2XTap Shooting Academy

2XTap Shooting Academy operates out of Rocky Mountain Shooters Supply (3507 E. Mulberry, Fort Collins) and teaches firearms safety, marksmanship, and self-defense. The academy's philosophy is straightforward: the best protection is self-protection provided by the individual in the moment.

Founded and led by John Harrell, an NRA-certified pistol instructor with 16+ years of experience. The team includes:

• •Drew Brattain - NRA Certified Pistol Instructor, trained under Harrell for 5 years
• •Shawntel Wilson - 20+ years shooting experience, competitive defensive pistol shooter
• •Bob Nauta - Competitive shooter since late 90s, public safety volunteer since 1987

"He has the background to work with any type of shooter and meet all types of goals." - Camille B., 3-year student

2XTap Essential Carry Basics (ECS 1) - $150 | 8-10 hours

The most popular offering. Covers proper gun handling, safety rules, firearm and ammunition storage, marksmanship fundamentals, and drawing from a holster. Students take both written and shooting exams (80% required to pass). Meets Colorado CCW permit requirements as of 2025. Starts at 8am.

Required: Your own firearm, 2 boxes of ammunition, quality belt and holster (rentals available).

Colorado CCW Renewal - $100 | ~3 hours

New requirement for permits expiring in 2025 and later. Reviews changes to Colorado law and administers written and shooting exams to meet state renewal requirements. Evening class (typically 5-8pm). Training certificate valid for 6 months from training date.

Required: Your own firearm, extra magazine or speed loader, 1 box of ammunition (50 rounds).

Essential Carry Skills 2 (ECS 2) - $200

Builds on Basics. Focuses on drawing from holster with concealment garment, situational awareness, shooting moving targets, and judgment under stress. Primarily uses Law Enforcement-quality use-of-force simulator with short live-fire exercises.

Required: Firearm, strong side or IWB holster, magazine carrier, 2-3 magazines, 100 rounds, CCW belt, closed-toe shoes, ball cap.

Essential Carry Skills 3 (ECS 3) - $200

Advanced skills building on ECS 2. Heavy emphasis on malfunctions, remediation, and gun handling needed to pass Colorado LE POST shooting exam standards.

Required: Firearm, strong side or IWB holster, magazine carrier, 2-3 magazines, 200 rounds, CCW belt, closed-toe shoes, ball cap.

2XTap Essential Carry Options - $150

Specialized class (limited to 10 people) on safely carrying a firearm in a purse or bag. Taught by a Defense Training International (DTI)-certified instructor. Covers pros/cons of off-body carry, choosing appropriate bags, dry practice, simulator work, and live-fire. Students can bring their own bags and try different styles.

Required: 1 box of ammunition. Guns and bags provided to test compatibility. Valid CCW permit required. Rental gun and bag available for $50.

Basic AR15/NRA Basic Rifle - $125

Covers AR15 platform basics: parts nomenclature, safety, loading/unloading, marksmanship, accessory differences. Uses Ti Training (use-of-force) simulator for positional shooting, hands-on takedown, cleaning, and range session.

Required: Eye and ear protection, 2 rifle magazines minimum, 50 rounds, magazine carry system (optional), sling (optional).

Introduction to Handguns (099) - 4 hours

Entry-level course for those not ready for full Basics Pistol. Covers terminology, firearm types, components, basic use, gun safety, and range etiquette.

Advanced Classes

• •Combat Use of the Micro Red Dot System (MRDS) - 1 day, 8am-5pm (March 1, 2026)
• •Essential Handgun Combatives - 1 day, 8am-5pm, 400 rounds (February 1, 2026)

2XTap uses RMFiTS (Reality Matters Firearms Training Simulator) and Ti Training Use-of-Force Simulators extensively. As one reviewer noted:

"The beauty in this kind of training is that you get to enter the realm of 'what if'. You can get dropped right into the scenario and practice." - The GunDivas

This allows students to practice self-defense decision-making and scenario response before moving to live fire.

One-on-one training available by request. Instructors can build specific training regimens combining simulator and range exercises tailored to individual goals.

Monthly skills workshops (1-2 hours) focus on single skills or fundamental tasks to improve shooters.

"This course exceeded my expectations, offering invaluable insights...John Harrell brings a wealth of experience to the table, alongside a personable demeanor and a knack for weaving intriguing gun history into the curriculum." - Ken White

"FiTS is the place you want to go to get great instruction, confidence in shooting, and use state of the art equipment. A lot of gun shops lack the enthusiasm that John brings to the table." - Mike Menchaca

• •Phone: (970) 402-2749
• •Email: [email protected]
• •Address: 3507 E. Mulberry, Fort Collins, CO 80524 (inside Rocky Mountain Shooters Supply)

Gift certificates available.