MDTS Training

MDTS is a New York based firearms training and personal protection consulting company. We specialize in pistol, concealed carry, shotgun, carbine, defensive knife, less lethal, physical defense and threat awareness training courses. Mobile training courses are available in N.Y. and abroad. Contact us to host a training course at your range or location. Click logo below to see schedule of classes near you.

Practical Pistol Skills 1

The MDTS Practical Pistol Skills 1 course is designed for individuals who own and carry a handgun as well as those looking for the next step in handgun and personal protection training once a handgun permit has been secured. In this 8hr. course of instruction fundamental and intermediate skill sets will be presented and then drilled dry fire and live fire. A solid grounding in safety and fundamentals of gun handling is presented with a heavy emphasis on the students ability to manipulate the handgun while mult-tasking or under stress. This is a fast paced, challenging course.

Course content will include but is not limited to:

Mindset
Firearms Safety/Range Safety
Justified Use of Force Overview
MDTS Contact Plan of Action
Fundamentals of Marksmanship
Ready Positions
Preparatory Gun-Handling
Verbal Commands
Proactive Movement
After Action Assessment Concept
Gun-Handling/Malfunctions
One Hand Pistol Operation (Strong & Support Side)
Intro to Bilateral Operation
The Combat Drawstroke
Open & Concealed Carry Presentation
Fundamental Use of Cover & Concealment

Equipment List:

Pistol permit, serviceable pistol, comfortable clothing or duty uniform, 300 rounds of factory loaded ammunition, minimum of 3 pistol magazines/speed-loaders (5 is better) & holders, sturdy belt & strong side holster only, eye & ear protection, weather appropriate clothing, hydration, note taking materials and cover garment.

Optional Equipment:

Note taking materials, lunch for a full days class.

NOTES:

*If you have a .22 conversion kit for your pistol you can use it during this course but it is highly recommended you attempt to shoot the majority of the course with your carry ammunition caliber. You WILL need a minimum of 200 rounds of regular ammunition which you will be shooting.

**Lunch is limited to 30-40 minutes max. It is highly recommended you bring a bag lunch.

****Contact us today if you would like to host MDTS at your range or come to us here in the Mohawk Valley region for one of our Practical Pistol Skills Courses. We have range and classroom facilities available that can accommodate large groups (12+), semi-private (2-4) or private training (1 on 1).

Find a Practical Pistol Skills 1 class near you by checking out the Course Schedule Page

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5.0

2018-03-13T00:34:01+0000

Thank you for a great defensive pistol class in Oneida. Can't wait to take another class with you!

Lisa Maiello Hansen

2018-03-11T23:59:31+0000

I just took Chris's pistol 1 course last week and it was an excellent experience! He is a fantastic instructor and very knowledgeable about pistol skills and training and personal defense. I feel so much more comfortable about handling my pistols and learned a lot about carrying and overall safety. Thank you Chris for a great class!read more

Janet Beardsley Maiorello

2018-03-06T16:22:53+0000

Best thing I've done since I got my permit! This class is great for learning and reinforcing things you already know. GREAT CLASS!

Tom El

2018-03-06T02:51:09+0000

Took In-Extremis Medical Skills with Chris and EJ. Both of them explained the information in a clear and concise manner. After the lecture portion we put what we learned into practice. Both Chris and EJ were open to questions, inquiries, and more than willing to assist. I would certainly recommend this class, and I plan on taking future classes offered by MDTS.read more

Marc Alan

2018-02-19T23:49:47+0000

I attended my first MDTS class this weekend and learned some practical and effective methods of defense. Next time I’ll be sure to hydrate more and stretch though! It was a great experience, I look forward to checking out some more events in the future.read more

Mason Tyer

2018-01-09T17:55:42+0000

I attended Chris Fry's "Practical Small Knife Seminar", and it was a comprehensively good experience. The short of it is, if you have a desire to learn applications of a knife for self-defense (as opposed for martial arts), this is the class to take. The Long of It: Chris is approachable and calm, in and out of "instructor mode": his vernacular is specific, pragmatic, and encouraging, and he effectively gives feedback to individuals while partaking in the drills with students. The balance of instructor lecture to student repetitions is a tough one to strike, yet Chris does so by effectively chunking his instruction into simple bites with student drills inter-spaced, before going back to the next level of complexity/specificity in his instruction. This was a class well designed for both the brain and the body to learn this material; in our post-class feedback session, nearly all the students expressed they felt they were leaving the class with some degree of skill-set they could deploy immediately. Plus, his taste in music is kickass. It's worth it just to do two-tiered knife counter cut drills while Tool's "Schism" is blaring.read more

