Tactical U

Tactical U is a Florida State Licensed, NRA Affiliated Agency who has been in business for over 8 years in South Florida. We are comprised of Law Enforcement Certified Firearms, SWAT and Military – SpecOp trained Instructors, who remain current for state compliance.

Our staff of highly seasoned instructors bring over 50 years of experience to you offering a full array of courses from basic – advanced, pistol, rifle, shotgun, scoped rifle as well as specialty classes such as low light, vehicle tactics, force on force and more. We also offer private or group sessions.

Our philosophy is one surrounded by learning. We keep our classes boutique and go the extra mile with specialized attention for our students. We want to make sure each of you get the correct repetitions in and enough of them to make it stick. Otherwise, why take the class?

We don’t care if you are someones grandmother, disabled senior citizen, seventeen year old girl, or a special forces operator. If you have the will to learn, we have the desire to teach you.

Check out our class line up and schedule!

Then check out our GOOGLE REVIEWS.

Check out our IG page for videos of our students, tips and demos: HERE

*By appointment only! First come, first served.

Be safe out there… Train with Passion.

Stephen Cohen
Director of Training

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Joey Wright

5.0

Many of us are under the misconception that by simply owning a gun and firing at the range once-in-a-while is all we need for peace of mind… I mean, wouldn’t that be nice if it were that simple? The training with Tactical U in Hollywood Florida, will quickly make you realize that without the proper techniques, the gun and ammo is about as useful as a screen door on a submarine. I thought I was a decent shot and pretty comfortable with my handling techniques but thanks to Stephen, I now have a much better understanding as to not only “how” to properly handle my weapon, but equally importantly “why”. Independent of your experience level, you’ll either erase bad habits or get set on the correct path by the end of this course. Stephen also follows up with homework, additional info and video from your session so you won’t walk out the door and forget everything you learned. Best self-defense investment I’ve made as a gun owner and I highly recommend this to anyone interested in the course!

6 months ago
Géorgés-Christophé Woodbridge

5.0

Steve at Tactical U in Hollywood Florida, drills you on the fundamentals which is paramount for self defense and military combat. As a medical officer in the US Army, I’m tasked with protecting my patient in battle with the most easily accessible weapon in our arsenal; the handgun. Steve’s drills will definitely enhance your shooting with a defensive, offensive and tactical mindset which is hard to find nowadays!
-CPT Woodbridge, GC, Army PA.

6 months ago
TJ Biblé

5.0

I’ve never taken a class from Tactical U and have no idea who they are to start. I am a competitive shooter and a federal and civilian firearms instructor. While at the range today, i shot next to one of the instructors while he was teaching a one on one class. As a fellow instructor I can tell you these guys know what they are doing. The stuff he was explaining to the student you will not get from most instructors. I highly recommend you take a lesson from an instructor like this that takes the time to provide you the knowledge necessary to operate a firearm.
To the instructor:
It’s nice to see someone doing the right thing instead of worrying about a quick $
Keep it up!

6 months ago
Candice Lazar

5.0

As a beginner, nothing is more disappointing than being told you won’t be starting on the range right away… but by the time you get out there, you actually know what you’re doing. The instructors at Tactical U in Hollywood Florida are consummate professionals. You’ll understand not only how to shoot, but why what they’re teaching works. Highly recommended.

6 months ago
Carlos Campiglia

5.0

I did Gunfighting 101 with Tactical U and they are the best around the Miami area for sure. Steve and Mel are great instructors they have so much knowledge and charisma as to take your skills to the next level. This was the first time that they taught this course and they did it with so much professionalism that it felt that they were teaching it for years. There are not enough words to explain how good they are indeed.
And the best is that they will make you feel like home since they have a great sense of humor but always in a very secure environment all the time. I’m looking forward to my next training with them.
Keep rooking.

6 months ago
Aldo Vher

5.0

Stephen at Tactical U is a great instructor around south Florida. In addition, he cares about you and that you learn for real. The knowledge he shares is worth all the money you pay for it. I already took several courses and I had learn many things, so I highly recommend you take the time to book a course with him. He is very professional and passionate about showing the people how to shoot.

6 months ago
Brett Welch

5.0

Unreal instructor, fantastic experience with Tactical U in Hollywood Florida. Prior to doing this private session I was skeptical what kind of value I would get for the price. Following the session, I feel like I did not even pay enough for the life lessons I received. Stephen is the best in the business without question. I wanted real, raw, no bs training, and that is exactly what I received. If you are a beginner or advanced, their is so much this man can teach you. I have already recommended to a few friends and family .

