Firearms Academy of Seattle

The Firearms Academy of Seattle, Inc. operates on a straightforward principle: if you carry a firearm for self-defense, you need to think and make decisions with a gun in your hand. They build that capability through live-fire instruction.

Founded by former law enforcement officer Marty Hayes in 1987 and purchased by Belle McCormack in 2022, FAS holds the distinction of being the longest-established professional firearms training facility in the Pacific Northwest. They've trained thousands of students across civilian, military, and law enforcement sectors.

Course Levels: - Level 1: Intro to Handguns, Concealed Carry 101, Intro to Shotgun, Handgun Fundamentals - Level 2: Defensive Handgun (2-day), Carbine (2-day), Defensive Shotgun - Level 3: Tactical Handgun (3-day) - Specialized: Designated Marksman Course, MAG 40 with Massad Ayoob, guest instructor programs

"Safety begins with the individual." - FAS Philosophy

All instructors are graduates of Massad Ayoob's classes and most hold law enforcement instructor certifications. The academy regularly hosts guest instructors recognized as top-tier trainers in the country.

In 1994, FAS purchased a dedicated tactical training facility located 1.5 hours north of Portland and 2 hours south of Seattle. This 360-degree training environment includes:

• •Dark house for low-light training (accessible during daylight)
• •Building mock-ups and structures
• •Moving target systems
• •Multiple firing positions and scenarios

Unsure which class fits your skill level? FAS provides guidance on their "Where to Start" page to match students with appropriate instruction. Active military personnel have dedicated training support and preparation programs available.

Classes fill regularly—2025-26 schedule registration is open now.