McGrew & Associates, Inc.

McGrew & Associates, Inc. has been the Bay Area's go-to security training facility for 9 years running—they've trained over 20,000 security professionals and counting. This isn't just a training company; it's a full investigative and security consulting firm with more than 100 years of combined law enforcement, security, and investigative services backing every course.

They're the only training facility in San Jose where you can complete your entire Guard Card process—classroom training, Live Scan fingerprints, and online state application—all on the same day. No waiting around between steps.

Guard Card Training Options: - Level 1 (8 hours): Powers to Arrest and Appropriate Use of Force - Level 2 (16 hours): Public Relations/Communications and Workplace Violence/Crime Scene Preservation - Level 3 (16 hours): Observation/Documentation, Difficult People Management, Legal Aspects, and Courtroom Demeanor

• •Special pricing: Get your Guard Card class free when you prepay Levels 2 & 3. All three levels for just $199.80.

Two-day course (8 hours classroom, 6 hours range) taught by Bureau-certified instructors at a Bureau-certified facility. You'll learn moral and legal aspects of firearms use, nomenclature, weapons handling, shooting fundamentals, and emergency procedures.

What's included (depending on package): - Instructor fee - Range time - Eye and ear protection - 1 target - 9mm firearm rental (optional) - 50 rounds of ammunition

Pricing: - All-inclusive package: $180 - Class fee only (your own equipment): $125 - Additional caliber fee: $25 - Range fee: $35

• •Authorized calibers (as of January 1, 2024): .380, 9mm, .40, .45, .38, .357, and 10mm

• •Important: Sig Sauer P320/M17/M18 platforms are no longer permitted due to safety concerns.

Firearm permits expire two years from issuance. You must requalify twice yearly—four total requalifications during the permit's life.

Coming in 2026: New to the industry? Start with basics before the full BSIS course. Learn magazine loading, grip, stance, and trigger fundamentals with dedicated instructor time.

Meets SB 2 requirements for concealed carry permits.

Classroom portion (8 hours): - SB 2 mandates and requirements - California Penal Code on use of force and self-defense - Firearm safety rules and handling - Prohibited places (sensitive locations) - Concealment methods and holster types

Range portion (8 hours): - Grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control - Minimum 25-round qualification per firearm - Malfunction drills (stovepipes, double feeds) - Real-world self-defense scenario practice

For current permit holders. 4 hours classroom, 4 hours range.

Classroom covers: - Recent changes to California firearm laws - Self-defense law refresher - Firearm safety reinforcement - Mental health awareness and resources (SB 2 requirement)

Range includes: - Shooting fundamentals review - 50-round minimum qualification per firearm - Malfunction drills - Drawing and reholstering practice

Three-level program (Basic, Intermediate, Advanced) designed to improve shooters of all skill levels with practical, duty-relevant skills.

What you'll practice: - Drawing from the holster - Tactical reloading - Shooting from multiple positions - Using cover and concealment - Firing while moving - Skill challenges and friendly competition

• •Course structure: Initial qualification (similar to BSIS but slightly more challenging), then skill progressions. You can complete your BSIS firearms qualification before class begins if needed.

What to bring: - Your duty firearm and holster - 3 magazines - Magazine pouch (holds 2) - 250 rounds - Eye and ear protection - Sturdy duty belt

• •Pricing: $250 (includes range time, targets, BSIS requalification). Equipment rental available (~$25). Discounted ammunition available from instructor.

Returning student special: If you take Guard Card with McGrew, Handcuff/OC is only $45.

Complete security officer preparation bundle: - Guard Card Class - Fingerprinting (Live Scan) - Firearm Class - Baton Certification - Chemical Agents (Pepper Spray) - Handcuff Class

Instructors hold credentials from the Department of Justice, NRA, BSIS, USCCA, and/or California Peace Officer Standards of Training (POST). They're experienced in California's specific laws and regulations—this isn't generic training.

Class requirements: - Class space is limited; appointments required - Rescheduling available up to 7 days before class ($50 fee) - 50% of fees are non-refundable - Refunds available up to 7 days before class - No-shows receive zero refund

• •Price guarantee: McGrew will match any competitor's advertised price. Why? Because they're the Bay Area's #1 facility and they know it.

• •Student prerequisites vary by course: U.S. citizenship or permanent legal alien status required for firearms courses (with proof). Valid ID required. Be 21+ for most courses.

They don't just train you and send you out. Job assistance is part of the package—McGrew has been placing officers with major security companies throughout the Bay Area for years.