Guardian Survival Tools, LLC - Founded 2006

Frequently Asked Questions

Below I have included a ton of information in the form of Frequently Asked Questions about our course, but again do not hesitate to call us if you have ANY further questions whatsoever or if you are ready to take advantage of one of our incredible deals on one of our upcoming Lifesaving LTC/CHL and/or Advanced Tactical Concepts (ATC) Courses.

 

 

 

 

How can I get my Texas Concealed Handgun License?

I. You must complete an online application on the TDPS Website (or obtain an application packet from the Texas Department of Public Safety if it is impossible for you to complete online).

 

There are only two ways to do this:

1. You can fill out an application completely online & pre-pay the states application fee

(This is by far the easiest, fastest, and best option and what I strongly recommend for everyone even if you do not have a computer of your own and must borrow a computer or use one at your local library).

You may do this up to 1 year prior to your course to speed up the turnaround time of your application, but you may also choose to complete it after your course. You have two years after completing your course to complete your application and pay your state fees.

Click the link to go to the TXDPS Website and fill out your application: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/administration/crime_records/chl/chlsindex.htm

2. The TXDPS can also mail you an application packet to bring with you to the class. (If you choose this option make sure you allow enough time to receive your packet in the mail or you will not be able to complete your paperwork after the class)

Call the TXDPS @ 1-800-224-5744 and ask them to mail you one.

You will have 2 years after successfully completing the course to send in your application along with the state application fee.

The Standard state fee is now just $40 for a 5 year license* (4 years from application date, then until your next birthday, 5 years thereon), but there are discounts for active military, honorably discharged veterans, and others.

Click here for a list of discounted rates:

http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/RSD/CHL/documents/CHLFeeSchedule.pdf

 

 

II. You must complete the mandatory 4-7 hour LTC course given by a Texas Department of Public Safety certified instructor and pass both the 25 question multiple choice/true or false test as well as the shooting proficiency test with a score of 70% or better. (Do not worry they are both extremely easy, not a single one of my students have ever been unable to pass)

 

 

III. You must fill out your application to the state completely, perfectly, truthfully, and accurately.

To do this successfully you must also:

Have your electronic fingerprints taken at an authorized digital fingerprinting location recognized by the TXDPS as part of your online application process.

Click this link for more information on fingerprinting: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/administration/crime_records/pages/applicantfingerprintservices.htm

ONLY if you are getting a NON-RESIDENT LICENSE you must have two recent passport photos of yourself taken that meet TDPS specifications (OUT OF STATE LICENSEES ONLY, TX RESIDENCE WILL NOW HAVE THEIR DRIVERS LICENSE PICTURE OR STATE I.D. USED INSTEAD)

If you completed (or wish to complete) your application online, all you have to do is get your digital fingerprints taken and mail (or scan in) in your certificate of completion for the course.

What all is included in this "ALL INCLUSIVE" course?

We include absolutely everything possible to apply for your LTC for one low price and we complete it all on the day of class:

A minimum of 4-6 hours of classroom instruction from a Texas Department of Public Safety certified instructor as required by the state. I am also an experienced Tactical Firearms Instructor.

Range fee

Ear and Eye Protection

State Required B-27 Target

Our presentation is an entertaining multimedia presentation with multiple videos presented from a large High Definition TV or projector.

Unlike other courses, we also give you Real Lifesaving Tactical Tools that could save your life and the lives of your loved ones, instead of leaving you with just the bare minimum required to get your license.

*As a FREE bonus we now also include donuts, and other breakfat treats, provide drinks and snacks for you throughout the course, and even buy you LUNCH on our dime!!!

 

 

 

How do I sign up and make my payment?

You can now sign up and pay right here on this site, just fill out your information and click "Register" and you will be directed to our secure PayPal payment center (You do NOT have to have a PayPal account to register, you can use any debit or credit card, or even a bank transfer to securely make your payment).

If you prefer to pay with PayPal, or any credit or debit card over the phone, or just talk to us directly first, just give us a call. We use Paypal the most secure processor available, so your information will be kept secure.

If you would like to pay with a personal check, cashier check, or money order, I will provide you with my mailing address but I can not confirm your seat in the course until I receive your payment.

