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Rochester Personal Defense
300 Buell Rd, Rochester, NY 14624, United States
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Rochester Personal Defense

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Jo
Review №1

The staff here is always friendly professional and answers every question and every hypothetical I can usually think of. Its really made me a more competent, confident, and responsible firearm owner.

Vl
Review №2

I participated in the USCCA Handgun Basics course. Extremely awesome class with great instructors. Wendy and Doc were very personable and did a fantastic job teaching the material and then watching for live fire to make sure we were utilizing proper techniques when firing. They would help correct your form and make sure you were comfortable with your firearm. Although the material was serious, the instructors did a great job to make sure it wasn’t mundane and everyone was able to walk away feeling more comfortable. Thank you for putting up with “those guys”

Ju
Review №3

Great group of instructors, very knowledgeable and filled with energy. Anyone looking for firearms courses to take, new or seasoned, this is the place to be. They exceeded my expectations, I will def be returning to learn more from these guys and gals. Thank you to Dave, Ken and Debra!

Ju
Review №4

Ive taken a few classes with RPD and they have given me knowledge about owning and carrying a firearm that I never knew before, dispelled some myths, and have taught me the all important safety of carrying and using a firearm. Im planning to take a few more courses with them in the near future. Rochester Personal Defense also offers other courses for non-lethal defense, home security, and also first aid. This is by far the best resource for training and knowledge for personal defense. You will not regret your investment in training with Rochester Personal Defense.

Mi
Review №5

Ive trained with RPD multiple times. Cant recommend them enough. The instructors are so knowledgeable and so helpful. They have a wide range of classes as well so whatever youre in to, they have a class for you.Excellent organization - highly recommend them.

Mi
Review №6

I signed up for the course for one reason. I walked away from the course with more knowledge and understanding than I ever thought Id have. The instructors were very knowledgeable and patient and delivered the material and training in a stable and professional manner. I thoroughly enjoyed the training and truly feel that I left with life long skills.

Mi
Review №7

I took the USCCA Basics class with Matt. I thoroughly enjoyed this class and Matts teaching style. He was very open to questions and was a great instructor during the live fire portion of the class. I am hoping to continue the different courses available with this club.

St
Review №8

Matt and Ed were great. Took their uscca intro class. Great for new shooters and those that just want a basic refresher which we should all do on occasion. Good mix of class and live fire. They were hamstrung by uscca criteria a little. There are many new things in the market that they couldnt get into. Like AR/AK/Contender pistol, mantis, blue alpha gear, etc.

Da
Review №9

Matt was the instructor for the USCCA Basics Class that I took. He did a really thorough job both in the classroom portion and on the range. I left there feeling more confident in my ability to handle my pistol. Looking forward to taking additional classes with Matt. Thanks again Matt!!

da
Review №10

I took the all womens USCCA basic handgun course today. Wendy was the instructor, and did a great job. I was uncomfortable with my current gun and she was able to help coach me on this gun, and allowed me to try her guns. We figured out that I was more comfortable with a different gun with a bigger grip on it. She took her time and made the class interesting. I appreciate all the information and looking forward to my next course.

Pa
Review №11

I just finished a course with them. Dave Jenkins is the owner and he instructed the course with one of the new trainers, Jessica.It was an eight hour course and it flew by in no time at all!The information was delivered in a very energetic manner. There was no period of dullness throughout the day. I learned so much information in such a small amount of time!I am a first time pistol owner/user. All of the personal safety, safety and etiquette information will stay with me.The cost of the course was very reasonable. The material content was thorough, valuable and well delivered.I give the entire day a 5 STAR experience. I highly recommend them if you are looking for any gun training whatsoever.

Ma
Review №12

Had an excellent experience taking a womens self defense class here and found their focus to truely be practicality and safety. I initially thought they were pricey, but the great value of the class made it well worth it. Super knowledgable instructor who genuinely enjoyed teaching us new skills. I will definitely be taking more classes with them!

MJ
Review №13

This is the 3rd course that I have taken with Rochester Personal Defense. I have learned alot in a short period of time and highly recommend their courses. I think even experienced shooters would benefit from these courses (seem to find just becuase someone has had a pistol permit for decades does not mean they know much, nor necessarily very skilled). Very professional and also very safety concious.

Ju
Review №14

I have been through their training to apply for multiple out of state concealed carry permits, including Utah, Florida and Arizona. Knowledgeable, professional and easy to understand - would highly recommend them for any of your personal protection needs!

