Guestbook Comments

.: 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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Author	Comment
Khan Schwanhausser Amarillo, Tx - 03/15/04 E-mail	I just got back for the Advance pistol 1 class in Tulsa and I have to say, “It was GREAT”. I have attended classes before that only had one or two instructors (and they often confused you) the class in Tulsa had an instructor with you every time you stepped up to the line to shoot. It was like having a personal class. The ratio of instructors to participants was awesome! I also will add they were on the same page and taught you the same technique the same way. The instructors definitely knew their stuff! I will definitely be attending more classes in Tulsa. I came a way a much better shooter and now have a great base for training on my own. Thanks for everything Khan Schwanhausser Amarillo
Mike Rust Oklahoma City, OK - 03/15/04 E-mail	As a self taught shooter I had reached a point in my recreational and competition shooting where I was no longer improving. No matter how much I trained, I wasn't getting faster or more accurate. In just two days, Marshall Luton along with his dedicated staff had me shooting better than I ever thought possible. I left with skills that could save my life. I also left with a complete understanding of each skill taught and better ways to train. The staff was awesome. Every single instructor understands the course completely and is on the same page, of the same book, all day, every day. The training atmosphere is relaxed, fun and most importantly....SAFE!! Marshall and the guys believe in what they teach 100%, and after taking the course you will too!! Thanks Guys......slack out!!
Allen Hood Broken Arrow, OK - 03/14/04 E-mail	Just finished the AP-I class for the second time in Tulsa. Enough cannot be said of Marshall Luton and his entire staff. Every single instructor is there to help you with any questions or problems you may be having. I have to say that the 2nd time around was more beneficial in that I wasn't "learning" so much as I was working on "perfecting." I look forward to possibly taking AP-I again or without a doubt continuing with AP-II. To Marshall and each of the instructors in Tulsa, THANK YOU!!!!! Allen Hood
Randall Darnell Austin Texas - 03/10/04 E-mail	I just completed AP-1 in Copperas Cove and wow, what a ride. Len and his staff are consummate professionals who know how to motivate, Train and get results. The sights and sounds of rapid controlled fire hitting the mark every time is like a great musical score, it's addictive. Thanks again for the intense and truly memorable experience, hope to see you all soon.
Sean Cahill Temple, TX - 03/08/04 E-mail	I just completed the AP1 class, on-site in Copperas Cove. I want to thank the instructors for an excellent class. At the very beginning of the course, we shot multiple times at multiple targets with a reload. The best shooter in our class is classified Master in IDPA and we were all impressed by his abilities (and how short his time was compared to ours). By the end of the class, 90% of us (me included!) beat his initial time. With enough correct practice, I know what my level of performance can be now. If you want to know how to use your pistol effectively for defense, or if you hope to become more competitive in shooting competition, you need this class (no matter how long you've been shooting)! Performing the basics correctly makes all of the difference (distance, moving, one hand or just for speed). Thanks again! Sean
Chris Zimmerman Temple, TX - 03/08/04 E-mail	Just took the AP1 class this past weekend. FANTASTIC course! If you want to take your shooting skills up a few notches and be pushed to do even better, then this is the course for you. You will be challenged and you will be taught the "rocket science" of proper shooting. I cannot recommend this course enough to anyone with a CHL and/or competitive shooter!
Jonathan Westfield Killeen, Texas - 03/08/04 E-mail	I want to thank Len and his instructors, Rob, Bubba, and Allan, for putting on the class in Copperas Cove this weekend. I like that fact that I have learned how to shoot correctly at a relatively early age when it is easier to get rid of bad habits. The one on one instruction was excellent. The course was well taught. It was well worth my time and I am happy that I attended . I kept hearing SLACK OUT!.... POW-SLACK OUT in my head that last night while I was trying to fall asleep. Great course. See you at the audit soon and AP2. Thanks. Jonathan Westfield
David and Sam Goodrich Morgans Point, TX - 03/08/04	Thanks again for putting together the Copperas Cove AP 1 class. These Central Texas shooters have been ready for this type of training for some time now and the results from your instruction will become apparent in the next few months. I was VERY impressed with seeing the tremendous results at the end of the class. I know how much the drive back home after a long weekend sucks, but I'm sure that now that these local shooters have seen your training they will just want more and more of it whether it is in Copperas Cove or in Dallas. David and Sam
Alan Colley Leander, TX - 02/23/04 E-mail	I audited APII this last weekend. Just as when I audited AP1, I not only refreshed and reinforced the outstanding instruction I originally received in the class but also, picked up bits and pieces I missed the first time. The second best thing about coming to TDSA for training is the ability to audit the classes and fill in the inevitable gaps a student creates for him/herself. The first best thing is a combination of QUALITY of the course content AND VALUE of results. Simply put, one cannot learn to shoot better in less time with less ammunition expenditure-great job Len and staff.
Greg Whittmore Fort Worth, Texas - 02/22/04 E-mail	I attended TDSA's February 21 and 22 AP-II class as an auditor. This is an excellent class that emphasizes economy of movement and builds on the AP-I class. You learn to move quickly, but efficiently with the result being more time to get your gun on target and make a quality shot. Len Baxley is an excellent teacher. If you want to improve your shooting skills, you definitely should take a class at TDSA. Many thanks to Len for a superb learning experience!
Rhonda Stonaker Plano, TX - 01/25/04 E-mail	I attended TDSA's API class this weekend again as an auditor and, as it has every time I've taken this course, my performance improved again. This course teaches the basics of shooting accurately and quickly, and each time through I have refined one of these basic skills further to improve my shooting. The instructors have the ability to fine-tune these skills by watching the students shoot, both real-time and on video, and making the appropriate corrections before bad habits become ingrained. The videotaping is also helpful to the student, since many times you can see yourself making errors that you don't realize you are making. Once again, great job guys!
Jay Dolina Prescott, Az - 01/17/04 E-mail	Just wanted to say hi to everyone in Tulsa. I certainly miss shooting with you! TDSA Arizona? Hmmmmmmmmm...... CJ Dolina 928-445-0301
Bill doyle Sand Springs, OK - 12/17/03 E-mail	Well, after I attended AP 1 last October, my wife reluctantly went to Marshall's Ladies class. I had her a new Glock 34 that she had never fired. She never has been really big on guns, and never wanted to go shooting. Now , she is talkinig about an addition on the gun safe!! Way to go, Marshall. She wants to go shooting all the time, and keeps hounding me to go. Sound good men (or ladies)? Then get your spouse enrolled. She is actually thinking about taking AP 1 in the spring. She actually asked for a concealed carry purse and CCW class for Christmas. What more can I say? Sincerely, 1 REALLY SATISFIED CUSTOMER (Make that 2) Bill Doyle
Bruce Bethell Ft. Smith, AR - 12/05/03 E-mail	I have been shooting IPSC for a couple of years. I think I set a record with our local gun club for coming in last at every match. In October, I attended Marshall Luton's AP1 course in Tulsa. It was outstanding. Last month I shot in the Arkansas Section 3-Gun Championship. Last night at our club meeting I was handed a plaque inscribed with my name and "1st Place, 'D' Limited Division." It should have been further inscribed "Brought to you by TDSA Tulsa." I've already signed up for the APII class next May. I strongly recommend this course for anyone wanting to improve their shooting skills.
Ed Powell Broken Arrow, Oklahoma - 11/25/03 E-mail	Wow! After completing TDSA Tulsa’s shotgun course, all I can say is: "Spectacular!" Marshall and his fellow instructors have, once again, developed an exemplary course of instruction on the proper employment of the shotgun. This course was not only highly informative, but marked by acute attention to detail. I have not encountered shotgun training of this caliber since I served as a Presidential Guard at Camp David. It was especially refreshing to review advanced shotgun techniques equivalent to those I learned as a young Marine charged with the duty of protecting our Commander and Chief! Moreover, it was truly gratifying to learn new ways to execute rapid-pace shotgun employment. Firing from the 50 yard line at pepper poppers with slugs was exhilarating! 5 OUT OF 5! This course not only taught one how to use his or her shotgun, but also included ideas on how to improve one's existing weapon as well. I exited the class with a nice list of extras I want to add to my shotgun to make it a better weapon and even further enhance my skills. We covered a plethora of information in one day! In fact, I would like to see this class expanded to include an additional four to eight hours in the future. I really enjoyed the low light shooting we did at the end of the day.One can never have enough time on the trigger of any weapon. The more one trains, the better he or she becomes. I'm already looking forward to a fourth course with Marshall and his instructors to hone my rifle skills with TDSA, Tulsa’s Rifle Course. Thanks again, Marshall, et. al., see you soon. Ed Powell, U.S. Marine Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.