6 months ago
Melinda Lampariello

5.0

Todays private lesson with Steve at Tactical U in Hollywood Florida. It was amazing! Being a new gun owner I was apprehensive about shooting my gun. Steve took the time to make sure I handled the gun with safety and worked with me through many issues that I was having including finding out that I was left handed not right! This made a huge difference and I was able to handle the gun much better. I know that I will be coming back. He is a great instructor and I would recommend taking his course whether you are a new gun owner or a seasoned one.

6 months ago
William Kimbrell

5.0

Amazing course expertly taught by an amazing instructor. Stephen Cohen isn’t only extreamly knowledgeable, he’s great at teaching in a way you can clearly understand.
I definitely see myself coming back for more advanced courses in the future with Tactical U in Hollywood Florida.

6 months ago
Jesus Negron

5.0

Took both the handgun fundamentals course and the rifle fundamentals course with Instructor Stephen Cohen at Tactical U in Hollywood, Florida, and they were both awesome. He is very knowledgeable and wants to make sure that you understand the material. These courses are definitely worth the 2 hour drive for me and I couldn’t be happier. I have learned a lot and will sign up for more classes with him in the future.

6 months ago
K Nimbus

5.0

Took a private lesson with Steve at Tactical U in Hollywood Florida over the weekend. I have owned guns for years but wanted a little more training. The lesson was worth every penny!! I shot better and faster than I ever have. I am definitely going to take another lesson and even attend some group classes. Steve not only taught me what to do but explained why that was the best way to do it. He has true life experience and it really shows with the way he explains things and the reasoning behind them.

If you want to improve your shooting/gun handling I recommend taking a class at Tactical U with Steve.

6 months ago
Anonymous

5.0

As a current police officer, I decided to take a class with Mr. Cohen at Tactical U in Hollywood Florida, and the only way I can describe the class was mind-blowing. Mr. Cohen is not only extraordinarily proficient, but he dissects everything about firearms from adequately drawing your weapon to getting a perfect aim. And im just talking from only taking one class with this guy. This man knows what he is doing and to know that there are civilians that are learning the skills this guy knows, not only I recommend civilians, but also highly advise any/ all law enforcement to take his class and take a little piece of this mans knowledge because Mr. Cohen is the real deal.

6 months ago
Max Davis

5.0

I took the beginner pistol training course with Stephen Cohen at Tactical U in Hollywood Florida. I knew I didn’t know a lot before I started but wow, I was doing everything wrong. The class was great, the instructor was great. He is passionate about firearm training and makes it a point to make sure you are learning what he is teaching. He will give you excellent critique, pays close attention to details, and catches everything you are doing wrong, even when he’s 30 ft away giving another student pointers. I highly recommend and everyone can pick up something from even the beginner course.

6 months ago
Linda Rosen

5.0

The State of Florida granted me a concealed carry license with only the minimum training and a clean background check. However, the minimum training required did not make me feel at all confident to carry. That’s where instructor Steve Cohen comes in… he spent hours with me training me in gun handling and gun safety BEFORE stepping into the range to shoot. Steve has a knack for keeping you cool and calm, and his technique is repetitive practice until the movements and actions become reflex. Before training with Steve, I could shoot targets reasonably well but I had no confidence to carry, and no confidence in safe gun handling, never mind gun handling under pressure. Just because you can shoot a bullseye doesn’t mean you know how to handle a gun. Train with Steve at Tactical U in Hollywood Florida to change that!

6 months ago
Juan Manuel Lazcano

5.0

Great time and lots of fun while being educated at Tactical U in Hollywood Florida. Steve has a lot of experience and has the gift of transmitting it in a way you can relate to. He shows you the door, but you have to cross it… I arrived with almost zero shotgun experience and left feeling comfortable, knowing about different loads, patterns and their difference between different guns/chokes…. It was a truly safe, fun and educational morning. Will be back to dig deeper in other disciplines for sure.

Edit 12/25: I have continued with Steve @ Tactical U my firearms training, with focus on Pistol now. He has personalized and tailored the training to my needs and limitations, with focus on developing areas that I lack (i.e. mobility, reloading, stance) while making me maintain the areas I am better at. I have incorporated some drills into my daily routines, and I am beginning to understand and feel the areas I need to continue developing. Training in a range by yourself only gives you one aspect of firearms training (fundamentals), but as soon as you are out there moving and working on other routines, you realize how much you have to improve in other dimensions. Will continue developing my skills knowledge and positive attitude with Steve’s help for as long as I can. Thank you!

6 months ago
Hyacinth Reid

5.0

Omg I was so scared first time holding a gun. Steve at Tactical U makes me feel so completely comfortable.
I would recommend him in a jiffy. He takes his time explaining things,he says it over and over again until he knows you get it.