You may also make arrangements to pay CASH prior to the course at any Houston area High Caliber gun show, or by appointment ONLY at our office (office is a secure facility not open to the public, available by appointment ONLY). 

Sorry, but all payments must be made first in order to reserve your seat in the course, if I held a seat for you without payment and you did not show up, I would just lose the money for that seat that I could have filled with someone else who was eager to take the course. Payments can only be made the day of the class if the class is not full, which is EXTREMELY unlikely.

If you prefer to pay in face to face we are available at almost every single "High Caliber" gun show in the Houston area. Just be POSITIVE you come to the right table! Look for the Guardian Survival Tools, LLC banner featuring the Guardian Angel Michael pic at the top of this page.

 

 

 

What do I need to bring to class?

I. Payment if you have not already paid in advance

II. A handgun of .22 caliber or greater

I strongly recommend a semi-automatic handgun for the course, it has the advantage of speeding things up and helping things flow smoothly on the range and has numerous advantages in the real world as well. Revolvers are COMPLETELY ok to use, but if you have both options available bring the semi-automatic handgun.

The handgun does not have to be yours; you may borrow a handgun from a friend of family member for the course.

We also have a good selection of firearms available for rent for just $10 (plus the cost of the ammo which is typically around $15-$25 per 50 rounds depending on the caliber you choose).

III. A box of 50 rounds of quality ammo that functions flawlessly in your specific firearms (see the range rules for your specific course location for range-specific ammo restrictions and requirements).

You may bring your own ammo for your rental gun but it must be factory brass cased ammo (no steel or aluminum casings or reloads in rental guns).

IV. Your drivers license (or state I.D.)

V. Optional: You may also want to bring your own shooting glasses (eye protection) and over the ear "ear muff" style hearing protection if you have it. If not the range will provide you with some.

My "All Inclusive" Courses include all range fees and the B-27 target required for your qualification.

 

 

 

Are there any other costs or hidden fees?

No, other than the ammo that you bring, the maximum $40 fee mentioned earlier that the state charges for processing your application, the $10 fee you must pay the fingerprinting facility to take your digital fingerprints, and if you choose to mail in your certificate of completion instead of scanning it in, the postage costs to send in your application. THERE ARE NO OTHER HIDDEN FEES WITH OUR COURSE!!!!!!!

The state application fee is a max of $40, but there are reduced rates for military (active and honorably discharged veterans). Do not worry if you can not afford the state and fingerprinting fees right away, your LTC course certificate is good for 2 years after you take the course, so there is no problem waiting until you have some extra money to complete your application.

Click the link below to view a chart of the state fees: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/RSD/CHL/documents/CHLFeeSchedule.pdf

IMPORTANT: The state fees are non-refundable!!! If the state finds that you do not qualify for a license or you are rejected for any reason, the state will NOT refund your application fee.

 

 

 

What do we get for our free lunch?

We typically bring in pizza for lunch, but if you have special dietary needs, or just do not like pizza, then of course you are welcome to bring whatever you prefer. We have a working lunch in order to cover additional material that very well may save your life someday, so unfortunately there will not be time to leave and go pick something up for lunch. We also provide bottled water, but there are vending machines available for your convenience, or you may bring in whatever snacks or(non-alcoholic) drinks you prefer. : )

 

 

 

What if I have not shot in a while, does the course teach me to shoot?

NO LTC/CHL COURSE ANYWHERE CAN TEACH YOU HOW TO SHOOT FOR THE FIRST TIME; you must be proficient with your handgun and know how to handle it safely before you take ANY LTC/CHL course.

WE DO HOWEVER OFFER SEPARATE COURSES AND PACKAGE DEALS FOR THOSE WHO NEED TRAINING FIRST BEFORE THEIR CHL COURSE.

For those of you who have not shot in a while, or even those who have never touched a gun but want to gain the skills necessary to defend yourself, I offer Private Defensive Handgun Courses designed to guarantee that you will greatly improve your handgun skills and easily pass your LTC qualification. No student that has taken my Defensive Handgun course has ever scored less that 90% on their LTC shooting qualification test (70% is passing). I am so confident that you will pass the LTC qualification after taking my Defensive Handgun Course that I will refund your money for the LTC course if you are unable to pass.

