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August 2025 by Benjamin Pierce
Highly recommend the Tactical Shepard team to anyone interested in firearms training or looking to get there concealed carry. They do outstanding work and offer many classes for beginners to the more experienced. You will not be disappointed with Mel & Kenny.!
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August 2025 by Patrick Longo II
These guys are real pros! Their patience and knowledge made the day very positive and full of skill building. I can't wait to take my next class with them.
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August 2025 by Alan Feldman
Top-Tier Firearms Training in Cecil County
I’ve taken multiple classes with Tactical Shepherd in Rising Sun, MD, and I can confidently say Mel and Kenny are among the best instructors around. Their professionalism and depth of knowledge are unmatched—they don’t just teach the basics, they prepare you for real-world situations.
The MD Wear and Carry class was especially impressive. The scenario-based training was intense and incredibly valuable. We worked through realistic simulations that challenged our decision-making and reinforced safe, responsible carry practices. It wasn’t just theory—it was practical, hands-on learning that sticks with you.
They also made the fingerprinting and photo process seamless, which is a huge plus when you're trying to get everything done in one place. No need to bounce between locations—they’ve got it covered.
Their firearm handling instruction is thorough and tailored to each student’s experience level. Whether you're new or seasoned, they ensure you understand the mechanics, safety protocols, and situational awareness needed to handle a firearm confidently.
Range practice and qualification were well-organized and focused. Mel and Kenny provided clear guidance, corrected technique when needed, and created a supportive environment that made the qualification process feel achievable and empowering.
If you're serious about firearms training—whether for personal protection, professional requirements, or just to sharpen your skills—Tactical Shepherd is the place to go. I’ll definitely be back for more advanced courses.
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August 2025 by Vernon Houseman
Very impressed on how professional the class was .The class was not boring at all very enjoyable and learned a lot. Thank you.
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August 2025 by Vince Nesci
Effective, engaging, and easy to absorb. These are the real deal. Kids are next up.
Thanks guys
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August 2025 by John Coles
Completed the HQL course yesterday; it was a comprehensive course that covered safety and procedures designed for protection. Thanks for the information.
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August 2025 by Todd Comstock
4 hours of training. Informative, enjoyable, above and beyond with all the proper info and more.
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August 2025 by PBmax
I would like to take a half star off for the insurance pitch during my paid-for training time.
*But* the firearm instruction and range time were exemplary and I'm left with no option other than to round back up to five. Great team, and I'd recommend them for beginner to expert training.
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August 2025 by R-4
Great experience. Class did not drag on and on. Safety training was better than other training facilities I have been to. Range officers were polite and strict and very helpful to those that were struggling. They really helped a few shooters improve their skills on many levels. No Judgement. Overall very good experience & I will probably go back again for MD HWG or other training.
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August 2025 by Quinn Trautman
The staff at Tactical Shepherd run a fantastic business. They are highly qualified and talented instructors who truly care about what they are teaching.
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August 2025 by Levin Logan
Excellent instructors. Very knowledgeable and will answer any question you throw at them. Very involved and looked to turn out quality firearm owners. Would recommend to anyone looking to get their HQL, CCW, or just want to break into the firearm side of life.
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August 2025 by M Baker
Very helpful and knowledgeable. Legit training and certification facility.
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August 2025 by Bill Hooks
Highly recommended for anyone wanting to get their Wear and Carry in Maryland. Mel and Ken are professional, experienced and extremely capable along with being incredibly friendly and approachable. They made what sounds like drudgery fun and educational!
Just did my renewal class for my Maryland Wear and Carry and it was even more fun and educational than the first class!
Outstanding program with outstanding instructors! 5 STARS!! 5 STARS!! 5 STARS!!
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August 2025 by Rebecca Santore
This is the second class we have taken with Tactical Shepherd and let me tell you. It is clear that these guys are the best at what they do, but not only that, they are amazing teachers. Taking a course where your unsure of your beginner level of skill, as well as others around you, taking a class can be very intimidating. They take a difficult topic, break it down to easy phrases to remember, they give you everything you need to succeed, including support outside of the class for application assistance if required. Their strategies boost your confidence. Plus, out on the field with hands on qualifications, you constantly feel like you have multiple instructors around you right there at the exact moment that you need help, truly amazing!! They don't yell, embarrass or belittle you, or make you feel uncomfortable in anyway. These guys remain cool, calm, and collected, no matter how undisciplined your skill level is. They know exactly how to build you up from zero skill or zero previous training to total competence and they have the patience of saints while they do it. They know how to keep everyone safe through years of experience and application. They truly build your confidence up by guiding and teaching you in a calm, dependable manner so that you are stronger, more knowledgeable and confident within a small amount of time. These guys are truly the best I've ever had the pleasure of working with and my husband and I feel honored to have been trained by them. and we plan to keep being trained by them as often as we can as they offer so many different types of classes! God bless Tactical Shepherd ❤️ Thanks for a great class, yet again!
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August 2025 by Charles Beall
I drive past 4 shops that are closer to my home to deal at Tactical Shepherd and have since they opened. Instruction and training is top notch done by first class individuals.