Class Offerings


Paladin Academy, owned and operated by Brian Darlas, a USCCA Certified Instructor and Official Partner, was established to share the invaluable knowledge I’ve gained from my personal journey in self-preservation and firearm safety.

Initially indifferent to self-defense, my perspective shifted as I became increasingly aware of societal challenges and the importance of personal and family safety. With a firm belief in the responsibility of continuous education for firearm owners, I founded Paladin Academy to offer comprehensive and accessible training to our community.

Our diverse course offerings include:

  • Basic Pistol: Master fundamental pistol handling and shooting techniques.
  • Michigan CPL (Concealed Pistol License): Obtain essential training for your CPL in Michigan.
  • Advanced Practice Tactics: Enhance your skills with advanced shooting and tactical techniques.
  • Situational Awareness: Develop the ability to identify and respond to potential threats.
  • Law of Self-Defense: Understand the legal aspects of using deadly force for self-defense.
  • Emergency First Aid Fundamentals: Acquire lifesaving first aid skills for emergency situations.
  • B2B Corporate First Aid Fundamentals: Customized first aid training programs for businesses.

My goal is to be an educational resource and train anyone interested in developing a lifestyle of self-preservation. Self-preservation is not limited to firearms; it encompasses situational awareness, conflict avoidance, mental health and emergency preparation for you and your loved ones.

Self-Preservation: noun

  1. preservation of oneself from destruction or harm
  2. a natural or instinctive tendency to act so as to preserve one’s own existence

I am flexible and willing to travel to most locations in Southwest Michigan/North Central Indiana for classes that do not require live fire. Live fire training is conducted for the most part at Howard Township Conservation Club, 2601 Terminal St, Niles, MI.

If you have any questions or are unsure about which class would best suit your needs, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I am committed to helping you choose the right training to enhance your personal safety and preparedness.

Exceptional CPL permit course in Michigan! The instructor is highly experienced, providing comprehensive and clear instruction. The course struck a great balance between theory and practical application. I left feeling confident and well-prepared. Highly recommend this course for anyone looking to obtain their CPL in Michigan.
Genuinely enjoyed the class. Legitimately learned something and will be using my new knowledge day to day
Great cpl class. I learned a lot. Thank you.
I might not have been the best student Brian has ever taught but I learned SO much, I would recommend taking his classes, Brian you are a great teacher!
Instructor was very knowledgable and answered questions on material I didn't understand. The course was very informative and material was presented well. I definitely recommend Paladin Academy for obtaining any license involving a firearm
I have just completed a CPL class and I found it to be very professional and well thought out. Brian was my instructor and he was very knowledgeable, patient and approachable which made the class very enjoyable and informative at the same time. What set this course apart (in my opinion) was the mental health chapter that is not required by the state. It highlights the importance of mental heath in responsible firearm ownership. Overall I feel well prepared and confident to continue on exercising my rights as an American and as a protector of my family while also being exited to continue on training to do so. I highly recommend this class not only to anyone looking to obtain their CPL but for those who are unsure about firearms in general.
I recently took a CPL class and I thought that it was a well planned and well thought out class. I learned a lot and feel more comfortable than I did before taking the class. Brian was my instructor and he was patient, extremely knowledgeable, and he went above and beyond. There was also an additional chapter regarding mental health awareness and how to be responsible while being a firearm owner. I recommend this class to anyone who wants to obtain their CPL. Thanks Brian!
Had a very good experience with Paladin. Brian is an excellent teacher, who emphasizes the safety and discipline of concealed carry. I also appreciate the flexibility with his scheduling and the option for 1 on 1 coursework. Will be back for future Advanced training!
The class was very informational and a success. It did run a little longer than expected but you can tell Bryan’s main goal is to make sure you walk away comfortable and knowledgeable when it comes to gun safety and gun ownership. Would definitely recommend Paladin Academy to those who are looking for any type of gun classes!
Brian is extremely knowledgeable and his main goal is make sure everyone that goes through his course doesn’t just know how to shoot a gun, but shoot it safely and shoot it well. Which is why we went overtime and he requires the extra training if needed. He doesn’t just hand out certificates left and right, understandably so! Before his class, I had shot a pistol only once before. By the end, WITH his extra training, I passed and didn’t just scrape by. I did WELL! He has a lot of tricks and drills up his sleeve to help you be the best you can be within the short time you’re in his course. Without those tricks/drills, his patience, and overall knowledge, I wouldn’t feel as confident as I do now.