Rob Bowen Fort Hood - 11/20/03 E-mail Homepage	My shooting career has included 2 summers spent at the Olympic training center shooting international Skeet, selection to the Army Marksmanship Unit, Distinguished graduate from 4 day defensive handgun at FrontSight, NV. TDSA training improved my capabilities more than any other school. This is comment is not to cast a bad light on the training provided by FrontSight (I have three certificates good for any class FrontSight teaches for sale?. contact me by Email). I took two days of private lessons with Len Baxley working with AR-15, pistol, and shotgun. Len’s techniques are vastly superior to those I have learned in the past. Len improved my times in various skills by 33-50%. Len is a great instructor and a good guy. He went above and beyond my expectation with this class. The going through the shoot house was SOOOOOO much fun. I will be returning to TDSA for more training, no doubt.
Dale Holmes Tulsa, OK - 11/07/03 E-mail Homepage	Have you done something smart lately so that afterwards you were able to pat yourself on the back? Although it is becoming rarer for me as the years pass by, I was able to do just that two weekends ago when I attended TDSA’s Advanced Pistol Course #1 in Tulsa. I did so at the recommendation of a business acquaintance who was familiar with Marshall Luton and his Tulsa TDSA staff. Please be patient as I give you some background info here. I do this not to toot a horn, but to illustrate how even very experienced shooters can learn from this school. I spent 20 years as a Special Agent with the U.S. Secret Service, retiring from the job in 1997. I was a member of the USSS CAT Team and National Police Pistol Team for 4 years, during which time I won two Bianchi Cup metallic sight championships, one NRA Police revolver off-duty national championship, plus three Canadian national titles in PPC shooting. I held a number of national records in those sports at one time or another. I shot IPSC briefly, winning several matches in VA and MD when I was stationed in Washington in the mid-1980’s. More recently I have been a Cowboy Action competitor, winning a good share of competitions. This being said, after two days of TDSA training, including 1400 rounds through my P228, I learned some new techniques (especially grip) that have made me a better shooter. The techniques employed by TDSA are simple enough as to make me wonder why someone else didn’t come up with them 20 or 30 years ago. TDSA instructors walk the walk. They are v-e-r-y good shooters as well as being first rate instructors. By my count, most of them are Tulsa Police Officers and accomplished IDPA competitors. All that AND they’re good guys. Also, the course is priced right. I would say cheap, but since I plan to attend Advanced Pistol Course #2 in the Spring, I don’t want Marshal to go and raise fees on me. I highly recommend TDSA to shooters of any level who seek to improve their shooting skills.
Justin Cook Norman, OK - 11/05/03	Thank you Shane and Marshall! My wife was very happy with her ladies class. I think this will lead to marital bliss! ;-)
LeRoy Morrison Tulsa - 11/05/03 E-mail	I have taken this class twice, and while there was too much new information for me to actually improve the first time I improved 30 % the second time. This class is two full days of instruction, shooting, coaching, shooting, fun, and shooting. If you practice what they teach you will shoot faster and hit what you are shooting at. Two things impressed me about the class. 1) They are very safe. For example, when guns were unloaded for demonstration or practice they were checked empty by three people. And, if anyone had a doubt, they were checked by three more. 2) While each instructor has his own style they all teach the same thing. I made it a point to get coaching from each one. When five different instructors are telling you something in there own way, and you listen, you will learn. It’s hard to beat practicing something with two instructors, one on each side of your gun, watching you. I recommend this class to anyone that wants to improve their defensive shooting skills.
Mike Kerr Garland, Texas - 11/04/03 E-mail	Some folks considering the TDSA training program may not fully appreciate the "Audit Privledge" that TDSA extends as part of its training. Folks, you should know its just as thorough as the initial training, maybe more so, because you are more familiar with the concepts and terminology. Len Baxley was smoother in his presentation than I have ever seen him and he does not yell as much becuase he uses a whistle for some of the stop and start program segments. A number of the instructors assissted at various times during the day and each and every one merged into the class without missing a concept or a quip. They all did great. They were just as willing to work one on one with a "Course Auditor" as they were with a new student. At least 5 of the shooting bays were in operation during the day with more available if needed and the range is functioning on par or better with the "big ranges" in other states. It is hands down better and easier to traverse than ranges where recent Texas State IDPA matches have been held. The course cost with audit capabilities later is very reasonable compared to alternative courses of training. For those who might be considering auditing a TDSA course, or for potential new students considering a class. TDSA will not disappoint.
Sam Rugeley Broken Arrow, OK - 11/03/03	When I became interested in carrying a firearm for defensive purposes, I decided that I wanted to become the best shooter I possibly could. Later I became interested in the shooting sports, and started competing in IDPA and recently, IPSC. Participation in these matches only increased my desire to continue my shooting "education," and at the same time increased my interest in platforms other than the pistol. One of the most versatile tools a defensive minded shooter can employ is the shotgun. I was eager to take TDSA's one-day shotgun school after purchasing a Remington 870 for matches and defense. Marshall did not let me down. The shotgun school gave each student allot of trigger time, and we needed that time to practice the techniques that we learned. This course covered proper loading, downloading, and unloading of the shotgun as well as grip, stance, shot cycle, patterning, slug shooting, and various ready positions. Each student practiced shooting from the standing, squatting, kneeling, sitting, and prone positions. We also learned sling positions and technique. This class was very entertaining (we had a great group of students at this one!) and instructional. Tulsa is fortunate to have a school of this caliber and a great lead instructor, Marshall Luton. Marshall, thanks again for another fantastic class!
Travis Q. Foster Collinsville OK - 11/02/03 E-mail	Today I completed TDSA Tulsa’s Shotgun Course and let me tell ya. I have been a Police Officer for about 6 years When I went through the academy I qualified with the shotgun but did not feel comfortable with it. Today I feel very comfortable. During the course of the training I brushed up on some things that I was taught before and then was taught a lot of new techniques which I can benefit from while on duty and should have been trained this way while I was in the Academy. If you have any animosity about your shotgun, take this course and they will disappear. Thank you Marshall, Shane, Sam, Clint and ED. I had a BLAST
Clinton Michael Naughton Sand Springs, OK - 10/29/03 E-mail	Unless you're Rob Leatham or compete head to head with him, you need to take this class. Whether you-A) were indoctrinated with the Weaver Stance as I was or B) you'd like to see world class shooters that aren't arrogant asses showboating and reminding you of their past achievments or try to sell you a membership of some kind. The 2 days of class (combat pistol 1) went by quickly. The class for me was very humbling, extremely informative, inspiring, and at times quite humorous. I would strongly recommend this class to anybody, especially if you have your concealed carry license or are in law enforcement, military, or security services. On a personal note, with the job I have I must go into God-forsaken neighborhoods all hours of the day and night. Now after studying the TDSA system, it is a little more comforting considering I don't have a partner or the luxury of calling in backup. Marshall and your crew, I can't thank you guys enough. I'm hooked! I'll definitely be back! SLACK OUT! Clint Naughton After Hours Lockout Specialists Sand Springs, Oklahoma
Carlo Vidaurri Tulsa, Ok - 10/29/03	I thought I knew how to shoot a handgun. I’m glad I decided to take the advanced combat pistol course. I learned so much from those two days. The Defensive Shooting Academy really impressed me. The instructors to student ratio is excellent. The learning environment is very safe. The techniques are powerful. I can’t stress this enough. Would I recommend this class? You better believe it. Will I take another class from TDSA? Hell yes. I had the greatest time and you will to. Money well worth spent.