Mark Burge

2017-12-21T15:56:11+0000

I completed the Practical Small Knife Skills class hosted by Short Barrel Shepard, material taught by Chris Fry. This was a two day class, with day one focused on deployment and use of folding blades and day two building on first days skills, adding more technical abilities. Being a martial arts instructor myself it was a great pleasure to meet and study with Chris, he breaks down the material into easy to digest sections, clearly explaining each skill or task, then providing time to rep-it-out. Day one ended with us pressure testing some of these skills, which was a welcome chance to see what works or doesn't work (pressure testing was voluntary). The class was full, with a wide range of ages, abilities and backgrounds. Everyone seemed to enjoy the material and be fully engaged throughout. Chris is very friendly and approachable, paces the class well and presents a solid foundation to this material, highly recommended - check him out!read more

Aaron Preusse

2017-12-14T15:30:59+0000

Chris is a stellar instructor that will give you skills that you can put into practice immediately. The Practical Small Knife Skills Class is thorough and specific. Do yourself a favor and sign up. Train better and be safer!read more

Mike McElmeel

2017-12-07T21:04:32+0000

Here is a review I posted on my blog. Great class! "MDTS Practical Small Knife Skills 12.2-3.17 In what was planned as my last training event of the year I journeyed to Jordan, Mn to participate in MDTS Practical Small Knife Skills 1 and 2. The training was hosted by my friends over at Short Barrel Shepard and conducted by Chris Fry. Chris is a member of the Shivworks Collective and based in New York. I had not taken any edged weapons training since I took Alessandro Padovani's Safer Faster Knife Defense Class back in May 2015. I decided I needed to fix this gap in my training. Chris is very adamant about not letting details of his instruction get in the wrong hands. So I will not be getting into too much detail here. Suffice to say Chris is an outstanding instructor and you need to get to a class of his if available. Chris divided his weekend of instruction into Practical Knife work and Technical Knife work. Day 1 was all practical as we learned techniques and principals using edged weapons to essentially get someone off us or create space to escape. We talked about equipment,techniques, targeting and gear configurations. Then pressure tested these different configurations to see if they actually worked. As with all Shivworks material, pressure to validate the training is a huge component. I think it is the most valuable component. Day 2 was technical, more "martial artsy" blade work. Primarily using a fixed blade, we talked about jabs,cuts,point driven methodology and guards/parries. This day was spent drilling at low pressure to practice these techniques. This day was full of a ton of information. I learned a valuable instructor development lesson as well. About 1400 I became so overloaded with information that I couldn't even remember whose turn it was to run the drill. This was powerful stuff. It reminds me in my own instruction to look for these signs of overload in my students and to pace the course accordingly. Both days ended with a debrief and emphasis of key points. Things I learned or that were re emphasized from earlier training 1. I will not be carrying a folding knife as a primary defensive tool if possible. Ease of access under pressure is just not there. 2. Small knifes can be very effective and may leave a better "impression" during the legal aftermath. 3. Everyone gets stabbed in a knife fight, how much and how badly is up to you."read more

Dana Percia

2017-11-26T19:51:20+0000

I took this class because I wanted to feel more comfortable carrying a firearm. I believe it is important to learn from people who are experienced and know what they are talking about. I walked away with more knowledge than I had prior to taking the course and it really opened my eyes to the reality of how predators target their victims. It made me actually want to carry my gun for self-defense purposes. I am a small person who could easily be overpowered by someone if the situation were to arise and now I feel that I will be more aware of my surroundings when out in public. I highly recommend this training to anyone who owns a pistol. I plan to take more courses offered by MDTS in the Utica,NY area.read more

Eddie Alvarez

2017-11-23T19:49:23+0000

I cannot begin to state what a great instructor Chris is, and how beneficial taking classes with MDTS is. In addition to my dental practice, I also serve as a police surgeon here in NY, and I feel it is imperative that I take training classes "outside the box". I have taken classes with Chris for the last 5 years, or so, and I have always come away with great training both on and off the range. Everyone who owns a firearm will benefit.read more

