Master Personal Defense with Professional Firearms Training

Comprehensive courses in a safe environment, from concealed carry to advanced defense skills.

In-Person Training


2 LOCATIONS! Albuquerque, New Mexico and Derby, Kansas Concealed Carry Training, personalized one-on-one handgun sessions, and various safety related courses designed for all ages and skill levels.

E-Learning


24/7 access to training, including Real Estate Agent Safety, Non-Physical self-defense, and more done online, at your own pace, from the comfort of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

After a few years of teaching Conceal Carry in NM, I realized we are answering the same question MANY times!! That is OK, it is our job and we are happy to answer it again. For those of you looking for answers ONLINE, this may help you understand.

To get your conceal carry in NM, you will need to complete the 15 hours of training by a state certified instructor. Before or after attending the class, you can go and get your fingerprints. I wrote a separate blog about fingerprints here. Fill out the complete 2 page application. Have your Information Release form and Health Information Form signed, witnessed, and/or notarized as required.
The New Mexico Department of Public Safety Conceal Carry Unit has a website that can answer a lot of questions, but they also have forms you can download. You can fill out the application using an online form and print it out.
If you have not attended a class with us yet, this section will help you prepare —

We charge $155 for the 2 days of training. You will also need to pay $159 in additional fees for fingerprints and application fees to the state. If you decide to use our in-class fingerprint service (another local business comes in to do this) he charges a $20 fee to do fingerprints in the classroom. Check out the Fee Schedule in my blog here.

We are using a classroom located at Vigilant Firearms Training, 3915 Carlisle Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107.   Class starts at 8 am and will end at 5 pm

We use the Del Norte Gun Club located at 208 Torcida Road, Rio Rancho, NM. For initial conceal carry courses, we will meet at King Meadows Park at 3601 King Blvd NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144 before driving to the range, but the instructor will go over that on day 1 of the Conceal Carry course.

About Us

At Vigilant Firearms Training, we combine our experienced instructors with first class courses to provide you with safe and effective training in a calm environment. 

We also provide New Mexico Department of Public safety certified concealed handgun license training.

5.0
Based on 89 Reviews
google
Michael King
April 14, 2024

Robert and Storm provided feedback that allowed me to immediately improve my accuracy on the range. Very professional, always safe and effective instruction on clearing misfire weapons, applicale laws regarding concealed carry and exercises we could do after the class to engrain good shooting techniques.

google
Nancy Chapa
April 14, 2024

Vigilant Fire Arms instructors are exceptional. They take their time at the range and in the training room. Their goal is to ensure, you are qualified to handle a firearm, that you possess a firm understanding of safety protocols. They educate on New Mexico State and Federal laws, reciprocity, and your responsibilities as a CCW licensee.

google
Gregory Lamb
April 9, 2024

Great class and interactive. Robert was a great instructor and kept the laughs going. Highly recommend to anyone wanting to take a conceal class. Well worth the money spent.

google
Tyler Tabor
April 8, 2024
google
Dj V
March 10, 2024

Take Mr. Keith Kolbs firearms training classes and I promise you will not be disappointed. Thank you Keith Kolb for being a great instructor and I look forward to taking classes with you in the future. Update: 03/10/2024- I decided to go back and train with Vigilant Firearms Training LLC because my first experience was great, I'm glad to say this time around was also nothing short of great. Storm is a very smart lady who knows what she's doing along with her husband, they're very kind and appreciated that they let me catch a ride with them to the range, thank you both for being so kind to me. Robert was on top of his A game and is a very knowledgeable person who takes his job very serious by making sure the environment is 100 percent safe with clear instruction on Firearms handling and the law that pertains to the use of deadly force and all the laws that surround carrying a self defense firearm. This is the second time I took a class with Steve and his instruction and knowledge on how to handle a firearm and use one correctly was on point and he's nothing short of an amazing instructor. Keith Kolb you got yourself some fantastic employees and I know that's hard to come by nowadays. I want to thank Vigilant Firearms Training LLC for providing a thorough and well maintained class filled with great training tips along with a 100 percent safe and friendly environment. I could go on and on about the great instructor's but this review would be longer than anyone would like, so thank you all very much, I won't hesitate to come back a 3rd time around and If I left anything out I apologize, just know when you train with Vigilant Firearms Trainging LLC you won't be disappointed and you'll be glad you did.