Bruce Bethell Fort Smith, Ar - 10/28/03 E-mail	I've had guns since I was about 10 years old, and have shot IPSC for a couple of years. A friend talked me into going to TDSA Tulsa for the AP1 course last weekend. What an experience! My improvement rate was over 60%!! I talked to Marshall Luton before the course, and he told me to come with an open mind and be willing to change some old habits. I did, and the results were beyond belief. I quickly realized that the success of TDSA Tulsa starts with the staff. All of the instructors have a great amount of enthusiam about transferring their own ability to the students. And it doesn't matter whether you are a beginning shooter or a professional, the intensive and constructive encouragement is the same. In two days of shooting, I never heard an instructor make any negative comment to any student. Even the least proficient performance was met with the instructor saying "Good shooting, but lets see if we can make it better." The key word here is WE. Every instructor works with every student, and the goal of each instructor is to help everyone become a better shooter, regardless of their beginning skill factor. The AP1 course is designed around shooting semi-auto handguns. I shoot IPSC, and shoot 3 gun matches several times each year with handgun, rifle, and shotgun. The basics I learned at TDSA Tulsa work with any firearm. I went to my local range after the TDSA course and put a few rounds through my AR15 and my shotgun that I use in matches. The lessons I learned at TDSA on grip, stance, posture, platform, and trigger control made a real difference in not only the handgun performance, but in the rifle and shotgun accuracy. You don't need to be a Law Enforcement Officer or competition shooter to benefit from this course. If you hunt, own a gun, carry a gun, or think you might want to, this course at TDSA Tulsa is for you. I will be back to TDSA Tulsa for more instruction in the future. Bruce Bethell Ft. Smith, AR
Roger Hansen Tulsa, OK - 10/28/03 E-mail	I am a much improved pistol shooter after taking Advanced Pistol I. The system is powerful and the class is excellent. The instructors are all top notch shooters and excellent instructors. They have a thorough understanding of the TDSA system and are proficient at diagnosing and correcting problems with your shooting technique. The system works and these guys are who you want to show it to you.
Jan Stevens Derby Kansas - 10/28/03 E-mail	I extremely enjoyed taking this class. The instructors were very patient, consistent with the information, and showed a genuine interest in helping everyone improve. The step by step instruction and attention tto detail to obtain a smooth and accurate result was excellent. I was able to improve my shooting 47% in this two day class. I would recommend anyone wishing to improve their shooting skills to attend this class. Slack out!
Andy Ginn Hackett,Arkansas - 10/28/03 E-mail	OUTSTANDING Class !!! An old dog can be taught new tricks. Wether you are a new shooter, an experienced shooter ( in this case, an IPSC Limited GM ), or a person in need of learning defensive handgun skills, this system will work for you. It taught me to be fast on the trigger to the target, and a way for me to increase my magazine reload speed. As I stated before, an old dog can be taught new tricks, and I still have more to learn from this outstanding staff of instuctors that works extremely well together without stepping on each others feet. By this, I mean that they all have their individual personallities, but they ALL teach the SAME SYSTEM ( which is an outstanding system). I thoroughly enjoyed the class, and plan to attend again in the near future because you can't get it all at once. Andy Ginn.
Scott Hambrick Tulsa, OK - 10/28/03 E-mail	Outstanding class once again!! This was my second trip and I solidified a number of concepts I could not master in my first class. I got an unofficial el presidente time of 6.82, clean as a result of this class! I could have practiced and studied my entire life and not have reached this level without the class. Thank you, Shane, Billy, Vince, Sam and especially Marshall. Till next time.
Justin Cook Norman - 10/27/03	Marshall you rock -- I want to bear your children. Hugs and kisses, Justin.
Todd Spurlock Okmulgee, Oklahoma - 10/27/03 E-mail	Congratulation on a fabulous school!!! I have been a police officer for eleven years, and a supervisor for five of those years. I participated on the SOT team, and thought my shooting skills needed some "fine tuning" but not much serious overhaul. This school showed me otherwise. After two days with TDSA Instructors, my shooting skills as a whole increased 27%. AMAZING. It's not just the percentage that impressed me, it was learning that bad habits I had, allowed me to be a good shooter, but that my corrected habits could make me a great shooter. The stance and grip instruction seemed so "all I know I learned in kindergarden", but as usual...sometimes it is getting back to the basics that creates the most focus and improvement. The slack out techinque was a beneficial and unique training method...too bad I don't have better rhythm:) The instructors were conscientious and dedicated professionals who obviously believe in what they are teaching. I highly recommend each of them, as well as this school, and plan on attending more in the future. The things I learned in this school I will build on for the rest of my career, and someday...they just might save my life!
Bill Doyle - 10/27/03	WOW!!!! I have been shooting for 7 years, the last two in IDPA. I knew that I needed some training, so Marshall's class seemed like the likely candidate. I had seen him shoot, and boy is he fast. I was not disappointed by the class. My times improved 27%, and missed targets were cut in half! I discovered that I have lots of bad habits that need to change. The instructors were outstanding. Each instructor made it a point to work with me during the two days of training. They all had their own style, but each was consistent in their message. My goal was to advance one level in IDPA by taking the class. I have no doubt that will happen, and soon. During the two days, I shot 2200 rounds of ammo. Lots of shooting time, with an instructor by my side encouraging, correcting, and yes, even scolding me when I did poorly. All the instructors did a great job of motivating me to do better, lead by the head cheerleader, Marshall. Unlike most of the students, I shoot a Kimber 1911. No problem for the instructors, they also know the 1911 and how to make it rock. I'll be back to audit the April class, and definitely will take the AP2 class in april. IDPA, watch out! Bill Doyle Proud owner of a Kimber Gold Combat (It doesn't make me shoot better, but I sure am stylin')
Kevin Reed Okmulgee, OK. - 10/27/03 E-mail	I am a captain at Okmulgee Police Dept. I am 40yrs old and have been a police officer since 1985. I have been shooting since I was 10. I am a cleet firearms instructor and have been shooting competively in IDPA matches for over a year with a 4th place at the Oklahoma State Championship and a 1st place win at the Missouri State Championship. I procastinated attending the TDSA school until a couple of my subordinates attended and I got to witness their speed and accuracy greatly improve. I decided then, that I was going to attend. On Oct. 25-26th I attended not completely kowing what to expect from the TDSA team. It has been my experience that if someone can do something very few can achieve it goes to their head and they become "assholes". Shooting is one of those things. I have trained myself not to be like that and to dislike those who do. I was worried that I was going to be surrounded by "assholes" all weekend and be miserable. I quickly learned different. The TDSA team was remarkable. They were anxious and willing to teach, more than anyone could imagine. They are simply INCREDIBLE. The team quickly and accurately analyzed every individual student's shooting ability and immediately began working and motivating the students to improve and become better shooters. personally they recognized my bad habits and began working with me to correct them. This was done with the upmost professionalism and respect. Its complicated for me to describe the skill, enthusiam and knowledge the TDSA team has and put it in words, that are to be understood. The team is simply an excellent group of energetic instructors that want to teach and are there because they want to be and not because they have to be, they absolutely want you to shoot better. If you attend and are the least bit receptive to learning, the team is going to teach you. The numbers indicated that my speed and accuracy improved 19%. But, I walked away Sunday evening knowing at least 75% more about combat shooting than I did when I arrived. The class is well worth the money and time. If you have ever been in a movie theater, grocery store, resturant etc... and began wondering or asking yourself "how would I fair if an armed assailant presented themself?" GO TO THIS SCHOOL!!!! I have no doubt that if you attend this school and practice what you will learn and are ever in an armed confrontation, odds are the answer to that question is.... you are going to SURVIVE! THANKS T.D.S.A. for increasing my odds of surviving my next gunfight. Capt. Kevin Reed, Okmulgee Police Dept.
Bruce Fletcher Fort Smith,Ar - 10/27/03 E-mail	I just got back from taking the AP1 course at TDSA Tulsa, and I gotta tell you, I am impressed. The commitment to training these guys have is unmatched compared to anyone else I have ever heard of or talked to. Their commitment to training was demonstrated time and again by the intense attention they gave to every student. There was a lot of information to assimilate, and they facilitated that by a large amount of one on one coaching. By applying the skills taught there, my shooting abilities increased by 25%, and my confidence increased about 200%. I still have a long ways to go, but I now have a solid foundation to build on. All the instructors were awesome, but I have to say a special thanks to a couple of them. First to Billy, thanks for all the pre class training and preparation, it helped to keep me focused. Second, Vince Oneil, your expertise, experience and friendship was a real asset to me. Being able to tap your inexhaustible knowledge was an incredible experience, and one that I hope to be able to repeat in the near future. Thanks to all of you! P.S., Shane next time, we'll take some time out to "rock and roll" dude. Like Later, Fletch
Brian Morris Lubbock, Texas - 10/27/03 E-mail Homepage	I've been shooting IDPA for about two years now. My performance was inconsistant to say the least. As with any acquired skill, proficiency and improvement must be based on a solid foundation. Therefore, I knew I needed instruction on the fundamentals to improve my shooting and move to the next level. The TDSA Level I course was EXACTLY what I was looking for. Don't let the terms "fundamentals" or "basics" confuse you. The course is by no means "remedial." It was a challenging, enjoyable, and most importantly, educational experience. No dogma, no bullshit...just information and techniques that will improve your shooting. Marshall Luton and his team are GREAT! Their attitude is clearly that it's all about the students...and not them. Having taught for three years at the junior college level and one year at the university level, I feel like I know what good instruction is supposed to be about - and Marshall Luton and his team have got it down pat! I will definitely be coming back for more.
