Wild West Academy

Wild West Academy specializes in Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL/CCW) certification courses designed around actual self-defense scenarios, not classroom theory. Owner Mark Cortis and instructor Rick Billington bring serious credentials to every class—both are NRA certified, USCCA instructors, and between them hold certifications in pistol, rifle, shotgun, personal protection in home and outside the home, range safety, and even countering mass shooter threats.

Classes skip the "death by PowerPoint" approach. Instead, you get hands-on instruction covering:

• •Holster draw technique and speed loading
• •Magazine changes and clearing stoppages
• •Defensive shooting fundamentals
• •Legal, emotional, and motor skill aspects of carrying concealed
• •Realistic scenarios involving potential deadly force

Mark Cortis - Owner, NRA Certified Training Counselor with additional credentials in CCW, personal protection in home/outside home, AR-15, rifle, shotgun, and chief range safety officer. Also a managing partner investigator at Securiteam Investigation and former Oakland County Gun Board member.

Rick Billington - NRA Life Member with dual NRA and USCCA certifications. Former law enforcement, licensed Michigan professional investigator, and member of the Firearms Trainer Association and Michigan Gun Owners.

Thousands of law enforcement, security professionals, private investigators, and private citizens trained since 1991

The instructors understand Michigan CCW/CPL law in real-world application—not just statute reading. The non-intimidating, patient teaching style works for beginners and experienced shooters alike. Course emphasis stays on defensive shooting skills you'd actually need in a self-defense situation.

Location: Royal Oak area, formerly the Silver Tea Club Adult Foster Care Home