about—having a heck of a lot of fun. If you like action, and want to learn to shoot better or you are just getting started, this course is for you. You will learn how to handle a firearm in an extremely safe training setting. Even if you are a little afraid of guns, this course will change your attitude. Also, the caliber of the students in these classes is without equal. Spending two days on the range with a group of law enforcement and former military operators is more fun that you can possibly imagine. The camaraderie you will experience with the TDSA staff and your fellow students alone makes this an experience that is worth the price of admission. You can’t spend a weekend anywhere with a better group of folks. Finally, if you have a concealed weapon permit and you haven’t had serious handgun training—and I don’t mean plinking away at a target, or shooting 50 rounds to meet the statutory training requirement—you are setting yourself up for a big-time lawsuit. Do yourself a favor and learn to handle your weapon so you can save your life or lives of others if necessary.
Carl McClure
Wagoner,Ok - 07/28/04
E-mail
I've been an Armed Security Guard for 10yrs and am also a C.L.E.E.T. certified Reserve Police Officer. My Department and C.L.E.E.T. recognize me as a Semi-Auto Pistol Master due to my ability to shoot 100% scores on range days. I teach my fellow officers remedial pistol skills along with teaching civilians basic pistol skills. I am also a I.D.P.A. member and have competed in several area matches, taking first in my division numerous times, and I have taken first in my division at the 2004 New Mexico State Match. To say the least I have always considered myself very capable with a pistol in my hand. On July 24th and 25th my eyes were opened to a whole new world of shooting. That was the weekend I attended the T.D.S.A. Advanced Pistol 1 class. I have known Marshall Luton for some time now and have had several conversations with him about the class. Going into the class I had several preconceived ideas about how the class could and could not help me. Man was I wrong! This class was the most intense training I have ever had. The amount of information and techniques taught in just 2 short days was overwhelming this class could easily be turned into a week long and still seem to short. I will continue to practice these techniques and continue to get better. Here is the really great part, I still have A.P.2 AND 3 to look forward to not to mention going back to A.P.1 just to see what I missed the first time around. In closing I would like to say, If you carry a gun for a living , self-defense or just own a handgun you owe it to yourself but more importantly you owe it to your family and loved ones to go to this class! To all the instructors and expecially Vince, Billy, Curt and Marshall. Thank you for your time and knowledge God bless you all and remember "Slack OUT"
David Weakley
Tahlequah, Ok - 07/27/04
E-mail
The training I recieved at TDSA was simply outstanding. The instructors are very knowledgable, and paid close attention to my shooting. I benefited more at TDSA in two days than in all other firearms training that I have recieved in my two years in law enforcement.
Thanks Marshall for the great training. You and your staff are the best at what you do. I will be back and I already have commitment form other officers on my department to return with me. I left the range that weekend a more prepared and skilled officer. The class is also a great confidence builder. SLACK-OUT is my new motto.
Bill Doyle
Sand Springs, Oklahoma - 07/27/04
E-mail
Wow! You did it again Marshall and company. This was my second trip to AP1, and I wasn't sure how much improvement to expect. My pre-test was 8.71, and I felt like I shot that round well, and couldn't hope for much improvement. In fact, I was already making excuses in my head for the post test. My post test this time was an incredible (for me) 5.98 seconds with two misses. What happened in between those two times was two days of incredible instructors that were willing to go the extra mile to make it happen. They would provide instruction and encouragement, over and over. Every instructor exceeded my expectations. I am looking forward to AP2, and maybe even AP1 again!
Stephen Gifford
Tulsa, OK - 07/27/04
E-mail
I have been a Reserve Police Officer for 13 years, and have had hand gun training in both the U.S. Marines and on Police ranges. But I have never had the personal attention that I recieved at TDSA. In the 2 day AP1 class both my speed and accuracy increased by 30%. and even better than that I now have new techniques that I can pratice and get even better. Marshall said that some of the techniques were $1000.00 lessons. I think that if I ever get into a shooting situation it was was a life saving lesson. So if your thinking of taking this course with Marshall ask youself. Is your life worth the cost of the course and a weekend. My answer is yes.
Monica Amagna
Annapolis, Maryland - 07/27/04

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my friend (pistol coach) Marshall Luton. On very short notice, Marshall came to my assistance and trained me to prepare for the 9mm M9 pistol qualifications at the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis. He came out on a very hot day and very methodically began teaching the meticulous details of proper pistol craft. I mean every detail!
Officer Luton's style of teaching is focused, organized and deliberate. His attitude and sheer enery level are second to none. With Mr. Luton's training I shot perfect M9 pistol scores and also shot perfect scores for the M16 rifle qualifications as well. Our Lord has blessed me with very gifted coaches and Marshall Luton is one of the very best.

MIDN Monica Amagna
F Company, 12th Platoon
United States Naval Academy, Annapolis
Steve Luton
Tulsa/Oklahoma - 07/26/04
E-mail
My brother (Marshall) has been encouraging me to attend one of his classes for years. I always seemed to find an excuse. My Trooper friend came in from OKC to take the course and I knew that it was time for me to step out of my comfort zone and test my skills. I am thoroughly impressed with the knowledge and skills that each of the TDSA instructors have to offer. I have been told my numerous Police officers that TDSA is the best training they have ever received. I often thought they were saying that just to compliment my brother until I not only experienced it but witnessed it as well. My accuracy and speed has improved tremendously and I assure you that yours will too. Thanks again for a wonderful weekend!
Darrell West
SandSprings, Ok. - 07/26/04
E-mail
I just completed AP1 at T.D.S.A. Tulsa. What a weekend. I learned to shoot from my dad when I was just a boy, look at the sight and pull the trigger. I have been shooting I.D.P.A. for almost a year. Every time I would shoot with Marshall I would get a lesson on how to grip my gun. The instructors at T.D.S.A. don't just talk the talk, they walk the walk. You can't ask for a more helpful, one on one approach to teaching their shooting system.
I have never had as much fun shooting as last weekend, and I recieved tons of information to make shooting fun for the rest of my life. Thanks guys, I'll be back!
Eric Stacy
okc, ok - 07/26/04
E-mail
I have been a law enforcement officer for 7 years and am a firearms instructor with years and hundreds of hours of firearms training. I can state that the 2 days I spent at TDSA Tulsa was in the top one percent of all training I have received EVER. I will be back and this time with fellow instructors and students. I only thought I was ready for a gunfight.
Thank you Marshall and all your GREAT instructors for a changelling, rewarding and FUN weekend. I hated when I had to go home. See you all again soon and I will practice to always "SLACK OUT".
Jeffrey Meek
Poteau, OK - 07/26/04
E-mail
WOW... Just got back from AP-I. Outstanding training from TDSA. The instructors are second to none, friendly, helpfull and most of all GOOD at what they do. The student to instructor ratio was low enough to provide all the student with as many instructors as was required to get the job done. And they don't just stand there and tell you where to aim and when to pull the trigger. They are all over you they watch every muscle movement to be SURE that you are getting it! No boring 4-hour safety vids, just fast paced shooting, hands on with lots and lots of rounds downrange (1800 for myself). I can't say enough. To Marshall and his entire staff thanks very much and I can't wait to get back for some more.
JOHN CARR
SPERRY, OK - 07/26/04
E-mail
TO START WITH A HUGE THANK YOU TO MARSHALL AND HIS CREW. TO GO TO A SCHOOL AND HAVE THE INSTRUCTORS TREAT YOU AS THOUGH YOU ARE NO DIFFERENT THAN THEY ARE (SHOOTING SKILL WISE), MADE THE ENVIRONMENT EASY TO LEARN IN. I'VE BEEN A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER FOR ABOUT 4 YRS NOW AND A PAST U.S. ARMY SOLDIER, AND HAVE NEVER SEEN, BEEN TO, OR HEARD OF THE CALIBER OF TRAINING I RECEIVED @ TDSA. EVEN BEFORE TAKING MARSHALL'S AP I CLASS, HE WAS ALWAYS READY AND WILLING TO TEACH, COACH OR DIRECT ME TO A BETTER WAY. AGAIN THANKS TO MARSHALL, BILLY, VINCE, SHANE, TRAVIS, CURT AND SAMMY YOU GUYS WERE AWSOME KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.

