Testimonials

Archetype of the gun
5.0
Based on 34 reviews
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Liz Weil
Liz Weil
16:38 27 Nov 23
I have wanted to learn how to shoot a gun for protection purposes and finally tried it. Erik was amazing! We started with a 1 hour lesson in gun mechanics and safety. Then we went to the range. The feel of the gun was a lot trickier than I thought! Not easy at all but Erik was so helpful. I tried 3 different types. I have a familial tremor so needless to say it was not easy for me but Erik gave me some great tips and we were able to figure out which stance was best for me. I will definitely go back and probably take a private with him as he can really help me feel more comfortable over time.very well done with safety as the top priority.
sharon shay
sharon shay
02:55 07 Nov 23
Outstanding instruction! Erik is a very professional instructor real world application, applying everything to real life examples.Rob (Doc) helped me to build my techniques developed through diverse real world experience.I recommend Archetype to any new or experienced shooters. Each course helps to either build strong foundations for new disciplines or adds useful tools .to an experienced shooter's toolboxThank you again and will see you next time:)
Sharon Shay
Sharon Shay
02:36 07 Nov 23
Erik and Rob were amazing with details and instructions. Thank you so much 😊
Julio Batista
Julio Batista
02:30 07 Nov 23
Erik was amazing, all the way. Amazing training, communication, and great knowledge. Will be back for sure.
Tom Gilchrist
Tom Gilchrist
00:51 07 Nov 23
A great instructor that evaluated and helped me correct my minor mistakes.I was amazed after my one hour class increased my proficiency exponentially. Well worth the time and money.
Ellen Phillips
Ellen Phillips
04:00 31 Oct 23
Erick's expertise and passion is evident within 5 minutes of meeting him. One-on-one private lesson using live rounds taught me what I need to know.
Cathy Baechle
Cathy Baechle
02:48 10 Apr 23
Given the untenable and significant crime and violence in Chicago, including my own neighborhood, I needed to seriously contemplate becoming a responsible gun owner. I conducted some research and learned about Erik Tweedt, owner of Archetype of the Gun. After reviewing Erik’s twenty plus credentials, impressive coursework and extensive training by the field’s master trainers, I knew I found an outstanding instructor to help me on my journey to become a safe, skilled and responsible gun owner.My training began with Erik’s “Introduction to Handgun” class and I was immediately impressed. Erik has a passion for teaching people of all skill levels through his specialized group and private lessons. Given Erik’s breadth of knowledge, expertise, and skills, I feel very fortunate to have him as my teacher. I’ve needed more individualized instruction than others who have had more gun experience than me. I’ve taken private lessons with Erik and am learning a tremendous amount from him due to his close attention to detail (he sees everything I do) and coaching about safe and proper handling of guns, learning appropriate grip, holstering, using a red dot, shooting, etc. Since I’m a true novice, Erik helps me feel very safe on the range and inspires me to practice and work toward improving. He provides direct, thoughtful and precise instruction and feedback. He also worked with me to evaluate dozens of handguns before I decided on the best gun for me and shared very informative resources for continued learning beyond the classroom and range.On a final note, whether you’re a novice like me or an experienced gun owner who wants to learn from a master, I highly recommend Erik Tweedt at Archetype of the Gun. I look forward to learning from him in the coming years. In addition to being an outstanding instructor, Erik is a very nice person and I appreciate his sense of humor. Thank you Erik for all your instruction, support, generosity and guidance. Your impact on others and in the field is profound and I know I could not be in better hands.
Edward Limoges
Edward Limoges
21:43 29 Dec 22
Erik is a highly knowledgeable instructor across the spectrum of civilian firearms use for self defense. He is very thoughtful in how he presents concepts in his programs of instruction, and he clearly works to stay current in both firearms technique and understanding of key legal principles.
Brian C
Brian C
16:49 17 Aug 22
Outstanding instruction! Erik is a very practical and professional instructor emphasizing real world application and continual improvement. Guest instructors are brought in regularly to help students build techniques developed through diverse real world experience. I always recommend Archetype to any new or experienced shooters. Each course helps to either build strong foundations for new disciplines or adds useful tools to an experienced shooter's toolbox.
Andrew Seelig
Andrew Seelig
16:44 10 May 22
Top quality training from a well versed instructor who wants to see you succeed.Excellent expertise in the field which translates well into his instruction.
steve brunet
steve brunet
21:37 06 Apr 22
Erik is a phenomenal instructor who puts in an immense amount of time training himself; being a continuous learner of his craft. If you own a firearm or are thinking of owing one, you have a responsibility to train and know how to safely and effectively use your tool. This is one of the best places to do so!! Thank you Erik & crew!!!!