google
T
February 16, 2024

Ive been shooting for a long time and will say i absoulty still was able to take away knowledge from this ccw class. Great job to all the instructors

google
Angel Guevara
February 6, 2024

Amazing class. Learned a lot. Def glad I chose to go with Vigilant for my training. Instructors were awesome & very helpful. Just when you think you know a lot, they showed me I don't haha. But I'm glad to have learned. Again, thank you!

google
Jon S
February 5, 2024

Good, SAFE training.

google
Vanessa Cordova
January 23, 2024
google
Jp Vigil
October 15, 2023
google
Steve Hackett
October 14, 2023

Today's class was outstanding- good, thorough instructors, strong emphasis on safety, and an overall fun day! Will not hesitate to take another Vigilant Firearms training class! Thank you again.

google
Jamie
August 28, 2023

A good experience all around. I attended the instructor class. There is a great deal of material that needs to be gone through. Keith and Steve get you through the process in the most efficient, painless manner, and you actually learn something. Likewise while at the range. The training environment is safe, professional, and educational. For perspective, I have 25 years law enforcement experience and 15 years as a Firearms instructor in a law-enforcement agency

google
JB Cuellar
July 14, 2023

Just completed the class and couldn’t be more pleased. My instructor, Robert, made it easy to qualify for my CCW permit (first timer.) Even with some firearm experience, I learned a lot of new and useful information. On the range, I learned which areas I needed to improve and I can’t wait to get out there and make those improvements. Overall, it was a great experience and I’m grateful that I am now better prepared to keep myself and my family protected.

google
Joey Bresett
April 24, 2023

I received very valuable training from VFT while taking their initial CCW permit class. The instructor (Robert Martino) frequently went beyond the slides to involve his students in discussions about the information to ensure we had a deeper understanding of what it means to be a responsible CCW permit holder. This made the class interesting and memorable. Instructors were extremely helpful during the live-fire portion of the class and helped fine tune our shooting skills above and beyond barely qualifying. I would recommend VFT to anyone looking to get their CCW permit or any firearm training.

google
Kevin Hoover
January 18, 2023

I highly recommend Vigilant Firearms Training. Trainers are knowledgeable, thorough and explain the material in an easy to understand fashion. All questions are answered and explained completely. They are not there just for the money, they care about you. If you are a lady, you will not feel like you are in a “man’s” world. Professional team at your service.

google
john loftis
December 19, 2022

I just took my ccw course with steve very knowledgeable and i learned alot would recommend to anyone thanks again

google
Austin G
December 5, 2022

Absolutely an awesome CCW class! The instructors were extremely thorough and knowledgeable! I learned so much! Highly recommend training at VFT! Thanks VFT!

google
Maacah Ross
December 5, 2022
google
rick ganster
November 15, 2022

Competent and personable instructors who stressed gun/range safety and responsible behavior.

google
Mike Kanesta
November 7, 2022

This is the third CCL class I've taken in 20 years and this was the best so far. Robert, our instructor, educated all of us extremely well and made the class very interactive. The range instruction I received from Steve was personal, insightful, and extremely helpful. I highly recommend Vigilant Firearms Training.

google
Clifford Hilliard
November 6, 2022

I have learn so much from the class provided and I believe that the training that I received will benefit me through out my future experiences. I truly appreciate what I have learned from you. Thank you.

google
matthew lahair
November 6, 2022

Robert gave a excellent class very thorough and very well spoken and best of all very entertaining in a educational way the whole crew was very professional thoughtful and lead a safe course

google
Greg Hilliard
November 6, 2022

The classroom experience was enjoyable and very informative. The range time was also great. I never felt unsafe at any time and would absolutely do it again.

