Tactical U - Firearms Training & Self-Defense

I had only been to a shooting range a couple of times, but I decided I needed to know more about gun fundamentals and safety. Immediately after meeting Steve, I could see how knowledgeable he is. The individual attention was incredibly helpful, and I had a blast. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I have been training with Steve at Tactical U for over a decade. I am a former Army Infantry Sergeant and a current Law Enforcement Officer. I have to say, I still learn new techniques with Steve and the training is NEVER boring. His training courses keep you up to speed and proficient on tactical firearm operation. Steve is a literally a perfectionist at his trade. He makes sure the student is comfortable and understands what material is being taught and why. I would definitely recommend training with Steve at Tactical U if you have the opportunity. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Target shooting is one thing, defensive shooting is another. I highly recommend taking a class. I will be taking another soon!

Reviewed on Google Maps

I wanted to wait a week to let the 4-hour private handgun class I took with Steve to sink in. The class was much different then I had anticipated, not that it should have been, as Steve spent 45 min on a call with me before I registered. I left the class with the heart sunken realization that I really didn't know how to shoot a pistol before I walked in. That being stated, I have shot thousands of handgun rounds at the range with what I thought to be pretty decent results. I would guess to say I was shooting better than 80% of whoever else was at that range on a given day, with most shots hitting center mass from 5-20 yards. After Steve taught me how to properly move, draw, grip, sight in, etc (several painstaking hours of repetition) we walked into the range and using the exact skills Steve showed me I was able to put 90%+ of my shots into a single grouping the size of a silver dollar and literally "cut out" the center of the target. After the class, Steve asked me for my feedback, but I was so mentally exhausted I told him I had to think about it. We agreed before I took the class that the secret to success would come from dryfiring several days a week practicing what he taught me. Now a week later, after practicing 10-30 min most days, I can't, I repeat, I can't not shoot (move/draw/aim/fire) the way Steve taught me! And my results are beyond what I would have thought possible in such a short time. I have a TON to do, but I left the class with 1) newfound basic skills and 2) a plan (Steve sent me the game plan we had discussed in writing via email in a few hours after the class). If you are serious about improving your skills, this is the class to take. As for Steve, he's no-nonsense, no time wasted, right to the point, instructor. And there are no 8th place trophies. We had to run over 40 min as I was "stuck" with some of the basis that he insisted we needed to get down. He was not concerned about the time on the clock, only my results. I would and will train again with Steve and you should too if you get the chance.Kudos to Steve for the effectiveness of his instruction, his attention to detail (understatement) and the secret to his success (I believe) beside his training, is he REALLY CARES that his students get results. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

The class was great and the time invested was excellent. Valuable information from a knowledgeable source. Going to the range is one thing, this class was a whole different experience. My opinion, A must take for anyone who carrys. Ill definitely be practicing and looking forward to taking another class. Thank you Sir. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Tactical U is the real deal. I got to work hands on with Stephen Cohen, and it was nothing short of amazing. I have been shooting for a while and Stephen picked up right away on things i was doing wrong and gave me adjustments that had me grouping tight. I recommend Tactical U for anyone even the most experienced shooters. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Hello Everyone, I took Stephen Cohen's 4 hour Pistol Course. I found Stephen on the internet and gave him a call. Stephen spoke to me for 38 minutes on my first call to him as I was searching the web looking for an class/instructor who teaches "Tactical Shooting. "I have some U.S. Military experience and Stephen's repetitive drills took my thoughts back to "Basic Training" in the theory, practice and actual shooting techniques. I have personally taught full time for 6 consecutive years at 2 very well known colleges in Miami. With that said, I am in a position to critique Stephen's delivery of his classroom teaching's, and theory he explains in terms that can be understood by anyone who has never gone through a shooting class. I am a stickler for "Customer Service" and with this said, I pay attention to details. When I arrived to my 12:30PM class and Stephen had just finished training a lady who was in a session before me. Not only did I not have to wait to receive instructions, Stephen continued to give me tips and pointers 35 minutes past the time I had paid for. When you meet Steve, you will notice that you have taken a class with a very fit former law enforcement person who clearly loves what he does, is very assertive and is an instructor who invests his own time with humility in getting to know his student after the session. I reside in the South Miami area and plan to take more classes with Steve all though he teaches in Fort Lauderdale.I recommend Stephen Cohen's weapons training to everyone at whatever skill level you are currently at. You are definitely a "5" star instructor Stephen!! I applaud you. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Did a 4 hour private lesson with Stephen. It was amazing and really enlightening. Worked on different skills and drills. I would do it again and 100% recommend. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Took the Concealed Handgun Tactics & Safety class and I couldn't be happier with the knowledge and real hands on training that was offered. Proper training with firearms is truly necessary when one decides to carry in everyday life and TacticalU teaches the mindset, situations and understanding of safety and proficiency with a firearm that are required.TacticalU provided a friendly and clear understanding of the fundamentals with fun and challenging drills that will push your limits. The instructor, Stephen, provided one on one attention and assessment to each exercise. I will now walk around knowing I have put in the proper training and have a better grasp of situations that may arise. I highly recommend TacticalU and look forward to going to future classes. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