Joe Brasile

2017-11-19T02:54:21+0000

Andrew Croniser

2017-11-18T17:24:14+0000

Chris has streamlined his teaching approach to be both practical and efficient..He has a way of putting very complex material into “layman’s terms”. Rather the student is a beginner or seasoned practitioner, attending his class will hone your skills to make you more confident in your abilities... Looking forward to future training with MDTS!!!read more

Nancy Lombard

2017-11-15T11:55:56+0000

I completed Practical Pistol Skills 1 after having a pistol that I have never shot. Chris was a wonderful instructor. He knows how to differentiate the instruction to the ability level of the shooter and still keep the more capable shooters engaged. He and his assistant were patient and helpful and knowledgeable. Tasks were broken down to simple steps so all could follow them but most important of all was the way safety was repeatedly stressed. I gained confidence in my ability to use a gun without feeling like the novice that I am.read more

Donnie Wilkinson

2017-11-13T14:55:31+0000

Chris is one of the best instructors I have had for pistol skills. Doesn't matter if your a new shooter or an experienced shooter you will learn something from any of his classes. After just one course i'm hooked and will gladly be taking more classes in the future. I highly recommend MDTS to anyone who wants to sharpen your skill set.read more

David Hatch

2017-11-12T20:17:37+0000

Awesome class! I highly recommend it to anybody that is going to carry a pistol.

Cynthia Donovan

2017-11-12T01:27:28+0000

Just completed Practical Pistol skills 1 after being a pistol owner for almost 2 years and hardly using my pistol. I feel 100% more confident and comfortable carrying and using my pistol. Not just at the range but in a real life event. Very new to carrying/shooting, Chris was spot on in his instruction and made it SO easy so newbies to learn. Even for students that are familiar with shooting this was a great course, Chris individualized teaching to each and everyone of his students. I would recommend this course and MDTS training to anyone, moms, dads, young, old...Chris uses such an individualized approach anyone can do this ! I look forward to taking another course with Chris in the near future.read more

Frank Castle

2017-11-04T04:38:15+0000

MDTS gives us Long Islanders the opportunity to train realistically and exposes the average gun owner to a new level of practical shooting skills.

Len Beck

2017-10-27T12:09:40+0000

I grew up shooting a 12 gauge...not an exotic weapon, but after taking Practical Shotgun, my eyes were opened to so much more about the operation and handling of that tool. What a great class and Chris is excellent. I will look forward to more training in the future with him.read more

Sean Fitzgibbons

2017-10-24T06:33:15+0000

The best firearms training I've taken to date. Over the course of taking practical shotgun 1 and 2 I've learned more than I could have imagined. Highly recommend and couldn't have asked for more out of each class.read more

Brian Watta

2017-10-17T22:59:32+0000

Bryant Agcaoili

2017-10-06T14:43:03+0000

If you own a shotgun for home defense this training course is a must. Chris Fry and William Aprill go over great concepts on using a shotgun in a home defense environment and analyzing the profile of an assailant. Also learned awesome methods to properly handle your shotgun and make effective reloads. Chris and William are great instructors, hoping they’ll be back in So.California for more training classes!read more

Jerry Wetzel

2017-10-05T07:14:32+0000

To start with I'm a neophyte when it comes to the shotgun to it didn't take much to dazzle me with shotgun skills (which Chris definitely did). But what really struck me was Chris' depth of knowledge of the subject and his ability to convey this knowledge to both beginners and experienced shooters with an dexterity that is reserved for true masters of their craft. I have been training and teaching self defense for 25 year and running a full time school for 16 of them and I have a HUGE appreciation for how Chris layers the concepts and skills in his class. Get to one as soon as you can.read more

Drew Pruhs

2017-10-04T04:11:12+0000

Chris' knowledge, experience, and passion for teaching is obvious in how he conducts his class. He filled the class with technical knowledge, fundamental skills, and then had students apply them in complex, decision based skills. Further he runs a same, fun range where learning is encouraged and safety is paramount. He is a true teacher and someone whom I look forward to training with again.read more

Kelly Andrade

2017-09-25T13:47:25+0000

I took this class yesterday and LOVED it. I learned more in one day than I have in months. The training was extremely helpful as well as enjoyable. I think the lecture portion was very valuable and I will be utilizing much of the information in every day life. I can say I am definitely more prepared than I was 2 days ago. I recommend everyone take this class. There is always room for improvement.read more

Trevor Putnam

2017-09-15T06:33:21+0000

Victor Robinson Jr.

