Rick Billington
Instructor # 423903 | Michigan Pistol Academy
Certified with the USCCA since 2/6/2016
Certification Renewal Date 2/6/2027
USCCA Certifications
- Concealed Carry & Home Defense
- Women's Handgun & Self-Defense
- Countering the Mass Shooter
- Range Safety Officer
- Children's Firearms & Safety Fundamentals
- Marksmanship Simplified: Foundations of Handgun Coaching
My Biography
We are seasoned team of experts in personal defense and firearms training, dedicated to empowering individuals with essential self-protection skills.
Rick Billington The author of "THE RESPONSIBLE GUN OWNER: What Every Armed Citizen Must Understand About Safety, Judgment, Self-Defense, and the True Responsibility of Carrying a Firearm", and is a seasoned expert in personal defense and firearms training, dedicated to empowering individuals with essential self-protection skills. His diverse background includes law enforcement, aviation, and corporate leadership, all shaping his approach to safety.
Growing up in Michigan, Rick began firearms instructing career in law enforcement, where he developed expertise in conflict resolution and personal defense. After transitioning to corporate management, he felt a strong calling to return to his roots in personal safety, leading him to establish the Michigan Pistol Academy in 2004.
At the academy, Rick offers a variety of courses for all skill levels, emphasizing safety, marksmanship, and the legal aspects of firearm use. His unique combination of law enforcement experience and corporate leadership sets him apart, ensuring practical, real-world applications of self-defense training. Additionally, as a certified flight instructor,
Rick integrates principles of precision and discipline into his programs. Passionate about community engagement, he regularly conducts workshops on self-defense and responsible gun ownership.
Through the Michigan Pistol Academy, Rick continues to inspire and educate individuals, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to enhance their personal safety in an unpredictable world.
USCCA Certified Instructor for: Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals Women's Handgun and Self-Defense Fundamentals USCCA Countering Mass Shooter Threat Instructor. USCCA Range Safety Officer USCCA Children's Firearms & Safety Fundamentals NRA Certified Firearms Instructor in the following disciplines: Basic Pistol, Basic Rifle, Basic Shotgun, Personal Protection In The Home, Personal Protection Outside The Home, Basic CCW Instructor Refuse To Be A Victim. NRA Chief Range Safety Officer
Michigan licensed Professional Investigator
Current Classes Available
- Sun, Oct. 25, 2026 9:00 AM

Michigan Concealed Carry Course - Michigan Pistol Academy (Royal Oak) mpa3
with Rick Billington5.0Michigan Pistol Academy
Royal Oak, MI$120
Tues, Nov. 3, 2026 9:00 AM
Michigan Concealed Carry Course - Michigan Pistol Academy (Royal Oak) mpa3
with Rick Billington5.0Michigan Pistol Academy
Royal Oak, MI$120
Sat, Nov. 7, 2026 9:00 AM
Michigan Concealed Carry Course - Michigan Pistol Academy (Royal Oak) mpa3
with Rick Billington5.0Michigan Pistol Academy
Royal Oak, MI$120
Tues, Nov. 10, 2026 9:00 AM
Michigan Concealed Carry Course - Michigan Pistol Academy (Royal Oak) mpa3
with Rick Billington5.0Michigan Pistol Academy
Royal Oak, MI$120
Fri, Nov. 13, 2026 9:00 AM
Michigan Concealed Carry Course - Michigan Pistol Academy (Royal Oak) mpa3
with Rick Billington5.0Michigan Pistol Academy
Royal Oak, MI$120
Sat, Nov. 14, 2026 9:00 AM
Michigan Concealed Carry Course - Michigan Pistol Academy (Royal Oak) mpa3
with Rick Billington5.0Michigan Pistol Academy
Royal Oak, MI$120
Tues, Nov. 17, 2026 9:00 AM
Michigan Concealed Carry Course - Michigan Pistol Academy (Royal Oak) mpa3
with Rick Billington5.0Michigan Pistol Academy
Royal Oak, MI$120
Sat, Nov. 21, 2026 9:00 AM
Michigan Concealed Carry Course - Michigan Pistol Academy (Royal Oak) mpa3
with Rick Billington5.0Michigan Pistol Academy
Royal Oak, MI$120
- Sat, Oct. 10, 2026 9:00 AM

Michigan Concealed Carry Course - Rochester
with Rick Billington5.0Michigan Pistol Academy
Rochester, MI$120
Sat, Oct. 24, 2026 9:00 AM
Michigan Concealed Carry Course - Rochester
with Rick Billington5.0Michigan Pistol Academy
Rochester, MI$120
Sat, Oct. 31, 2026 9:00 AM
Michigan Concealed Carry Course - Rochester
with Rick Billington5.0Michigan Pistol Academy
Rochester, MI$120
Request a Class
This is Range time instruction(qualification) only...may be used as qualifying range time for Michigan CPL . Classroom requirements must be scheduled separately if required
This course includes Live Range instruction only.
