Robert Cavaco
Instructor # 1482490 | Smokin' Guns Range and Shooting Academy
Certified with the USCCA since 1/14/2021
Certification Renewal Date 1/10/2027
USCCA Certifications
- Concealed Carry & Home Defense
- Countering the Mass Shooter
Current Classes Available
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Learn the fundamentals of pistol shooting in a friendly environment while qualifying for your enhanced concealed carry permit. You will learn: the basic Firearms safety rules, the function of single, double, and semi-automatic pistols, to include proper sight alignment, sight picture, breath control, and trigger control, cleaning and taking proper care of your firearms. You will learn how to resolve common firearms failures. Training time is expected to last 8 hours in the classroom prior to range time. Students are encouraged to bring their own range gear: firearm, ammunition, eye protection, ear protection; if any gear (or firearm) is needed please contact us ahead of time so that we can make arrangements.
This is a dry and simulated-fire class where students choose the skills they want to work on in a simulated environment.
Must have 3 students for class.
Basic Handgun 101 Class is a comprehensive course designed to teach handgun safety, familiarization with revolvers and semiautomatic pistols; and the perceived pros/cons for selecting one handgun over another and ammo selection. A variety of firearms may be provided for the student to “try” before going out to buy one. It is our hope that by trying and getting the feel of a particular firearm that the student will make the best selection for their purchase. Students will learn to safely demonstrate basic handgun manipulation (clearing, loading, sight alignment and sight picture, trigger press and follow through, etc.); marksmanship, equipment selection, and cleaning.
There will be will be live fire/range time in this class. You will need minimum of 50 rounds of ammo. If time allows and you’d like to shoot more, then please bring more ammo; after all that IS what it’s all about.
We will have the classroom portion of our class at Gulf Coast Training & Education Services in downtown Biloxi, then travel to the outdoor range at Coast Rifle & Pistol Club in Biloxi.
Most people would not rank being a real estate agent at the top of the list of dangerous professions. However, real estate agents put their safety on the line every day when they meet a new client, drive clients to homes for sale, and show a vacant property.
We are now offering a specialized course for Real Estate Professionals! This 2-hour class is specifically designed to ensure each realtor knows and understands the importance of developing and following a safety plan. In this class we discuss situational awareness, how to have the mindset for survival, how to practice safety protocols, and how to use technology to help keep you safe. This 2-hour realtor safety class will give everyone the necessary tools to help them make it home safely at the end of each day.
This personal safety training provides agents with strategy and contingency plans to maximize safety in all phases of their day and especially while showing properties, and hosting open houses, or evaluating homes for listing. In this course, we will cover:
Personal awareness when meeting clients Use of self-defense options and tools available to you An overview of the legal dynamic of self defense
This class is the foundation of armed self-defense training. We will focus on the techniques needed to develop a defensive mindset, the attitude when defending yourself or a loved one in a life-or-death situation. You will learn and practice the skills necessary to confidently be able to use your concealed firearm in a defensive situation.
This class will help you get your body to work with your gun instead of against it. You will learn which intuitive skills work best with what your body will naturally do while under the stress of a violent encounter, and you'll learn to apply this information simply and effectively - regardless of your skill level.
Whether you’re looking to train on the basics of putting bullets where you want them to go or building your skill for rapid acquisition and engagement of targets in a real-world scenario, you’ll find it in Defensive Shooting Fundamentals.
This is a comprehensive course designed to teach handgun safety, familiarization with revolvers and semiautomatic pistols; and the perceived pros/cons for selecting one handgun over another. Students will learn and safely demonstrate basic handgun manipulation (clearing, sight alignment and sight picture, trigger press and follow through, etc.); as well as defensive accuracy.
This is a basic course for anyone considering owning or carrying a firearm for self-defense. The course will help you understand, ammunition basics, defensive shooting fundamentals, and we may discuss the physiology of violent encounters (including knowing what to do in the aftermath of a lethal force incident).
There is NO live fire in this class, however, we will be demonstrating and shooting using our “Smokeless Range” simulator.
This is lecture/discussion environment. There will be time for open discussions as well as a question and answer period.
Pistol Skill Builder is a 2-hour live-fire session focused on improving accuracy, consistency, and confidence through structured shooting drills. Participants will work on fundamental skills including grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control, and shot placement while receiving instructor feedback throughout the session.
Come ready to practice with purpose and sharpen your skills!
This class is the foundation of armed self-defense training. We will focus on the techniques needed to develop a defensive mindset, the attitude when defending yourself or a loved one in a life-or-death situation. You will learn and practice the skills necessary to confidently be able to use your concealed firearm in a defensive situation.
This class will help you get your body to work with your gun instead of against it. You will learn which intuitive skills work best with what your body will naturally do while under the stress of a violent encounter, and you'll learn to apply this information simply and effectively - regardless of your skill level.
Whether you’re looking to train on the basics of putting bullets where you want them to go or building your skill for rapid acquisition and engagement of targets in a real-world scenario, you’ll find it in Defensive Pistol Fundamentals.
Review basic firearm safety and pistol-handling fundamentals as we use SIRT guns and dry-fire drills to skill build. May also use simulated training. Must have minimum of 3 students for class to be held.