2017-08-18T22:15:11+0000

When I first became a gun owner in 2013 I didn't have any illusions about the need for training.At the same price point that other trainers offer these beginners NRA classes, Chris's Practical Pistol 1 offered a beginners class that still challenges more seasoned shooters but allows novices to learn with noticeable improvement towards the end of the course. I recently took one of his courses and at this range every single time you eject a magazine they land right in the sand which resulted with me having 2 malfunctions that day.Thanks to the skills I learned 4 years ago I didn't miss a beat. His courses are civilian minded,the drills make you think and not just mindlessly putting holes in paper,self defense shootings ,incidents and real world data will influence the content of his courses , Chris and the other instructors who help out are very knowledgeable and will answer any questions you have.Regardless of your skill level you cannot attend one of his courses and not walk out a better shooter.He is one of the few instructors willing to provide training in Long Island beyond the NRA offerings and I especially recommend MDTS to those who have no formal training at all.read more

Lenin Andrade

2017-08-15T00:52:57+0000

Every time I take one of these classes I never feel like there could have been more content. Each skills are all built upon from other skills learned that day. From beginner to pro there is always something new learned in each class. Chris is very down to earth and approachable as are all the other instructors. I would highly recommend any and all of his courses.read more

Eric Maley

2017-07-23T01:39:02+0000

Chris was an amazing instructor, anyone looking to learn a lot in a little time? You'll gain a lot more confidence in your equipment! You should join these classes!read more

David Brelia

2017-07-13T20:24:20+0000

Chris is an excellent trainer. Very knowledgeable and always willing to answer questions. Will be looking forward to training with him again.

Duane Bibeau

2017-07-12T23:48:06+0000

Great class, very hands on, and lots of feedback. I would recommend his class to others!

Carolyn Cowin

2017-07-10T01:39:55+0000

Steve Bedard

2017-07-09T18:20:31+0000

Jeffrey King

2017-06-21T15:38:20+0000

Chris is an excellent trainer. His class is designed to make everyone feel comfortable regardless of skill level. I look forward to more training with MDTS in the future!read more

Judd Reed

2017-06-16T17:56:46+0000

I've been in Law Enforcement for 28 years and decided to take a "Civilian" based CC class with MDTS, I'm also a firearms instructor for my department and I have to say this was one of the best trainings I've ever attended!! Chris is very patient and level headed, his range demeanor is top notch. As a trainer, it is awesome to get training from someone who is passionate about what they are doing and someone who actually Coaches students individually.read more

George Sayre

2017-06-16T00:25:35+0000

Chris is a great teacher. Chris has a great attitude, and is very approachable and he encourages any and all questions you may have. It's obvious he loves what he does and he is very good at it. His first concern on the range is safety, and it shows. Everything he teaches is spot on. I took the Practical Concealed Carry Skills course and it was great. He teaches you how to draw from the holster correctly. How to get on target quickly. How to smoothly squeeze the trigger. The correct hand grip. Everything he teaches I teach in my classes. I will attending his Practical Skills 2 course in Sept. and I am looking very forward to it.read more

Joe Santoferrara

2017-06-09T22:06:54+0000

Chris is an excellent instructor, not only for fundamentals but about all aspects of concealed carry. His courses are a must for anyone that carries or wants to carry. Chris has several experts onsite to assist during the class Looking forward to the next classread more

Richie Smith

2017-05-22T23:39:40+0000

Mdts training classes are the best. The skill level and trading method of Chris are awesome. With the help of Rob and Tommy the classes run smooth and you learn a lot more than you sign up for. Thanks for a great time and experience can't wait for the next one.read more

Russ Barbara

2017-05-22T21:02:03+0000

Once again i would like to thank Chris Rob and Tommy for another awesome training class. Chris' knowledge skillset and teaching methods are nothing short of impressive. Ive attended a bunch of pistol training classes and my skill level has drastically improved. I definitely take alot home at the end of the day, this level of training keeps me sharp in between classes. I certainly enjoy seeing old friends we train with and meeting new ones, although they are serious class' we do get some really good laughs. Thanks man Russ Bread more

William Patrick

2017-05-22T20:38:50+0000

I really get a lot out of Chris' classes. Somehow he can make a group class seem more like 1 on 1 and can tune into each person's individual needs.