P.S. GOING TO SEND MY WIFE TO YOUR LADIES SCHOOL ASAP AND I KNOW SHE'LL BE IN VERY SAFE AND CAPABLE HANDS.
Brett Lauderdale
claremore, oklahoma - 07/26/04
E-mail
I am in law enforcement and have a limited training background. Just basic CLEET and department qualifications. I went to TDSA AP1 to better myself. Most importantly, to increase my chances to go home to my family after a lethal encounter. I would reccommend this training for a begining shooter to an expert. The instructors know when to teach and when to step back and let you absorb it on your own. They all brought a different perspective to the line. I learned something different from all. I just wanted to say thanks to Marshall, Shane, Vince, Travis, Billy, Curt, and Sam. All of you have given me and my family a gift that you cannot put a value on. How much is your life worth?
"PERFECT PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT"
Martin Bousum
Greenwood, Arkansas - 07/26/04
E-mail
I am an older man (50's) and have always been jealous of the training received by people in law enforcement and the military. Especially, the 'shooters'. America has changed since the 70's and as a travelling sales person with lots of overnight stays per week, I felt the need to buy a pistol, get a conceal carry permit, and then search for some kind of 'affordable' training. I did not want to crawl through the mud under barbed wire with live fire going overhead (God Bless Our Troops). I did not want to scale up and down fences, barriers, and towers. BUT, I did want to develop confidence and a level of proficiency with a handgun that would protect my life and my families lives. Before the class, I probably knew enough to get myself or an innocent shot or killed. This is honesty now, not a bunch of BS. With TDSA and Marshall and the 'boys' help, it now has become subconscious. No thought required. My body goes through the motions faster than I can think about it. I still have to evaluate a threat. But, after that, if I have to shoot and win, I KNOW I CAN!! Thanks for saving my life and my familie's life, Marshall.
David Russell
Broken Arrow,Ok. - 07/25/04
E-mail
I took the AP1 class that took place July 24th and 25th. It was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Through this course, I found out that I am potentially a lot better shooter than I though I was. All of the instructors are extremely helpful and just plain fun to be around. They all helped me so much through their constant encouragement and teaching. I recommend this class to everyone. It doesn't matter if you are an expert or a beginner (like I was), you will leave the class with a sense of accomplishment and a sense of pride knowing that you are a much better shooter than you were before the class. I WILL be going back again, whether it be to take this class over again (by the way, several of the people in my class were repeat students of this same course), or advance to the next one. Thank you TDSA instructors for one of the best weekends of my life.
ROBIN MENDENHALL
- 07/05/04

I TOOK THE TDSA AP1 COURSE IN JUNE AAND WOULD RECOMMEND THIS CLASS FOR ANYONE WHO WOULD LIKE TO INPROVE THIER SHOOTING SKILLS. MARSHALL AND HIS STAFF WERE EXCELLENT AND SKILLS AND SHOOTING STYLE LEARNED IN THE CLASS BETTER THAN ANY OTHER INSTRUCTION I HAVE HAD AND ARE WELL WORTH THE MONEY. NOT ONLY DID I IMPROVE DRAMATICALLY AT THE CLASS BUT I ALSO SHOT THE BEST SCORE ON MY DEPARTMENTS QUALIFICATION COURSE WHEN I WENT BACK TO WORK.
Will Dodson
Tulsa Ok - 07/03/04
E-mail
I just wanted to thank and commend Marshal Luton and Tdsa for putting on an excellent rifle course. I want to also thank Billy and Wade for their outstanding knowledge and teaching skills. I cannot communicate how good this class was. I will say that I will be back and encourage everyone in my unit to attend. I have nothing but the highest respect for all the people I had the pleasure of meeting . I want to thank Billy , Wade, and Marshal. I look forward to the next class I will be there.
Wade Rorich
Fayetteville, Ar - 07/02/04
E-mail
I am a full time trainer teaching various tactics programs to Military and Law Enforcement throughout the United States. I have attended a number of high speed schools, local and abroad in South Africa and was privileged to attend TDSA's Advanced Pistol 1 class in Tulsa, Ok on June 12/13 - 04. My weapon and handling skills are average and was curious to see how I would perform at this pistol class. I was surprised to see how much work I really needed to improve in these areas after the first hour into this school. Marshall Luton and his staff were definately there to help improve the students ability to shoot faster, accurately and still have fun while achieving their goals. This is by far one of the most informative shooting schools that I have ever attended and I walked away with a load of valuable information which I will use everytime I handle a firearm. I strongly recommend that anyone who carries a firearm professionally or for sport purposes should attend this school no matter how long you have handled a firearm. It will certainly open your eyes and help you improve in areas where you lack even if you don't believe you can. I would like to thank Marshall and his staff for a great, humbling experience and for improving my shooting skills 110%. Great school, keep up the good work. Thanks again.
Bruce Bethell
Ft. Smith, AR - 06/27/04
E-mail
I just acompleted another two day weekend course at TDSA Tulsa. Advanced Shotgun on Saturday, and Urban Rifle on Sunday. Two days of grueling training. I am sore in places I didn't even know I had places. But the training experience exceeded my expectations.

Most of the students this weekend were either law enforcement or military personnel. I am neither. I shoot IPSC and 3-gun matches for sport. I definitely got my money's worth at TDSA Tulsa.