Jim Whitehead Stillwater, OK - 10/26/03 E-mail	I just finished TDSA's Advanced Pistol 1 course earlier today. I have to say that Marshall and his team are some of the most professional instructors that I have ever had the privilege of training with. I have seven years of firearms experience acquired through various military training programs and none of them compare to the two days that I spent with Marshall and his crew. The instructors at TDSA Tulsa are some of the most professional, courteous, knowledgeable, and above all, patient people I have ever met. The instructor to student ratio is 1/3. This means that you always have somebody within arm’s reach to answer a question, or evaluate and critique your performance. I myself made a 39% improvement in speed and overall accuracy. The one thing that sets this course and its instructors above all others is that your time spent there is not wasted on the staff showing off or talking about what they can do. Instead, they are concerned with your performance and working with you to improve your speed and accuracy. I will be training with these guys again very soon.
B. Ross Broken Arrow, OK - 10/26/03 E-mail	WOW, what a great school. I participated in TDSA of Tulsa's level one combat pistol course this weekend, and I can't describe how much I learned. All of the instructors were EXCELLENT. They were all easy to learn from, easy to talk to and never talk down to you. The instructors encourage and push you but never shove you. They strive to make you as good as you can be. I would recommend this class to anyone who enjoys shooting!! You will be suprised how much you can learn and improve in just two days. Thanks again to all the instructors for all their help.
Allen Hood Tulsa, OK - 10/26/03 E-mail	I've been shooting for years but this was my first formal shooting instruction class. Never thought I could be as fast, accurate and controlled as I was by the end of the course. I look forward to taking the class again to nail in the things that I didn't get solid and then I'm ready to take on the APII class. Enough cannot be said about EVERY instructor with the Tulsa division. Thanks Marshall and every other instructor that helped me. Allen 10-26-03
H. Brannon tulsa, ok - 10/26/03 E-mail	Excellent, Excellent, Excellent. Just finished the API course, I could NOT learn everything taught in the 2 days. Digesting the amount of info provided to would be just about impossible. I will take the course at least once more. I could write all day about the quality of instruction and care provided by the TDSA staff. By EACH of the staff members. In a word, Incredible. My many thanks goes to the staff for being patient with such a "problem child." Keep up the good work, I'll keep practicing, and we'll see you again soon. Thanks again, Brannon.
Scott Bryant Desoto,TX - 10/22/03 E-mail	Last weekend, along with three other shooters, I completed TDSA's AP V course. The course of instruction is tailor made for competitive shooters who would like what is essentially a full day of one on one private instruction for a fraction of the cost. Len has individual drills to break down various parts of a shooting sequence and then demonstrates how to shave time off that portion with more efficient movement. He then synthesizes the smaller drills into different courses of fire often seen at a match. The end result is going thru a stage seconds faster than when you began the class. All is videotaped and critiqued down to the most minute detail. And a personal copy of your performance on tape with Len's observations is included. I took away some things that I will be able to practice on for months. Fantastic class and well worth the time.
Greg Whittmore Fort Worth, Texas - 10/18/03 E-mail	Many thanks to Len for another exceptional learning experience. I was one of four students in the first AP-V class held October 18. The class is designed to help the shooter refine what has been learned in AP-I, AP-II, and AP-III and take those skills to a higher level, using a small group format. This class is probably as close as you can come to a private lesson without actually taking one. The level of instruction is very hands-on and very focused on the individual shooter. For me, things really came together today. It was hard work, but it was great fun and very enlightening. I strongly recommend this class to shooters who really want to improve. Thanks again Len! It was a great day!
Ralph Colberg - 09/29/03	I attending my initial AP! course in the summer of 2000. Recently, I audited the course. It really is true... Len let's you audit for $50 a day and treats you as a full paid student. I noted that the experience of the instructors really came through. They had come up with additional ways to reinforce the concepts and were even better coaches than my first time through.
Ed Powell Broken Arrow, Oklahoma - 09/03/03 E-mail	I’ve just completed the APII course in Sand Springs, Oklahoma and I have to say that this course is by far, the finest weapons training I have EVER experienced! I have been in the Marine Corps for close to 16 years now and despite a multitude of outstanding weapons training, nothing has come close to what I learned from the TDSA Instructors in just 2 days. The Marine Corps gave me a solid foundation, but the TDSA instructors picked up where the Marine Corps left off. During the course, I learned how to move smoothly, with speed and efficiency, while employing my weapon faster and putting more rounds on target. TDSA Instructors gave special attention to the course with an emphasis on instructional organization and range equipment. Additionally, safety was paramount! No matter what your level of weapons training is, the instructors from TDSA will sharpen your skills. I vigorously recommend this course to everyone from military personnel to law enforcement officers to recreational gun enthusiasts. This course has something for everyone! In fact, adoption of TDSA training would be a positive improvement for the entire Marine Corps. It would increase our ability to engage the enemy by "fire and maneuver". Thanks again to Len, Marshall and Shane for inviting me to this course. I will definitely be back for more! SEMPER FI, Ed Powell
James White Amarillo, TX - 09/01/03 E-mail	Ijust finished an AP2 class with Marshall's crew in Tulsa, VERY IMPRESSIVE!! As an IDPA/IPSC competitor my primary concern was to better my game. I thought I already knew how to move n shoot, man was I wrong! These guys showed me several different places to crack the throttle, where I have been just sitting there holdin' the clutch in! And best of all we had a lot of fun doin' it. Thanks Marshall, Len, Pat, Billy for the lesson and the fun. Now if I get off my butt and do the "P" word [practice] I might even end up wantin' to get a bright colored T-shirt and a pair of sneakers.....NAW!! See Ya on the Range P.S. Congrats Billy for makin' instructor.
brent Barbee Amarillo, TX - 09/01/03 E-mail	I just got back from AP2 with Len and the Tulsa group. Once again I was impressed with the knowledge, abililty, and attitude of the instructors. If you have ever looked at a video or watched a live performance of a really fast IDPA or IPSC shooter and wondered "How can he can do it in half the time, with half the effort and twice the number of hits that I get?", AP2 will answer your questions and put you on the track to perform the same way. This class is a "must do" for a shooter seeking real improvement.
Phil Whitehead Tulsa/OK - 09/01/03 E-mail	This system of shooting has and is rapidly correcting years of false teachings and techniques taught in the law enforcement community. I have been a Tulsa Police Officer for almost 5 years, and in that time I've witnessed the old guard standard to which all things are measured. When one steps onto a TDSA range, one must be prepared for the awakening. There is a natural order of progression in the shooting realm, which TDSA not only embraces but insists each student achieve. The irony of the whole thing is that no matter what your current skill level is at the moment, if you were pitted against some one of equal skill who only practiled the traditional and antiquated, you would surpass them within the first hour of training to the point they could not catch up unless they converted to your new discipline. I am a seeing is believing kind of person. I have seen, I believe, and am hungry for the next opportunity to climb another rung on the ladder to reach a new level for myself. There is no worse critic on the range than your own inner voice no matter how hard the instructors try. I have seen the most mechanical shooters even out and shoot harder, faster, and more agressively. This coarse needs no advertisement or sales pitch because it sales itself, by word of mouth. The popularity of this art has to take its toll on the instructors. These guys give there all. Some of these guys travel hundreds of miles to hand deliver the "Total Package". In Hollywood everyone of these instructors would be considered a triple-threat, meaning they can all sing, dance, and act on the range, copetition, and conveying instruction to an audience. I would really like to thank TDSA for all the help. The Oklahoma crew did a really great job (my homies). Texas TDSA rocked the house. Thanks for the opportunity and instruction you shared with us all. Phil Whitehead
Barry Greyson Oklahoma City, Okla. - 09/01/03 E-mail	...Just got back from Sand Springs and the Tact II course....Great course and great instructors...I would highly recommend Marshall Luton,Tulsa Tdsa, and staff to anyone wanting to improve their shooting skills...
