Raphael Velez

Raphael Vélez began his journey in firearms training in 1968, after his father returned from Vietnam. Since then, he has developed into a highly qualified and experienced instructor with multiple certifications and decades of hands-on expertise.

He is a certified USCCA and NRA firearms and self-defense instructor, as well as a Grandmaster in Tang Soo Do (Korean martial arts) and KunTao (Filipino martial arts), with over 40 years of teaching experience. His background also includes advanced training in multiple weapons systems, including the katana, nunchaku, dagger, escrima, and bo.

Raphael has competed at the professional level and has been featured on ESPN2 under the International Sport Karate Association (ISKA), where he earned multiple national and world championship titles. He has been inducted into both the Action Martial Arts Hall of Honors and the Masters of the Martial Arts Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions and excellence in the martial arts community.

In addition to his martial arts and firearms expertise, Raphael is a certified SSI Professional Divemaster, with over 400 dives completed. He also brings over 25 years of experience as a mental health professional, providing him with a unique and comprehensive understanding of both physical and psychological aspects of performance, safety, and personal development.

Raphael is dedicated to helping individuals and families protect themselves and their loved ones through firearms training, martial arts, and practical self-defense strategies. His extensive knowledge, personalized instruction, and unwavering commitment to safety make him an exceptional instructor for those seeking to develop confidence, discipline, and real-world defensive skills.