“Knowledge is power and Mark is VERY powerful. You can’t do better when it comes to experience and thoroughness. AAAAA+”
Thank you for the work you do. You are performing such a valuable service to the people of the New Orleans community that desire to be more responsible for the protection of those around them. I was very happy with our decision to take your class. You covered so much information, and we are better for it. I learned more than I expected and will happily recommend your class to any that ask.
I filled out the application the Sunday after the class, was fingerprinted on Monday, and received notification that my permit was approved yesterday. Only 5 days from your class! You did a great job walking us through the process.
Thanks again for your service and the effort you put into this work.
“Mark Shreve was a thorough, patient instructor who seemed genuinely concerned with whether or not the students actually got something from the class. I will recommend him and his class to anyone who asks me about concealed carry training classes.”
“Mr. Shreve was very well prepared and had a good, educational presentation. One would think nine hours in a classroom would be an extremely boring undertaking, but that was not the case at all.
Mr. Shreve is a very entertaining individual, and the presentation was interspersed with real life experiences from his years of police work.
I’ve been a CCW permit holder since 1998, so I have attended a number of classes over the past 23 years and I have never enjoyed a class any more than Mr. Shreve’s.
By no means do I consider myself a gun expert, and while I’m comfortable around firearms, I feel I have a lot to learn. Without any recommendations, I did an on-line search and chose Mr Shreve at random, but my choice was influenced by the fact that I learned he was a USCCA instructor, and while I have been a USCCA member, I had never attended a USCCA class or event. I was not disappointed. I am sure that while the basics will remain the same, Mr. Shreve finds a way to make each class different.
Don’t hesitate to take one of his classes.”
“Hey Mr. Mark. This is Brandon Watson. My girlfriend and I were just talking about how you left a great impact on us in a short amount of time. I won’t ever forget about you. We enjoyed every minute of your class! You have a great spirit and I hope you continue to impact other students.
“I am blown away by your professionalism and willingness to share your years of knowledge with us, past the requirements of the class. Talk about Lagniappe!!!
I cannot imagine EVER running across a better instructor than yourself.
The expression “when the student is ready the master will appear” comes to mind.
I took the class about 10 years ago with a good enough guy, an ex JP Officer, and afterward I just didn’t feel confident about carrying concealed. So, I didn’t follow through even after having all my paperwork complete and buying a compact gun to carry. I had a lot of questions. Then when prior military were recently allowed to carry without the permit I was still shaking my head and had many questions. But, it got me interested again.
After coming out of your class with the knowledge you have shared and the tools provided, to include exposure to the USCCA, I feel confident this can work for me.
I don’t know if you remember the exchange I had with you and your wife at the gun show. She was bragging on you and I thought that was sweet and humorous and the three of us laughed about it. Man was she right!
I appreciate you very much, thank you Sir!!!”
Semper Fi,
“I recently attended the GunSmartNOLA Certified Pistol Training conducted by Mark Shreve. The powerpoint presentation was very well put together and our instructor Mark Shreve demonstrated the utmost in professionalism and experience that made for an enjoyable day. I highly recommend this class to anyone interested in educating themselves in both fundamental and next-step training.”
“This was truly a great class. Mark is not only extremely knowledgeable, but the way he presents the information makes the class very enjoyable and easy to understand. My husband and I both left his class feeling more confident about gun safety and the legalities associated with gun ownership. I highly recommend taking this class with Mark Shreve at GunSmartNOLA to anyone looking to obtain their concealed carry permit or anyone interested in learning how to properly handle a firearm.
Thank you again!”
“Thanks so much, Mark, for an interesting and informative class this past Saturday. It was so much to think about and digest, but the presentation of the info was clear and concise. The pace was great and your passion for personal protection and safety is obvious. Your light-hearted sense of humor helped break the tension of such a serious subject, too!”
“Extremely informational.
As a retired Marine, I can honestly state that Mark Shreve taught me a way to break my old habit I learned in my military firearm marksmanship training. I highly recommend anybody to take Mark’s class because he makes it OBVIOUS he is passionate about what he does and is most concerned that his students learn and excel!”
I appreciate you “singling” us out because we found in you a kindred spirit with a wickedly accurate sense of humor. You are the kind of person we could talk to all day. Your professionalism, your no-nonsense (but on point) attitude and views, and your passion for what you do made a dreaded day into a very enjoyable experience! I am reiterating my appreciation for you and for your patience. We need more conservative, patriotic folks like you who can inject humor into life and be kind yet unapologetically irreverent if warranted. Our kind of people!!! God Bless you Sir! I hope our paths cross again. We may call on you for additional advice on the various things you mentioned.