Join our Pistol Cleaning Class and learn the essential skills to keep your firearm in top condition! Whether you're a first-timer or looking to refine your technique, we'll guide you through the process step-by-step. Bring your own supplies or use ours—either way, we'll provide everything you need to get your pistol clean and ready for use. The cost is just $10 per person. Don't miss this opportunity to gain confidence and maintain your firearm properly.
Join us for our free monthly virtual training series, "When the Smoke Clears," designed for those interested in learning about firearms safety! In February, we’re kicking off with Basic Pistol Safety—perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to improve their knowledge. This interactive session will cover essential topics like the 4 Universal Rules of Gun Safety, safe handling and storage practices, and understanding your firearm. Whether you’re new to firearms or just want to brush up on safety, this class is a great opportunity to build confidence and knowledge in a relaxed, approachable setting. Don’t miss out—register today!
In March, our "When the Smoke Clears" virtual training series continues with Choosing the Right Pistol for You! This session is perfect for anyone considering purchasing a pistol or looking to understand the different options available. We’ll cover key factors like size, caliber, ergonomics, and intended use—whether it’s for self-defense, sport shooting, or concealed carry. With expert guidance, you’ll learn how to select a pistol that fits your needs, lifestyle, and comfort level, ensuring you make an informed decision. Join us for this informative and practical class to find the perfect fit for you!
This is a virtual class. You will receive a link to attend upon registration.
When criminal activity strikes your business, it’s a traumatic event that can disrupt operations and cause significant financial loss. But how you respond in the aftermath can make all the difference in how quickly you recover. This course, "After the Break-In: Preparing Your Business for Recovery," is designed to guide business owners through the critical steps they need to take when faced with the aftermath of criminal activity, such as a break-in, theft, or vandalism. We will walk you through essential actions you should take immediately following the crime, including contacting the right authorities, documenting the incident, and securing your premises to prevent further damage or theft.
Additionally, the course will cover the paperwork and documentation that business owners should keep on hand to ensure they’re prepared for insurance claims, legal matters, and record-keeping. We’ll also focus on the importance of staff training, teaching you how to prepare your team for handling security breaches, emergency protocols, and maintaining a calm, controlled response during stressful situations. By the end of this course, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to not only recover from criminal activity but also to strengthen your business’s security measures and resilience moving forward.
Brought to you in partnership with Gulf Coast Training & Education Services, this is a virtual course. A link to attend will be provided upon registration.
Protecting your home starts with a solid plan. In this virtual training, you’ll learn how to assess vulnerabilities, create layered security measures, and develop emergency response strategies tailored to your household. We’ll cover effective deterrents, safe room planning, and family communication protocols to enhance your home’s safety. Upon registration, you’ll receive a link to join the class and prework to help you get the most out of the session.
Choosing the right holster is just as important as choosing the right firearm. In this hands-on, two-hour clinic, we’ll cover holster safety, proper fit, and key factors to consider when selecting a holster for everyday carry. Students will have the opportunity to try on different holster styles to find their best fit.
Whether you’re new to carrying or looking to refine your setup, this class will help you make an informed decision.
Empower yourself with the knowledge and tools to stay safe in any situation. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll discuss personal safety strategies, explore the concept of layering self-protection devices, and develop a personalized safety plan tailored to your lifestyle. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about and practice using personal alarms, striking tools, and pepper spray in a safe, controlled environment. This interactive session is designed to build confidence, awareness, and preparedness, giving you the skills to take control of your safety.
Protecting Houses of Worship is a safety and preparedness training designed to help faith communities identify potential threats, strengthen security awareness, and develop proactive plans to safeguard their congregation. This training blends faith, vigilance, and practical strategies to ensure worship remains a place of peace and refuge.
This 2-hour live-fire class introduces participants to safe, controlled drawing from a properly fitted holster while developing accuracy, consistency, and efficient movement. Through instructor-led drills and supervised range practice, participants will build confidence with the fundamentals of drawing and engaging targets while emphasizing safe firearm handling and range procedures.
In today’s world, church leaders must be equipped not only to shepherd spiritually but also to respond wisely in a crisis. Prepared & Protected is a practical, hands-on workshop designed to help pastors, administrators, and church safety teams create a customized Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) focused on mass shooting response.
Participants will walk through a guided risk assessment, define leadership and communication roles, and develop clear protocols for lockdowns, evacuations, medical response, and recovery. Using real-world scenarios and easy-to-adapt templates, your team will leave with a draft EOP tailored to your congregation’s needs—ready for refinement and implementation.
Faith-based, empowering, and grounded in real-world safety best practices, this class is ideal for churches of any size that want to protect their people without compromising their mission.
Sharpen your shooting skills without firing a single round! This pistols-only clinic focuses on dry fire training—safe, effective practice you can do anywhere.
In this hands-on session, you’ll learn:
Proper dry fire safety and setup (no live ammunition in the classroom)
Fundamentals of grip, stance, sight alignment, and trigger control
Drills to improve speed, accuracy, and consistency
How to diagnose and correct common shooting errors
We’ll provide handouts and written drills so you can continue training at home, building muscle memory and confidence between range sessions.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to strengthen your foundation or an experienced shooter aiming to refine your skills, this clinic will give you the tools to take your performance to the next level—no ammo required!