SHOTGUN TRAINING: I have been shooting 3-gun matches with a Remington 1100 Which I have owned since a teenager. I recently acquired a Remington 870, with slide action, better sights, easier loading, and a shorter barrel. I was hesitant to use the slide over the auto, due to the time factor in IPSC shooting. With a lot of coaching from Marshall and his staff, I found by the end of the day that I could operate the slide almost as fast as the auto, get better sight and target acquisition and transition, reload much faster, and actually shoot a better stage with the slide than the auto.

URBAN RIFLE: A truly awesome experience with the AR15. Marshall Luton doesn't claim to be a real expert with the rifle, so he brought in two very good instructors to run the rifle course. Marshall is great about recognizing his limitation, and is not embarassed about acknowledging his limitations. Billy Smith was the primary instructor, who has assisted Marshall with pistol and shotgun courses. Billy is a professional firearms instructor for several federal governmenal agencies. (Check the TDSA.net/Tulsa list of instructors for his qualifications). He was assited by Wade, another professional instructor. Everyone in the class on urban rifle was truly astonished at the improved efficiency with the weapon, regardless of their intended application.

I don't think there is any finer training anywhere than TDSA Tulsa. Whether you are an LEO, military personnel, or just a sport shooter like me, you will leave each class with a significant increase of confidence, skill and performance. Each class will definitely raise your classification in IPSC/IDPA shooting, or perhaps save your life as a LEO.

Definitely worth considering.

Bruce Bethell
Ft. Smith, AR
Josh Perkins
Tulsa, OK - 06/23/04
E-mail
AP1 Course June 12-13

I came into this class having no idea what to expect or what was to be expected of me. I have shot guns before but never with any true knowledge other than safety. I believe that this course is something that anyone who has ever even seen a gun should take. After taking this course, my confidence level is outstandingly high. You can learn more in two days than you ever thought you already knew. When I went in I sucked, now I suck less. This course was very informative in the aspect of speed, ACCURACY, and safety. Every instructor that was there on either day took the time to work with not only me, but as many people as they could one on one. Every one was very helpful, and every critique make you better than you were 2 seconds prior. My friend Allen Hood had been trying to get me out there to take this course with him and I finally went. Now I can do nothing more than thank him for it and reccomend to anyone I know. Thanks to all the TDSA instructors for a great time and learning experience.
Chip McElroy
Tulsa - 06/20/04
E-mail
Homepage
Combat Pistol I - WOW!
I took Marshall's Pistol I class at the recommendation of an attorney friend and reserve LE officer.
I have shot guns all my life especially skeet and sporting clays. The auto pistol has been new to me over the last 5 years and it is something that I have struggled to achieve the consitency of my other gun experiences.
Marshall and his other TDSA Team are exceptional people. They de-mystify so much of handgun shooting and provide a simple and methodical approach to shooting smooth, quick, and most of all accurate.
I know I improved enormously, but I was even more surpirsed with the improvement results achieved by long tenured LE officers attending the class with me.
I will be back for another session of this class and will look forward to more advanced offerings of TDSA as well.
This class and the experience is a LOW COST - HIGH VALUE proposition.
DO NOT DISCOUNT what these professionals have to offer.
John Singer
Claremore, Oklahoma - 06/20/04
E-mail
My handgun abilities had leveled off about two years ago and I havn't seen any real improvement since then. AP1 allowed me to progress to a new level. The TDSA Tulsa instructors were easy to learn from. I'm selling my partners on the school and will return myself.
Clint Naughton
Sand Springs, OK - 06/18/04
E-mail
Col. Jeff Cooper once said that the three things good people need to survive pistol fights are: accuracy, power, and speed. If you can supply the power, TDSA will help you with the accuracy and speed.

My first time to take the Advanced Pistol I Class, during the pretest, when shooting "Vice Presidente" (Ready Gun, 3 targets, 2 shots each, reload, repeat) for the first time I came in at an embarrassing 12+ seconds. However at the end of my second AP1 Class, I shot the same drill in 4.8 seconds (unofficially). This has given me a firm foundation to build my speed and acurancy.

Having taken the AP1 class twice, along with the Advanced Shotgun 1, it is easy to see that Marshal has put together a great and talented group of instructors. Very diverse in backgrounds. This helps give different perspectives on the format of the class. All of TDSA's course are both informative and entertaining. (If Marshall doesnt make it in Law Enforcement, I think a Comedy Club Tour would work...) This really helps lighten up the atmosphere of the class, making it less stressfull tying to digest so much information at one setting.

One of the Great Americans of our time, Ted Nugent, recently said at a NRA meeting, "God gave us Life.....it's our moral obligation to protect that Life." The Classes are well worth the time and money. Take it for Yourself, your Partner, your Family.

So remember, " the faster YOU finish the gun fight the less shot YOU get"

Slack Out Damn It!
ERIC FUSON
OKMULGEE OK. - 06/17/04
E-mail
Homepage
JUST A FEW WORDS OF SUCCESS TO ADD TO TDSA TULSA. I HAVE BEEN SHOOTING I.D.P.A MATCHES FOR MORE THAN FOUR YEARS. IN THAT FOUR YEARS I NEVER ADVANCED BEYOND SHARPSHOOTER CLASS. I TOOK MARSHALL AP-1 CLASS IN MARCH 04 JUST TO HOPEFULLY GIVE MYSELF AN EDGE FOR THIS SEASON. IN APRIL, I SHOT THE BADLAND REGIONAL MATCH AND ADVANCED TO EXPERT CLASS. THEN IN MAY, I SHOT THE ARIZONA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH, WON EXPERT DIVISION AND ADVANCED TO MASTER. THE SKILLS THAT I LEARNED FROM MARSHALL AND ALL THE EXCELLENT STAFF AT TDSA MADE THIS POSSIBLE FOR ME. IT CAN FOR YOU ALSO. ONCE AGAIN, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK GUYS, AND FOR ALL YOU COMPETITORS LOOKING FOR AN EDGE..... THIS IS IT
Vic Meyer
Coweta OK - 06/16/04
E-mail
I’ve been shooting handguns since I was 18 and after 30 years of self training I thought I knew something. My formal training was CLEET’s Phase IV Armed Security Course, something I easily mastered scoring 100 on their course of fire but stillfelt unprepared to face a real emergency.

I safely and accurately put holes in paper targets under controlled circumstances yet the realities of my security job motivated me to seek the training to react to real life situations. I discovered TDSA and signed up for the Advanced Pistol 1 course.

For two days I had benefit Marshal and all the instructors at TDSA. Each one an expert marksman coaching me on unique and effective techniques, they were professional, encouraging and challenging teachers. I was overwhelmed but each instructor took the time to coach me based on his experience and perspective, they were on a mission to teach!

I came away from TDSA much better than I was. Although humbled I am excited at being newly equipped to train correctly and will soon achieve more than I ever thought possible. I will certainly be back, hopefully with friends and co-workers.