I took copious notes and have been reviewing them.
“In today’s world with rising crime and police departments around the country being defunded, how can you not be concerned for your family’s safety? My spouse and I realized it was time to learn about home defense, handgun safety and concealed carry. Honestly, we had never purchased a gun until we decided to take this class.
We signed up for Mark Shreve’s GunSmartNOLA class and thoroughly enjoyed it. Being a former New Orleans Police Officer and having 40+ years in the security industry, that included executive protection, makes him eminently qualified as an instructor teaching the extensive subject matter covered, which he has done for the last nine years.
One of our favorite sections of the class was discussing examples of some real-life scenarios regarding what would you do, what you should do and why, in addition to the Louisiana laws and statutes applicable to gun ownership. Mark even goes as far as mapping out the steps in filing the application as well as the best way to obtain your concealed carry permit from the state in an expedited manner.
Mark covers the safe and precise way to handle, control, aim, and fire a pistol. We now have the confidence to be safe, responsible gun owners. The class agenda was comprehensive and well-organized. Mark managed to keep our attention by interacting with the students, soliciting feedback and making it entertaining. At the shooting range he patiently worked with everyone in an effort to help them qualify. After taking Mark’s class I am now anxious to return to the range to practice and hone my skills. His class is an excellent value.
Thank you, Mark, for all your knowledge and assistance.”
“I’m a relatively inexperienced shooter, and had never owned my own gun. I was becoming increasingly concerned for my safety, but was nervous about confidently handling a handgun. I was a little intimidated, but from the first time I contacted Mark, he made me feel comfortable, and pointed out that many of his students are women who have never owned a gun.
I took Mark’s concealed carry course, and I gained a wealth of information from his experience. I felt comfortable asking questions—he made everyone feel welcome. He was a knowledgeable and entertaining teacher. Since the completion of the course, I have felt confident enough to purchase a handgun, practice at the range, and obtain my CHP.
Thanks Mark!”
“We just attended Mark’s class and feel blessed to have had him as our instructor. We cannot say enough good things about it. He applied his extensive background, training, and expertise to provide valuable, informative, and useful material. Mark is an exceptional teacher who keeps topics interesting while injecting witty humor. I’ve phoned him numerous times before and after taking the class, and he is always supportive and accommodating. If you are new or need a refresher course, I highly recommend considering Mark Shreve with GunSmartNOLA!”
“I just completed my CC renewal class this past Saturday. It was a great class; Mark is very professional and knowledgeable. Not only does he cover the basics of gun safety, and the responsibility that goes with carrying a CC permit, he also discussed “real-life” events . . . Important stuff we should all be aware of if/when we decide to use deadly force. I’d personally like to sit in on another of his classes from time to time . . . we can never know too much on this subject.”
“Recently I completed my Concealed Carry Permit Class with GunSmartNOLA. Mark Shreve is a personable and highly experienced instructor with a wealth of knowledge on gun safety and gun laws. Mark makes sure that each student is valued and encourages individual participation during class. He creates an environment of inclusion where students feel free to express their concerns and ask questions freely.
Upon course completion, Mark was diligent in following up with me and other participants. He spent additional time and effort contacting the Louisiana State Police Concealed Handgun Permit Office to ensure that I received my license.
I would recommend GunSmartNOLA to anyone who is interested in getting certified.”
“I attended Mark’s Concealed Carry Class. For me, this was a ‘renewal’ class. I found Mark’s presentation, his style, his passion, and his “stories” much more enjoyable that my original class. It’s very obvious he wishes to pass on his wealth of knowledge and to teach the correct application of gun laws and gun safety. I would highly recommend you consider taking his class, whether you are considering a CWP or just looking to gain knowledge about firearms and the laws that govern them.”
“I recently completed the CCP class offered by Mark Shreve, and it was excellent. I have attended four such classes over the years in obtaining and maintaining my license, but this was the first time I sat in on Mark’s class.
As a former law enforcement officer, Mark brought numerous additional items of information and advice that I had never before had the benefit of learning. If you think that this class is pretty much the same no matter whom you choose for an instructor, let me assure you that is not the case. I highly recommend Mark Shreve, and now would not consider enrolling in any other class.”
“Great class—THOROUGHLY enjoyed it and learned a lot.”