Travis Q. Foster Collinsville OK - 08/31/03 E-mail	I just completed AP 2 and WOW............. Marshall told me that AP 2 taught how to shoot on the move and I thought that’s easy I don’t need to take the class but I took it anyway and boy was I wrong. It was not as easy as I thought. Before the staff taught me the techniques I need to know, I could move and shoot, I could not hit anything but I could move and shoot. After they showed me the techniques my time to complete the course decreased and my hits increased dramatically. If you are in Law Enforcement or carry a firearm for personal protection THIS CLASS IS A MUST!!! THE THINGS TAUGHT BY TDSA WILL KEEP YOU ALIVE!!! It is money well spent and I will be spending more at TDSA. I can not say thank you enough to the instructors at TDSA.
Jimmy Sanders Okmulgee, OK - 08/22/03 E-mail	I am 28 years old, I have been in law enforcement for about 9 years. I served in the United States Marine Corps as a Military Policeman for 4 of those years. While stationed on Camp Pendleton in sunny southern Ca. I had the pleasure of receiveing a lot of training with agencies like the Los Angeles Police Dept. San Diego Police Dept and numerous others. Now I am a Cleet Certified Police officer and have been for approx 5 years. I had been shooting the Cleet firearms course and I was fairly proficient. One of the officers I work with invited me to the Oil Capitol IDPA match held every 3rd Saturday. There I met the most intense shooter I have ever seen, Marshall Luton. He spoke to me about TDSA Tulsa and I had to try it. Going into the course I had very high expectations. I had these expectations because Marshal was confident that he could teach me to be better shooter. During the two day course I seen a kind of instructor that I have never seen before. Marshall and all of the TDSA staff were very professional. They were always high spirited, friendly and easy to approach about anything, Marshall has more energy than anyone I have ever met. They make a great learning atmosphere. I feel that I learned more in 2 days at the TDSA class than I have learned in all my years in law enforcement. After Marshalls class I feel that I wasted my time for several years, TDSA teaches practicle shooting and by far the best class I have ever been to. My hat is off to all the TDSA staff. Thank You Jimmy Sanders
Billy F. Smith Ft. Smith, AR - 08/12/03 E-mail	In reference to materials covered in ACP I & II, as well as to Marshall Luton, who took the time to convey the top notch information in these courses....It was absolutely OUTSTANDING!!! I began competitive shooting four years ago in IPSC. My previous background was US Army and I had spent a lifetime around firearms and was an avid shooter. I have shot and trained with some of the best competitive shooters in the country, as well as some of the most intensly trained government agents in the country. I can honestly say that I was conciously incompetant. After acheiving 84.3% ranking in USPSA (seven-tenths from Master), placing 1st in Arkansas "A" Class Division, as well as Arkansas sectional Three Gun Champion, I thought I had a clue. In the several days that I trained with Marshall, if I were not a shooter, I would have learned what took me years to learn otherwise. The manipulation skills that are paramount in the act of surviving a gun fight flowed from him like water. The patience of a mother paired with the enthusiasm of a cheerleader are what kept me excited about things that I THOUGHT I already knew. I attened the course, in all honesty, not to become a better shooter, but to become a better instructor and a more rounded person in the field of firearms. But to my surprise, while I hopefully became a better instructor, by seeing the way certain techniques can be broken down and taught, so everyone can understand, I did become a better shooter through the methods and instructional principles of TDSA-Tulsa. The following portion of this comment is not training related, but simply a personal opinion. (Sorry Marshall, you can blush now) Mr. Luton is of the utmost in character and compassion for his fellow man. A true student in the purest art of weapons manipulation and gunplay. I assure you that after spending those days with him, I know that this is not about him in any way. It is about you. The man or woman who wants to come home safely to their family every night. Being a Newlywed and a Soon-to-Be Dad, that is something I would like to make a practice. As soon as my wife gives birth to our baby, she will also attend ACP I. As for the other instructors, who I have not had the pleasure of spending as much time with, their teaching ability is no less than impressive. In closing, I want to impress upon those who are thinking about taking this course, please know that the men teaching this class have more concern about you getting home to your family everynight that any other single thing. Forget what you think you know, open your mind, train outside the box, and I assure you that you will walk away from this class feeling more confident than you ever have before with your firearm. Thank you for your time and thank you, Marshall and TDSA-Tulsa Staff
Jerry McKenzie Dallas, Texas - 08/11/03 E-mail	I took the long gun combo course Sunday 8/10. This was my second course with TDSA. The most important thing I learned was all the wasted motion I use when I reload and the time I take when I move between targets. This is one of Len's strengths. If you want to get quicker with a pistol, shotgun or rifle consider taking one of TDSA's classes. Len has the ability to analyze your technique and help pinpoint what you need to do to improve your speed. Now the hard part of practicing what I was shown is up to me. Great class. JMac
Scott Streeter Tulsa,ok - 08/11/03 E-mail	I just finished the last class. The calsses are amazing. For anyone that is in law enforcement, security, or if you just want to know more, this class is for everyone. For law enforcement, this class is a must it will help your speed, acuracy, confidence in all around perfromance. You will get more out of this two day class than you can out of any other class out there. You owe it to you and your family to take this class. The instructors can indentify with each student on a personal level instead of a class standard.
Justin - 08/08/03	Marshall Luton is incredible and the whole Tulsa staff is very knowledgeable. They did a good job of addressing each individual student's needs.
Alisha Douglass Collinsville - 08/05/03 E-mail	I just took the latest class and had the greatest time! I am not in law enforcement and had only ever shot a gun once for about five seconds, so I really had no clue what I was doing at all. I didn't really expect the instructors to be too serious about teaching me since there were 'real' people there from all different sorts of government agencies, who had been shooting for years. I was totally wrong. They took me from knowing nothing to getting comfortable and shooting pretty darn fast for a chick, in two days! The instructors are so knowledgable, impressive, and patient that it was literally a joy to learn from them. I got so much more than I expected. Now I feel confident that I learned enought to be able to save my life! Everyone had a great time and several of us discussed wanting to take the class again. It is just so amazing how much you can learn so quickly and I know next time will be even better!
Matthew H Metcalf Stillwater, OK - 08/04/03 E-mail Homepage	AWESOME! UNBELIVEABLE! I cannot begin to tell you how valuable this class is. I thought that I was a good shooter before I went to TDSA and I found that I didnt know crap. The skills that are learned from this course will far exceed any firearms tranning you have recieved in the past. I improved almost 30% after just two days. needless to say, I'm going back! This trainning is not just shooting paper targets under some minimal time constraints. It is the most realistic firearms trainning availible out there. The staff at TDSA was incredible! Marshall Luton knows his stuff! GO TO THIS CLASS! YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT! IT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE! MATTHEW METCALF- OSU POLICE DEPT.
Travis Q Foster Collinsville OK - 08/03/03 E-mail	I have just completed my second round of AP1 and it was better than the first. I had a chance to fine tune what I already knew and I even caught a couple of new things that I did not catch the first time. After taking AP1 the first time I started shooting in IDPA Matches. I did pretty good and was able to keep working on what I have learned. When I took AP1 the first time my pretest score was about 12.00 seconds. After completing the 2 day course post test score was 8 seconds. My pretest score at my second AP 1 class was 7.30 seconds. I walked out of there today shooting a time 4.06 seconds. The training that I continue to receive at TDSA is top notch, life saving training. The only way that I can compare the way I feel about the training that I received is to say that I would compare it to someone being a born again or saved. A little extreme? No. I have served this country in the military for nine years, been in law Enforcement for six years and have letters, certificates and commendations signed by Generals, Senators, and the Secretary of Defense, but the one certificate that I am most proud to own is the one I got from the Tulsa Defensive Shooting Academy.
Tom Mayes Montgomery City, MO - 08/01/03 E-mail	I have been in Law Enforcement for over 9 years and I cannot believe that I have just recently went through the AP I course. Thank God I had never been in a shooting with someone who had. I would have never made it. If it were up to me I would make this mandatory for every Law Enforcement Officer in the Nation!!! The shooting techniques I was taught in the academy were good but the AP I course has split my time in half. Have you ever seen the Stats on how many times a the Bad Guy is hit in a shooting, it is very low. If the Law Enforcement officers took this training, the Bad Guy wouldn't even get his weapon unholstered before he was shot. He wouldn,t miss either. I can't wait to go to AP II, III, IV...