These guys really know their stuff. Steve diagnosed my issues immediately and helped break my bad habits and replaced them with the proper fundamentals. Within one session I noticed a change and improvement. They took video footage for me to further review and actually point out what my mistakes were. I was also given a structured plan to practice and keep improving on my skills. I have now been back since the first session and it was easy to compare the improvements I made. I would recommend them to anyone who is serious about wanting to learn to shoot or refine their skills for any experience level. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Excellent classes with real life applications content. Stephen is very patient and explains the techniques in a professional, but easy to understand and follow his class. I have been in 3 classes and I am extremely satisfied with all of them, his feedback is on point and crystal clear, no B.S. here. More classes to come, highly recommended!!!!! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Took a private lesson with Steve over the weekend. I have owned guns for years but wanted a little more training. The lesson was worth every penny! ! I shot better and faster than I ever have. I am definitely going to take another lesson and even attend some group classes. Steve not only taught me what to do but explained why that was the best way to do it. He has true life experience and it really shows with the way he explains things and the reasoning behind them. If you want to improve your shooting/gun handling I recommend taking a class at Tactical U with Steve. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Awesome time! A lot of good knowledge coming from the instructor. Will definitely training with him again!

Reviewed on Facebook

Taken more than one course, very happy professional. I will be back for more.

Reviewed on Facebook

Thank you so much!!! We enjoyed this class very much and we appreciate you being so thorough and safety conscious!! It had been a while for me! !! Kirk loved doing better than me!!! I will do better!!! Thank you again for making a serious experience fun!!!! 5 tars!!!!! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

My husband made me take this course and I wasn't excited, but his thorough teaching, scenarios, and precise instructions made me feel comfortable about handling a gun. I handled the gun like if I had handled a gun before. His course made me feel confident enough to protect myself with a gun correctly in the event that I was forced to. I still need a lot more practice, but this was a great experience to start off with. Thank you! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