8 months ago
George R

5.0

Steve at Tactical U is the best instructor out there! His classes were amazing and very thorough.

I can’t tell you how many time I’ve been around gun owners who don’t know how to safely handle the gun and pointing it all over the place. I find myself teaching them how to properly handle the gun but only because of how well I was taught. I would feel comfortable and not go into panic, if i ever got into a situation where I had to use my gun. I can’t wait to take one of his upper level courses!

Thanks again, Steve!

1 year ago
Eli

5.0

I have taken classes with Steve at Tactical U since the beggining.All the basics and further training have been very well structured and informative.Novice or experienced you will always find these classes entertaining full of up to date information and techniques. Theory as well as practice training have been excellent.Primary concern has been safety along skill training.
Very hard to find an instructor so well experienced as Mr. Steve Cohen.
Looking forward for more hands on training in the different locations offered.

1 year ago
arq.lalo

5.0

I did Gunfighting 101 with Tactical U and they are the best around the Miami area for sure. Steve and Mel are great instructors they have so much knowledge and charisma as to take your skills to the next level. This was the first time that they taught this course and they did it with so much professionalism that it felt that they were teaching it for years. There are not enough words to explain how good they are indeed.
And the best is that they will make you feel like home since they have a great sense of humor but always in a very secure environment all the time. I’m looking forward to my next training with them.
Keep rooking.

1 year ago
Jose Perera

5.0

Stephen, thank you for the time, patience and great knowledge that you share.
I had the most complete class that I have ever taken.
The professionalism in which is taken the course is impecable.
I recommend that any person that is in contact with a gun, beginner or advanced, Men or Women, take the opportunity to take the course with Stephen Cohen at Tactical U.

1 year ago
Shawn Thomas

5.0

I have done several courses with Tactical U and recommend them to anyone regardless of skill level.
Steve really makes sure you are getting the most out of his course and takes an interest in the individual shooter and his/her abilities. My favorite course was the CCW course that explained what to do beyond an actual gunfight and how to protect yourself in the aftermath of a tragic event. Like how to deal with the police, the crime scene. What to say and not to say.

1 year ago
Hector Velazquez

5.0

The instructors at Tactical U have vast knowledge and articulate their craft in a way that regular people can understand

1 year ago
Arnaldo Bugallo

5.0

I had taken your classes at Tactical U multiple times in a couple years since 2011, which I had been very pleased with your training and expertized on the firearms field, I have to keep practicing in order to enhanced my skills not only as an student also as an NRA Law Enforcement Certified Instructor and I would recommend your training to any beginner or advanced defense shooter to take your courses in order to raised the bar in your training awareness and expectations to be safe in the real world.

1 year ago
Art Balogh

5.0

I, like millions of other law abiding US Citzens, own several handguns. Although I’ve been shooting since the age of 6, I was intrigued by an ad showing Tactical U’s approach to firearm training. The class covered safety, safety, and more safety. Second only to Stevens remarkable ability to control a group of 10 students, (each of whom had a loaded Glock in their hands), was his insistence that we all adhere strictly to his cautionary mantras.
After 66 years of exposure to rifles and pistols, this Basic Pistol Class gave me a far better sense of oneness with my firearm that came directly from Steven’s safety protocols. His classes contribute directly to making the inevitable heard of gun owners out there, much less prone to accidents and/or dangerous behavior. His classes and his style of training should me mandatory!!!

Thank you.
Art Balogh
Lake Norman, NC

1 year ago
Frank pavlock III

5.0

Steve taught me alot about guns and proper way to use my own. I recommend everyone that has a gun take his class. You think you are the best, until you find out your not. So sign up for a class now with Tactical U.

1 year ago
Sharon Sachse

5.0

I have had several lessons with Stephen Cohen from Tactical U — both private and group. I highly recommend him and his team to anyone. I wanted to get comfortable with firearms. Stephen’s emphasis on safety is one reason I keep taking lessons from him (that and his humor). He takes this very seriously. I need someone stern with me when I am not focused and he keeps me on track. Stephen is incredibly knowledgeable and a great instructor.

1 year ago
Chris Jorge

5.0

Amazing class at Tactical U, very professional and safe!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

1 year ago
Christian Mitry

5.0

Training with Stephen Cohen at Tactical U was a very good experience. I’m looking forward to keep learning. Me and my wife will continue to train with Stephendefinitely the guy has so much knowledge and if you looking to learn the proper way, don’t hesitate to call Stephen. He is an awesome guy, extremely knowledgeable and you will be in good hands.