Andrejs Pramnieks

2017-05-14T19:25:48+0000

When I took my first class from Chris several years ago, I was at an impasse, I was shooting a lot but could not hit the side of a barn. Chris spotted the problem (my strong side arm got all tensed up) and I was off to the races. I make it a point to attend Chris's classes every time he comes to my club, because Chris's training is the real deal, things I need to know to use a pistol safely and effectively. When Chris comes to town, I urge my friends to sign up. JUST DON'T TAKE MY SPOT!!!!!read more

David Eischens

2017-05-10T18:50:51+0000

Chris Fry has been a practitioner in, and teacher of, various self-defense schools and methodologies for decades; he has trained with the giants of the field, and continues to learn from the best. This is apparent in his teaching. He expertly takes this multidisciplinary knowledge and works it into a curriculum that is practical and helpful for all of his students. His thirst for self-improvement is never-ending. Chris compares and contrasts various techniques, and explains why he does something, without being judgmental of others. He continually reviews multiple sources of information and freely shares it with his friends and students without reservation. Moreover, Chris is friendly and engaging, making his class fun. I can't recommend more highly any classes taught by M.D.T.S., regardless of your personal skill level or experience.read more

Kevin Brown

2017-04-28T19:19:52+0000

Chris Fry rocks! If you're a firearms novice or seasoned veteran, I'm sure you'll get something out of his courses. My recommendation is to take his Low Light Considerations class. Amazing experience and now I'm confident I can defend my family in any nighttime home invasion situation. Take one of Chris's classes and I can guarantee you'll take more!read more

Leandro Slow

2017-04-19T20:58:13+0000

Good informative information and excellent training company.

Hugo Cordeiro

2017-04-14T21:58:22+0000

Tom Tos McGuire

2017-04-13T03:02:48+0000

John Willey Jr.

2017-04-11T19:58:52+0000

Chris is an excellent trainer and skilled in many facets of self-defense. His style is to build up a person's skill set with clear instruction to the group and then action on the range. Each new piece builds upon the last one. By the end of the course, you've learned proven and useful skills to take home and develop further. I'll admit, sometimes the reality of not performing well under stress can be humbling, but the only failure would be to not apply those lessons towards your future training and preparedness! Safety is paramount at all times, but this review would not be complete without mentioning just how much FUN the classes are! Chris and his team are a bunch of great guys, hands down. For anyone serious about improving their skills and protecting their home, family and self, sign up for a class.read more

Dave Joksimovic

2017-04-03T01:19:30+0000

Just got back from attending Practical Pistol 1 today. This was my first time training and I went into it with an open mind and willingness to hear what I was doing wrong. In fact I was hoping to have the instructors find flaws so I could work on changing them. Right after the first drill Chris was able to point out something I was doing that I never thought was a problem, but just being made aware I was doing it (looking over my sights to check placement after my shots) I was immediately able to improve my grouping on the next drill. Throughout the rest of the day Chris and E.J. (the instructors) were able to help me identify a few more weak points and provided useful info on how to alleviate them. On the other side, when I was performing well, they added levels of complexity to the drills (like moving while reloading) that helped push me just a bit more. I honestly feel like I walked out of today's course a better shooter than when I walked in. I also feel much more confident in my ability, and have a clear path on how to continue progressing my skills. I would absolutely recommend MDTS to anyone. Whether a complete novice or an experienced shooter. The ball is now in my court to apply the skills I learned today (I absolutely plan on drawing and dry firing each time now, the point about different clothing behaving differently was an excellent one) and I hope to be back with Chris and MDTS as soon as possible. Awesome experience.read more

Drew Anderson

2017-03-28T13:46:50+0000

Chris not only has excellent technical skill, he's clearly given a lot of thought to how to teach his material. He is clear and systematic, and he presents the material in a way that everyone can understand. He's extremely conscientious about making sure everyone in the class, from novice to advanced, is learning and progressing- he is genuinely concerned with making everyone better. I recommend him enthusiastically and without reservation.read more

Paul Sharp

2017-03-15T15:45:38+0000

I know Chris as a friend and as an instructor. Having watched him teach I was extremely confident in his ability to train myself and my wife on small knife concepts and applications. He was also kind enough to spend time instructing my wife in defensive pistol. I would highly recommend training with Chris and M.D.T.S. as often as possible.read more