google
julie loftus
October 25, 2022

Great class. Learned a lot and the instructors were knowledgeable and helpful. I Would highly recommend this class.

google
Mike May
October 23, 2022

I participated in the NM CCW training course and found it to be well worth the time and money invested! The instructor, "Grumpy" was anything but. He walked us through the various applicable classroom segments with a good sense of humor and an honest take on being a responsible CCW holder. When it came to range time he, along with instructors Robert and Storm, provided valuable guidance that improved my accuracy resulting in a perfect qualifying score. I was so impressed that I look forward to attending future training programs with Vigilant. GIve 'em a try.

google
Steve W
October 23, 2022

Very good course. Instructors were knowledgeable and very helpful. Did not give 5 stars as I felt it was a little too commercial because of the sales presentation for USCCA.

google
Kassidy Staley
September 27, 2022

If you want to carry a firearm, or even just have one in your home in case of emergencies- you need to take this course. I went in with extremely limited experience, and some apprehension about handling firearms. My confidence is 110% better now after working with Steve and Robert. They teach you safety fundamentals, how to properly handle and load your firearm, proper shooting techniques, and so much more. I am so thankful for Vigilant Firearms Training, and would recommend their courses to anyone!

google
Nicole Atkins
September 25, 2022

These wonderful men helped me in more ways than one when it comes to being a responsible gun owner as well as fundamentals for shooting and handling my gun safely. I would recommend them to help anyone.

google
Mark P
September 18, 2022

What a great class. Learned so much in a short time. Thank you Steve and Robert for your knowledge. I look forward to continuing my education with you in the future.

google
Max Schwaber
May 17, 2022

I learned a lot and enjoyed the firearms training! Interrupting the course to push insurance products did feel unprofessional though. Recommend giving a fake email as they spam the heck out of it!

google
Gabriela Zaldumbide
March 1, 2022

Keith was a skilled and knowledgable instructor who clearly cares about his students and their understanding of firearm safety. I would recommend Vigilant Firearms Training classes to anyone!

google
Katelyn Collins
February 26, 2022

I say pull the trigger with Vigilant Firearms Training if you want your CCW certification. I was discouraged at first because yes, firearms can be for everyone, but there can be some masculine toxicity when it comes to the pew pew game. Not here! I know they offer a woman's course to obtain a CCW certification, but I felt completely comfortable with the integrated class. I would say that the price and conveniency (fingerprints / notary on site) is top-tier, they make it stupidly simple! Honestly, it is a professional and respectable place that I would totally recommend to anyone who wants to continue their training with firearms.

google
Jason Doherty
November 16, 2021

Excellent class, HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Going to continue my weapons education with Keith and Steve. Thank you both, we'll see you again ,soon!

google
Rick Harris
October 17, 2021

Keith and Steve were excellent. They presented the conceal carry material well, answered our questions and also added to them with other good questions from previous classes. On the range they provided individual attention that made a big difference for me. I will be going back to Vigilant Firearms and Keith for future classes.

google
Chris Miller
June 28, 2021

What a wonderful class with tons of great info for anyone on any level of experience!! Instructor Aka Storm was amazing tons of knowledge and experience kept class fun and engaged. I look forward to taking more classes and learning from the team at Vigilant Firearms. Their experience and training is hands down the best around! I highly suggest reaching out to Vigilant Firearms. Thank you Storm you are awesome!

google
Andrew Gardner
June 28, 2021

Very pleased with my experience at Vigilant. Storm kept the classroom portion very interesting and engaging. In addition the hands on portion at the range was excellent. Keith and Storm both taught techniques to improve both safety and proficiency. Couldn’t have been happier with the course or the instructors.

google
sterling francis
June 8, 2021

Couldn't have asked for better instruction. Storm is a great instructor. Keith definitely helped me close up my group. Thank you.