1 year ago
Nilo cuervo

5.0

I have taken a number of tactical shooting classes with Stephen at Tactical U and highly recommend it to all gun owners – from novice to pro. Stephen teaches using real life scenarios. He is serious about safety and responsible gun ownership. Take his courses – they can save your life.

1 year ago
Candice

5.0

Everything I know about shooting, I learned from Tactical U. Steve Cohen is a consummate professional. You start out with him in the classroom learning the basics. By the time you get out on the range you feel confident and like you really know what you’re doing. I’ve done both private and group lessons with Tactical U. Both have taught me a lot in completely different ways. I can’t recommend this company enough.

1 year ago
Thomas Stuebe

5.0

Since I am teaching martial arts/self-defense I am often asked if I offer firearms training or who I would recommend. My recommendation is always the same, Tactical U.
Over a period or several years I took a few classes from Stephen Cohen, the owner and founder of TacticalU, and it was always a great and safe learning experience.
Because of his excellent way of communicating and teaching the topic I also had some of my family members take classes from him.
I will definitely take other classes at Tactical U.

1 year ago
The Donald

5.0

I have taken several courses with Steve at Tactical U. I contacted him a few years back to set up a class for a group. The group had experience from some to none. We set up a 2 day course, one in the class and one at the range. Steve was great with the group. He could tell who needed some extra help. The range was awesome! Again, Steve could tell who needed a little extra help and was very patient. Good training and no BS.
Most of the people from the first class have taken more with Steve.
I have taken numerous courses all over the country and Steve’s are at least on par or better.
I no longer live in FL but wish I could take classes with Steve. He just gets it and gets the people/students he is working with.

Cheers!

1 year ago
Heather Wagaman

5.0

I took this Tactical U course a few years ago for my CWP. As a woman I was initially nervous to take a class but knew it was something I would be happy to have done.
Steve was a no-nonsense instruction who provided excellent instruction and I left feeling secure in my handling of a firearm and comfortable with a weapon. I learned the risks and potential mistakes that one can make when handling a gun and would absolutely recommend and even retake his class.

1 year ago
Carlos Gonzalez

5.0

After experiencing several unexpected dangerous incidents subsequent moving into a new neighborhood, including having my home broken into, I decided to purchase a handgun and obtain a CCW permit but the class was lacking. So, I subsequently signed up for a couple of classes with Stephen at Tactical U whom was serious and very professional, and his classes were extremely helpful. Having grown up hunting bird with a shotgun and nothing more, his class provided me with a solid foundation and I now consider myself a responsible and capable gun owner thanks to Stephen. Definitely recommend.

1 year ago
Marcelo Ferreira

5.0

I took a private hand gun training course with Steve at Tactical U and it was the most in depth and hands on course that I have ever taken. He really takes the time to work with you to figure out proper mechanics for your body type and skill level. He covered every detail in depth and went over key points over and over. The key to the training was the repetitions and the small adjustments Steve made during those reps. Ive taken the drills that he showed me in the range and have developed my practice routine at home based on his teachings. I’ll be back to take a second private course in the near future for sure.

1 year ago
Brad King

5.0

I met Steve when working on Graceland as an armorer. We became friends and he asked me to come shooting with his team and the guys that he trains & the people that train other firearms instructors & range safety officers. Steve helped me get some of those credentials and he brought my shooting to another level that I don’t think I would have been able to do on my own or by watching any videos or anything. Even though some of those are great there’s nothing like hands on experience. You guys at Tactical U rock

1 year ago
1. Brad King
  
  So pardon my grammar but I was driving in a big Dodge truck with one of the stunt guys driving through the Georgia Hills on my way to the place that where the guy teaches Clydesdales . Needless to say typing wasn’t the easiest. So PS yes Steve’s guys at Tactical U really help you find tune the art of shooting and make it fun at the same time and super safe thanks again Steve
  
  1 year ago
EMILIO

5.0

My first actual training that I ever took with my CCW was with Steve 3 years ago at Tactical U. The fundamentals and skills that I learned from Steve are second to none. They are the foundation to the growth of my proficiency with my CCW. After a class with Steve or any instructor at Tactical U , you will feel more confident with your CCW from those skills and knowledge that you developed with them. I highly recommend Tactical U to any new CCW owner who wants to build the proper foundation to the growth of their skills. And to those who have had their CCW and want to advance their training , Tactical U is the place to go.

1 year ago
Alejandro J Riera

5.0

Tactical U has a great program, top notch instructors, very informative!

1 year ago
Ferdinand S.

5.0

Steve is great! Very knowledgeable with extensive experience. The real deal and his attention to detail with explanation and supervision is second to none. Can’t wait for my next class at Tactical U! !