“I had a very enjoyable, easy-learning day with Mark as a guide. The late evening shooting range was a really good time as I had never been to a shooting range before. Mark is a really an upright guy and keeps everyone interested! To my surprise, he was the least expensive class around. It was super that Mark even had a fingerprinting specialist attend so that we could get all of that minor stuff handled at a great cost. The class was on a Saturday and I applied for my permit on the following Tuesday. The State website said it would be 3 to 4 months before I should expect my permit. I attended the class on January 6th and received my permit on February 9, 2018. Fast service because Mark lined up everything so that there were no omissions for my application! Great job Mark!”
“Even if you never plan to carry, this is a great class to take….know the laws, know your rights!”
“Thank you for sharing your knowledge on the safe and proper ways of handling and shooting a firearm. It’s always a learning experience and you have taught me more than I thought I already knew. I apologize for the malfunctions my pistol had. I appreciate you clearing it for me. Itwas the first time I shot it. I used that because my 40 caliber is too bulky and planned on carrying the 22. I have already given 2 friends your cards as they are interested. My wife also plans to attend. Thanks again Mr. Mark. Your class was great and your method of teaching is very professional. Take care and I hope to run into you in the future.”
“Ladies, this course was great! For years I assumed I was holding my gun correctly (wrong). Mark’s excellent instruction made me feel much more confident when handling my gun. I must say my accuracy has also improved with this course. I highly recommend GunSmartNola for instruction regarding your safety.”
“Mark Shreve at Gun Smart NOLA has been doing his part to promote gun safety and ownership awareness for years. I’m proud to have been a student of his and I am confident in my ability to protect myself, my family and any of you while living our lives in this crazy world. Please consider doing yourself justice by becoming a prepared citizen instead of a possible victim.”
“As a high school principal I have evaluated hundreds of teachers during my career, and I must say Mr. Shreve is one of the best instructors I have had the pleasure to know. His teaching style makes you feel very comfortable and I found Mr. Shreve to be very knowledgeable and organized. He has a great ability to communicate his ideas and information in an understandable way. His relaxed classroom atmosphere makes it very easy to ask questions. Without any reservations, I would highly recommend Mr. Shreve’s class to anyone considering obtaining their concealed carry/handgun permit.
Thank you, Mr. Shreve, for a great learning experience.”
“My wife and I want to thank you for your thorough and enjoyable concealed carry class last Sunday. The relaxed friendly atmosphere combined with your ability to convey the necessary instructional material to every level of student skill and knowledge was appreciated by all in attendance. I also want to thank you for the time taken to teach my wife the fundamentals of shooting a pistol while we were at the shooting range. I can confidently recommend you as a first class concealed carry instructor.”
“Just wanted to say what a great experience the Concealed Carry Class was! It was very informative, enlightening and full of practical knowledge regarding gun use and gun safety. I especially enjoyed your presentation regarding the legal issues associated with carrying a concealed weapon. It’s my right to carry a concealed weapon but with it comes responsibilities. Thanks for informing me so thoroughly on both. I will highly recommend you and your class to all of my colleagues. So thanks!”
“Mark Shreve has produced a thorough conceal carry class which also covers pistol basics. Even as a moderate shooter I learned a few things I never knew before and found the class to be enjoyable. Mark took time to answer all and any questions and provides additional booklets to those who are looking for a more in-depth study after taking the class. My girlfriend; whom has never shot a handgun or any gun for that matter before, took the class with me and excelled in all aspects (the other first time shooters did as well) Thank you Mark, I’ll be back in five years!”
“Before I give my testimonial about the CCW Course, I want to tell you a little about me. My name is Gene Franques and I am with HomeLand Investigations of Laplace, Louisiana. I am a firearms expert, experienced instructor and have prior Military and Law Enforcement experience. I was Captain of the Pistol Team and was one of America’s top Shooters in Police Pistol Combat.
With that said, I decided to apply for my CCW Permit and attended the required class put on by GunSmartNOLA, instructed by Mark Shreve. I can tell you that Mark ranks as one of the best instructors that I have ever experienced. His instructions were clear, easy to understand and the class was not boring or dull. Mark knows his material and combines the required information with his many years of experience in Law Enforcement and Security. Each member of the class was treated with respect and compassion, no matter if you were highly experienced or a beginner who has never shot a weapon prior to the class. Mark is a real people person that makes you feel comfortable with your questions.
I give Mark Shreve my Highest Recommendation to anyone who wants to take the class, and can assure you that you will finish the class feeling confident that you have the knowledge and ability to carry your permit.
Thank you Mr. Shreve for sharing your heart and soul with a room full of grateful students.”