Thanks to Marshal and his staff for so effectively re-defining excellence, we are all safer and more effective as a result.
Darrell Tegarden
Rogers, Arkansas - 06/15/04

I have been looking forward to this AP 1 class since I met Marshall Luton last year at the National IDPA Championship in Little Rock. It's been a long wait but it was well worth it. There were 23 students and 12 instructors. You won't find that student/teacher ratio anywhere. Most of the time the instruction was one-on-one. All the training reinforced eliminating bad habits and replacing with good. They worked us hard, but it was worth it. It was very gradifying to see improvement in others as well as yourself. I'm already signed up for another class.
Dianna Liedorff
tulsa ok - 06/15/04

I'm a firemarms instructor for the Tulsa Police Department and have previous experience in IPSC. I just finished the AP1 course over the weekend. The instruction was great as others have attested to, but what impressed me most was the organization and "amenaties". They have put a tremendous amount of effort in this school. There are nice targets, nice timers, nice tents, nice coolers full of refreshments, etc. It's full service. Brian let me borrow an extended mag release for the weekend as well a replaced some for others. They shared anything gear they had. They had tape and first aid. (take a good gun that won't eat your hand up)
It's the difference between going camping for the first time by yourself versus going w/ someone who does it all the time and HAS EVERYTHING to make it pleasurable!
Lin Edwards
Lexington, KY - 06/14/04
E-mail
Homepage
I can’t praise this training enough. It is the best training available. You can spend more money going to other instructors or even to week-long training camps, but when you finally get around to attending TDSA, you will kick yourself for wasting your money on those other training facilities. Been there, done that! Save yourself some money and go to TDSA first. You will learn more than you can absorb at TDSA. You will learn that you CAN shoot fast and HIT what you are aiming at. What is more important, you will learn HOW to do it. You will not get the same level of personalized attention anywhere else that you will receive at TDSA. Their excellent instructors not only know what they are doing, but they know how to teach it to you. And I don’t know of any other shooting instruction that guarantees that if you do not improve your skill level, you do not have to pay. I have attended both AP-1 and AP-2 and I am a very satisfied customer. I WILL be back.
Allen Hood
Tulsa, OK - 06/14/04
E-mail
Just finished API for the THIRD time. I've taken APII, also. I still learned more things in this API class. Attending the class multiple times allows you to fine tune your skills instead of trying to absorb all the information they are teaching you. I highly recommend taking this class at least 3 times. I will most likely take it a 4th and then take APII again. As always, Marshall and EVERY instructor he has is, in my opinion, the BEST. I'm please that I've gotten to know the instructors as well as I have and I feel very comfortable around each and every one of them. And the best thing about them is that they all tell you how to do it the TDSA way in their own terms. You might relate better with one than the other but, you'll get the same quality instruction no matter how it is said. Thanks again guys and I can't wait to get together again.

Allen D. Hood
James Burk
Tulsa Ok - 06/13/04
E-mail
I thought I knew how to shoot when I signed up for the ap1 course. Boy was I wrong. I am not in law inforcment, Just a private citizan that wants to be able to shoot well and safe. I have been shooting for 25 yrs+ mostly plinking and target. I am an avid hunter. Going to this school has given me the confidence and ability to defend and stand my ground should the need ever arise and not endanger anyone around me undully. My improvement was 58 percent in the two day course. The staff is unbelievable in their patience, ability and willingness to help and solve any problem (bad habits) that you may have. They are a super bunch of guys, and I cant imagine that you could get a morediverse and better bunch of guys. A lot of one on one. Safety was #1 priority and never comprimised. My grade for all the instructors was A+ and Marshall is fantastic. Law inforcement and civilians will all benifit from this and the other courses offered. I am anxious to take more classes and learn all I can. I made some good friends for life. Cant give enough praise. Thankyou all and special thanks to Todd Enzbrenner. GREAT JOB GUYS.
DENNY SMITH
OKMULGEE OK - 06/10/04

WELL, I WAS FINALLY ABLE TO SCHEDULE ADVANCED PISTOL LEVEL II INTO MY SCHEDULE AND I'M GLAD I DID.
I BEGAN SHOOTING WITH MARSHALL LUTON SEPT. OF 2001, BUT THIS WAS PPC AND C.L.E.E.T. INSTRUCTOR SCHOOL. I DIDN'T BECOME INVOLVED WITH TACTICAL SHOOTING UNTIL JANUARY OF 2003. I SHOT A FEW I.D.P.A. CLUB MATCHES AND REALIIZED I HAD A LOT TO LEARN. I ENROLLED AND COMPLETED AP I IN JUNE OF 2003 WHICH I BELIEVE CONTRIBUTED GREATLY TO MY SUCCESS IN THE 1ST PLACE WIN AS A STOCK SERVICE PISTOL MARKSMAN AT THE OKLAHOMA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP 2003.
SINCE THAT TIME I'VE PLACED IN FOUR OTHER SANCTIONED I.D.P.A. MATCHES. I'VE MOVED UP IN TWO DIVISIONS TO THE SHARPSHOOTER CLASS AND MY MOST RECENT VICTORY WAS ANOTHER FIRST PLACE FINISH AS A SSP SHARPSHOOTER AT THE MISSOURI SPRING REGIONAL HELD JUNE 5TH AND 6TH. THIS MATCH WAS HELD 6 DAYS AFTER I COMPLETED APII. I COULDN'T HAVE BEEN MORE PREPARED, OTHER THAN BEING A LITTLE SORE. THIS CLASS IS A LITTLE ON THE PHYSICALLY DEMANDING SIDE AND NOT TO BE TAKEN LIGHTLY, BUT THEN AGAIN, SO ARE GUNFIGHTS AND PISTOL COMPETITIONS.
WE COVERED ALOT OF NEW THINGS SUCH AS SHOOTING WHILE ADVANCING AND RETREATING, USE OF COVER, AND STRONG AND WEAK HAND ONLY SHOOTING. AS ALWAYS MARSHALL AND COMPANY WERE THERE TO POINT OUT WHAT I WAS DOING WRONG AND WHAT I WAS DOING RIGHT. WE ALSO REVISITED MUCH NEEDED INSTRUCTION ON PISTOL PRESENTATION, TARGET ACQUISITION, AND TRIGGER CONTROL.
I WISH I COULD TRAIN WITH T.D.S.A. ON A MORE REGULAR BASIS BUT THEMS THE BREAKS. ANYWAY, IF YOU WANT TO BE A BETTER PREPARED PISTOLERO, THEN GET YOURSELF SIGNED UP TO TRAIN WITH THE BEST GUNFIGHTIN INSTRUCTOR NORTH OF THE CANADIAN, MARSHALL LUTON!!!
THANKS AGAIN DUDE,
DENNY
Allen Hood
Tulsa, OK - 06/01/04
E-mail
Just completed APII for the first time. I learned more than I ever could have anticipated. I'm not a competition shooter or in Law Enforcement but, I do carry a gun every day. Marshall's instructions and attitude have helped me know that I'm more than ready to draw upon my skills, that he taught me, if need be. I have complete confidence in my shooting abilities thanks to Marshall. Can't wait to do it again. I enjoyed shooting with everybody at the class and can't thank them enough for their help and support, as well.