Your safety starts with a plan. Join us for this 90-minute, hands-on training designed to help you build a personalized defense strategy that fits your lifestyle. Through interactive teaching, real-life scenarios, and practical tools, you’ll learn how to:
Strengthen your awareness and confidence
Recognize and avoid potential threats
Create a step-by-step defense plan for home, work, and daily routines
Choose and effectively use self-defense tools that work for you
Respond with clarity in high-stress situations
This is not just a class—it’s a mindset shift. We will look at local crime statistics to help you understand the importance of having a personal safety plan. Leave with confidence, a personal safety checklist, a safety plan for home, work, and making transitions to and from locations...and the peace of mind that comes from being prepared to live defensively...and safely.
Virtual class: the link will be emailed one day prior to the class date.
This 45-minute virtual workshop introduces the core principles of Verbal Judo and how intentional words can be used to de-escalate tension, set boundaries, and help avoid or escape potentially dangerous situations. Participants will learn why verbal skills are a critical part of personal safety and how simple, prepared phrases can be just as powerful as physical tools. This session provides a clear framework for using verbal communication under stress, along with real-world examples and practical tips that can be applied immediately. The workshop is designed to be accessible, engaging, and empowering—especially for individuals who don’t feel confident thinking quickly under pressure.
Participants Will Learn: • What Verbal Judo is and why it matters in personal safety • How words, tone, and body language work together • Common mistakes that escalate conflict (and how to avoid them) • Simple, effective phrases for setting boundaries and creating space
Ideal For: Women, professionals, caregivers, students, and anyone looking to improve situational awareness and communication skills as part of a layered approach to safety.
This in-person, 1.5-hour class takes Verbal Judo beyond the basics and into real-world application. Participants will explore verbal de-escalation in greater depth and learn how to build a personalized Verbal Judo safety plan based on their lifestyle, comfort level, and likely scenarios.
Through guided discussion, examples, and low-stress role-play, participants will practice using their voice in a safe, supportive environment. Emphasis is placed on preparation over quick thinking, helping students develop confidence through planning and repetition rather than improvisation.
Participants Will Learn: • How to identify personal boundaries and verbal triggers • How to pre-plan phrases and responses for stressful situations • Techniques for handling confrontation, unwanted attention, and escalating behavior • How to pair verbal skills with movement, awareness, and exit strategies
Interactive Elements Include: • Scenario-based discussion • Guided phrase development • Optional practice exercises to build confidence • Creation of a personalized Verbal Judo safety plan
Ideal For: Anyone seeking hands-on skill development, especially women, teens, and professionals who want practical tools they can confidently use in daily life.
This class provides a clear, practical understanding of when and how force may be legally justified. Students learn how to assess real-world scenarios, understand the boundaries of self-defense law, and make informed decisions under pressure. This course equips responsible gun owners with the knowledge needed to protect themselves while staying within the law. NOTE: We are NOT attorneys, but offer this class to help provide information related to MS laws.
Our USCCA Personal & Home Protection class goes beyond basic firearms training to help you develop the mindset, skills, and strategies needed to protect yourself and your loved ones responsibly. Learn situational awareness, conflict avoidance, home defense planning, and the legal and emotional realities of self-defense in a supportive, practical environment. This class is designed to help everyday people become more confident, prepared, and empowered—not fearful.
Our Identifying a Public Threat class teaches you how to recognize warning signs, improve situational awareness, and respond wisely in potentially dangerous environments before a crisis escalates. You’ll learn practical strategies for identifying suspicious behavior, understanding pre-incident indicators, and making calm, informed decisions under stress. This class is about empowerment through awareness—helping you move through the world with greater confidence, preparedness, and peace of mind.
Our Basic Pistol Safety for Teachers class is designed to help educators build confidence, awareness, and foundational safety skills in a calm, supportive environment. Using laser training pistols, participants will learn firearm safety basics, situational awareness, classroom safety considerations, and practical nonlethal protection options without the pressure of live-fire training. This class focuses on preparedness, prevention, and empowering teachers with knowledge and confidence to better protect themselves and those in their care.
Skill Builder 3: Holster Skills is a 2-hour live-fire session introducing safe, controlled drawing from a properly fitted holster while developing accuracy, consistency, and efficient movement. Participants will work on holster selection, safe presentation fundamentals, and controlled shooting drills designed to build confidence and skill while emphasizing safe handling and range procedures.
The Thrill of the Drill is a 2-hour live-fire experience designed to make skill-building fun, challenging, and engaging. Participants will work through a variety of structured shooting drills—including the Casino Drill, Bill Drill, and other instructor-selected exercises—while focusing on accuracy, consistency, and efficient shooting fundamentals.
This is more than a traditional range session—it’s an opportunity to put your skills to work, challenge yourself, and have a great time doing it. Come ready to shoot, learn, improve, and see how your skills stack up!
Join us to learn how to develop a personal security plan - for ladies only.