John Schmitz San Antonio, TX - 07/23/03 E-mail	I recently had the opportunity to attend the API course at TDSA 19-20 Jul 03. There were 11 students in our class; all great people to shoot with. I attended with the goal of improving my IDPA skills. I know of only 1 other course (Universal Shooting Academy in FL) which offers training with IDPA applications. However, TDSA's shooting teams are some of the best IDPA clubs in Texas. Now I know why. Prefacing what I am about to say, this was the best shooting instruction I have ever received. I shot for 5-7 years (almost every weekend) in NRA smallbore rifle competition, was instructed by members of the President's 100, Midwest NRA Smallbore Rifle Champion in High School, and shot in the military; nothing compared to this. The course started out with a pre-test (3 plates, 2 rounds ea, reload, 3 plates 2 rounds ea.). Best in our class was around 8+ sec. I was 11+ sec. At the end we took a post-test. I only wanted to improve 20-30%. I wound up improving 54%. Someone in our class wound up shooting this drill in 4+ sec. WOW. Having heard from people who attended Thunder Ranch, Gunsite, and John Farnum's courses, those classes were fun and taught you when and who to shoot, the API class taught you how to shoot fast and with better accuracy. I must say that having Len yell at you, call you a girl, and tell you your shooting sucks may seem intimidating, but it does make you learn and forces you to improve. . I know when I return Len will punish me for saying this on his website, but then again I'll get to shoot more bullets. Many thanks for a most outstanding course. Most definitely keep it up. Slack out!
Rick Lanicek Dallas - 07/22/03 E-mail Homepage	Outstanding training! After a career in the US Marines and numerous “expert” pistol qualifications, I noticed a dramatic improvement on my speed and accuracy before the lunch break on the first day of the AP I course! Len is a highly qualified instructor—knowledgeable, proficient, and entertaining—even if he does talk too much. I enthusiastically recommend this course to anyone who wants to improve their marksmanship. I am already planning to attend the AP II course.
Larry Treen New Florence, MO - 07/21/03 E-mail	A short time ago, July 13th to be exact, I took the APIV with Len. I can wholeheartedly recommend this course. If you carry a gun, or if you go into places where you cannot, this is a must have course of instruction. Everyone in the class had at least one "eye-opening" experience.
Rhonda Plano, TX - 07/20/03 E-mail	This is the second time I have taken TDSA's API class, and it definitely will not be the last. This class covers the basics of shooting - skills which are essential for self-defense as well as competitive shooting. Without the basics, it is nearly impossible to improve your shooting beyond a certain level. I highly recommend taking this course as many times as possible. The normal cost of this class is very low considering the improvement that most students will achieve after taking it the first time - the cost of auditing this class for the 2nd, 3rd or 4th time is an absolute steal, as most students will continue to see significant improvement each time they take it. Great job, Len, and thank you!
DENNY SMITH OKMULGEE OK. - 07/01/03 E-mail	MY NAME IS DENNY SMITH AND I'M A POLICE OFFICER FOR THE CITY OF OKMULGEE. MY EXPERIENCE WITH FIREARMS BEGAN AT A VERY EARLY AGE BUT WAS LIMITED TO SHOTGUNS AND RIFLES. I DON'T REMEMBER EVER FIRING A HANDGUN UNTIL I BECAME A POLICE OFFICER IN DEC. OF 1990. SAME PRINCIPLES APPLIED, SIGHT ALIGNMENT AND TRIGGER CONTROL, SO I WAS OFF AND RUNNING. ALL THE TRAINING I RECEIVED WITH REVOLVERS AND SEMI-AUTO PISTOLS FROM THAT POINT ON WAS PROVIDED BY THE VERY QUALIFIED INSTRUCTORS WITH C.L.E.E.T. I FINISHED TOP IN MY ACADEMY WITH REGARD TO FIREARMS. I RECEIVED VERY LITTLE TRAINING FROM THAT POINT ON UNTIL I WAS ACCEPTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE C.L.E.E.T. FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR PROGRAM, WHICH I BEGAN IN SEPT. 2001 AND COMPLETED IN NOV. 2002. NOW I THOUGHT I WAS PRETTY HANDY WITH MY OLD PISTOL. PARTLY BECAUSE THE PPC MATCH FIVE USED TO EVALUATE US SHOWCASED MY STRONGPOINTS. YOU SEE I COULD SHOOT SLOWLY AT GREAT DISTANCES WITH ACCURACY, BUT YOU COULD TIME ME WITH A CALENDAR. THIS ISN'T NECESSARILY AN ASSET IN A GUNFIGHT. IF I HAD TO SPEED UP OR, GOD FORBID, SHOOT ON THE MOVE I PERFORMED LIKE A BEGINNER. ENTER MARSHALL K. LUTON JR., TULSA P.D. OFFICER AND DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AT T.D.S.A. TULSA. I WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO ATTEND C.L.E.E.T. FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR SCHOOL WITH MARSHALL. THERE IS NO ONE IN MY OPINION MORE PASSIONATE ABOUT FIREARMS TRAINING THAN MARSHALL. HE DEMONSTRATED THIS MANY TIMES DURING OUR ASSOCIATION TOGETHER. OF COURSE HE WANTS TO IMPROVE HIMSELF ALWAYS, BUT HE SEEMS EVEN MORE DRIVEN TO IMPROVE OTHERS. A SEGMENT OF OUR INSTRUCTOR PROGRAM CONSISTS OF AN APPRENTICESHIP PHASE. ROUGHLY 60 HOURS OF TRAINING BEGINNING LEVEL SHOOTERS. MARSHALL SPENT COUNTLESS HOURS, THAT WEREN'T REQUIRED TO ACHIEVE INSTRUCTOR STATUS, HELPING THOSE WHO WERE STRUGGLING. HIS DEDICATION AS AN INSTRUCTOR IS UNMATCHED. I, LIKE EVERYONE AROUND HIM, BENEFITED FROM HIS VAST TRAINING EXPERIENCE. I COULDN'T HELP BUT BECOME INTERESTED IN THE I.D.P.A. COMPETITIONS HE SPOKE OF. I ATTENDED A FEW LOCAL MATCHES AND WAS INSTANTLY HOOKED. THIS IS GREAT TRAINING FOR POLICE OFFICERS AND CIVILIANS ALIKE. HOWEVER, SHOOTING ON THE MOVE, MAGAZINE CHANGES DURING EVERY SCENARIO, AND ENGAGING MULTIPLE TARGETS WASN'T SOMETHING I WAS COMFORTABLE WITH. NEVERTHELESS I JOINED I.D.P.A., WAS CLASSIFIED AS A MARKSMAN, AND ENTERED THE OKLAHOMA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 21ST AND 22ND 2003. I WAS MORE THAN A LITTLE WORRIED THAT I WOULDN'T BE ABLE TO COMPETE AT THIS LEVEL SO I CALLED MY OLD FRIEND MARSHALL AND REQUESTED TO ATTEND THE LEVEL 1 COMBAT PISTOL TRAINING OFFERED BY T.D.S.A. UNBELIEVABLE, THE TRAINING WAS FANTASTIC. IT WAS INTENSE BUT NOT AT ALL STRESSFUL. THIS PLACE WAS FULL OF INSTRUCTORS WHO DEMONSTRATED THE SAME LEVEL OF PROFESSIONALISM I HAD COME TO EXPECT FROM THEIR DIRECTOR. SHANE, PAT, BRIAN AND EVERYONE WITH THE T.D.S.A. LOGO WERE