I am a disabled veteran of the US Army. I haven't held an AR in 15 years. Instructor Steve made it easy to rehold a weapon I lived with but put away in mind and spirit for over a decade. I am grateful to him for helping me hold an AR and understand it once again. Highly recommended. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Steve Cohen is an EXCELLENT firearms instructor! He is very methodical and scientific, and clearly explains concepts in ways that are easy to understand and easy to apply. I have been shooting firearms for over 40 years, I thought I was a "decent" shooter...my shooting accuracy and precision has improved more after his 4 hour class than it did over the past 40 years! He is an excellent teacher, and he makes it his mission to make sure his student UNDERSTANDS and is able to apply what he has taught. If you are looking for a well versed, well qualified and certified instructor, regardless of your shooting/training level, Steve is your man! I will definitely be training with him again!!! THANK YOU Steve!!! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Steve drills you on the fundamentals which is paramount for self defense and military combat. As a medical officer in the US Army, I'm tasked with protecting my patient in battle with the most easily accessible weapon in our arsenal; the handgun. Steve's drills will definitely enhance your shooting with a defensive, offensive and tactical mindset which is hard to find nowadays!
-CPT Woodbridge, GC, Army PA. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Are you confident in all aspects of defensive gun handling? Steve is a very organised, very methodical and licensed professional trainer. In his basics course he will explain and demonstrate safe load/ unload and defensive routines that, with practice, cover all the bases for you. I had never used a pistol before and am amazed at the ground we covered in about 4 hours. His mission is to get you competent. If you own a handgun, do his course. You won't regret it. Thanks, Steve! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Many of us are under the misconception that by simply owning a gun and firing at the range once-in-a-while is all we need for peace of mind. .. I mean, wouldn't that be nice if it were that simple? This course will quickly make you realize that without the proper techniques, the gun and ammo is about as useful as a screen door on a submarine. I thought I was a decent shot and pretty comfortable with my handling techniques but thanks to Stephen, I now have a much better understanding as to not only "how" to properly handle my weapon, but equally importantly "why". Independent of your experience level, you'll either erase bad habits or get set on the correct path by the end of this course. Stephen also follows up with homework, additional info and video from your session so you won't walk out the door and forget everything you learned. Best self-defense investment I've made as a gun owner and I highly recommend this to anyone interested in the course! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

I’ve never taken a class from these guys and have no idea who they are to start. I am a competitive shooter and a federal and civilian firearms instructor. While at the range today, i shot next to one of the instructors while he was teaching a one on one class. As a fellow instructor I can tell you these guys know what they are doing. The stuff he was explaining to the student you will not get from most instructors. I highly recommend you take a lesson from an instructor like this that takes the time to provide you the knowledge necessary to operate a firearm.
To the instructor:
It’s nice to see someone doing the right thing instead of worrying about a quick $
Keep it up! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

As a beginner, nothing is more disappointing than being told you won’t be starting on the range right away... but by the time you get out there, you actually know what you’re doing. These guys are consummate professionals. You’ll understand not only how to shoot, but why what they’re teaching works. Highly recommended. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

I did Gunfighting 101 with Tactical U and they are the best around the Miami area for sure. Steve and Mel are great instructors they have so much knowledge and charisma as to take your skills to the next level. This was the first time that they taught this course and they did it with so much professionalism that it felt that they were teaching it for years. There are not enough words to explain how good they are indeed.
And the best is that they will make you feel like home since they have a great sense of humor but always in a very secure environment all the time. I’m looking forward to my next training with them.
Keep rooking. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Stephen is a great instructor around south Florida. In addition, he cares about you and that you learn for real. The knowledge he shares is worth all the money you pay for it. I already took several courses and I had learn many things, so I highly recommend you take the time to book a course with him. He is very professional and passionate about showing the people how to shoot. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Stephen Cohen is an exceptional professional and skilled instructor. Up until 3 months ago I had not handled a firearm in over 20 years. With Steve's instruction I am now confident and safe. I have learned holster shooting, shooting from my weaker hand and many other skills. If you are serious- Steve is your guy. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Mr. Stephn Cohen is one of the best instructors. I have meet so far his course is very informational and i recommend anyone that need. Training Should Definitely Take one of mr cohen classes More...

Reviewed on Yellow Pages

Very informative and inspiring instruction from Steven. Left with more information than I was expecting, and motivated to continue my education in this field. Looking forward to more training to improve my comfort and skills with proper weapon usage. Would definitely recommend this class to anyone who is serious about concealed carry. ���������������� More...

Reviewed on Yellow Pages

Stephen Cohen is an excellent instructor. He will definitely show and explain the proper handling and discipline in handling a pistol. As a newbies, I have learned a lot in 1 day. I am looking forward in taking my 2nd and continuous education in handling a pistol. Highly recommended! More...

Reviewed on Yellow Pages

If your serious about learning how to use a firearm, Stephen Cohen is the man for you. He breaks it down into an easy to learn system that really works, and gives you drills that you can practice at home or on the range. Stephen has the experience, training, and know how to take your firearm skills to what ever level you desire. And its fun! I am much more confidant with my firearm, and know that the training I received is tested and used by professionals around the world. For whatever skill level you desire, he is the man to see. More...