Mi
Review №15

I’ve taken two classes through RPD so far - USCCA Handgun Basics and Practical CCW. The instructors here are fantastic. Quality training is essential to responsible gun ownership and that’s exactly what I received from Rochester Personal Defense.The instructors are serious about what they do, they understand the importance and the weight of what they’re teaching and that these are life saving skills. They also know how to make you feel comfortable with firearms, understand the material, and have a good time doing it.I can’t recommend training here enough and can’t wait to sign up for more.

Ni
Review №16

Ive gone to Rochester personal defense for multiple courses. The quality of training is unmatched! Their Equalizer Ladies 1 and 2 is NOT your basic self defense course. I always have so much fun and the cruiculums are built so everything you learn is just natural. If you ask, theyll duck tape you and put you in a trunk for a kidnapping simulation, lol that was a highlight of EQ2!! I will definitely be a lifetime customer and student of Rochester Personal Defense!!!!!

Ch
Review №17

This was an amazing place to train at! Everyone is extremely professional, knowledgeable and really nice. I can’t wait to train more! Thank you so much for everything Rochester Personal Defense!

Da
Review №18

I attended the NRA Pistol Instructor course at Rochester Personal Defense. The owner Dave and his staff were all very professional and knowledgeable about the material presented. I would recommend RPD to anyone either looking to take an instructor course or wanting to gain knowledge of firearms.Dan Gregory

Je
Review №19

I have taken 2 courses so far! The 1st was about 6 weeks ago & it was the USCCA Handgun Basics Course. I was nervous but my instructor CJ was so great. I had never shot my gun before. We were a small group so I was thrilled to get so much individual instruction. Today I did the Part 2 Hands On/Live Fire.What a great thing to do! My 1st course like I stated I was very nervous, afraid I was going to do something terribly wrong. Today I felt more comfortable & got great instruction from Wendy & Kurtis! I really enjoyed how they ran the firing drills. It was the perfect next step for me. I can’t say enough about this company & their commitment to their students. Safety is their priority & I am grateful!I can’t wait to take my next course!

Ca
Review №20

Excellent class. Instructor very well oriented very informative. Truly recommended to others.

Li
Review №21

I am a several times over a repeat attendee at RPDs very informative, interactive shotgun classes. Attending classes presented by RPD has given me confidence in handling my 20 gauge shotgun. I have learned a great deal about safety when handling and working with my shotgun. I have had many opportunities while attending RPD classes to shoot on the target range with experienced trainers at my side to coach and encourage me. I look forward to the next class I will attend and would highly recommend these classes to women and men who are interested in knowing more about shotguns and or are interested in owning and properly operating one. Theses are terrific classes!

Je
Review №22

This was an amazing class that taught me so much! They take their time to teach you how to avoid potential dangers and how to prevent having to get physical, but they also spent a majority of the class teaching us self defense techniques that really work! Then Lou suited up and put all of us ladies to the test. The opportunity to practice what we learned was the best part of the whole class! I recommend it to ANYONE! This was an amazing class and experience with professional instructors!!

CJ
Review №23

I have taken many classes with Rochester Personal Defense and have never been disappointed. In fact, each class has surpassed all of my expectations and then some. Dave is a fabulous instructor. I highly recommend training with this group. They really know what they are doing!!

Je
Review №24

I recommend checking out Rochester Personal Defense.

Gr
Review №25

I have taken quite a few classes from Rochester Personal Defense. I can honestly say that every class have far exceeded my expectations. Whether you have never handled a firearm in your life, Have been around firearms but you want to be safer and feel more comfortable handling them or you have been training with firearms consistently for a while and want to learn more . They will be able to help you. Just send them a message and they will point you in the right direction.

Si
Review №26

Hand Gun Basics - I would strongly recommend this course. If you are a new gun owner, a seasoned collector, or ex military... getting a refresher or even a start with gun ownership and firing basics from a team such as this is worth its weight in gold. The staff. David, Butch, Darcy are super professionals that do not make you feel incompetent or small in anyway... they are very supportive and super safe. I left feeling like I want more. .. so I will definitely be coming back for another helping! Thanks a bunch!

Ke
Review №27

Just completed the Combative Handgun Course this past weekend! Dave’s teaching ability is second to none! I’ve taken many courses with Dave, and every course has exceeded my expectations! If you carrying concealed, then I feel it is your responsibility to get training from Dave and his staff at RPD! You won’t be disappointed and you will become a better, safer carrier of a concealed weapon! Looking forward to more courses!Thanks Dave!