THERE TO HELP. THEY CARED ABOUT OUR IMPROVEMENT AND IN SOME CASES THE IMPROVEMENT WAS PHENOMENAL. I WAS NO EXCEPTION. I MADE GREAT STRIDES IN AREAS SUCH AS WEAPON PRESENTATION, TARGET ACQUISITION, AND MAGAZINE CHANGES. I RECEIVED INSTRUCTION ON HOW TO INCREASE MY SPEED AND MAINTAIN ACCURACY. IN SOME CASES MY ACCURACY EVEN IMPROVED. I ATTRIBUTE THIS TO THE T.D.S.A. GRIP AND STANCE THAT I ADOPTED. THIS TRAINING WAS CRUCIAL FOR THE UPCOMING COMPETITION. OH YEAH, I WON 1ST PLACE IN THE STOCK SERVICE PISTOL MARKSMAN CLASS. I TOTALLY CREDIT MARSHALL AND THE STAFF AT T.D.S.A. FOR PROVIDING ME WITH THE TOOLS I NEEDED TO WIN STATE. IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT YOUR TRAINING THEN ATTENDING THIS SCHOOL ISN'T AN OPTION. THE ONLY QUESTION IS,"WHEN ARE YOU GOING?" THE PRICES ARE AFFORDABLE EVEN ON COP PAY AND YOU'LL BE AMAZED AT THE AMOUNT OF ONE ON ONE ATTENTION YOU GET. I CAN'T WAIT TO GO BACK. I INTEND TO ENROLL IN LEVEL 2 AS SOON AS MY SCHEDULE PERMITS. THERE IS ALWAYS MORE TO LEARN AND THESE GUYS ARE THE 10TH DON SENSEIS FROM THE FAR EAST. THANKS AGAIN MARSHALL, FOR EVERYTHING. LATER DENNY
Jeff Wise Vinita, OK. - 06/29/03 E-mail	Hi all, First of all let me begin by saying that I do not work for a Police department, I am, however, a member of the law enforcement familiy that we have all come to love and respect. I am a Sergeant with the Department of Corrections. I have worked for the D.O.C. for going on 15 years. I had the extreme pleasure of attending the C.L.E.E.T. firearms instructor course with Marshall Luton and let me say that Marshall has a burning passion for shooting and being the best at it. I am now a firearms instuctor for the State of Oklahoma and consider myself to be very comfortable with a pistol in my hand. When Marshall invited me to attend the Advanced Pistol Course I was pumped. During the 2 day course I must say that I found it very difficult to change many years of training in 2 days, but now I find myself practicing in my home with the new grip that I learned from Marshall and the other TDSA instructors. I also find myself repeating the cadence "push the button, regrip the gun, look, seat, flip, stick!" I can only say that Marshall and his crew are very enthusiastic about this training and pass that enthusiasm on to their students. Thanks Marshall you are a true friend. Meanwhile all you police officers be safe catch the bad guys and I will make sure they stay locked up. Jeff Wise
Todd Lee Broken Arrow, Ok - 06/21/03 E-mail	I can remember when Marshall Luton came to me with this TDSA stuff telling me how great it was and how it would save my life. Well, a couple of years later, I took the this class AGAIN. Just like the first time, this class showed me what I was doing wrong and highlighted the bad habits I had formed from not practicing. I still improved a great deal, and for my confidence; it sky rocketed!! I want to thank Marshall and his crew of instructors for their instruction and attitude during the class. I don't believe I've ever taken a class where I learned as much as I did, yet had so much fun. When I started into law enforcement, I made a promise to my wife and daughter that their husband and daddy would come home every night safely. Marshall, thanks to you and ur group of instructors, you're helping me keep my promise!! Thanks guys, your the best!! See you in Advanced Pistol II course Todd Lee Creek County Sheriff's Office
Jim Whitehead Stillwater, OK - 06/18/03 E-mail	I found this training to be the best that I have ever received. I cannot put into words what I experienced in any other way. This was the first time for me to take this class with TDSA Tulsa. I am very pleased with the effectiveness of the techniques and the professionalism of those who teach it. I improved by 27% in both speed and accuracy. I will be taking more classes through TDSA Tulsa in the future. Marshall and his crew were outstanding!!!!!!
dusty smith coweta okla. - 06/18/03 E-mail	i have been a reserve officer for 23 years , 18years with broken arrow p.d. 5years with coweta p.d. i have been to alot of schools over the years but this is the best school i have ever been to!!! any officer would benefit from this type of training. i have been talking to my chief about this training and now he wants to go to this school!! marshall thanks for the help I WILL BE BACK FOR MORE!!!!!!!!
SHAWN PRESLEY BROKEN ARROW, OK - 06/18/03 E-mail Homepage	I HAVE BEEN A POLICE OFFICER FOR 10 YEARS AND I AM CURRENTLY ASSIGNED WITH TO THE BROKEN ARROW POLICE DEPARTMENT'S SPECIAL OPERATIONS TEAM AS A SNIPER. I AM ALSO A CLEET FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR AND A DEFENSIVE TACTICS INSTRUCTOR. I'M GOING TO BE HONEST. WHEN, I FOUND OUT I WAS GOING TO ATTEND THIS COURSE, I WAS SOMEWHAT SKEPTICAL. AS A FIREAMS INSTRUCTOR, YOU HAVE TO GO THROUGH A LOT OF ADVANCED FIREARMS TRAINING AND EVERYTHING BECOMES 1ST NATURE AFTER SO MANY REPETITIONS. I DECIDED BEFORE THIS COURSE I WOULD TRY TO LOSE SOME OF MY EGO AND COME INTO IT WITH AN OPEN MIND. I TOLD MY SELF KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT, BE A SPONGE,GIVE IT 110% AND SEE WHAT HAPPENS. I STARTED OUT WITH A BAD RUN ON THE FIRST DAY(PRE TEST) AND IT REALY FRUSTRATED ME. I JUST KEPT TELLING MYSELF IT WILL COME AROUND IF I STAY FOCUSED AND LISTEN TO WHAT THESES GUYS HAVE TO SAY. I FINALLY GRASPED WHAT THESE GUYS WERE TELLING ME AND WAS VERY SURPRISED OF THE OUTCOME. I IMPROVED ON MY POST TEST BY 59%!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! IN MY EXPERIENCE, I HAVE RECEIVED A LOT OF TRAINING AND HAVE BEEN TAUGHT BY SOME OF THE BEST INSTRUCTOR'S IN THE WORLD. SINCE THIS COURSE, I WOULD PUT THE STAFF OF TDSA AT THE TOP. THEY ARE VERY MOTIVATIONAL AND ENTHUSIASTIC IN THEIR INSTRUCTION. IF YOU DID WELL , THEY WOULD GREET YOU WITH A HIGH FIVE OR A GOOD JOB. IF YOU DID BAD, THEY WOULD GIVE YOU INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO IMPROVE AND JOKINGLY GIVE YOU A LITTLE SARCASM. THERE WASN'T ANY OF THIS YELLING OR CURSING IF THEY DIDN'T LIKE THE RESULTS OF YOUR SHOOTING. AS AN INSTRUCTOR, I AM ALWAYS LOOKING FOR DIFFERENT METHODS. THE TDSA STAFF HAS INSPIRED ME TO BE MORE MOTIVATIONAL AND ENTHUSIASTIC IN MY INSTRUCTION. IN CONCLUSION, I HAVE AND WOULD RECOMMEND ANYONE TO GO TO THIS SCHOOL. THANKS GUYS!!!