Dylan Hernandez
Dylan Hernandez
19:12 25 Mar 22
Participated in a “Performance on Demand” session this past week. A very demanding class that focuses on getting on target quickly and accurately. The drills and instruction by Erik Tweedt were, without a doubt, some of the best I’ve experienced in my short time of shooting. I’m improving every time out and the drills learned have helped me become more confident and accurate of a shooter. A must do course if you want to improve. Aim small, miss small.
Kris Kline
Kris Kline
21:25 20 Mar 22
I did a 2 day Centrifuge VCQB class here and loved it. The range space was well maintained, had plenty of cover from the sun during breaks on hot summer days, and the host was accommodating to students. I would definitely take another class here.
Tim
Tim
12:10 20 Mar 22
Eric and Dan are great instructors i have learned so much from them and keep going back for more. If you are serious about improving your skills i would recommend them for sure. Every class I come away with new skills and small little tweaks to improve my shooting i have taken most of there classes and love that they keep coming out with more classes to help out there students. The smaller class sizes are great you get alot of feedback and one on one time
Rafferty Jose
Rafferty Jose
02:24 20 Mar 22
Erik is a phenomenal instructor. I’ve taken multiple classes from him over the years and each time I’ve learned something new and improved my skills. He take his time to show the proper techniques and make sure the student is applying them. I look forward to taking more class at Archetype of the gun.
Anthony Noto
Anthony Noto
00:53 20 Mar 22
I took the So You Think You Can Carry force in force class twice. I came away learning so much about myself and how to handle defensive situations. I would highly recommend anyone that carries or is considering it, take this class. I will be taking more classes with Erik.
Carlton Smith
Carlton Smith
00:35 20 Mar 22
Erik is a world class instructor and leader in the arena of firearms education. He has a vast wealth of knowledge and as an instructor myself he’s been instrumental in helping me become a better teacher and shooter. I will continue to attend his vast array of classes both public and private. If you want the very best, see the Archetype!
Michael Abene
Michael Abene
00:32 20 Mar 22
I have taken several courses with Eric, Grip and Trigger, Intro to red dot, iIntro to AR, and Micro compact. With every class I learn more. I feel quality classes like these are a must to feel confident about owning and carrying a firearm.
Jeremy DuBrul
Jeremy DuBrul
10:52 21 Sep 21
Took their more foundational "Grip and Trigger" clinic and it is a GAME CHANGER. Eric and Dan diagnose your form, give you a better way to do it. No matter how "advanced" or "good of a shot" you think you are, you should try this course.You will end up dumping all of of your ammo, so have extra range ammo on hand.Eric and Dan are excellent instructors. Foundational courses like this are necessary; to keep building on your skillsets so you can progress at being a proficient marksman as well as being a responsible firearm owner. The skills of being a marksman have diminishing returns if you don't keep up on it. It's a perishable skill. Classes and workshops like this makes sure that you are getting GOOD information and skills to build from.
Andrei Rakic
Andrei Rakic
04:52 05 Mar 21
Erik is a phenomenal educator. He made drastic differences to my approach to daily practice and heightened my goals. He is engaging and actually will watch you carefully and rebuild you from the ground up into something much more effective than you were before. He is extremely safe and effective. He has a great depth of knowledge. After several classes at other places of someone watching me shoot for an hour and making maybe a comment he is really a breath of fresh air. He takes the time to work from your feet to your head and to your mindset. I recommend highly and without reservation.
Mike Lamont (Teamlamont)
Mike Lamont (Teamlamont)
18:24 22 Jul 20
I took a course with Erik (grip and trigger) and he really helped me with some issues I was having. Great instructor and worth the money. Invest in yourself and take a course.I'll be back for more.
jason miller
jason miller
02:09 06 Jun 20
I took a holster skills class with Erik. Erik broke things down in ways that were easy to understand giving us time to become comfortable with one step before adding the next. As an instructor, Erik has a knack for explaining things to each student in the way that that student best understands. He was very knowledgeable and took time to answer every question.I came into class knowing nothing on the subject and now I have a skill I can practice.
Ken L
Ken L
01:27 29 May 20
I have been thinking about adding a red dot to my carry pistol, but not really sure where to begin. When I saw the intro to red dot class by Archetype of the Gun, it seemed like the perfect starting point. Eric has built the class progression in perfect order from basic concept and slow, deliberate practice of elemental skills to practical application in simulated real-world scenarios. He's also willing to 'side-bar' to help you diagnose & fix fundamental errors that are holding you back.
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John Pearson