Gun rental, range fee & ammo is not included and paid at the range.
This one day 8 hour course taught by Mark Cortis, an martial art expert in physical management and will teach you the knowledge, skills, and attitude essential for the safe and efficient use of a handgun for protection of self and family,
The objective of this course is to make the use of a firearm your last resort and to enable an individual to stand a greater chance of survival with limited emotional, financial loss or injury.
Students will learn basic defensive shooting skills, strategies for home safety and responding to a violent confrontation, firearms and the law, how to choose a handgun for self-defense, and continued opportunities for skill development. This course is for law-abiding adult citizens, as defined by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Appropriate attire including good training footwear.
Certificate of Completion awarded upon successful completion of course
This course includes, ammo & free gun rental. Range fees are not included and will be paid at the range
NRA COURSE OUTLINE
Instructor: Scott Ruel email: contact:
In this NRA certified program students will learn: Basic defensive shooting skills; Strategies for home safety and responding to a violent confrontation; Firearms and the law; how to choose a handgun for self-defense; and have continued opportunities for skill development.
Each student will receive: The NRA Guide to the Basics of Personal Protection In The Home handbook; NRA Gun Safety Rules brochure; The Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification booklet; Course completion certificate.
The program length is 8-9 hours.
LESSON I: INTRODUCTION TO DEFENSIVE SHOOTING
LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Explain the importance of using a firearm responsibly and ethically for personal protection. • Explain the importance of developing the proper mindset for using a firearm for personal protection and facing a life-threatening encounter. • Explain and evaluate their state of mental awareness using the four levels of awareness. • Explain the importance of mental preparation and physical training for a potentially life-threatening confrontation.
LESSON II: BASIC DEFENSIVE PISTOL SKILLS LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• Explain and demonstrate the fundamentals of defensive marksmanship. • Explain defensive accuracy. • Shoot targets in the center of mass using aimed shots from a two-handed standing position. • Explain the differences between cover and concealment, and identify examples of each. • Shoot targets in the center of mass. • Using a flash sight picture. • Using cover and concealment.
LESSON III: FIREARMS AND THE LAW: POSSESSION, OWNERSHIP, AND THE USE OF DEADLY FORCE LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• Explain key provisions of the law pertaining to the purchase, transfer, and possession of pistols. • State key provisions and restrictions within the law pertaining to the use of deadly force in Michigan. • Explain potential criminal and civil legal actions that may be taken against the person subsequent to a defensive encounter. • Explain where one may find detailed legal information for their specific jurisdiction.
LESSON IV: STRATEGIES FOR HOME SAFETY AND RESPONDING TO A VIOLENT CONFRONTATION LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• Explain strategies and methods to enhance their personal safety at home. • Describe strategies for responding to a potentially life-threatening encounter. • Explain the importance of mentally preparing for the aftermath of a violent confrontation. • Explain methods for safely storing a personal protection pistol.
