How does one become a tactical/firearms instructor?

[Requiem]

I'm just curious mostly for the fact that I'm interested in doing something along those lines. I've looked at a whole bunch of tactical training facilities' websites (TFTT, Frontsight, etc.) and all these guys already have extensive experience in SWAT, military SOF, etc. not only as operators but instructors too. I mean, I'm in the Marines but that doesn't mean I have had experience as a military firearms instructor. So where does someone like me (in the reserves) start?

[M47_Dragon]

I really have no solid answer to your question, but here is what I would do if I were in your situation:

First, I would try to get basic certification(s) offered by the NRA in several categories - pistol, rifle, shotgun, Range Safety Officer. I know you said you want to teach tactical type stuff, but these certs seem very easy to get and would give you a good basic foundation in teaching others about firearms. There are probably prerequisites, like taking the basic NRA courses themselves.

Second, and concurrently, I would approach my CO and ask about possible MOS moves available in your region. I have no idea what your current MOS is, and I don't even know if reservists can transfer into the 8000 MOS series (where the good stuff is, like Small Arms Instructor, Security Force CQB Team, etc.). If not an entire MOS transfer, maybe just an opportunity to attend the MOS school?

You should probably have excellent pros & cons and great range scores to even request such a thing, but it can't really hurt to try.


Anyway, that is what I would do to start.


Semper Fi

[Requiem]

Interesting. Thanks for the info. I'll try to look more into this when I have more time. Anyways... no one else is going to throw me a bone here?

[rkt88edmo]

Take classes, build your skills, once you have the skills, take instructor level courses from reputable trainers. There are "civilian hobbyist" instructors working for very well known programs, they usually got their start after advancing through the student classes and mastering the material.

[Josh3239]

Learn as much as you can, take anything from basic handgun training to CCW training to attending some of those tactical rifle classes. As M47 mentioned, being in the Marines you could probably try to go to some specialized schools, classes, or a try another MOS.