Jo
Review №28

After taking one class with Rochester Personal Defense, I was hooked. To date, I have taken 7 classes with them and plan on taking even more. Having taken classes with other “instructors” in the past, I finally was impressed and inspired. Dave, Matt, and the other instructors are exceptional.Give yourself a gut check. How prepared are you? How often and what skills do you practice? You can throw a thousand rounds downrange and learn nothing, or you can put in the time and effort in with quality instructors and learn something. With training, you will learn more about yourself, your gear, and your abilities. RPD instructors will push you to find your fullest potential in each class. I am now more confident in my skills/abilities, and I have seen my own improvement with each class.I started taking classes that were offered in the Syracuse Area, and now knowing what to expect from them, I am willing to travel to their Rochester locations for events.Rochester Personal Defense provides quality firearms training, specialized classes that offer unique training experiences, medical and self defense courses, and even ladies only classes.I highly recommend them to friends, family, coworkers, or anyone who has the desire to be better.

Mi
Review №29

The instructors are super safe and constantly staying diligent on maintaining safety during the class. They have all sorts of class for all types of people looking for self defense instruction, first aid, and much more. I took a run your gun class followed by low light and it was such a good time learn a ton and looking for my next classes.

Co
Review №30

When it comes to training, you should go nowhere else but Rochester Personal Defense, LLC. Hands down the best training you will take part in. My skills have progressed exponentially after training with Dave, Matt, Andy and the rest of the crew. You will not find better instructors. Every single person thats on Daves staff carry themselves with the utmost professionalism and give you what you need and then some. You can honestly tell the passion they have behind what they teach you because it shows in the classroom, on the range and in your skill progression. They are all leagues above the competition. When instructing, they are able to give you precise diagnostics on your performance, unveil new tactics for superior operation and make you dig deeper for higher quality dynamics and function. They always create an environment that pushes you to become better than you were before you walked into the class and give you the necessary tools to prepare you for the worst day of your life. Most of all: safety is of absolute importance to them. Plus, every class you partake in is going to be fun. The learning experience is like no other. You will not be disappointed and you will not take just 1 class, I guarantee it.

Be
Review №31

The class was very informative!

Am
Review №32

I just completed the Handgun Basics for ladies only. The class was fantastic. I was so nervous starting out but Darcie and Wendy were amazing and by the end of the day I was so comfortable with everything that I learned. I will definitely be back for more classes!

K
Review №33

Hi David,I just finished the course, Handguns Basic Training. I have to say that Bear and Badger were fantastic trainers. I learned so much from both of them about safety, how to hold and handle my gun. I thought the entire class from start to finish was very well done. I definitely would recommend this course to everyone.Thank you.Karin

Gr
Review №34

Dave, I attended your NY Permit Legalities and Firearms Safety class on 12/27/2017. Thank you for creating a very informative course. Matt did an outstanding job of interpreting the wording of NY firearms laws and providing tips to keep us safe and legal. I will recommend this class to people I meet that are interested in owning and carrying a handgun.

Ma
Review №35

A great resource in our town. Went for a presentation/seminar and was not disappointed. Heard many things about the quality of content put on here, and Im looking forward to going more and more for my own personal training needs. Not every town is lucky enough to have a quality, competent, qualified instructor course/base available so close to them.

Co
Review №36

Staff is very professional, informative, takes into consideration all skill levels, and just a blast to take classes from. Ive taken 6 myself, and will keep going back for more! Classes are taught in the Syracuse area but I have no problem trekking to Rochester to get my training for them! Thank you!

Ku
Review №37

I’ve taken several courses from Dave Jenkins & Rochester Personal Defense. I’m an NRA Instructor and a USCCA Instructor through them. I just took the Handgun Combatives course and it was fantastic! A great course for anyone who does conceal carry a firearm. You get to practice the skill of shooting, as well as all the other “stuff” that comes with it - reloading, malfunctions, drawing from concealed, etc. I highly recommend courses through Rochester Personal Defense. You won’t be disappointed.

Ro
Review №38

I took my basic conceal carry class there today (8/5/2017) The instructors were, fun, friendly, and very knowledgeable. They were professional, and took individual interest is each student. Making sure that when we were done we were more confident, and comfortable with our firearms. Thank You guys for a great 1st class. I will definitely be taking class# 2!!!

Jo
Review №39

At a great day on the range for the Run Your Gun class. good drills and good instructors. Thanks and i look forward to the next class!

Aa
Review №40

Took Handgun Basics course and learned so much! Instructors Andy and Butch were extremely knowledgeable, very fun and very professional. Everyone who owns a pistol needs to take this class. It’ll break you out of any bad habits and heighten your awareness about safety. Great class!