Thanks Marshall, Allen Hood
Bruce Bethell
Ft. Smith, AR - 05/30/04
E-mail
I just returned home tonight from another very instructional weekend with Marshall Luton and TDSA Tulsa. This was AP II, having taken AP I in October of last year.

No disappointments here. Marshall's instruction was excellent. He put us through the hard training as promissed, and I think everyone learned a lot during the two day class.

One of the best parts of Marshall's teaching is his flexibility. For example, from a Range Up position, he shows his preferred way to turn and draw downrange. But he also shows the other options, and lets the students try all possibilities and helps them with the manner they feel most fits their own shooting style. There is no "my way, or the high way" here, just helping shooters achieve their best potential, one at a time. And in a way that suits their own personal style.

I have been shooting IPSC for about 3 years, and have seen a dramatic increase in my standings and class ratings since the AP I class in October. After this weekend at TDSA Tulsa, I anticipate yet another rise in my classification in the near future.

Marshall Luton and his staff at TDSA Tulsa run a great program of training, and I would encourage anyone, whether a competetion shooter, law enforcement officer, or anyone who wants to handle a firearm better. to look at his classes. I promiss you will not be disappointed.

Bruce Bethell
Travis Foster
Collinsville - 05/30/04
E-mail
I have Just completed my second APII today and improved another 21 percent. The instruction and information was outstanding and there was a whole lot of trigger time.

The quality of instruction that Marshall has to offer is first rate. He is an instructor that cares about his students!

As I have mentioned in other testimonials, any of the TDSA classes are a must for law enforcement officers, competition shooters or responsible gun owners.

Thank you Marshall and thanks to everyone I shot with this weekend, I had a blast.
David Goodrich
Belton, TX - 05/24/04
E-mail
This past weekend Sam and I made another trip to Dallas in order to take Sam to the second day of APII.
Len, your addition of working in scenarios along w/ the instruction made its mark on Sam. He's realized now how important economy of motion is---especially w/ his size 12 1/2 shoes!!!
Besides his first API class, this class seemed to make the biggest impact on him thus far.

Thanks for sharing your expertise.
David and Sam Goodrich
Dana Adkison-Nichols
Tulsa, Oklahoma - 05/22/04
E-mail
Kudos to Marshall Luton and the other wonderful instructors at the TDSA Tulsa May 8th Ladies Class.

I appreciate the valuable information taught and I know without a doubt it has made me a more accurate and faster shooter. I would recommend this class to any female that was a novice to experienced shooter. It was an awesome experience to see how the confidence levels increased in all of the students by the end of the day. I don't think you guys realize what empowerment you give by teaching us how to use our weapons effectively and how much we really appreciate it! I still hear Marshall's voice- "Take out the Slack, Pick up the sights and Break the Shot!"

I look forward to future classes.

Thanks guys and keep up the great classes!
Mike Moon
Ovilla, Texas - 05/19/04
E-mail
Lynn,

I would like to quote from a letter that one of my officers wrote to me. "This letter is to express my gratitude and thanks to Lynn Baxley for showing me pointers on how to be more accurate with firearms. On May 10, 2004 I scored a 34 out of 50 at the gun range in Ferris, I failed. Lynn showed me a different method of trigger pull. The next effort to qualify on the same above date, I scored 48 our of 50. Lynn is a great person and a excellent instructor with firearms." Sincerely, Charles Daniels

Thanx for your help Lynn. I just want to share that with you so you know you are appreciated.
Caroline Lewis
Tulsa, OK - 05/19/04
E-mail
I finished the Ladies Only class not too long ago. It was so much fun and VERY informative. My husband is a shooter and a "gun nut." I had not really been around guns until I met him. 6 years later, and I still had never shot a firearm of any kind. He and Marshall both convinced me to take the class-with a promise that no one would yell at me. I am SO glad I did. Marshall and the other instructors made me feel safe handling and firing the pistol. Not only that, but they all made me feel comfortable being around people I did not know who were handling guns as well. I hope to take another class soon-as long as no one yells!
Suzanne Dudding
- 05/17/04

I found out about the TDSA when Marshall and other officers were called out to my house after my neighbor thought someone was breaking into my house. This instance happened to be a false alarm but my neighbor had good reason to worry. I had been attacked in my house a few weeks before and all my neighbors were on high alert. Marshall invited me to the women’s only course to learn how to use a gun so I would know what to do if I ever found myself in that type of situation again.

Marshall and the other instructors were wonderful. They took time to make sure that the entire class understood about gun safety and the basics of gun operation before we even picked up a gun. There were different skill levels in my class but they worked with individuals at their own pace. The instructors were professional but also tried to keep the class fun so that the class participants weren’t intimidated by the guns.

I feel more confident with a gun and know that I can use one if the situation presents itself. I had taken another gun course before this, but the course at the TDSA was more in-depth and just a better course all around.
Barbara Mills
Tulsa, OK - 05/14/04
E-mail
I want to very sincerely thank you again for the wonderful experience I had when taking the Ladies only course recently. I had never been around guns, with of course no experience shooting or even handling them. I learned SO much, and safety was stressed SO much that I really felt comfortable with everything when I left! I am seriously considering taking the course again, because I know I will learn MUCH more and retain much more the second time - because I will feel so comfortable immediately - having been there before. For anyone who is considering learning about guns, safety, shooting, etc., I can't imagine a more professional, fun group of instructors. Marshall is too professional and "poised" than anyone can imagine until you see him and his instructor group in action!
Paula Harker
Broken Arrow/OK - 05/13/04
E-mail
I just wanted to thank you for a fantastic class! I took the ladies only beginner class. My husband is an avid shooter and very experienced. After taking your classes, he greatly improved his shooting and urged me to take a class. I have never even been around guns and have been very uncomfortable around them. This class was perfect. I gained confidence that I can handle a gun now without being afraid. Marshall, Pat, Curt, Sam and Travis were very professional, but also made the class fun. They are also very positive and supportive especially when someone has a problem. There was always someone ready to watch me and tell me what I was doing wrong or to encourage me. I will recommend this class to all my friends and I look forward to the AP1 class. I wasn't sure how I'd do, but I believe these guys can teach anyone to shoot. Everyone seemed to learn a lot. I know I did. THANK YOU again!
Beth Thompson
Collinsville, OK - 05/11/04
E-mail
I took the ladies only beginners class & it was GREAT! Marshal is a wonderful Instructor, as were the other instructors. They were very patient & helpful. I recommend this class for women who would like to begin shooting or anyone who might be intimidated by guns. I guarantee you will walk away feeling the confidence in yourself to handle a weapon. Take a friend & spend the day, learn & have fun, I bet you will go back for more. I will be recommending this class to all my friends & I will definitely be returning for another one.