Michael Chase-Salerno

2017-03-14T02:50:55+0000

I've been training with Chris for 10 years. The quality of his classes are excellent and tailored to the unique needs of a civilian who takes self defense seriously. He can equally push the beginning and experienced shooter to improve their skills in the context of the class. Chris has a holistic view of self defense and is constantly improving his own skills and his classes.read more

Lori Lagone Schulze

2017-03-13T16:43:41+0000

As the The Well Armed Woman LI Chapter Leader I have had the opportunity to train with the "best of the best" training instructors, and I have to admit that Chris is at the very top of that list. I was highly recommended to his Practical Small Knife Skills course. I was so impressed with the content of the class and my new found skills (not to forget "fun" taking the class), that I needed to return for another class with our chapter members. All we can say is Wow!! Thank you Chris for another amazing night of learning and training. TWAW LI can't wait for our next class!!! 5 Plus Stars!!!!read more

Patty Kadlec-Kallmeyer

2017-03-12T12:50:39+0000

Great night with Chris !! Long Island Well Armed Woman chapter in Small Knife Skills course. !!!

Soky Svay

2017-03-12T05:33:12+0000

Peter Mills

2017-03-08T14:02:02+0000

Best trainer I have worked with , have worked with several and Chris by far has the best attitude and ability to pass on information and skills,

Steven Chimienti

2017-03-07T16:18:58+0000

MDTS classes are thorough, upbeat and safe. Chris is a great instructor who welcomes challenges and works with each student individually. No matter your skill level, MDTS provides a great learning experience.read more

Matty Desimone

2017-03-06T07:32:58+0000

Chris hands down has definately one of the top programs going. From the first time shooter to experienced more experienced professionals it's always an informative learning experience. Chris's practicality and techniques and knowledge in so many different platforms and styles is top notch knowledgeable and it saddens me to have left NY and to miss out on the classes. I've spent numerous hours in his classes sometimes taking the same class numerous times and it is well worth the investment in time and money. Anyone looking to take the first or next step in their knowledge I highly recommend any of these programs . DEFINATELY one of the best in the countryread more

Jimmy Eng

2017-03-05T04:47:37+0000

Took a couple classes with Chris so far. I have nothing but good things to say about him and his instructors. They were able to fix a lot of my bad habits and give me the tools necessary to shoot more accurately and faster.read more

Mitch McAllister

2017-02-12T19:14:53+0000

I've enjoyed my education at every class I've taken with Chris. Each one has been invaluable to my development.

Aleksander Andrzejewski

2017-02-12T18:43:38+0000

I have completed or enrolled in a number of courses with Chris. He is a professional that offers practical skills in a no nonsense manner. Money well invested. Bring ammo as you will be shooting.read more

James Emmick

2017-02-07T00:34:21+0000

Hands down one of the best instructors out there. Get in on an MDTS class and I guarantee you will take more training with Chris.

Greg Gilmore

2017-01-10T19:17:00+0000

Scott Maresco

2016-12-15T03:56:50+0000

Joseph Floyd

2016-12-11T03:46:05+0000

Took Practical Pistol 1 today and I'm sorry I didnt sign up for it the day I got my permit. This class really is worth the time and money. Thanks Keith.read more

Robert Verdell

2016-12-07T12:09:26+0000

Kelly D Venden

2016-11-18T17:00:50+0000

Mike Clarke

2016-11-17T22:37:58+0000

Rich Venezian

2016-11-13T18:16:27+0000

I have taken several courses with Chris, he runs a well organized, safe, educational class that has the perfect blend of confidence building and the fundamentals of developing self discipline required for responsible gun ownership. I believe in his instructional style of continually training and educating oneself. Stay safe and God bless.read more

Jose Da Costa Castelhano

2016-11-13T15:05:05+0000

Took my 1st class n it was great. Very worth the time n money. Going back for more asap.