LESSON V: SELECTING A PISTOL FOR SELF-DEFENSE
LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Identify the criteria for selecting a pistol and ammunition suited to their individual self-defense needs. • Identify the major cartridge designs available for practice and personal protection and explain the use, advantages, and disadvantages of each type. LESSON VI: SPORT SHOOTING ACTIVITIES AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Identify organizations, associations, clubs, and businesses that may help them hone, enhance, and expand their personal protection skills. • Explain methods and precautions for dry-fire practice.
LESSON VII: COURSE REVIEW AND EXAMINATION LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Successfully complete the NRA Personal Protection in the Home Course written examination. o Grade and discuss any wrong answers o Graduation (distribute certificates) Equipment List – What students must bring: • Firearm in Good Working Condition and Case • 100 Rounds of Ammunition • Eye and Ear Protection
This is Range time instruction only...may be used as qualifying range time for Michigan CPL . Classroom requirements must be scheduled first and separately if required
(ONLINE MICHIGAN CPL REVIEW)
Materials and downloads will be available to you at completion of course
MINIMUM STUDY LENGTH: 3 Hours
FIREARM BASICS: • Universal safety rules • Clearing a semi-automatic • Clearing a revolver • Defining a gun’s action • Understanding revolvers • Understanding semi-automatics • Modern, striker-fired handguns • Understanding magazines • Selecting a handgun
• Pros and cons of handgun choices • Ammunition components • Is caliber all that matters? • Other measurement • Ammunition care and storage • Common ammunition malfunctions • Clearing semi-auto malfunctions • Other use of force optionsSHOOTING FUNDAMENTALS:
• Defensive shooting versus marksmanship • Proper grip • Shooting platform • Aligning the muzzle to the target • Unsighted fire, point shooting • Flash sight picture • Sighted fire • Trigger control • Rubber band exercise
MICHIGAN RULES & REGULATIONS • Test your knowledge on the Michigan Concealed Carry law. • What the “Carry” act provides. • Training required. • Applying for a permit. • Process for approval. • Denials and how to handle them. • Requirements for displaying your permit. • Where carrying is banned, or otherwise restricted. • Related statutes and federal law Firearms Save Storage
Access code will be sent to within 24 hours of registration
Court Required Firearms Safety Training In many court jurisdictions, Introduction to Handgun Safety is sufficient to fulfill requirements for gun safety training. if you have an upcoming court date, our course may be just what you need.
Court Ordered Gun Safety Class
Keep Your Gun Rights, Know the Law
This class is a 1-on-1 gun safety class and available by appointment only.
Sometimes good people make mistakes and find themselves in bad situations.
The Courts have been known to reinstate firearms rights or require firearms safety training in certain situations. They may require the completion of a firearms safety class, among other things, as an order of the court. A gun safety class may also be a requirement of court-ordered probation or pretrial requirement.
If a judge has ordered you to attend a gun safety class, this class will satisfy those requirements. Since students taking this class are typically prohibited from possessing firearms by court order, this is a non-firing safety class and we do not handle real firearms.
YOUR SCHEDULE IS OUR SCHEDULE
A private instruction can be scheduled and tailored to your individual needs! Covers introduction to firearms, basic and advanced skills, firearm cleaning, youth instruction, etc. Cost: $75 (per hour) Includes: 1 Hour Instruction by one of our nationally certified instructors
DOES NOT INCLUDE: Range fees, Firearm or Ammunition To schedule you must contact rick@MichiganPistolAcademy.com
YOUR SCHEDULE IS OUR SCHEDULE
A private instruction can be scheduled and tailored to your individual needs! Covers introduction to firearms, basic and advanced skills, firearm cleaning, youth instruction, etc. Cost: $75 (per hour) Includes: 1 Hour Instruction by one of our nationally certified instructors. DOES NOT INCLUDE: Range fees, Firearm or Ammunition To schedule you must contact rick@MichiganPistolAcademy.com
This is Range time instruction only...may be used as qualifying range time for Michigan CPL Renewals .
This course includes Live Range instruction only.
Gun rental, range fee & ammo is not included and paid at the range.
