Hard Focus Training

About

Hard Focus Firearms Training, led by instructor Matthew Haywood, operates across California's Central Valley, providing CCW certification courses approved for Merced, Madera, Fresno, Tulare, San Benito, Tuolumne, and Stanislaus counties. The company specializes in defensive shooting techniques, with a training philosophy summarized in their motto: "Always training... never trained." Their 8-hour CCW renewal course costs $150 per student and combines 5 hours of classroom instruction covering current legal aspects of concealed carry with 3 hours of live-fire range work. All shooting drills are conducted from the holster and from concealment, requiring students to qualify with each firearm listed on their permit—up to three firearms per course, with additional firearms possible pending instructor approval. Hard Focus maintains specific equipment standards, requiring quality handguns in defensive calibers, stiff belts capable of supporting holster systems, and open-top index holsters that cover the trigger guard (certain holster types including Blackhawk Serpa, cloth/nylon models, and clip draw devices are explicitly prohibited). Students must bring a minimum of 150 rounds of quality ammunition, with reloads and remanufactured ammunition not permitted. The company partners with Firearms Legal Protection, offering students discounted access to legal defense coverage. Hard Focus emphasizes exceeding minimum training standards while maintaining a safe training environment for students learning to protect themselves and their families. Instructors: Matthew Haywood

All classes meet California DOJ and local sheriff requirements. Students receive a certificate of completion and range qualification results on the day of training.

Available Classes & Prices