The regular price for up to a five hour block of Private Defensive Handgun Training is only $700 on the weekends and 1/2 price at just $350 per person on the weekdays. If you sign up for our LTC Course at the same time we will offer you the Private Defensive Handgun Training on any weekday for just $300!

Getting proper training on safety and defensive tactical marksmanship, staying in practice, and sharpening our defensive shooting skills, are some of the MOST important responsibilities we have as LTC holders.

 

 

 

What is the shooting proficiency test like?

The test is pretty easy and a score of PASS or FAIL is all that goes to the state. Unless you have never spent any time learning how to shoot, or you have not shot in a very long time, you should have no problem passing. We have never had a single client who was just unable to pass (unless they just gave up after the first try). You have unlimited opportunities to pass the shooting qualification, if you don't make it the first try, just try again until you do pass.

I strongly believe that if you are going to carry a gun that you should work on being as safe and as skilled as possible with it, not only for your own safety but for the safety of others as well. You will have plenty of time to improve your skills while you are waiting for your application to be processed, and I offer several classes to take you to whatever level you would like to achieve.

You will only shoot 50 rounds for the shooting proficiency test. There is a picture of the required B-27 target with scoring values at the top of this page. The distances, shots, and times are listed below.

LTC SHOOTING TEST

3 yards, 20 rounds

• 1 shot in 2 seconds, we will do this 5 times
• 2 shots in 3 seconds, we will do this 5 times
• 5 shots in 10 seconds, we will do this 1 time

7 yards, 20 rounds

• 5 shots in 10 seconds, we will do this 1 time
• 2 shots in 4 seconds, we will do this 1 time
• 3 shots in 6 seconds, we will do this 1 time
• 1 shot in 3 seconds, we will do this 5 times
• 5 shots in 15 seconds, we will do this 1 time

15 yards, 10 rounds

• 2 shots in 6 seconds, we will do this 1 time
• 3 shots in 9 seconds, we will do this 1 time
• 5 shots in 15 seconds, we will do this 1 time

Scoring:

8, 9 and 10 rings = 5 points 7 ring = 4 points on target, outside rings = 3 points Minimum qualifying score is 175 out of 250 points (70%)

 

 

 

What if my gun or ammo jams/malfunctions during the test?

The TDPS states that if you know how to SAFELY fix the malfunction and can still get the shot off in time, that you may do so. If you do not know how to do this safely or can not get the shot off in time, then you lose those points. Just like in a real gun fight where your firearm or ammo may fail, there are NO "do over’s!" If your gun or ammo is unreliable, get it fixed by a qualified gunsmith or replace it with something that is reliable. DO NOT BET YOUR LIFE ON A CHEAP GUN OR CHEAP AMMO THAT YOU KNOW HAS PROBLEMS!!!

 

 

 

Where and when are the next classes being held?

SEE SCHEDULE TAB FOR ALL DATE AND TIME INFORMATION

 

 

 

How long is the course?

All LTC courses are now required by State law to be just 4-6 hours long for the mandatory clasroom time excluding the shooting qualification, breaks and drive times (if the range is in a separate location).

Never take a course that does not meet these requirements! The instructor will be arrested and prosecuted for a misdemeanor crime and your license could be revoked! All LTC courses are closely monitored by the Texas Department of Public Safety to be certain all instructors and applicants comply.

Our courses typically end around 3pm or a little later depending on how many students we have, how many questions there are, if anyone needs help fixing malfunctions on the range, and if the class feels the need to discuss a topic further in order to understand it completely. Please do not schedule anything important directly after the class.

This is LIFE and DEATH material we are dealing with and I am NOT one of those instructors that will skip over important materials, not help you when you need it, or not answer your important questions properly just so I can get home on time.

I am here for you to make sure you learn as much as possible in our extremely short time together. I will give you tools in class that very well may save your life or the lives of your loved ones some day, and I will not short you on that for my own selfish benefit.

I will also continue to be available to you anytime after our course if you should have any further questions or problems, call me anytime.