This is a 8-10 hour, course teaches the basic knowledge, skills, and attitude essential to the safe and efficient use of a handgun for protection of self and family, and to provide information on the law-abiding individual’s right to self-defense. This course is taught by a certified instructor.
You must complete entire course to receive a certificate of completion to qualify for the Michigan Concealed Pistol License.
Certificate of Completion awarded upon successful completion of all requirements.
This is a 8 hour, "FOR COUPLES ONLY" course teaches the basic knowledge, skills, and attitude essential to the safe and efficient use of a handgun for protection of self and family, and to provide information on the law-abiding individual’s right to self-defense. This course is taught by a USCCA and/or NRA certified instructor.
Couples Private CPL Course
Personalized instruction and designed specifically to suite your need and experience
You must complete entire course to receive a certificate of completion to qualify for the Michigan Concealed Pistol License.
- You Must qualify to Michigan Concealed Carry Licensing Standards
- Bring Eye and Ear Protection (also available at range)
- Bring Your Handgun and 50 Rounds of Approved Ammo, or purchase at range. o Rentals are available for $25 at the range, or you can use ours at no charge. Just need to buy ammo.
Certificate of Completion awarded upon successful completion of all requirements.
Cancellation Policy: Range fees are not included and are paid at the range Students are required to cancel at least 48 hours in advance of a class date in order to receive a refund. Only one reschedule is allowed if requested up to 48 hours before class. A $5 Stripe processing fee will be charged for any refund issued. "No Shows" will not be refunded or rescheduled.
This is a 8-10 hour, course teaches the basic knowledge, skills, and attitude essential to the safe and efficient use of a handgun for protection of self and family, and to provide information on the law-abiding individual’s right to self-defense. This course is taught by a certified instructor.
You must complete entire course to receive a certificate of completion to qualify for the Michigan Concealed Pistol License.
Certificate of Completion awarded upon successful completion of all requirements.
CPL renewal training The course serves as the 3 hour review as required by Michigan state law.
Study topics are: 1- Developing a Personal & Home Protection Plan
- Firearms law and legal liability
- The Legal Use Of Force
- Handgun Safety and Shooting Fundamentals
Are You Considering Buying and Possibly Carrying a Taser?
You can, with a Michigan Concealed Pistol License. You can accomplish this by completing this online training. Per ML Section 750.224A 1(b)
The possession and reasonable use of a device that uses electro-muscular disruption technology by an individual who holds a valid license to carry a concealed pistol under section 5b of 1927 PA 372, MCL 28.425, and who has been trained under subsection (5) in the use, effects, and risks of the device. TASER is an effective, less-lethal defense tool that can immobilize attackers for up to 30 seconds. Packing the same knock-down punch trusted by law enforcement, it was built with civilian self-protection in mind. Weighing in at just 8 ounces, this high-tech, intuitively designed device is revolutionizing the self-defense market.
Additional Taser Certification Available with Skills Demonstration
Access code will be sent to you within 24 hours
Tasers also available for purchase
Call 810-523-7660 for more course details
Michigan ON-Line CPL Renewal Course
**THIS CLASS IS NOT REQUIRED BY LAW for the renewal of your Michigan CCW/CPL License!
You may renew your license WITHOUT taking a renewal class as long as you have completed a 3 hour review of Michigan law as it pertains to concealed carry and you have fired your gun for a total of one hour in the last 6 months. You can do this on your own if you so choose.
If you feel you do not qualify for a self-certifying renewal, we offer 3-Hour Michigan CPL Renewal Class: This class is valid for ALL Counties in Michigan! Range time is NOT included in the fee for this course. Any range/shooting time requirements must be completed at a separate time. YOU MUST HAVE A CURRENT MICHIGAN CPL - OR ONE THAT HAS BEEN EXPIRED FOR NO LONGER THAN 12 MONTHS IN ORDER TO TAKE OUR RENEWAL COURSE!