I would like to thank all the instructors for all your help, I learned a lot & had a great time.

Beth Thompson
Ed "EE"Carol
Kaufman, Texas - 05/09/04
E-mail
I am a retired Dallas Police Officer who has been shooting for over 56 years. I took your AP1 course and finally started to learn to shoot. Your course is very well prepared as are your instructors. The atmosphere is perfect for learning to shoot in. I hope to audit the course soon and hopefully get better. Thanks.
Janine Ross
Broken Arrow, Oklahoma - 05/09/04
E-mail
As a woman with only occasional trips to the gun range with my husband (who has been an avid, well practiced shooter for over 15 years) I was only confident of my shooting ability when I was by his side. He taught me all that I knew about guns, which wasn't a lot because I have always been somewhat intimidated by such "lethal weapons". I never thought I'd be truly comfortable shooting a gun on my own, without him by my side, until yesterday. At my husband's (Brett) urging I signed up for TDSA Tulsas Ladies Only Beginner class. He had taken their AP1 course, twice, and learned more about shooting in those two weekends than he'd thought possible. He insisted that I take a class and with hesitation and a little uncertainty I signed up.
It's not enough to say THANK YOU to Marshall, Pat, Curt, Sam and Travis for the "gift" they gave me. They taught me over the course of one day how to feel safe and confident using a gun. That was my goal in taking the class and I left there having achieved it. Marshall and his team were great guys and they really made me feel comfortable, not intimidated, they were very professional and they never pressured or yelled. They were supportive and never hesitated to answer any questions or even repeat something a dozen times if necessary for us to understand it. I learned another thing in class that I hadn't previously realized, the gun I shoot turned out to be not such a good match for me. (bye-bye Ladysmith!) I ended up using my husbands gun and it was a beautiful match once I got started!
So, the moral to this story is that I am grateful that I now have knowledge of my weapon and the confidence that I can now keep myself and my family safe if I'm ever faced with that situation. This was the best money we've ever spent and the best time invested in learning something new.
Thank you to all of you, it was a pleasure learning from you. I look forward to taking your AP1 class next.
Jonathan Westfield
Killeen, Texas - 04/21/04
E-mail
I recently audited AP1. I took AP1 in March and decided to come back again to in April to refine the skills taught and to catch anything that I missed the last time. I have to say that auditing is a very important thing to do if you want to get full benefit of the class. Len and his staff teaches a great class. I am glad that I have the opportunity to take it again. I feel much more confident in my shooting skills. Thanks Len and the rest of the TDSA staff and team.
James R Burke
Tulsa, OK - 04/07/04
E-mail
I have been a Combat Arms instructor in the USAF for over five years. I have over twelve years military experience. I am a Firearms instructor/armorer for the M9 pistol, M16/M16A2, GUU-5P, M4/M4A1, M249 AR, M240B, M203, M79, and M14. I am a Cadre member for the Urban Warfare School. I met Marshall Luton when he came through the Urban Warfare School and overheard him talking about TDSA. I was curious and wanted to see what the school had to offer. I considered myself a good shooter but realize that there is always room for improvement. The techniques that TDSA incorporates are simple yet very effective. I was able to improve my shooting ability by 26%. I am much more confident in my pistol handling skills. Marshall and his staff are excellent instructors and very professional. They take pride in what they do and spend time with every student to improve their shooting ability. I have attended many shooting events and participated in several different courses of fire to include military and civilian law enforcement. TDSA is by far the best firearms training that I have ever attended. TDSA is an excellent course and I highly recommend it to anyone that professionally competes or is involved in military or law enforcement work.
Jonathan Heil
Tulsa / Oklahoma - 04/07/04
E-mail
The class I took in March was fantastic. This was my first time working with any type of fire arm. The instructors were very patient and thorough. I was able to make a 70% Improvement in my shooting ability in two days thanks to the training that was provided to me. For anyone that wants to learn correct shooting techniques, this school is for you. Thanks to all the instructors, it was a blast!!!!!!!!!!
Shannon Jordan
Stillwater Ok - 04/06/04
E-mail
This spring I attended the Combat Pistol Course level 1 in Tulsa with Sgt. Jeff Watts. Like Sgt. Watts I am a Stillwater Police Officer and Firearms instructor for rifle, pistol, and less lethal. I am also in the National Guard and a member of the U.S. All Guard International Combat rifle and pistol team and the All Guard High Power Team. I have earned the Distinguished Rifle and Distinguished Pistol awards and am a member of the President's 100. I have won two national championships and two international championships in combat rifle and pistol. I travel all over the world competing and going to different firearms schools. Most of the schools I have attended lately I considered good trigger time but but did not feel like I learned anything new.
I met Marshall Luton at a Firearms Instructor school, overheard him talking about TDSA and thought the school would be a great opportunity to improve my shooting skills. I considered myself a good shooter but wanted to increase my speed and TDSA sounded like a school that would do that. I was in for the shock and awakening of my life! TDSA exceeded every expectation I ever had.The first day of the school we started with a shooting pre-test shooting our own style. I quickly humiliated myself. Marshall and his staff then began teaching us a shooting technique that I had never seen before. Instantly I knew that this was going to be like no other school I had ever been to. Without repeating everything Sgt. Watts has said, at the end of two days I was faster and more accurate than I have ever been. I had more control of the gun, was able to recover faster from recoil and could reload twice as fast as before. The results were simply unbelievable. I not only far exceeded my own expectations on speed but increased my accuracy. I used to have good days and bad days on the range. Now using TDSA's shooting technique I shoot great every time I pick up the pistol. I am so excited about the upcoming competitive season.
Marshall Luton and his staff are the best instructors and most proffesional people I have ever been involved with. They lead by example and give 100% attention to detail to make sure every student is trained. I am a believer in the saying that "perfect practice makes perfect" and I was a little concerned when I heard that we would be firing up to 1500 rounds in two days. It sounded like we would be just banging away but every round fired was under the direct supervision of one of the instructors assuring that we were shooting correctly and improving our skills. Out of all the schools and training I have attended, Marshall Luton's TDSA is by far the best. There is no comparison.
As we drove away after the school I was excited by what I had learned but saddened because there are Police Officers out there who desperately need this training and are not getting it. If you are in Law Enforcement, you owe it to yourself and your family to attend this school. Marshall Luton teaches you the skills and gives you the confidence to win any confrontation. The famous lawman and exhibition shooter Bill Jordan once said "If a man points a gun at me and Blinks, he'll die in the dark." Marshall Luton trains to this type of mentallity and every officer needs this training.
Bruce Bethell
Ft. Smith, AR - 03/26/04
E-mail
I've been shooting IPSC for about 2 1/2 years, and have owned firearms and shot and hunted for over 45 years. I've had fun, but didn't shoot very well. Last October, I attended Marshall's AP I course in Tulsa. At the time, I was in D Class Limited, with an average stage percentage of a little over 19%. I learned more about shooting basics those two days than I ever thought possible. Two weeks later, I won 1st Place D Limited Division in the Arkansas Section 3-Gun Championship. By January, my stage percentage average earned me a C Class. After a special classifier match last weekend, my stage percentage average is less than one percentage point from B Class. I've gone from 19% average to nearly 60% average in 5 months, thanks to Marshall and his staff at Tulsa TDSA. I could never have made this progress without practicing the basic skills learned at Tulsa TDSA. I will be at AP II in May, and start working towards an A Class rating.
Mitch Ballard
Skiatook, OK - 03/19/04
E-mail
I just completed the Advanced Pistol I class and even though I have been shooting firearms since I was about 6 years old (40 years ago) I was impressed with the increase in my marksmanship, confidence and skill along with the personalized instruction offered by TDSA.
The staff members are always safety conscious, positive and full of encouragement.
I dread the thought of ever having to put these newly developed skills to the test...since I am a civilian...but I am now 100% sure the "bad guys" will go to the morgue and I'll go home, if it ever happens.
I can't believe this type of course is not required - on an annual basis - for every sworn law enforcement officer. It makes my skin crawl thinking there are duly authorized officers roaming around fully armed without training of this nature.
I always knew I was a good shot, and now I'm much better because the mechanics involved are more fully developed. It's more than just the trigger pull!
I recommend this course and this staff and this style of training to everyone who values their life and their family and their future.
We live in dangerous times and you can never be too prepared...there is always room for improvement.
By the way, the price of the course is remarkably low compared to the value of your survival should a situation ever arise that puts your life on the line.
Sergeant Jeff Watts (Stillwater Police Dept.)
Stillwater, Oklahoma - 03/19/04