1 year ago
sarah beck

5.0

I have been taking lessons from Steve at Tactical U for several years now. When I first met Steve I had not held a gun in my hand for over 20 years. I was nervous and had no idea what I was doing. Flash forward to today. I am very comfortable with both my guns and consider myself an educated and safe gun owner and handler. This is all due to Steve and his excellent instruction, attention to detail and his true love of teaching.

1 year ago
Keith Bullock

5.0

I have been training with Steve Cohen at Tactical U for about a year. I have taken a few private classes and some group classes. Where I was a year ago to where I am today, is a big difference. Steve started with small fundamentals and science of gun fighting and marksmanship. Then he built from there and kept building and building. My accuracy is better, my grip is more solid and my holster draw will make Billy the Kid proud.

Look at http://www.tacticalu.org and sign up, you will be happy you did.

1 year ago
Jonathan Romero

5.0

Tactical U courses are great, I have personally taken and referred many people to them. They are professional and safe instructors. Will keep recommending and will attend more courses myself. Their personal lessons are also recommended.

1 year ago
Luisa Bracaglia

5.0

Tactical U is by far the best when it comes to learning how to use a firearm, Stephen Cohen is patient, serious, and if your lucky you might get him to break a smile. He breaks it all down into an easy to learn system that works well and gives you drills that you can practice at home or on the range and he will make you practice and practice some more. Stephen has the experience, training, and know how to take your firearm skills to whatever level you desire. And its fun! As a woman shooter I have become more confident with my firearm and know that the training I received is by far the best. For what ever skill level you desire, give them a try you won’t be disappointed.

1 year ago
Alan Orozco

5.0

Hands on the best weapons class I have taken. Besides being challenged, at Tactical U I felt properly oriented to safely heighten my tactical skills.

1 year ago
Erick Morales

5.0

I first went to Tactical U three years ago to get my CWL. Stephen is such a great teacher, I signed up for the next three handgun courses within the year. All I knew about shooting before the classes was to line up the sights. After your first class, you’ll learn how much truly goes into shooting a handgun correctly and more importantly, safely. It’s a fun challenge at the range. And, it could save your life in the real world. They’ll have my business as long as they’ll have me.

1 year ago
Scott Murphy

5.0

Steve and his band of instructors at Tactical U are incredibly talented in spotting your problems and rectifying them. Theres no beating around the bush, Steve dives straight in and solves the issue by giving you explanation and instruction. If you need instruction, This is the place to go! Well worth my drive from Naples. I will be back for more!

1 year ago
James N

5.0

I took Steve’s “Concealed Carry Weapons Permit Class” at Tactical U in late 2016. The experience was far and above what I expected. Steve could have a street sweeper and a college professor in the same room and they will both learn a lot from him – he’s able to simplify ideas when needed, but has the comprehensive knowledge to answer your questions with scientific evidence. Steve is a direct, no-nonsense instructor knowledgeable in firearms, emergency preparedness, and even cinematic combat (check out his IMDB page!).

I’m sure there are cheaper instructors out there but honestly haven’t looked elsewhere after taking his class. The value he delivers is well worth the price.

1 year ago
Ruben Barthelemy

5.0

Tactical U gave me by far the best experience I have had. I’m pretty new to all this but I felt very safe when at the range (being it was my first class). Our instructor took his time with every student ( giving one on one tips) and corrected on the spot with positive statement . No screaming or foul language used to get a point across . I look forward to taking another class.

1 year ago
Matt L.

5.0

Steve at Tactical U is by far one of the best instructors i have ever trained with. My journey in firearms has taken me all over the place and allowed me to train with numerous instructors from Special Forces to 3 gun champions. Steve’s logic and training style allows you to retain more and make real world sense of the skills both on the range and in your day to day surroundings. I have yet to take a class with Steve that wasn’t one of the best in whatever the subject is, Night Fire, Rifle, private lessons, handgun classes , force on force. All have been beyond valuable. Try one of his classes for your self and see what i mean.

1 year ago
Davis “Ace” Acevedo

5.0

I am a currently employed with the Sheriffs Office and have attended a few of Stephens classes at Tactical U in the past. I can’t say anything bad about his courses. They are very informative and have helped me in my line of work. Stephen and all his instructors are very professional and knowledgeable when it comes to presenting their courses.

1 year ago
Kevin

5.0

I have been training with Tactical U for about 7 years now and can say I would not go anywhere else. After being in the gun business now for over 17 years I thought I knew it all. Then Stephen showed me I knew nothing. I highly recommend his training whether you are a rookie or a avid shooter.

1 year ago

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