Looking to get your Texas License to Carry or sharpen your shooting skills? The DFW metroplex is packed with independent training academies, but not all are created equal. I've researched the top local providers near Wylie, McKinney, and Dallas to
The State of Firearms Training in North Texas
Texas continues to see strong demand for License to Carry (LTC) certification and defensive handgun training. With a mix of law enforcement veterans, competitive shooters, and military-trained instructors, the DFW area offers a wide range of options. Most academies are owner-operated, focusing on small class sizes and personalized instruction. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced shooter looking to advance, there's a program tailored for you.
How I Ranked These Academies
I evaluated each academy based on instructor credentials (law enforcement/military background, competition experience), class size and format, pricing transparency, range location convenience for the Wylie/Dallas corridor, and the breadth of course offerings from basic LTC to advanced tactical training. Customer longevity and reputation also played a role.
Here's a quick comparison of the top five firearms training academies serving the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Each offers something unique, so read on to find your best fit.
| Provider | Best For | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Handgun Academy | First-time gun owners and those seeking a well-established academy with indoor range | Constitutional Carry class $45 (2 hr); LTC and other classes call for pricing |
| Texas Concealed Carry Institute | Students who prefer small class sizes and affordable LTC certification | LTC class $89 including range qualification |
| Kranz Firearms Training Group | Experienced shooters and those seeking advanced tactical training from a top-tier instructor | LTC for groups of 8+ only; private 1-on-1 instruction available; tactical classes from $100+/hr estimated |
| Falcon Tactical Academy | Wylie-area residents looking for convenient LTC and firearms training with a safety-first approach | Contact for pricing |
| Bear Arms Shooting Academy | Students who want a comprehensive curriculum that includes emergency medical training | Pricing not listed on site; contact for rates |
Top 5 Firearms Training Academies – Detailed Reviews
#1 Texas Handgun Academy
A screenshot of the Texas Handgun Academy website.
Texas Handgun Academy has been a staple in Dallas since 1995, serving over 90,000 students. Located at 10201 Plano Rd, Dallas, they offer LTC, Intro to Handguns, Security Officer Training (Level II-IV), and Personal Protection classes. Their indoor climate-controlled range and loaner Glocks make it easy for beginners. With decades of experience, they're a trusted name for both civilians and security professionals. Check their Constitutional Carry class for $45 – a great entry point.
Quick Comparison:
- Pro: Over 90,000 students served; indoor climate-controlled range; loaner firearms provided
- Con: Pricing not fully transparent online; larger class sizes possible
- Pricing: Constitutional Carry class $45 (2 hr); LTC and other classes call for pricing
#2 Texas Concealed Carry Institute
A screenshot of the Texas Concealed Carry Institute website.
Serving North Texas since 1995, Texas Concealed Carry Institute is run by police firearms instructors with 25+ years of experience. They keep class sizes small (5-10 students) for personalized attention. Their LTC class is priced at $89 including range qualification – one of the best values in the area. Beyond LTC, they offer Defensive Handgun I-III, shooting from concealment, low-light, and carbine/shotgun courses. If you want a low-pressure, high-quality learning environment, this is a solid choice.
Quick Comparison:
- Pro: Small class sizes (5-10); experienced police instructors; excellent value
- Con: Limited to McKinney area; fewer advanced tactical courses compared to others
- Pricing: LTC class $89 including range qualification
#3 Kranz Firearms Training Group
A screenshot of the Kranz Firearms Training Group website.
Based in McKinney, Kranz Firearms Training Group is led by Jeff Kranz, a 29-year police veteran, retired SWAT sniper, and Grand Master USPSA competitor. He also trained with Chris Kyle at Craft International. They offer LTC for groups of 8+, Handgun 101-Advanced, Carbine, tactical trauma, and competition shooting. Private 1-on-1 instruction is available for those seeking elite-level coaching. If you want to train with someone who has real-world and competitive experience, this is your academy.
Quick Comparison:
- Pro: Elite instructor background (SWAT, USPSA Grand Master, Craft International); wide range of advanced courses
- Con: LTC only for groups of 8+; pricing not fully listed; may be intimidating for absolute beginners
- Pricing: LTC for groups of 8+ only; private 1-on-1 instruction available; tactical classes from $100+/hr estimated
#4 Falcon Tactical Academy
A screenshot of the Falcon Tactical Academy website.
Falcon Tactical Academy offers Texas License to Carry and firearms training classes in Wylie and the Dallas area. They focus on safety and professional instruction, providing classroom, live-fire, and private training for individuals and security professionals. Located conveniently for Wylie residents, they cater to both beginners and those needing advanced skills. Their emphasis on safety makes them a great local option for LTC certification. Visit their website to learn more about upcoming classes.
Quick Comparison:
- Pro: Local to Wylie; offers private training; safety-focused instruction
- Con: Limited course variety compared to larger academies; pricing not listed online
- Pricing: Contact for pricing
#5 Bear Arms Shooting Academy
A screenshot of the Bear Arms Shooting Academy website.
Bear Arms Shooting Academy serves the entire DFW metro including Fort Worth, Irving, Arlington, Mansfield, and Grand Prairie. They offer Basic/Advanced Handgun, AR-15/Rifle, Texas LTC/CHL courses, and private lessons. Instructors have competitive shooting and military combat deployment experience. A unique feature: every class includes an emergency medical skill builder. If you want a well-rounded academy that covers both shooting and medical readiness, Bear Arms is worth considering.
Quick Comparison:
- Pro: Includes emergency medical skill builder in every class; serves wide DFW area; military/competitive instructor background
- Con: Pricing not transparent; may require travel depending on your location
- Pricing: Pricing not listed on site; contact for rates
How to Choose the Right Firearms Training Academy
Start by identifying your goals. Are you a complete beginner needing LTC certification? Look for academies with small class sizes and beginner-friendly environments like Texas Concealed Carry Institute. If you're an experienced shooter wanting advanced tactical skills, Kranz Firearms Training Group offers elite instruction. Consider location – if you're in Wylie, Falcon Tactical Academy is the most convenient. Also check pricing transparency; some academies list prices online while others require a call. Finally, read reviews and ask about instructor credentials to ensure you're learning from someone with real-world experience.
Streamline Your Training Journey
Once you've chosen an academy, book your class online or by phone. For LTC, you'll typically complete a classroom portion followed by live-fire qualification. Many academies provide loaner firearms if you don't own one. After certification, consider continuing with defensive handgun or tactical courses to build proficiency. Set a regular practice schedule – even a monthly range session with a qualified instructor will keep your skills sharp.
Final Thoughts
The DFW area is rich with talented firearms instructors. Whether you choose the established Texas Handgun Academy, the value-packed Texas Concealed Carry Institute, the elite Kranz Firearms Training Group, the local Falcon Tactical Academy, or the comprehensive Bear Arms Shooting Academy, you'll find quality training. The key is matching your skill level and goals with the right academy. Take the first step by visiting their websites and signing up for a class – your safety and confidence depend on it.