Charles Meyer

2016-11-07T00:41:56+0000

Taken 2 classes so far. Plan for more. Excellent trainer not tied to a specific mindset or dogma (LE, Military, etc...). Offers practical training for what an American civilian could/would face. Teaches several methods for you to explore and find the best for YOU. So good, I sent my wife for his basic handgun class ('cos she ain't gonna listen to me no how ;-) ), and she enjoyed it immensely. And yes, classes are VERY friendly towards female shooters. 5 stars/. Bravo.read more

Christine And-Michael Soto

2016-10-28T15:00:21+0000

10/16/16: Practical Pistol Skills 1 (Sackets Harbor, NY) : Chris, thank you for a great first experience. I had an amazing time and learned more then expected. You and Jimmy are a great team and awesome instructors. I am excited to get my next training on the books with you. This is a class I would recommend to everyone regardless of your experience level. As a women and first time hand gun owner, this is a must take class. You will leave this class with a great foundation and knowledge of how it utilized your pistol as a defensive tool. You will leave this class with confidence to carry daily and the desire to train harder. Thank you MDTS team for providing me with these skills that will help me to continue developing myself as a Well Armed Women.read more

Adam Notarpole

2016-10-21T19:45:06+0000

Star Reed

2016-10-19T00:19:52+0000

Chris Fry is an outstanding orator and conveys his material utilizing a well thought out curriculum. Chris has the ability to engage his students, and keep them focused on the subject matter, while keeping things lighthearted and interesting. If you are not incorporating reality based "force on force" evolutions in your training than you are doing yourself a disservice. The MDTS curriculum is focused on the applicable laws of self-defense, the physical capabilities needed to defend yourself of another, the proper physical tools, the right mindset, and testing preconceived theories in a reality based training environment that forces people out of their comfort zone. Thus far I've taken 2 classes with MDTS and am currently signed up for an additional 2 classes. I highly recommend Chris Fry and MDTS for your training needs. Go train! Michael Reedread more

Eddie DeSantis

2016-10-18T01:40:30+0000

To start Chris is a great down to earth guy. He wants nothing but to give you the most value he can while keeping his classes very affordable. Great classes for any skill level. I had only got my permit 4 days before before I took the pistol 1 course. Safety is #1 in his classes and he also makes them enjoyable. Loved switching it up from paper to steel in the class kind of like instant gratification. There is never a dumb question and no shortage of one on one help to get you to shoot as good as anyone else in the class.read more

Giulia Preziuso

2016-10-17T15:08:31+0000

When my colleague told me that we were going to this training, I was dreading it because I just received my permit and had gone to the range maybe twice and thought I'd be lost at this seminar. I was also super intimidated by my gun and handled it like it was a grenade. After taking this course, I walked away with a passion to learn more and a real appreciation for the privilege of carrying concealed. When my gun malfunctioned at the range I'd put it down and yell for my friend to help me, now I can clear a malfunction in seconds. I never wanted to wear my pistol and after this course, I never want to take it off. This course should be mandatory for anyone who carries. Chris, your an amazing instructor and I'm thankful to have learned from you. Thanks again looking forward to future courses!read more

Matt Brown

2016-10-04T01:00:35+0000

I took Chris' knife skills seminar yesterday and had a fantastic experience. Chris is a great instructor and teaches at all levels. I had very little experience with knives entering the course, but left feeling much more prepared and knowledgable. I highly recommend his seminars.read more

Raymond E Anne

2016-10-03T15:30:14+0000

Our knife course was well thought out in presentation. Chris's patience as well as encouragement and observation of his students made for a great learning experience. My opinions were altered as we progressed and renewed my confidence in my own abilities( if I practiced). Thanks, Chris!read more

Todd Canterino

2016-10-02T20:40:12+0000

Just got home after taking Chris' practical knife class. It was so much fun. The learning curve was huge for me, the pacing moved but was just right, and the take home skills/knowledge will be a life saver/game changer.read more

Loren Wilcox

2016-10-02T19:38:57+0000

Always a great time training and learning from Chris. He's an excellent trainer who teaches great core and fundamental skills. His curriculum is a solid progressive based learning system. It's serious training for serious people who want to improve their survivability. He's also very personable and easy to talk to either at class or via email or social media. I would highly recommend him to anyone of any skill level. Always a humbling experience.read more

Blake Bowers

2016-09-26T18:33:02+0000

I highly recommend Chris Fry and M.D.T.S for any training that a new or experienced gun owner may need. As someone who has over 20 years of military training and 10 years of martial arts training I find Chris Fry to be one of the most competent trainers that I have ever had the pleasure of training with. His courses are well thought out in both theory and execution. Each course starts with the basics and then quickly ramps up. The tempo and rhythm are challenging yet achievable, and each evolution builds on the last one and involves the last skill set learned. Chris not only gives outstanding lectures and platform instruction but also demonstrates what the drills expectations are, yet his most admirable skill is how he coaches on the firing line. He is not military or law enforcement trained yet possess the skill and training methodologies that teach you what we need to know no matter if you are military, LEO or a civilian in need of quality training.read more