Last year I met Marshall Luton at a firearms instructor school. We had time to talk about the different schools available to firearms instructors. While talking with Marshall he made me aware of a school he hosted. Marshall told me about T.D.S.A and challenged me to think outside the box and give it a try. In retrospect Marshall was being a friend and he knew what his organization had to teach would make me a better shooter and better instructor. Myself and another firearms instructor took Marshall up on his offer and attended his latest Combat Pistol Course (level 1).

Before I tell you about my experience with T.D.S.A let me tell you what I do and a little background on my training. I am a sergeant for the Stillwater Police Department, in Stillwater, Oklahoma. I have been a police officer for almost 13 years. I am also a SWAT Cop with 10 years SWAT experience. the current SWAT Team Commander, a CLEET certified firearms instructor with about 4 years experience, a CLEET rifle instructor, a less lethal instructor and a Field Training Officer. Part of my duties is to train our SWAT team operators for close quarters combat. I have attended many specialized schools that deal with SWAT training, close quarters combat and handgun techniques. I have to admit I learned a lot from my previous training and thought I was a pretty salty handgun operator. I usually rank in the top five shooters at my department when we qualify with our handguns and it is not uncommon for me to take the top shooter position. I train extensively with my handgun and have been very confident in my shooting skills.

Now on to why I am writing you this e-mail. When I arrived at Sand Springs range I expected to sit in the class room for half a day and then move to the range where we would take baby steps and work our way up to shooting in relays by the end of the day. I was in for a very pleasant surprise. We spent a very minimal amount of time in class. The topics covered were range safety (very important) and attitude toward a new learning environment. From there we quickly moved to the range and we were off and running. Marshall and his staff took time to evaluate each shooter to get an idea of our shooting skills. Once this was done we started learning new techniques and shooting skills, oh yeah it was now about 10:00 a.m., no standing around here. Marshall and his staff started us out with the basics; grip, sight alignment, stance, trigger pull and most important “slack out.” We started shooting in relays and began honing the skills we had just been taught. The relays offered you just enough time to stuff all your magazines with ammo and you were right back on the firing line. Each firing line had at least one instructor assisting us with the techniques. Your course of fire would not end if you were not grasping the technique. The instructors were very patient and encouraged the students to learn. As soon as you emptied your magazines, you picked up your equipment moved to the back of the line and started stuffing magazines again.

Throughout the day Marshall and his staff showed us how to use the techniques, how it would improve our shooting skills and how the technique worked. Again we rotated through the line with only enough down time to stuff magazines. By the end of the day I had fired around 900 rounds through my SIG 45. I had 7 magazines with me and my hands were getting pretty sore, but most importantly I had learned more than I thought possible.

Day 2 started on time and everyone was ready to go. We hit the firing line after about 30 minutes in the classroom. We went over what we learned the day before and then we started expanding our skills even more. We were engaging multiple targets and learning life saving gun fighting skills. Marshall and his staff showed us the most efficient way to reload our weapons and how to minimize our movements. As a result we performed and witnessed reloading skills that are second to none.

By the end of the second day I was tired, my hands were sore and my brain was packed with new information and most importantly I was in amazement at what I had learned. Marshall and his staff taught me to operate a handgun like never before. They took me beyond the next level and I acquired skills in two days that can and will save my life. My speed, accuracy and control improved notably.

In closing I have to admit I was not the shooter I thought I was, Marshall and his staff showed me how to shoot like I never thought possible. His staff was absolutely top notch and I liked the fact they were willing to step up to the line at any given time and perform the skills like surgeons. I have attended many firearms schools where the instructors yell, stomp and leave you with the opinion they are superior to you. These same instructors talk the big talk but never shoot in front of the student for fear of looking bad. Not in Marshall’s program, his instructors got up in front of their peers and 24 students and showed what the program had done for them. That is training and that is what good instructors do. T.D.S.A is hands down the best firearms program I have ever attended. The fact the Marshall challenged me to think outside the box and to open my eyes to what is out there in the shooting world can only mean one thing. He cares; he wants cops to survive gun fights not on luck but on skill. He wants us to go home to our families and friends. You can attend any firearms school you want, this is a free country and we are privileged to live here. But if you want to learn how to run a handgun, survive a gun fight and go home to your family go see my “friend” Marshall. He will teach you the skills to being a gun fighter and a survivor. God bless our great country and God bless Marshall Luton for taking us outside the box and teaching us skills that will get us home to our families.
Jack Weakley
Tulsa, Oklahoma - 03/18/04
E-mail
Several years ago I obtained my CWP but didn't carry a gun because I realized that it is dumb for a person to carry a firearm, if he or she isn't absolutely comfortable with handling a weapon. So, despite my limited experience, I enrolled in the TDSA combat level I course. At first, I was pretty intimidated because most of the participants were in law enforcement or accomplished gun handlers. Without question I was the lowest skilled shooter of the bunch, and I initially wondered what I was doing trying to hang out with this group. But Marshall and his team of instructors helped me relax and get into the training. My first shooting attempt was pretty bad, but none of the instructors or the other participants made fun of me. They just continued to offer advice and encouragement. Most of the time each shooter was guided by two instructors, but sometimes there were more instructors helping a shooter. No one failed to get full value from the training. On the second day of the course, some of the other participants let me shoot their pistols to see if an equipment upgrade might help me improve my performance. Later, some of the other shooters loaned me a Glock and magazines, and Marshall allowed me to re-test with the better equipment, which seemed to make a substantial difference in my shooting. This is a course that must be taken by anyone who has an interest in handling a pistol. I was so impressed by the program that I am sending my son--who is a deputy sheriff, and a pretty good shooter--to the next class so that he can benefit from this training. In addition, I plan to re-take the level I program, not only for the valuable training that is offered, but also for the fun of shooting with these high-quality instuctors and other accomplished participants. If you are a new shooter and you are considering this program but have concerns about the benefits of the instruction you will receive, please send me an e-mail, and let me convince you to enroll. Thanks again to the TDSA staff.

