Next class: Aug 11
$127.25
Prime Defense Firearms Training
Learn about Prime Defense Firearms Training and our commitment to firearms education
Our mission is to provide responsible, real-world firearms training that emphasizes safety, education, and confidence. We are committed to equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to protect themselves and others while promoting responsible firearm ownership.
Prime Defense Firearms Training LLC was founded in 2020 by Shawn Crowl and Jerry Crowl with a shared mission: to educate responsible gun owners and empower everyday people with the knowledge and skills needed to protect themselves and others.
Firearms have been a part of our lives from an early age. Growing up in a family rooted in hunting, shooting sports, and strong support for the Second Amendment, we developed not only a passion for firearms, but also a deep respect for their safe and responsible use. That foundation shaped everything we believe about training today.
Jerry’s experience brings a lifetime of service and discipline to Prime Defense. He began shooting at a young age alongside his father, an avid trap shooter and hunter, and quickly developed strong fundamentals through years of hands-on experience. At 19, he joined the United States Navy as an Aviation Ordnanceman, working with aircraft armament systems including firearms, bombs, rockets, and missiles. His military service was followed by over a decade with a Volunteer Fire Department, where he earned his Paramedic certification and served his community on the front lines. He also dedicated 12 years to the Coast Guard Auxiliary and has spent the last 14 years serving as a Reserve Deputy with a local Sheriff’s Office Marine Division. His background reflects a lifetime commitment to service, safety, and protecting others.
Shawn’s path is rooted in a lifelong passion for shooting and a commitment to education. After obtaining his Michigan Concealed Pistol License at 21, he continued to pursue advanced training and ultimately became a USCCA Certified Instructor. Over the years, Shawn has trained thousands of students, gaining firsthand insight into what new and experienced gun owners need most—clear instruction, practical application, and a learning environment where they can build confidence without feeling overwhelmed.
Together, we built Prime Defense Firearms Training to be different from the typical training experience. From day one, our goal has been to remove intimidation from the learning process and replace it with clarity, structure, and real-world relevance. We believe that effective training goes beyond simply meeting state requirements—it should prepare individuals for real-life situations with confidence and competence.
The Team
Certified professionals dedicated to your training success
Credentials
Recognized certifications and professional experience
USCCA
Jerry Crowl
USCCA
Shawn Crowl, Jerry Crowl
How We Teach
At Prime Defense Firearms Training, we believe effective training starts with clarity, safety, and real-world relevance. Our approach is built on structured instruction, hands-on learning, and practical application that prepares students for situations they may actually face.
We emphasize safety above all else, ensuring every student develops a strong foundation before progressing into more advanced concepts. Our instruction is clear, straightforward, and designed to build confidence through understanding—not pressure.
We tailor our training to each student’s experience level, ensuring both new and experienced shooters receive the guidance they need to improve. With two instructors present in both the classroom and on the range, students benefit from personalized attention, immediate feedback, and a safer learning environment.
Where We Train
Professional facilities for classroom and range instruction
51261 Milano Drive
Macomb, MI 48042
With 532+ student reviews, our classes speak for themselves. Browse upcoming classes or get in touch.
Our classes are designed to support students at every level, from those who have never handled a firearm to those with years of experience. We focus heavily on safety, fundamentals, and decision-making, while also incorporating modern training tools such as our state-of-the-art shooting simulator. This allows students to experience realistic, scenario-based training in a controlled classroom environment before ever stepping onto the range.
We also take pride in maintaining a high level of instructor presence. Every class is supported by two instructors in both the classroom and on the range, ensuring that students receive individualized attention, immediate feedback, and a safer, more effective learning experience.
At its core, Prime Defense Firearms Training is about more than firearms—it’s about responsibility, preparedness, and confidence. We believe that educated, trained individuals contribute to safer communities, and we are committed to providing the highest quality instruction to make that possible.
Whether you are new to firearms or looking to continue your training, our mission remains the same: to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to protect yourself and those around you—responsibly and effectively.
My name is Shawn Crowl, Owner of Prime Defense Firearms Training LLC. I’ve trained thousands of students and am a USCCA Certified Instructor. I grew up around firearms and believe education creates safer communities. Our classes are no-pressure, no-ego—no question is a stupid question. We welcome everyone at any experience level and ensure every student receives safe, practical, and confidence-building training in a comfortable, supportive learning environment where all students can succeed.
What students say
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Firearms Instructor
My name is Jerry Crowl. I grew up around firearms—my father was a trap shooter and hunter, and I began shooting at 12 while helping reload shells weekly. At 19, I joined the Navy as an Aviation Ordnanceman working with aircraft weapons. After service, I spent 13 years in a Volunteer Fire Dept (earning Paramedic certification), 12 years with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, and 14 years as a reserve Marine Division deputy. I’m a veteran who values education, safety, and the Constitution.
What students say
USCCA
Shawn Crowl, Jerry Crowl
USCCA
Shawn Crowl, Jerry Crowl
We also incorporate modern training tools, including a state-of-the-art shooting simulator, to provide realistic, scenario-based experiences in a controlled setting.
every student leaves not only trained—but capable, confident, and prepared.