To
Review №41

Had my second class with RPD Dave.his teaching is second to none I have and will continue to tell everyone about him and his school.Dave puts on a class that makes you feel so at ease but still learning Awesome job Dave

ra
Review №42

My wife and I took the Handgun Basics Class. Excellent - the trainers were outstanding. We are complete beginners, so we were concerned that it would be overwhelming. Felt much more comfortable with our firearms after class - looking forward to other classes.

Am
Review №43

I took the Concealed Carry Basics class yesterday and it was fantastic! Not only did it cover a lot of information, but the instructors were great at answering questions we had. I really appreciated all of the hands-on help with grip, stance, etc. at the range, The instructors made the class a lot of fun, and challenged us at the range with different drills. I would recommend this class to anyone starting their shooting career, or someone who needs a refresher on the basics.

Mi
Review №44

I just completed the Handgun Combatives course last weekend taught by David Jenkins in the Rochester, NY area and I have to say it was the best training course I have attended.It addressed my needs and goals perfectly. Starting with mindset and moving on to drills and practice routines, the course (and David) gave me a framework and system upon wihich to build through practice and training. I need and appreciate getting in the reps that a longer term course like this can afford someone like me. I felt as if I improved over the course of the weekend and look forward to attending the course again in a few months to gauge my progress.

Al
Review №45

I took the Concealed Carry Basics class on October 27 in Ontario and it was absolutely excellent in every way. Matt Underwood is a superb instructor. We had some great discussions in the classroom and loads of questions were answered and information clarified. Our range time was awesome. With only 6 people in the class, Matt was able to devote time to everyone to address specific issues/requirements/techniques. He’s also very patient and understanding; not everyone was at the same level of experience and he worked with those of us who needed the additional assistance.We also uncovered the cause of an issue that has been plaguing me…shooting low and to the left and missing the target. Since I have been shooting my Glock 43 I have begun to flinch which has not happened with my other handguns or rifles. Matt gave me some good tips to begin to address how to remedy that, which I will be working very hard on.Thanks again for offering such quality training and great information sharing to the public. I will definitely let people know about the high quality, professional training opportunities that RPD provides. I am looking forward to continuing the Concealed Carry training class series.

Er
Review №46

Ive now taken a total of 5 classes with Rochester Personal Defense since September of 2018 (4 live fire pistol classes and 1 medical class) and every single one has been a wonderful and educational experience. If youre looking for top notch, no fluff training RPD is anexcellent source. Dave, Matt and the rest of the team are all very professional, knowledgeable and friendly!!

Ja
Review №47

Dave and Matt are very knowledgeable and experienced with handguns. I have been shooting for years and these guys taught me more than I imagined. I needed this class for an out of state license and thought I already knew everything I needed to know. I was wrong. I highly recommend these guys.

Mi
Review №48

Top Flite talenred instructors, extremely progressive training that has a life to it.Gives you real world teaching and answers.Fun Group++.

Ma
Review №49

Highly suggest taking the Handgun Safety / Permit Legalities Course here at this location. Bob was our instructor and he was fantastic. I will most likely be coming back for further training.

Jo
Review №50

Just finished the USCCA Instructor course with Dave Jenkins. Dave is a fantastic instructor and ran a tough class professionally and smoothly. The class didnt lag and was a lot of fun, all the while imparting important knowledge and skills. Ive been too many shooting courses and this is one of the best Ive been too. Looking forward to training with him again soon.

Ku
Review №51

Took the run your gun class very good class. Will definitely take another class.

Ma
Review №52

Love this place, no one makes you feel awkward here, very comfortable and I can’t wait to go back and learn me some more stuff!

Da
Review №53

Ive taken a few courses over the years offered by RPD. Just recently a NRA basic pistol class. Dave is a great instructor, Im both surprised and happy that theres such a great training company local. They also partner with EMS tactical which offer classs like civilian response to trauma and about once a year they bring in instructors to teach a t.e.c.c. class. Check their websites course catalog. Its amazing the training oportunies they offer.

Ca
Review №54

Dave & Wendy were amazing at our Well Armed Woman Empire State Purplepalooza. Very knowledgable and great sense of humor.

Ta
Review №55

I recently took RPDs concealed carry basics class with Wendy and Matt. FANTASTIC. KNOWLEDGEABLE...so many good things to say. They took the time to get each attendee comfortable before we even took our 1st shot. They were very attentive in helping make sure we had the correct stance, grip, etc. I have never fired a gun until this class and I never felt uneasy asking a question. I would recommend RPD any day, everyday. Looking forward to signing up for more training classes.

