When it comes to using firearms on set, safety isn’t optional — it’s non-negotiable. At Concealed Carry Classes of Denver (CCCD), we require every actor, crew member, and production team personnel who handles or works near firearms to complete firearms safety training before a single blank is chambered or a scene is blocked.
You wouldn’t let someone drive a car in a high-speed chase scene without driver’s ed. It’s the same with firearms. A lack of training can result in tragedy, legal exposure, or ruined productions. Handling guns for film is serious — and it must be treated professionally.
🎓 Required Firearms Training — Based on What’s Used On Set
No one — including actors, stunt doubles, extras, or prop handlers — will handle firearms (real, blank-firing, or replica) until they complete the appropriate training.
We tailor the curriculum to match what’s actually used in your production. Whether your script includes handguns, rifles, or shotguns, we provide focused, safety-first training for each platform.
🔫 Firearms Safety Curriculum Includes:
- Firearm safety fundamentals (based on NRA & USCCA standards)
- Pistol, rifle, and shotgun platform handling
- Safe loading, unloading, chamber checks, and manipulation
- Muzzle discipline and trigger control
- Scene choreography with firearm integration
- Blank-firing procedures and prop weapon differences
- On-set safety protocols and emergency procedures
- Live-fire familiarization (optional based on production needs)
We blend NRA and USCCA methodology to train actors and crew for realism and reliability while always prioritizing safety.
🎯 Why Every Actor and Crew Member Must Train
- Realism Without Risk: Actors who are trained handle firearms more convincingly — and safely.
- Legal Protection for Productions: Proper training helps reduce liability and shows documented due diligence.
- Muscle Memory for High-Stress Scenes: Our drills reinforce good habits that stick even under pressure.
- Compliance With Union Standards: Our protocols meet and exceed SAG-AFTRA, IATSE, and OSHA expectations.
🎥 Supervised On-Set Firearms Management
After completing training, every participant receives a certificate of completion and written proof of training. Our certified firearms instructors and licensed weapons masters remain available to:
- Conduct safety briefings
- Walk through scenes in advance
- Supervise live-fire or blank-fire scenes
- Inspect and secure firearms and props
- Provide real-time actor coaching and safety enforcement
🏆 Meet Your Lead Instructor
Mark Schneider is a certified firearms instructor with over 10 years of professional experience and 20+ years of firearms ownership. His credentials include:
- USCCA Certified Instructor
- NRA Certified Pistol, Rifle & Shotgun Instructor
- Certified Range Safety Officer (RSO)
- Law of Self Defense Graduate
- Trained Over thousands of students in firearms fundamentals, safety and law
- Training Manager for a Denver-based armed security company
Mark has trained thousands of students and is now bringing his set safety expertise to the film industry — ensuring your actors look authentic and stay safe.
📍 Where We Work
Based in Denver, CO, we serve productions throughout the region. Our service area includes:
- Metro Denver (Aurora, Lakewood, Littleton, Thornton, Arvada, etc.)
- Boulder County
- Colorado Springs & Pueblo
- Northern Colorado (Loveland, Greeley, Fort Collins, Longmont)
- Western Slope (Grand Junction, Rifle, Glenwood Springs)
- Southern Colorado (Cañon City, Trinidad, Durango)
- Neighboring States: New Mexico, Utah, Kansas, Wyoming, Nebraska
Mobile classroom and range services available for remote production sites.
🔍 Frequently Asked Questions
Do actors need a license to use firearms on set?
No license is required, but certified training is mandatory for safety and legal protection.
Can we choose which platforms to train on?
Yes. We offer pistol, rifle, and shotgun training depending on what’s used in your production.
Do you provide replica and prop firearm guidance?
Absolutely. We help your team understand the differences between blank-capable, rubber, and inert props.
Will a weapons master be present on set?
Yes. A certified armorer or weapons master will be present during all firearm scenes.
Do you rent firearms and tactical gear?
Yes. We offer a full inventory of pistols, rifles, shotguns, tactical vests, armor, and accessories.
✅ What Sets Us Apart
- 🎓 USCCA & NRA Certified Instructors
- 🎥 Decades of Combined Experience in Firearms & Training
- 🚰 Firearm Coaching, Gear Rentals, and Set Safety Oversight
- 📄 Documentation for Legal and Union Compliance
- 📍 Licensed, Insured, and Mobile Across the Western U.S.
📢 Ready to Get Started?
🎯 Professional. Realistic. Safe. That’s our standard.
👉 Book Firearms Training for Your Production
👉 View Our Firearm & Gear Rental Roster
👉 Contact Our Weapons Master for Set Consults
👉 Download Our Set Safety Protocol Sheet (PDF)