Jack Weakley
Brett Ross
Broken Arrow, OK - 03/17/04
E-mail
I took TDSA Tulsa's AP1 class for the second time last weekend. As I sit here and read through the comments made by my classmates, I find it alittle difficult to put a fresh angle on my experience. Its hard to explain how taking the class a second time helped me get better and faster. The first time you take the class, you are so focussed on your stance, your grip of the gun and slacking out the trigger you can lose focus of your sights and target. Its sounds crazy, but there is so much info you can't concentrate on everything at once. After I took the class the first time I practiced by dry firing at home, practiced mag changes and only went to the range to shoot two times. I improved 50% in the first class and improved another 24% in the second. That may seem unreal but its true. I went from hitting 7 of 12 targets (58%) in over 13 seconds to hitting 12 of 12 in 6.28 seconds. I could never have done this without the help of Marshall, Billy, Shane, Pat, Sam, Vincent and Brian(I know I am forgetting someone). Yes I had to put in the time to practice but without these techniques, their advice and their help I could have never gotten this far. I will definitely be back for more! I would recommend this class and this school to anyone who is willing to learn a better way to shoot. The instructors are all first class and very easy to talk to. The course is excellent and nobody will be left behind! Thanks a ton TDSA Tulsa. Brett Ross
Gus Oliver
Tulsa, OK - 03/16/04
E-mail
Homepage
I was quite impressed with the AP1 class. Marshall & the rest of the staff gave each of us the personal attention we needed. The training allowed me to double my speed while also improving my accuracy from 58% to 83%. As a law enforcement officer, this class may have literally saved my life (which is worth a whole lot more than their small tuition charge). They should charge more but I'm glad they don't. If that isn't enough, we all had fun for 2 days while we learned.

Gus Oliver, Tulsa Police Reserve Officer
Kirill Gromov
Tulsa, OK - 03/16/04
E-mail
T.D.S.A. Tulsa AP-1 course is fantastic. As someone mentioned earlier, how can you not learn when you have at least one instructor with you at all times while you are on the firing line! The staff is so professional, they allow you to enjoy yourself while putting knowledge in you at an incredible rate. Marshall, it was a privilege to be at you class learning from you and your team. Thank you, and I'll see you again soon.
Kirill Gromov
Pat Doyle
Ft. Smith AR - 03/16/04
E-mail
As one who works in the firearms training industry, it is refreshing to have some real experts challenge some of the old doctrine. The firearms and defensive training industry is a billion dollar enterprise in our country, it is awesome to see an organazation take off head and shoulders above everyone else in it. Your staff provided a wonderful atmosphere to all levels of students who attended, and is greatly appreciated. I can only give my heartfelt thanks to TDSA for the furthering of my development in shooting. Thanks to you all.

Pat Doyle
Instructor
Chad Compton
Tulsa, OK - 03/16/04
E-mail
Marshall,
Again, I'd like to thank you and your entire staff for extreme professionalism displayed!
Your combat pistol course will be highly recommended to all the people I care about.
If you carry a pistol for a living, your course will save lives. Your staff maintained sustained superior performance throughout the course of instruction. I know you are very proud of them as I am to have been taught by them. I'll be back. Phenomenal class.
Chad Compton.
ERIC FUSON
TULSA OK - 03/16/04
E-mail
Homepage
AWESOME!!! THE STAFF IS VERY INFORMED ON THE TECHNIQUE, AND RELAY THE INFORMATION FLAWLESSLY. I CAN NOT STRESS ENOUGH THE IMPORTANCE OF TAKING THIS COURSE TO ANYONE WHO USES A HANDGUN IN DEFENCE, BE IT LAW ENFORCEMENT OR CIVILIAN. MARSHALL YOU GET A FOUR STAR RATING.
Robert Lewis
Tulsa, Oklahoma - 03/15/04
E-mail
I recently went through the AP1 class offered by T.D.S.A. I am very impressed. Kudos to Marshall Luton and his great staff. The amount of safety and one on one coaching was outstanding. They increased my skills far beyond what I thought I was capable of. The knowledgeble staff was always there to help. Safety was their number one priority. They made it a fun, safe, educational weekend of shooting.

I would like to thank you and your staff Marshall for offering such a great opportunity to learn these critical skills.
Gerald Dust
Tulsa, Ok. - 03/15/04
E-mail
I have been a Tulsa Police Reserve Officer for the last 22 years and without a doubt this is the best hand gun course I've ever had.

The Staff was extremely professional and well organized.

Safety was never a concern or an issue and this is their number 1 priority.

Even if you are an advanced shooter this will enhance your skills greatly.

Thanks to the Tulsa TDSA Staff for the trainning that I received last week end (03/13 and 03/14) and for a job well done.
Brian Morris
Lubbock, Texas - 03/15/04
E-mail
Homepage
My second TDSA experience was as valuable as my first...if not perhaps moreso. When you're there the first time, it turns into a little bit of information overload. In fact, the instructors will tell you that, and will suggest coming back for a second time becuase more stuff will sink in...they're RIGHT! I plan to come back a third time!
RON EMMONS
TULSA,OKLAHOMA - 03/15/04
E-mail
I HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN LAW ENFORCEMENT FOR 28 YEARS. THIS IS THE BEST FIREARMS TRAINING I HAVE EVER HAD. THE STAFF WAS OUTSTANDING AND PROVIDED CONSTRUCTIVE SUGGESTIONS DELIVERED IN A POSITVE AND PRACTICAL MANNER. THIS TRAINING COULD SAVE LIVES-MAYBE OUR OWN. A GREAT JOB FROM A GREAT TEAM !!!!!!!!!
RON EMMONS-DIRECTOR
TULSA POLICE RESERVE

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