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Next class: Pistol L1 · Sat Nov 14 · Dulzura → Call or text (619) 935-3714
Castillo Arms student training with a rifle at sunset
CCW & home-defense training · San Diego County

Train with a 21-year Coast Guard combat veteran.

CCW certification, live-fire pistol, rifle and shotgun courses, and in-home defense training with Mike “Chino” Castillo. Live-fire classes run at a private ranch range in Dulzura.

★★★★★ 50+ Google reviews CCW initial & renewal Beginners welcome
The training path

Three phases. Each one builds on the last.

How the phases work →
Instructor teaching inside a home
01

Fundamentals & safety

Safe handling, storage and a defense plan for your home. Beginner-ready and family-friendly.

Student shooting a rifle at the ranch
02

Live fire

Pistol, rifle and shotgun on the range. Level 1 builds marksmanship; Level 2 adds defensive shooting.

Student entering a doorway during room-clearing training
03

Defensive scenarios

Room clearing and combat rifle. Movement and decision-making under pressure.

Mike “Chino” Castillo on the range
Your instructor

Mike “Chino” Castillo

Mike served 21 years in the U.S. Coast Guard’s Deployable Specialized Forces, deploying worldwide on counter-drug, anti-piracy and counter-terrorism missions. After retiring he trained Navy sailors and law enforcement in weapons and close-quarters combat. Castillo Arms brings that instruction to everyday families.

ServiceU.S. Coast Guard · 21 years
UnitsMaritime Security Response Team–West · Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Team
After serviceNavy & law enforcement instructor
Read Mike’s story
★★★★★ 50+ reviews on Google

What students say

Google reviews

Read what students say about training with Mike on the Castillo Arms Google Business Profile.

From the range

Full gallery →
Two shooters kneeling with rifles
Group photo after a women’s pistol class
Vehicle defense drill at the ranch
Room-clearing training indoors
Instructor coaching a student one-on-one
Class lined up at the ranch
Where we train

At the ranch, or in your living room.

Live-fire and scenario classes run at a private ranch range in Dulzura. The exact address is sent when you book. Phase 1 in-home training comes to you anywhere in San Diego County.

East County North CountyCentral San DiegoCoastalSouth County
Students walking the ranch range in Dulzura

Questions first-timers ask

I have never fired a gun. Is that okay?

Yes. Phase 1 assumes no experience and starts with safe handling and storage. Pistol L1 is also built for beginners.

Do I need my own firearm?

Yes. Bring your own firearm and ammunition to group classes. Firearms can be arranged only for special private group training.

Where is the range?

A private ranch range in Dulzura, CA. Because it is private property, the exact address is sent to you after you book.

Can I bring my spouse or a group?

Phase 1 and Phase 3 take up to 10 people, and the per-person price drops as the group grows.

Castillo Arms

Seats are limited. Pick a date.