Michigan Firearm laws changed effective April 2018
if your license has been expired for MORE THAN 12 MONTHS, the Michigan State Police will no longer consider your application at RENEWAL. If you have been expired for longer than 12 months, you MUST take the 1-Day 8-Hour Concealed Carry Class and reapply as a new application. This is the new law followed by the Michigan State Police.
Valid for ALL Counties in Michigan!?
Michigan CPL reference documents can be downloaded after completion of online course
This is a 8-10 hour, course teaches the basic knowledge, skills, and attitude essential to the safe and efficient use of a handgun for protection of self and family, and to provide information on the law-abiding individual’s right to self-defense. This course is taught by a USCCA and/or NRA certified instructor.
You must complete entire course to receive a certificate of completion to qualify for the Michigan Concealed Pistol License.
Introduction
- Registration
- Introductions
- Why do you own a firearm
- Why did you purchase your last firearm?
- Why do you want to carry a concealed firearm?
- Crime Statistics
Chapter 1: Developing A Personal & Home Protection Plan - Violent crimes in the United States - Why Conflict Avoidance is so important - Situation Awareness - Color Codes of Awareness - Action Versus Reaction - Observing Our Environment - Planning for Home Security - Mental Exercises - How a Concealed Carry Permit Fits Chapter 2: Self-Defense Firearm Basic - Four Universal Safety Rules - Properly Clearing Semi-Automatic and Revolvers - Additional Safety Considerations - Double Action vs. Single Action - Detailed Revolver & Semi-Automatic Explained - Handgun Sizes and Weights - Pros & Cons of Different Handguns - Ammunition and Ballistic Basics - Ammunition and Handgun Malfunctions - Introduction to Home Defense Shotguns and AR15 - Taser and Pepper Spray
Chapter3: Shooting Fundamental - Muscle Memory Explained - Proper Grip - Stance “ Shooting Platform” - Point Shooting - Flash Site Picture - Sighted Fire - Trigger Control
Chapter 4: The Legal Use Of Force - Reviewing the Legal Definitions of Reasonable & Deadly Force - Understanding The Use of Force Continuum - Justifying the Use Of Force - How Defense In and Out Of The Home Differs - Defending Property
Chapter 4a: Michigan Firearm Law - Test your Knowledge of Michigan Concealed Carry Law - Training Required - Applying For Permit - Process for Approvals and Denials - Requirement for Displaying CPL - Where Carry is Banned or Restricted - Federal Law Statutes
Chapter 5: Violent Encounters & Their Aftermath - Understanding Fight or Flight - Reactions Associated with Extreme Stress - Issuing Commands and Options - When There Are No Other Options - When Right to Use Deadly Force Ends - The Immediate Aftermath - Dealing With Police
Chapter 6: Gear And Gadgets - Explaining Holster Retention - Holster Types - Tactical lights - Gun Safes and Storage
Chapter 7: Basic and Advanced Skills - Muscle Memory Revisited - Dry Fire Exercises - Instructor Range Exercises - Drawing for Holster - Flashlight Hold Options - Getting Family Involved in Shooting Sports - Pre-Range Procedures and Etiquette - Student Quiz
Range: (3 hours) Range Qualification: For Initial Students & Renewal Michigan CPL - Must Show Safe Range Etiquette and Gun Handling Skills - Qualify to Michigan Concealed Carry Licensing Standards - Bring Eye and Ear Protection (also available at range) - Bring Handgun and 100 Rounds of Approved Ammo o Rentals are available for $20
Certificate of Completion awarded upon successful completion of all requirements.
This is a 8-10 hour, course teaches the basic knowledge, skills, and attitude essential to the safe and efficient use of a handgun for protection of self and family, and to provide information on the law-abiding individual’s right to self-defense. This course is taught by a certified instructor.
You must complete entire course to receive a certificate of completion to qualify for the Michigan Concealed Pistol License.
Certificate of Completion awarded upon successful completion of all requirements.
