FreeState Firearms Training ( serves Central Marylandincluding Frederick and Carroll Counties, as well as parts of Virginia and Pennsylvaniawith a broad and disciplined curriculum centered on concealed carry, defensive skills, and instructor development. At its helm is Dave Ritchie, a USCCA Certified Instructor and Training Counselor certified since May 2018 (certification valid through October 2025). He also holds credentials as an NRA Chief Range Safety Officer, NRA Pistol Instructor, Maryland State Police Qualified Handgun Instructor, KR Training Force-on-Force Instructor, and UTM Civilian Instructor. Courses include Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL), Wear & Carry Permit training, basic pistol, AR-15 fundamentals, defensive carry fundamentals, defensive tactics with scenario-based training, force-on-force using UTM systems, presentation from the holster, NRA Range Safety Officer, and more. Classrooms are located in Mt. Airy and Westminster, MD, but FreeState is also willing to travel for group training. Students frequently praise the instructional quality and clarity. One student shared: I had learn a lot from the class. Dave instructor is very knowledgeable.. To explore their class schedule or discuss private instruction, visit Know a coach or range that deserves to be featured? Submit here: Follow ZRIntel for daily coverage of firearm training innovations and community stories. Featured in this article? Let us know well highlight your repost on our feed!