Officer Greg Douglass Collinsville, OK - 06/14/03 E-mail	I have been with the Tulsa Police Department for 8 years and I am just now becoming truly proficient with my pistol. Thanks to TDSA Tulsa. I really appreciate the instructors at TDSA Tulsa. It takes more than just being good at what your teaching to qualify as a good instructor. I have been teaching martial arts for over 15 years and I have been teaching defensive tactics to law enforcement for 8 years and I know that it takes a tremendous amount of focus and dedications to be an effective instructor. These guys are defenitely skilled trainers. Additionally, I appreciate the way TDSA treats their students. Thanks for the refreshments and the barbecue. I will see you guys in July! Officer Greg Douglass Tulsa Police Department Special Operations Team
Sam Rugeley Broken Arrow, OK - 06/13/03	I am now a three-time student of TDSA Tulsa. I have taken API, APII, and I just repeated API on June 7th and 8th. I am amazed at my progress as a shooter, and I would like to thank all of the instructors for their time and dedication (special thanks to Leonard Head for driving up from Texas). I believe that one of the reasons the TDSA instructors are so skilled at teaching others is the fact that these guys want to be doing what they are doing. They all possess a sincere desire to elevate the abilities of all their students, and in so doing they may possibly save someone's life. I would also like to thank the Broken Arrow Police Department for allowing the class to be held at their great facility. Now for the classes: Level One is a must have course. It is the foundation upon which all other shooting skills will be built. Make no mistake, Level One may be the first course in the series of classes, but it is by no means basic. This course will challenge your perception of what speed, accuracy, grip, stance, and trigger control should be. Anyone can read a book on these things (and I did) and go out and practice what they learned. The question is, “are you doing it right?” Are you sure? I don’t believe there is any substitute more valuable than training one on one with a professional. TDSA of Tulsa provides the professionals, and you will train one on one. The class is limited in size with a high number of instructors, so you will receive ample time working one on one. You can also ask for assistance if you have a particular problem, and the staff will make sure you are brought up to speed. The staff is very clear that no one will be left behind. When you complete level one, you may feel overwhelmed at the amount of information you were given. This course will cover the draw, ready-gun, magazine changes with and without retention, grip, stance, trigger control, sight picture, and more. My advice to the serious student is to practice what you learn, and then take advantage of the audit system and take the course again. I improved another 20% the second time through the program, and found things really starting to “click.” Level Two is where the real world and training collide. Level Two builds on the foundation created in Level One by incorporating all forms of movement with the critical skills taught in the first level. Never in the real world would a defensive shooter square off with one or more bad guys and expect everyone to stand still in the middle of a gunfight. Movement is critical, and it can save your life just as easily as all of the fundamentals learned in Level One. The key is learning how to move efficiently and correctly. Level Two teaches the correct way to start, stop, and engage targets while on the move. Engaging from down on a knee and prone are also covered. You will also learn how to shoot from cover, move around cover, and recognize the difference between hard and soft cover. Writing a brief review like this makes the class sound simple, but in reality movement is far more complicated and fun to learn. The same great instructors pay close attention to the students, refining their movements until they are correct. Level Two is invaluable to the defensive and competitive minded shooter, especially at the insanely low tuition costs offered by TDSA Tulsa. I look forward to attending TDSA of Tulsa again in the future. The staff has so much to offer, that one cannot possibly learn everything by attending classes only once. I highly encourage everyone to use the audit system to his or her advantage. Thanks again to all the instructors at TDSA Tulsa.
Wes Miller Tulsa, OK - 06/10/03 E-mail Homepage	As a competitive shooter you constantly look for new ways and techniques to improve your shooting. When you stop learning you stop getting better. I approach each class with an open mind. I take everything the instructors have to offer and see what works for me. I recently took TDSA Tulsa's AP I with a Glock 17. It may not sound strange but I am a 1911 shooter at heart. I won my first IDPA National Championship with a 1911 and went back the next year and won again. I've never been comfortable with anything else until now. I took in every technique that Marshall and the guys had to offer. Everything was well demonstrated, it had a purpose, and more importantly it worked. The glass took me back to the basics and allowed me to refine my skills. The result was a 29% improvement in performance. I found myself shooting faster than I ever have and doing so accurately with a firearm I had not been comfortable with. I think anyone, regardless of skill, can benefit from the class and the level of instruction offered by TDSA Tulsa.
SSgt. Edward W. Powell, U.S.M.C. Broken Arrow, OK - 06/05/03	The instructors, their knowledge of the material presented and their method of teaching is OUTSTANDING! This is the best class I have ever had, hands down. I had a great time and I learned a lot. It will change the way I shoot forever. The best part was all the rounds you get to shoot to get it right. This training has, and will, make me faster and more accurate! I have already told my friends all about this course, even before I came here. Now I will tell all of them again how GREAT this course was. As far as safety is concerned, the line was safe at all times. I would like to come back again!! Thank you to Shane for giving me the chance to become a better shooter. Thanks again!
Dave Teel North Richland Hills, Texas - 06/03/03 E-mail	After taking the API class, I knew the next step being APII was a no brainer. The instruction was clear and easily understandable for any level of shooter. My scores improved after API. Now I am ready to try out my new APII training in a match. Near the end of the second day of training, everything started coming together and making more sense. My hat is off to Len and his system. Anyone who wants to improve their skills and push their abilities to the edge should jump into these classes feet first. Just remember what foot goes into the BOX first.
Vince O'Neill Edmond, OK - 05/24/03 E-mail	Went through TDSA'a Phase II Program (May 27/28). Had a blast!. I was asked, "Now that you've gone through One and Two, which one do you like the best?" I "liked" Two the best because of all the movement. But let me be plain: I "needed" both. (Actaully, I wanted both.) Phase One set the stage, so to speak. Phase Two let me synthesize the information contained in One in combination with Two making for a truly valuable learning experience. I was accused of sand bagging during the diagnostic, however, I am 54 years old, and it does take me a while to get warmed up. Phase TWO has everything to do with one of the most import aspects of our individual and collective survival: movement. Just as we need air to live, so, too, do we need dynamic movement when faced with a critical, life threatening situation. I'm assuming that if you're reading this, you're already aware whereof I speak (and preaching to the choir). Still, HOW we move is actually just as important, if not more so, than just simply WHEN move. TDSA covers movement from perceiving Temperment and Intent, i.e. a lethal threat, to initiating the START of movement blending into what I call a "Tactical STROLL," then into threshold breaking to a controlled STOP, with the whole idea of immediately doing it again when required. This Start, Stroll, and Stop approach -- and the way it's taught -- has great merit. It's absolutely the best terpsichorean pistol course I've ever attended! (If you can't dance, you're not fighting as well as you should, could, would...) The average time for the coursae was right about eleven to thirteen seconds. Good friend Pat Harker pushed me to a 9.2 second run (had a litttle trigger glitch -- didn't slack-out as fast as hwhen I pressed the trigger, otherwise I would have ended with a high eight second run). Oh, did I mention I used Paddy's gun? His ammo, too! A Glock 17 with CCI 115 gr. 9X19. (Nice gun...) Anyway, thanks to the patience of TDSA's Staff, not only did I learn the subtleties of tactical movement, but I had a gerat time, too. The class was taught in a progressive, part/whole method which is just about perfect for adult learners. Certain movememnts were isolated only to be incorporated later in drills and final performace assessment. In other words, there were chucky, bite-sized pieces to be digested, before going onto the next bite of information. Another way to put it: TDSA'a Phase 1&II pragrams are, so to speak, nine course meals, as opposed to a Big-Mac and an order of Supper-Sized fries! When one eats smart, a nine course meal can become a real culinary delight -- and healthy. But too many Big Mac's will kill ya! As always, it's all about the people. At TDSA acquaintance tends to develop into sound friendships. I guarantee you one thing: if you're not learning anything from TDSA, and/or you're not having fun, you've got to be already dead! If you're verticle and breathing, and serious about your learning skills that will keep you that way, then you will enjoy Ph. I&II at TDSA. Oh, yeah, tuition... Well, you had better get Phase I&II out of the way NOW because I've already told these guys, "Y'all don't charge enough." You're damn near giving it away." And, know what? They are! Sorry 'bout that. Y'all keep your powder dry. Stay safe. God Bless...
ROBERT BENNETT COLUMBIA , MISSOURI - 05/19/03 E-mail	I JUST FINISHED APII IN APRIL. ONCE AGAIN MARSHALL AND HIS INSTRUCTORS WERE FANTASTIC. I'VE BEEN A POLICE FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR FOR 14 YEARS AND HAVE BEEN TO SOME GREAT FIREARMS SCHOOLS. I WOULD RATE TDSA IN THE TOP 2 PERCENT. THE INSTRUCTORS REALLY MAKE THIS CLASS!!! I WAS ABLE TO IMPROVE MY SCORE 31 PERCENT. (THANKS MARSHALL AND LEN)!!!. IF YOU WANT THE MOST "BANG FOR THE BUCK" , REALLY IMPROVE YOUR SHOOTING AND GUN HANDLING SKILLS, MEET SOME GREAT INSTRUCTORS AND STUDENTS AND HAVE A BALL WHILE LEARNING, THEN YOU NEED YOU TAKE A TDSA CLASS TODAY!!!!!!!
Greg Douglass Collinsville, OK - 05/19/03 E-mail	I believe this training will greatly improve my shooting abilities during high stress and multiple target scenarios. Especially in S.W.A.T. situations where I will make room entries, acquire target(s) and fire my weapon. I have learned some basic essential techniques that I can apply to all shooting situations. Additionally, I've been to several shooting schools around the country shooting all kinds of weapons (rifles, carbine and pistol). I feel this course has done the most to increase my odds of winning a gun fight under all conditions. I had a great time and I will reccomend this course to my fellow operators on the TPD Special Operations Team. I'm looking forward to taking all of the TDSA course! The staff was an exicted group of motivators! See ya in June. Thanks, Greg Douglass Tulsa Police Department Special Operations Team 2

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