Reviewed on Yellow Pages

Best firearm training I have ever received. Stephen helped me better my shooting and fundamentals. Even with military training my shooting wasn't excellent. I can say now I'm a lot better than I was before the class at tactical u. I plan on taking more classes with Stephen- Justin Army MP More...

Reviewed on Yellow Pages

I honestly would recommend the class to anyone I know. If you want a thorough teaching and to learn how to be safe handling your weapon this is your instructor.

Reviewed on Yellow Pages

FLAWLESS!!! I can’t say enough positive things about Steve C. and his class. I am not one to recommend many people, but I must say that Steve delivered the best training class I could have wished for. His passion for teaching, his knowledge level and his enthusiasm is extremely contagious. I left his class 100% confident and extremely energized. Without a single doubt, Steve is the one to go to if you want to master how to safely handle a weapon for personal /family protection. Thank you Steve! You deserve every compliment you get. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

After receiving the great directions from Stephen days before the class. I arrived at what had to be the largest outdoor shooting facility that I have ever seen for the public. We were brought together and Stephen went over the gun safety rules for this class and what was to be expected of each person. I felt that Stephen is by fare the most safety conscious instructor that I have seen in a long time in which you would think they all should be but that's not true in a lot of cases. He really took his time to cover the basics which a lot of people over look because they only want to shoot guns. I would say if that's all you want to do then go to a range by your self but if you want to leave filling more informed and a better shot then take this class it like no other I have seen for the money we pay for want we get in life. Once again thanks for everything Stephen I look forward to attending the next class. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I highly recommend this course and its great instructor. This class has taught me how to improve on myself tactical defense. This is my second course. My first class was evening training. I enjoyed it so much I enroll in this training class. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Chose Tactical U to get my CCW permit course after reading through their website. Is it more expensive than others out there? Yes. But, don't let that scare you away. Believe me when I tell you, (and I can't stress this enough) you are getting MORE than what you pay for. Stephen Cohen was the instructor, a retired police officer. First thing you notice is that he isn't there just for a paycheck. The guy lives and breathes guns. He's a fountain of information. You'll leave flooded with the amount of information he teaches. But don't worry, you'll receive an email afterwards covering everything discussed in class so you can go over it at your own pace. The class breezes by with all the things you learn. And, there are plenty of breaks to go to the bathroom and eat a quick snack. Before you go to the shooting range, he goes through everything you're going to do at the range. You're given your unloaded rented handgun (or use yours if you bring your own) and he goes, step by step, through the process of shooting at the range; from picking up the handgun correctly, to gripping it correctly, to finger placement on the trigger while shooting, to reloading, to properly placing the gun down when you're done shooting. Don't worry about all of that overwhelming you. He has the patience to teach you correctly. Then, its off to the range. When you get there, he reminds you that it's the same process as it was in class. Only difference is that there's a bang at the end. He prepares your target, instructs you on what to do, and corrects any mistakes you have AS you shoot, right then and there. Now, this next part is when I got first hand experience that he's a phenomenal teacher. During my turn shooting, I tensed up, causing me to horribly miss my target. It got worse and worse. He tells me to stop, asks me what's up, and calmed me down to get me back on track. After his instruction, I shot at least 4 bullseyes in a row. Before the class, I was dreading having paid that much for the course. Afterwards though, I'll gladly pay double. The cheaper CCW courses go through the minimum Florida requires for you to get your permit. Stephen and Tactical U, not only teach you all of that, they teach you how to properly use a handgun. They've made me such a fan, I'm signing up for the next class after the CCW course; private handgun technique development. Don't hesitate, give them a call. You won't regret it. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Having had my CCW for many years and periodically going to the range, I felt I had an adequate knowledge of weapons handling and shooting. My office manager had purchased a gift certificate from Tactical U for me so I decided to go for a "refresher". Well... was I surprised!! After meeting with Mr. Cohen (a retired law enforcement officer) I realized that I was in for an eye opener. The course I took was basic tactical shooting. I knew from the get go that Mr. Cohen was a highly experience professional, someone with a tremendous amount of knowledge and patience. After approximately 5 min. of classroom I realized just how little I knew. As someone outside law enforcement these techniques are foreign, however Mr. Cohen patiently and methodically drills you and explains the "why" behind it.I literally went from from previously (before taking his course) shooting groups at 7-9 ft in a minute to shooting accurate groups 7-9 ft in SECONDS! All with control, focus and above all safety. I truly cannot say and recommend Tactical U enough-for novice (like myself) to experienced shooter. You will definitely come away a more learned, experienced shooter/weapons handler! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