“This was a great class! The instructor, Mark Shreve, is very knowledgeable and managed the curriculum to apply to both those already informed about gun safety and those, like myself, who had never held a gun before. Protecting myself and my family from the increasing crime in my community and surrounding communities in which I work and visit often was my reason for taking this class. Mr. Shreve was very thorough and definitely made me feel relaxed and comfortable, especially during the hands-on portion of his class at the shooting range. I left feeling confident and equipped with the knowledge and tools I needed to protect myself and my family. I can’t say enough great things about this class and Mark Shreve. I wish I would have done this sooner. I highly recommend!!!”
“When my family and I first took our training for a concealed weapon permit we took Mark‘s class. So, when it came time for my family and I to renew our permit we could not think of anyone better than Mark.
Mark keeps the class interesting, informative, professional yet relaxed. His people skills are exceptional. He is very personable and approachable. Mark encourages everyone to ask questions and makes you feel your questions are not silly or stupid. He is very understanding and supportive.
As I said before I cannot think of a better concealed weapon trainer than Mark Shreve. When it comes time to renew our permits we will once again take Mark’s class.”
“It should be painfully obvious to anyone tuning into the daily news, the dangers we, as law-abiding American citizens face on any given day. And now, more than ever, these dangers extend from the streets into our very own locked homes and property.
As important as the information is as to proper handling of one’s weapon and ammunition, other material covered was equally as valuable, i.e. what specifically is within your rights when it comes to deadly force and standing your ground, where you may carry a gun, where you may not. These are things every American should know if they are going to be proactive in protecting themselves against criminals. Calling 911 WILL NEVER save your life in the situations covered in Mr. Shreve’s course – situations that are on the rise, as desperate criminals endeavor to take what you have, without regard for the lives of you and your helpless family.
As a former police officer and security expert, Mark’s knowledge is vast, and during the one-day course, he was able to properly address any and all subjects and questions that arose. Firstly, I highly recommend that everyone own a handgun for personal protection, then subsequently learn what Mr. Shreve offers in the course. Lastly, I would stress the advantage of being able to legally carry a concealed weapon, which Mr. Shreve has greatly simplified by doing all of the leg work.”
“I am the President of a major corporation. Due to the fact that we live in a world where many people have lost the respect for human life, and also, out of much concern for the safety of our office personnel, I thought it would be wise to have six members of our management team get Louisiana Concealed Handgun Permits. Based on his reputation, I hired Mark Shreve (GunSmartNOLA) to come to my office to conduct classes to provide the required training, which was done over a two-night period. I felt that Mark did a great and thorough job in his training and was very well received by my employees.”
“I loved the class! When I first met you at the gun show and you told me the class was nine hours, I was kind of thinking oh boy this is going to drag on. It actually flew by. It was very informative which l loved. The information on each slide was easy to follow. Also I enjoyed all the books you showed us.” “Qualifying at the range was a breeze although I would have loved to shoot a lot more rounds off; 36 rounds was such a tease. Will look forward to the renewal class!”
“I recently attended a CHP class with Mark, and it was outstanding. His class is educational, informative, and entertaining. Believe me, you will not be bored. For anyone interested in furthering their education on handguns, and acquiring a CHP for the State of Louisiana, this is where it all happens. I recommend this for all men and women seeking to help protect themselves. Thank you Mark!”
“Mark’s class was very informative. Mark made sure you were clear and understood every part of the course. There were a lot of interacting with all the students which made it fun. Mark suggested that in order to receive our permit faster, we should drive to Baton Rouge to the State Police Headquarters to complete the permit process. He also stated it would be best to get finger printed at the State Police Headquarters in Baton Rouge as well, to make sure you don’t have any issues…so we did. Everything was completed in the same office at the State Police Headquarters. My husband and I completed the application on-line first and then drove to Baton Rouge to complete the process. We received our permit in 4 business days! The whole process took us less than 2 weeks. Thanks again Mark for making this an easy process.”
“Mark, thank you for providing us with some very important information in a very relaxed and comfortable setting! It was a pleasure to meet you. I have forwarded class info to my daughter’s boyfriend I will encourage her to attend as well. Thanks again.”
“Mark Shreve is experienced, qualified, professional and a consummate gentleman. Though we were complete ‘newbies’, Mark was extremely patient and encouraging. We unhesitatingly recommend Mark and his concealed carry course. Thanks Mark!”
“Another great course – even better than 5 years ago. I found the expanded discussions of the Louisiana laws governing the use of deadly force and of how to interact with police as a concealed carry permit holder particularly valuable. And the subtle adjustments in my stance and left-hand position you suggested resulted in the tightest grouping I’ve shot since I had my cataract operations. Thanks again.”