Ryker USA

Ryker USA, run by Ron Holmes, takes a different approach to firearm instruction. Instead of the standard North Carolina CCHP formula—sit in a classroom, read the manual, shoot 30 rounds, get certified—Holmes focuses on actual competency.

"I have great heartburn with how this is run. The NRA pistol instructor course is dated, below minimum standard, and painful to attend."

He's seen over 100 students come through his NC CCHP courses saying the same thing: they had a gun and a permit but no idea how to shoot or carry it safely. That's what he's fixing.

Small class sizes mean personalized instruction, not herd management. Holmes keeps groups tight so he can actually see what each student is doing and correct it—without berating them. His philosophy on beginners is clear: identify the error, explain the drill, do dry fire work, and rebuild confidence. If the lesson plan says 300 rounds but you only need 150 to nail the fundamentals, you shoot 150. Less is more.

Continuing education isn't optional for Holmes. He attends 2-3 classes per year to stay current and ensure he's teaching at the standard he expects from his students.

A note for instructors teaching civilians: Holmes is blunt about this. "You have to remember they are coming to you for education, NOT a qualification. There is a huge difference."

• •Basic to advanced pistol instruction
• •Rifle and rifle-pistol courses
• •Shotgun training
• •Vehicle work
• •Medical training (included)
• •Private group courses (single or multi-day)
• •CCW certification courses

Location: 40 minutes south of Wilmington, NC or 40 minutes north of Myrtle Beach. Holmes also travels for training.

Ryker USA partners with Mitchell Defense for firearms and equipment. Holmes emphasizes that good gear isn't cheap, and cutting corners on support equipment is a mistake. "Your support gear is also considered lifesaving equipment."

• •Philosophy: Train Safe, Train Smart, Train with Purpose, Be the Difference and Be a Good Human.