C.
Review №56

I took the Carry concealed basics class on 8/5/17. Excellent class including new information along with safety reminders. 1 on 1 time with instructors was plentiful and valued. Will be back soon. Thanks!

Go
Review №57

Great in depth class for low level light shooting. Thanks Matt

Ri
Review №58

Training with RPD is very relaxed . The staff is very professional and they build confidence and take time to be sure everyone learns at their capabilities ! Highly recommend train with them .

fs
Review №59

Just took the Concealed Carry basics class in Canandaigua, NY on 05-AUG-2017 and had a great time. You always learn a new thing or two from any class no matter how long youve been working with firearms. The instructors (Tom, Chris and Matt for this class) are approachable, professional and can deliver individual instruction while keeping safety a priority. I am already investing in further training with RPD.

Hi
Review №60

Extremely knowledgeable and experienced instructors. These guys are true professionals. Skip YouTube, come get some real training!

Ch
Review №61

RPD offers a broad selection of self defense classes from novice to advanced, armed and unarmed. They now also offer first aid and trauma care classes. Ive taken nine different classes and they were all good.

Ad
Review №62

Took a course with RPD in Greene, NY. The instructors did a great job and made the course enjoyable.

Mi
Review №63

Dave is awesome!! Class was well presented and we learned a ton !

Je
Review №64

I enrolled in this businesss NY Permit Legalities and Firearm Safety class. I was unable to attend the class and attempted to discuss a refund or reschedule the class and spoke with Mr. Dave Jenkins from the school. When I attempted to explain the issue to Mr. Jenkins I was advised there were no refunds under any circumstances after the class date in a very condescending, unprofessional and demeaning manner. Among his comments, he advised that he cannot send out a bus to pick up attendees that miss class and that his refund policy was stated on the website. I suggested that if his policy was that inflexible perhaps he should explain that when enrolling (I mean who enrolls in a class and thinks they are going to miss it the same day ???). After several minutes of uninterrupted speech regarding the error as solely and completely my fault I felt there was no way I would be taking a course at Rochester Personal Defense. Mr. Jenkins also told me at length about the superiority of his curriculum over the Monroe County Sheriffs Gun Safety course when I mentioned I might be taking that class as it was offered at no charge. Mr. Jenkins did advise he might be able to offer me some type of credit towards a future class date however I was concerned how I would be treated at the class, in person, considering the treatment I was receiving on the phone. I am a single, disabled mother and $40 (the price of the class) is a lot of money to have given this business for nothing in return. I would advise anyone considering doing business with Rochester Personal Defense to CAREFULLY peruse all aspects of their website.

Ji
Review №65

Another amazing class delivered with precision and professionalism. Dave and Wendy did a fantastic job with the USCCA instructors training.This is one of the latest courses offered by RPD and it was executed smoothly with a good mix of classroom and range time in order to drive home the critical skills required to become an instructor with the US Concealed Carry Association.Over the past seven years I have taken a number of courses from RPD and have never been disappointed.If you are looking to go to the next level, these are the people you want to see.

Hi
Review №66

Dave, Ive taken several of your classes both on the range & in the classroom. Your instructors are professional & knowledgeable. They teach in a non-threatening & non-judgmental manner.I find it so helpful to get someone elses eyes on & evaluation of my skills. Would strongly encourage others to take these classes. Regardless of your own evaluation of your skill level or years of experience there is always something to be learned. Your classes not just offer shooting skills but offer skills for the defensive mindset, which I see as protective mindset. You & your instructors never teach anoffensive mindset but one that is to protect yourself & loved ones. They teach you to think & react for your safety. Safety is first, foremost & always. I look forward to participating in more training. My Thanks to you & RPD instructors!!

Ma
Review №67

Professional, detailed training from highly experienced instructors! Absolutely worthwhile!

Ma
Review №68

Great instructors and knowledgeable experience!!!

An
Review №69

Professional knowledgeable and Priced Right.

Information
11 Photos
69 Comments
4.9 Rating
  • Address:300 Buell Rd, Rochester, NY 14624, United States
  • Site:https://safeinrochester.com/
  • Phone:+1 585-406-6758
Schools near me:
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Categories
  • Self defense school
Working hours
  • Monday:8:30AM–6:30PM
  • Tuesday:8:30AM–6:30PM
  • Wednesday:8:30AM–6:30PM
  • Thursday:8:30AM–6:30PM
  • Friday:8:30AM–6:30PM
  • Saturday:8:30AM–6:30PM
  • Sunday:8:30AM–6:30PM
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance:Yes
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