“The Teacher Becomes the Student” – October 16, 2019

In full disclosure, I am a firearms instructor with several thousand hours of firearms education since the early 90’s. I teach CCW, tactical handgun, carbine etc. When I saw Erik was offering a Micro Pistol class I realized that was a subject I had no expertise in though I carry one as a back up gun. Knowing Erik’s high standard of presenting classes I signed up. He did not disappoint. He had some sound theories and great drills that even in the 3 hour “clinic” format gave me a lot of take home practices that I’ll make my own. This particular class had mostly experienced shooters except for one young lady who was really a semi beginner who however carried a micro pistol. Turns out she probably got as much if not more for the class than us seasoned guys. Erik set a pace that proved just challenging enough for the wide variety of skill levels. As a instructor I’m always critical of presentation, preparedness and student/teacher interaction. Erik was on point with all of these. He gets my highest recommendation if you’re looking for quality firearms training without the hype and B.S. that unfortunately many others offer.

Marc Drazner

May 20th – 5 Stars

Erik is an amazing teacher!!! His passion is evident with each class and his ability to find different ways to enable learning. He has a personal approach and adjusts for each ability and understanding level. Upon completing I have a greater understanding of guns – being comfortable in using, and more confident in how to avoid the need to use.

 

ELLEN NELSON

October 20. 2017 – 5 Stars

I recently completed the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting course with Erik. He was an excellent instructor. Very experienced and educated. I knew very little about handguns coming into the class but walked away with a much better understanding and level of confidence about handguns and safety. Would highly recommend. 

CARRIE MCCLELLAN

March 18 – 5 Stars

Erik provided very knowledgeable instruction in the Handgun Essentials 1 course. It was not the typical cookie cutter boring course that the state provides. I came out of this class feeling confident that I can effectively protect myself if need be. We had a great time on the range and went through a variety of drills to increase our shooting ability. I hope to attend more classes in the future. 

KOLIA SKOROPAD

March 20 – 5 Stars

Anyone who thinking to step into world of guns or weapons in general, Erik is the guy! Dont even waste your time looking any further. I personally guarantee it and will pay for your classes if you leave under educated or not satisfied. He will open your eyes on the world around you and will make you look on things like you never looked at them before. No bull shit, no time wasting. Straight on point 2 days 16 hours conceal and carry class… We cover above and beyond. Today is my 3rd night after class and still I have guns in my dream through out whole night. I personally believe his time should cost more…. 

DENISE MERCADO

5 Stars

KEITH PURITZ

June 8, 2017 – 5 Stars

BRIAN CHRISTY

June 28, 2017 – 5 Stars

 I took Eric’s IL CCL class and loved the instruction. He discussed real world scenarios and went above and beyond the basics for use of force and firearms manipulation. Would highly recommend.

ADAM HAMIEL

June 1, 2017 – 5 Stars 

RAFFERTY JOSE

June 1, 2017 – 5 Stars

Contact

(773) 354-5532

[email protected]