Cancellation Policy: Range fees are not included and are paid at the range Students are required to cancel at least 48 hours in advance of a class date in order to receive a refund. Only one reschedule is allowed if requested up to 48 hours before class. A $5 Stripe processing fee will be charged for any refund issued. "No Shows" will not be refunded or rescheduled.
This one day Michigan approved, 8 hour Concealed Pistol License class taught by an expert in physical management and will teach you the knowledge, skills, and attitude essential for the safe and efficient use of a handgun for protection of self and family,
The objective of this course is to make the use of a firearm your last resort and to enable an individual to stand a greater chance of survival with limited emotional, financial loss or injury.
Students will learn basic defensive shooting skills, strategies for home safety and responding to a violent confrontation, firearms and the law, how to choose a handgun for self-defense, and continued opportunities for skill development. This course is for law-abiding adult citizens, as defined by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Appropriate attire including good training footwear.
Certificate of Completion awarded upon successful completion of course
YOUR SCHEDULE IS OUR SCHEDULE
A private instruction can be scheduled and tailored to your individual needs! Covers introduction to firearms, basic and advanced skills, firearm cleaning, youth instruction, etc. Cost: $75 (per hour) Includes: 1 Hour Instruction by one of our nationally certified instructors. DOES NOT INCLUDE: Range fees, Firearm or Ammunition To schedule you must contact rick@MichiganPistolAcademy.com
This one day Michigan approved, 8 hour Concealed Pistol License class taught by an expert in physical management and will teach you the knowledge, skills, and attitude essential for the safe and efficient use of a handgun for protection of self and family,
The objective of this course is to make the use of a firearm your last resort and to enable an individual to stand a greater chance of survival with limited emotional, financial loss or injury.
Students will learn basic defensive shooting skills, strategies for home safety and responding to a violent confrontation, firearms and the law, how to choose a handgun for self-defense, and continued opportunities for skill development. This course is for law-abiding adult citizens, as defined by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Appropriate attire including good training footwear.
Certificate of Completion awarded upon successful completion of course
Carrying concealed is a responsibility — and drawing safely and efficiently from concealment is a critical skill.
Clear your garment smoothly Establish a solid firing grip Present the firearm safely and efficiently Build speed without sacrificing safety
Most defensive encounters are over in seconds. Your draw stroke must be consistent, efficient, and safe under stress.
Train with purpose. Build confidence. Be prepared.
Join us to refine your draw from concealment and take your defensive skills to the next level.
Qualifies for Michigan CPL. Classroom and Range are usually on same day.
Find the Right Firearm—With Confidence Not all firearms are created equal—and not every firearm is right for you.
Join Scott from Michigan Pistol Academy for a personalized, guided experience designed to help you confidently choose the right firearm for your needs, comfort, and skill level.
This is not a sales pitch. This is hands-on, professional evaluation.
What You’ll Experience: -One-on-one guidance in a relaxed, no-pressure environment
- Learn how different firearms fit your hand, strength, and comfort level
- Live-fire opportunity to test multiple options at the range
- Professional instruction focused on safety, control, and confidence
- Honest recommendations—based on YOU, not a commission
Perfect For: • Women new to firearms who want a comfortable, supportive introduction • Anyone unsure what firearm is right for them • Those looking to upgrade or replace their current setup • Couples who want to learn and choose together Why This Matters Buying the wrong firearm can lead to frustration, poor performance, and lack of confidence. The right firearm—paired with proper instruction—can make all the difference. Spots Are Limited This is a small-group or private experience to ensure personal attention.
This is hourly Range time instruction (Coaching) only...
Gun rental, range fee & ammo is not included and paid at the range.
This is hourly Range time instruction (Coaching) only...
Gun rental, range fee & ammo is not included and paid at the range.
CPL renewal training The course serves as the 3 hour review as required by Michigan state law.
Study topics are: 1- Developing a Personal & Home Protection Plan
- Firearms law and legal liability
- The Legal Use Of Force
- Handgun Safety and Shooting Fundamentals
Qualifies for Michigan CPL. Classroom and Range are usually on same day.