 

 

 

Where are these ranges located?

Marksman Indoor Range

507 Nebraska St.

South Houston, TX 77587

 

MapQuest Link:

http://g.co/maps/zpftt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What are the range rules for Marksman Indoor Range?

Range Rules:

Firearm Safety is YOUR First and Foremost Responsibility!!!!

• Always treat all firearms as if they are loaded.
• Never allow your muzzle to cover ANYTHING you are not willing to destroy (Always keep guns pointed in a safe direction/downrange).
• Keep your finger off the trigger and outside of the trigger guard until your sights are on target and you are ready to shoot.
• Remain aware of your target and what is in line with it (what is in front of it, behind it, and beyond).
• Keep your gun unloaded until you are ready to use it (Do NOT load your gun in the lobby area, you may load magazines there, but do NOT insert the magazine into the gun or chamber a round).
• Be certain your gun is well maintained and in good working order.
• Know how to safely use the gun.
• Use only the correct ammunition for your gun.
• Wear eye and hearing protection BEFORE entering the range AND while on the range AT ALL TIMES.
• Never use alcohol or drugs before and or during shooting.
• Store guns so they are not accessible to children.
• NO ONE is allowed past the shooting stations down range.
• REPORT ANY ALL UNINTENTIONAL DISCHARGES AT ONCE.
• No Magnum Loads (.357 Magnum, .41 Magnum, .44 Magnum), No calibers larger than .45 caliber.
• Be positive that any ammo you use is both safe and reliable, and functions properly in your specific firearm (+P and "hot" reloads can be dangerous to both you and others on the range, you will be held accountable if someone is injured because of your poor ammo choices).
• All down range & abandoned brass belongs to the range.
• Due to concerns with the effects of lead exposure on pregnant women and the developing child, women who believe they may be pregnant should not be in the shooting range.
• ABSOLUTELY NO HANDLING OF FIREARMS IN THE CLASSROOM!

 

 

Guardian Survival Tools, LLC also highly recommends the following:

ALWAYS follow the 4 UNIVERSAL FIREARM SAFETY RULES!!!!!!!

1) Treat ALL guns as if they were loaded, and as if they could go off and harm or kill someone at ANY given moment. (we accomplish this by simply following the next 3 rules).

2) Never allow your muzzle (the business end of the gun) to cover or cross over ANYTHING you are not willing to destroy, shoot, or kill.

3) Keep your finger off of the trigger and trigger guard until your muzzle is oriented toward the threat (or target), and you have made the conscious decision to shoot.

4) Be aware or your target and what is "in line" with it, both between you and the target and FAR beyond the target. Know the ultimate destination of every round, and the backstop that will finnally stop the round from continuing.

 

 

 

Other important safety considerations:

No open toed shoes - spent brass casings ejected from a gun are hot and will burn exposed skin on the feet.

Bring a baseball style cap with a bill - this keeps hot brass from landing in your shooting glasses and burning your face or eyes.

Wear a shirt with a snug collar - this keeps hot brass from going down the front of your shirt or down the back of your collar.

*** If hot brass does come into contact with you, do not freak out and wave your gun around pointing it at everyone risking their lives and your freedom! Simply brush the brass away with your NON-FIRING HAND or if it is down your shirt pull the brass away from your skin with your NON-FIRING HAND for a few seconds and the brass will cool. You can then let it go and retrieve it later after you have secured your firearm.***

 

 

 

Where are we required to park at the range?

Marksman Indoor Range has kindly asked us all to park on the right hand side of the building (NOT IN THE FRONT PLEASE) since we are going to be there all day and they do not want their regular customers thinking that the range is packed full. Please park reasonably close to each other so that everyone can fit. Thank you very much for your help on this. Our classroom will be the door on the far left hand side of the building.

 

 

 

How long will it take after I send in my application to receive my license?

Recently this has been taking as little as 13 days for those who complete their application prior to taking the course, but unfortunately on occasion with the HUGE increase in demand for LTC at times it can take as long as 90 days.

You can expedite this process by making sure you fill out all of your paperwork and online application completely and accurately prior to the course. This time frame is only going to grow in the future, so please do not wait to take the course thinking this will improve.

