Firearms Instructors
We look forward to seeing you at the range!
Joel Northrup
Owner / Firearms Instructor
joel@reddingfirearms.com
(530) 945-8925
The Firearms Academy of Redding is owned and operated by Joel Northrup. Joel has over 20 years of experience in law enforcement and firearms training. He has extensive education and experience in firearms, shooting, law enforcement and the legal aspects of using deadly force.
Joel started his law enforcement career as a Deputy with the Trinity County Sheriff’s Department and is currently the Marshal of Shasta County. Schools he’s attended include: Gunsite, Lethal Force Institute, Glock Firearms Instructor and Armorer School, NRA Law Enforcement Instructor School, NRA Handgun and Long Gun Schools, California Peace Officer Standards & Training (POST) Firearms Instructor, Rangemaster, Tactical Firearms Instructor, and Armorer Schools. Joel is also certified by POST to teach tactics and techniques for responding to an active shooter situation.
Joel is certified to teach firearms and self defense classes through the National Rifle Association, Glock Inc. and POST. He has spent countless hours on the shooting range as an instructor, Rangemaster and Range Officer, teaching thousands of students in the North State. He is also certified as a POST, American Gunsmithing Institute and Glock Inc. armorer and gunsmith. Joel is a published author in the area of firearms, self defense and firearms training. He has been a contributing author to Combat Handguns Magazine.
Joel is an avid shooter and competitor. He holds the classification of “Master” in the United States Practical Shooting Association. Additionally, Joel has a background in teaching. He has taught professionally at the college level and holds a Masters Degree from Chico State University. Joel has the background, education, training and real world experience to provide a quality CCW and firearms training class for you! Experience the best firearms training in Shasta County.
Joel has the background and experience to train you to defend your life:
CA Peace Officer Certified Instructor | NRA Certified Instructor | Glock Certified Instructor | USPSA Master Class Shooter
Dave Morley
Business Development Manager / Firearms Instructor
dave@reddingfirearms.com
(530) 524-4880
Dave has worked with Joel Northrup, owner of Firearms Academy of Redding (FAR) in the classroom, on the range, and on all the operational aspects of the business since 2016. As the Business Development Manager, Dave’s focal point is on continuous improvement, standardization, and streamlining processes to improve efficiencies for both the clients and the business. Often referred to by Joel as his legal “guru,” Dave stays current on all existing and proposed firearms legislation as it pertains to firearm ownership, purchase, transportation, and sale. He is continuously in contact with the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office, and others, to ensure FAR is always on top of the most current administrative and procedural requirements ensuring FAR customers easily get through the CCW license application process.
As a NRA and CA Department of Justice certified instructor and handgun enthusiast, owner and collector for nearly 50 years, Dave’s real passion as part of FAR is working with the people. As every responsible gun owner knows, Safety is the number ONE priority. Dave enjoys teaching and working with everyone from first time gun handlers to skilled shooters looking to hone their skills. Additionally, Dave offers tutoring and coaching classes for those looking to purchase a firearm, but apprehensive to do so since never having handled a gun. His goal is for students to leave feeling confident in their ability to safely handle a gun and proficient in their shooting skills. Dave also offers private classes for those unable to make the regularly scheduled classroom and range dates and is always available for questions relative to handgun type, purchase, and general legal questions.
Prior to working with Joel, Dave retired from a 32 year career as a Senior Manager with one of the largest Defense Contractors in the US. Dave was responsible for overseeing the Manufacturing Engineering Management team in support of the Navy’s Ship Propulsion & Power Generation and Missile Launching & Handling Programs.