Gary Wehner

2016-09-22T17:08:11+0000

Very instructive class at New Paltz with Chris Fry. I hope to get one A-HA moment out of each training class. This one moment makes the whole class worthwhile. My A-HA moment on Saturday involved knives and knife carry. I hate folders; I own folders, but I am not coordinated enough to deploy a folder during periods of stress. Sooo...I carry a small, fixed blade. Easy to access and deploy weak side, not so easy strong side. I saw Chris carrying a "clinch pick" mounted just below horizontal at about 10-11 O'Clock during one of the breaks. A-HA! New addition to my EDC, easily accessed and deployed with either hand. Thanks Chris!read more

Dee Giovenco

2016-09-12T20:09:29+0000

If you want to build your confidence level and gain a lot of useful information and skills, attend a class from MDTS. Very helpful and informative. Looking forward to attending my next class!!read more

Anthony Burgio

2016-09-12T02:17:59+0000

Mike Hernandez

2016-09-07T12:50:49+0000

Jay Carr

2016-09-06T23:43:56+0000

Professional, concise, engaging, practical, fun... I could go on and on. Put MDTS on your training calendar to experience the program for yourself.

Billy Makuch

2016-09-06T19:05:02+0000

Chris is definitely the best instructor I've trained with. He is very knowledgable and teaches you in a way that you can understand. Also Chris does not have a military or law enforcement background so he teaches things that he has learned and experienced from taking classes himself and things he's faced in real life situations.read more

Larry Lindenman

2016-09-06T18:44:26+0000

Chris is one of the most articulate trainers in the business. In 26 years of police work I have seen almost every major trainer in the business and Chris is one of the best. He has a unique prospective as a civilian concealed carry holder and life long, elite level, martial artist. He has a deep understanding of empty hand, knife, handgun, and long gun. Chris is especially competent in the extremely close quarter range. Chris could teach to a spectrum of clients from absolute beginners to elite level competitor's, law enforcement, and military. MDTS is one of the few companies I regularly recommend for training.read more

Rick Speedle

2016-09-06T16:34:02+0000

Without a doubt the best firearms instruction I've received at this time. Chris' ability to explain his methods and have them make 100% since is a huge part of what makes him an amazing instructor. To date I've taken 3 of his handgun classes 2 shotgun classes and 1 knife class. At every class with his help I've been able to grow as a shooter. I highly recommend his classes to all of my friends and have been since my first class in 2011.read more

William Aprill

2016-09-06T15:31:39+0000

Chris Fry is at the forefront of modern defensive training today, presenting multidisciplinary problem-solving material that is equalled by few instructors anywhere. He brings a depth of experience and understanding to coursework that makes every moment of tremendous benefit to students. He is also a gifted coach, able to identify and address student needs in a supportive and positive environment. Highest possible recommendation!read more

Cecil Burch

2016-09-05T22:08:41+0000

Chris Fry is one of the finest coaches around, beyond a shadow of a doubt. I constantly learn new things from Chris every time I train with him. MDTS is one of my go-to places to keep my skills and knowledge sharp.read more

Beau Watson

2016-09-05T20:25:35+0000

Kristoffer Taruc Sarreal

2014-04-29T00:32:49+0000

MrByron Micheal Brown

2014-04-06T18:09:21+0000

Good

Nick Furman

2014-03-22T00:36:22+0000

Mark Gymburch

2014-03-10T12:40:36+0000

Worth it every bit... Learned a ton of great practical skills and knowledge... Looking forward to practicing and taking future courses

Adam Wood

2014-03-10T01:47:38+0000

John Spicer

2014-02-01T23:24:00+0000

Excellent instruction from season shooters to day one gun owners. Well worth a day at the range when you're considering the lives of you and your loved ones.read more

Dean Outman

2014-01-28T18:45:23+0000

Chris is an excellent multidisciplinary trainer. Anyone seeking out training, whether it be firearm, knife or empty hand, would be well served to seek him out.read more