google
Perfect Finiish
May 10, 2021

This was an Awesome class. The instructor Storm was the best. She gave us some really great info and made the class fun. They made the process on getting our CCW very easy by providing everything we needed and answering any questions. At the range Storm ,Steve and Tony were great. They were super knowledgeable and helpful on know how to correct mistakes and making us shoot better. Safety was #1 , I felt extremely safe and had confidence in the instructors. I thought the price for the class was very reasonable and learned a lot of valuable information. I will be recommending them to everyone I know who wants to take any type of classes or training. Thanks Vigilant Firearms! You guys Rock!

google
Ben Chavez
April 26, 2021

Thank you Rhynda for the awesome experience and education I received attending your class. I had never fired a gun before and I was really intimidated by a firearm. Attending your class gave me the education and the confidence I needed to become a responsible gun owner. I will recommend your class to anybody who owns or wants to own a firearm.

google
smsonnet130
April 12, 2021

I highly recommend Vigilant Firearms for people new to guns and skilled gun aficionados. No matter your skill level, you WILL learn something new and invaluable. Storm, Steve and Keith take firearm safety seriously while also making it fun with their good-humored personalities and patience. Take it from a newbie....I'm happy I picked Vigilant Firearms Training and will continue to train with them.

google
Esperanza Amador
March 31, 2021

All three instructors above EXCELENCE!! They were knowledgeable, compassionate, patience & friendly. My husband & I had a great time & we both left confident & knowledgeable. We really recommend Vigilant Firearms Training LLC. its a great place to learn responsibly, train responsibly, have fun & make great friends. Thank you all!!!

google
Pete Little
March 26, 2021

Storm was excellent and patient with the class. She is personable and that helped me feel comfortable asking questions. Being the least experienced shooter in the class, this helped me feel comfortable asking questions. I will go back for future range training and classroom training.

google
JD Vera Cruz
March 23, 2021

If you're trying to get your Concealed Carry License, this place is the way to go! My instructor, Storm, was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and will look for you as her own. They provided me with a lot of new information and various scenarios to apply your new information. Once you get to the range, they have the expertise to help you even if you're completely inexperience in handling a firearm. They are very patient and understanding and will work will ALL levels.

google
001los
March 1, 2021

Vigilant Firearms was a great place to not only ask questions but learn so much about firearms and firearm safety. They not only work with your group but with individuals as well. The best part about taking this class is that you forget your in a classroom, because your having so much fun. This is how any course should be. Very professional, and knowledgeable!!! I highly recommend this company if you’re serious about taking your personal safety seriously.

google
Adam Jacobs
February 26, 2021

Keith provide excellent instructions and examples of how to be the best instructor possible. I am very glad I chose Vigilant Firearms Training LLC for my Conceal Carry Instructor Certification Course. I also plan on taking other classes with them.

google
CFX MishMash
February 24, 2021

Kieth is a very informative instructor and definitely teaches with an excellent level of professionalism and is very precise in explaining course content. Even better was the range time i learned so much and will definitely take more classes in the near future when available. I highly recommend kieth you will be glad to have him and his associates as well. Thumbs up to Vigilant Firearms Training LLC 👍👍

google
Jacklyn Jablonski
February 14, 2021

Keith was an excellent instructor. He was very thorough and made sure I was comfortable and confident throughout the entire course. I would recommend this course and him to anyone who wanted a better understanding and/or training on handguns. I plan on going back for any/all courses he offers.

google
Shannon Coles
February 1, 2021

This was one of the best classes I had the opportunity to go too. Storm is an absolute gem and will work with you to pass the course and make sure you are educated in what not to do after you qualify. Grumpy and Tony at the range along with Storm have A ++++ rating, you will hit the target after they are done with you. Great place to go to for your CCW.

google
Phil Lowe
January 25, 2021

Completed CCW training by the professionals at Vigilant. Keith. Storm, Steve and Tony . Their knowledge of the NM law and safe firearm practice was great! Yes I would recommend Vigilant Firearms Training to the novice and experienced.

google
Paul Sandoval
October 26, 2020

Great concealed carry course!! Great information, good resources and a lot of knowledge passed on. The 3 instructors were to notch professionals and I highly recommend to anyone.

Latest Blog Posts