A lot can be said about the importance of fire arm safety and Steven Cohen ensures we understand it and can put it into practice. He makes you feel very comfortable with his sense of humor but at the same time his seriousness keeps you focused on what's important. Great Job Steve and I look forward in participating in more training with you! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Felt right away I was at the right place to get an introductive education about guns, safety, ammo and how to hold and shoot a gun. After class we went to a gun range and with Mr. Cohen's training I was able to shoot a group without thinking about it. It all made sense coming out of class. Going back for more soon. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

The best investment in safety home security or fire arms ive ever made.the concealed carry class had tons of information even for someone such as myself who has had a carry permit in florida for years. The basics sometimes are missed by budget classes and the comprehensive detail provied by tactical U and its instuctors is something you can not put a price on. For a veteran leo gunner type steve is extremely patient and explains this is a clear concise manner. Even the women in our class were very comfortable and steve worked with them to ensure they gatthered the most information possible. Any one wanting to brush up on skills they have or learn some new ones this is a great tool to do so. Tactical U has a new long term customer that will drive how ever many hours it takes for tactical U training programs More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Excellent! I went for my conceal weapons permit with no experience with hand guns this was an excellent class Stephen is very knowledgeable and a great teacher. He didn't reschedule my appointment even though I was the only one scheduled he was extremely patient and professional. Highly recommended tactical u. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

The ABSOLUTE BEST Training in all of Florida! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND the CCW class with Tactical U ! The Tactical U CCW class EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATIONS by 200 percent! !! I took the Concealed Weapons Class recently - Stephen was my instructor. I had spent over 3 months researching different CCW classes in all of Florida as I was skeptical when I saw some of the inferior classes that other companies offered - for example a 2 hr class and you get your certificate- that's just ridiculous. With Tactical U it was a full day of class- Let me tell you in my full day class I learned so much more than I expected. Stephen took all the time needed to explain and teach me proper techniques. Stephen was extremely professional and had prior experience out in the field as a career in law enforcement. will definitely be back to the Tactical U for advanced training in the near future. PLEASE do yourself a favor and sign yourself up for a class with Tactical U! You will not be disappointed! You will be amazed at what you will learn! THANKS so much Stephen for a life changing class and learning experience! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Stephen's CCW Permit class is awesome. Very informative, great and useful information. Steve is a great instructor he is by no means boring, because of this 3 hrs into the class and I don't even realize so much time had passed. Will definitely be doing my next firearms class with Tactical U. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I took a tactical pistol course with Mr. Cohen this past Sunday and I was very impressed with his knowledge, expertise and absolute devotion to firearm safety. The class was tough but very enjoyable. I was able to learn new techniques and get rid of some old bad habits at the same time. I would highly recommend to all individuals that conceal carry to sign up for his course. I'm definitely looking forward to my next class.A.V. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Absolutely amazing instructor. I called looking for just a cheap and easy concealed class for myself and after a short conversation I had no problem shelling out to enroll bot my girlfriend and myself. My girlfriend had never even handled a firearm before and DIDN'T MISS A SHOT or even hit outside of the human silhouette!! My girlfriend was nervous and unsure going in and came out confident and had a great time. I was shocked with my own performance as well! He also covers all the basics and fundamentals and gun safety. So glad I had a chance to speak to him before I took just some cheapo CCW class. I look forward to attending more classes with Stephen in the near future. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps