
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 an...
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Full description and what we offer
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:
"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
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
Gift certificates available.
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