With a current 21 day average turnaround we are currently experiencing the quickest turnarounds in the history of the LTC program, so now is the best time in history to apply for your License To Carry! 

 

 

 

How long does my license last?

Your first license will last 4 years from the date it is issued and then until your very next birthday. When you renew your license it will be good for 5 years and will always expire on your birthday.

THERE IS NO LONGER A RENEWAL COURSE REQUIRED TO RENEW YOUR LICENSE, JUST AN ONLINE APPLICATION AND A STATE FEE!!!!

 

 

 

Can I get a refund if I can not make it to the class?

Sorry, we can not offer refunds of any kind.

Unfortunately because of the huge expense of renting the range & classroom space, advertising expenses, providing food, drinks, snacks, and lunch, as well as hiring an assistant to ensure everything flows smoothly, we cannot afford to refund payments.

If you have an emergency that prevents you from being able to attend the class, I will gladly give you a credit that you may apply towards the next course but there will be a rescheduling fee of $35 if you do not inform me at least 10 days before your scheduled course date.

Please keep in mind that even with this unlikely $35 fee, our course is still cheaper than most other “ALL INCLUSIVE” CHL courses. We also can not give any refunds for those who do not qualify for a license or for whom application is rejected by the state.

 

 

 

Can anyone get a License To Carry (LTC/CHL)?

Absolutely NOT! This program is designed for good law abiding citizens and has severe restrictions that prevent those who have commited certain crimes from obtaining a LTC.

It is 100% your responsibility to determine if you are eligible to get your LTC. The TDPS does not allow instructors to tell students whether or not their specific legal situation will allow (or deny) the student from being approved for a LTC. If you need assistance please contact the TDPS LTC division directly at 1-800-224-5744, or a qualified attorney, as I am only allowed to read you the law.

I. At minimum you must meet the following standards to be eligible for a LTC:

(Other regulations may also apply)

• You must not have been convicted of a felony.
• You must not be charged with the commission of a Class A or Class B misdemeanor or an offense under Section 42.01, Penal Code, or of a felony under an information or indictment.
• You must not be a fugitive from justice for a felony or a Class A or Class B misdemeanor.
• You must not be a chemically dependent person.
• You must not be incapable of exercising sound judgment with respect to the proper use and storage of a handgun.
• You must not in the five years preceding the date of application been convicted of a Class A or Class B misdemeanor or an offense under Section 42.01, Texas Penal Code.
• You must be fully qualified under applicable federal and state law to purchase a handgun.
• You must not have been finally determined to be delinquent in making a child support payment administered or collected by the Texas Attorney General.
• You must not have been finally determined to be delinquent in the payment of taxes or other money collected by the Texas Comptroller, Texas State Treasurer, or tax collector of any agency or political subdivision of this state.
• You must not be currently restricted under a court protective order or subject to a restraining order affecting the spousal relationship, not including a restraining order solely affecting property.
• You must not In the 10 years preceding the date of this application, have been adjudicated as having engaged in delinquent conduct violating a penal law of the grade of felony.
• You must agree to obtain a handgun proficiency certificate by completing a course of instruction taught by a certified Handgun Instructor.
• You must be at least 21 years of age (or between the ages of 18 to 20 plus meet the additional military eligibility requirements).

 

 

 

Where can I get additional information?

If you need any additional information, please feel free to email or call me directly.

You may also find a wealth of information on the Texas Department of Public Safety web site below:

http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/rsd/chl/index.htm

Here is a link to TDPS Frequently Asked Questions PDF:

http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/RSD/CHL/faqs/index.htm

Or you can contact the Texas Department of Public Safety Concealed Handgun License Division directly below:

Phone: 1-800-224-5744

Email: chl@txdps.state.tx.us

 

 

Thanks again for your consideration.

 

All the best,

Anthony McGaugh

Founder/CEO & Chief Instructor

Guardian Survival Tools, LLC

15634 Wallisville Rd. #800

Houston, TX 77049

Office (713) 453-3230 (9am-7pm Everyday)

Email: Anthony@GuardianSurvivalTools.com

Web: www.GuardianSurvivalTools.com