Josh Margolies
Instructor # 4279272 | Hill Country Firearms Training LLC
Certified with the USCCA since 12/7/2025
Certification Renewal Date 12/7/2026
USCCA Certifications
- Concealed Carry & Home Defense
My Biography
Hill Country Firearms Training LLC is a growing personal defense training company. We use traditional and as innovative training techniques to give our students a unique learning experience. From basic firearms knowledge to home and personal defense fundementals, HCFT helps you make informed decisions about the protective tools you choose for yourself and your family.
As a retired Marine Corps veteran our owner and lead instructor, Josh Margolies has over 23 years of firearms knowledge training and experience. Josh was a Reconnaissance Marine, a Recon Instructor, and an instructor at III MEF, Special Operations Training Group. He is also a USCCA Certified Firearm Instructor in Concealed Carry and Home Defense, is a Range Safety Officer and holds a NRA Pistol Certification and is a certified Texas License to Carry (LTC) instructor.
Current Classes Available
- Sat, Oct. 31, 2026 10:00 AM

Online Texas License to Carry Course
with Josh Margolies5.0Hill Country Firearms Training LLC
Spring Branch, TX$49
Sat, Nov. 7, 2026 10:00 AM
Online Texas License to Carry Course
with Josh Margolies5.0Hill Country Firearms Training LLC
Spring Branch, TX$49
Sat, Nov. 14, 2026 10:00 AM
Online Texas License to Carry Course
with Josh Margolies5.0Hill Country Firearms Training LLC
Spring Branch, TX$49
Sat, Nov. 21, 2026 10:00 AM
Online Texas License to Carry Course
with Josh Margolies5.0Hill Country Firearms Training LLC
Spring Branch, TX$49
Sat, Nov. 28, 2026 10:00 AM
Online Texas License to Carry Course
with Josh Margolies5.0Hill Country Firearms Training LLC
Spring Branch, TX$49
Sat, Dec. 5, 2026 10:00 AM
Online Texas License to Carry Course
with Josh Margolies5.0Hill Country Firearms Training LLC
Spring Branch, TX$49
Sat, Dec. 12, 2026 10:00 AM
Online Texas License to Carry Course
with Josh Margolies5.0Hill Country Firearms Training LLC
Spring Branch, TX$49
Sat, Dec. 19, 2026 10:00 AM
Online Texas License to Carry Course
with Josh Margolies5.0Hill Country Firearms Training LLC
Spring Branch, TX$49
Request a Class
The overall objective of this course is to educate students about the responsibilities associated with handgun ownership. We cover the universal safety rules and go in-depth on semi-automatic pistols and revolvers.
I run a laid-back class, and I'm very open to questions.
There is a live fire practical application. It's a good introduction for people new to firearms and a good refresher with extra challenges for those who are familiar.
***This course does not certify you for a Texas License to Carry.
***Handgun rentals are available for this class.
This is the official class needed to get your Texas license to carry (Texas LTC). Once you enroll, you can take the class at your own pace, 24/7 on any device – smartphone, tablet, or computer. The 4-hour program is divided into 15 to 20-minute segments, allowing you to take it on your own schedule. Your progress will be saved each session, so you can pick up where you left off
Customized coaching for pistol fundamentals. This personalized class can be tailor-made to your needs, whether you're trying to simply master the basics or be a faster, more accurate shooter. Your needs are my primary focus.
You will learn about job-related activities that put real estate agents at risk of an attack. We will discuss situational awareness, your environment, and how to avoid potentially violent encounters. Cell phone safety features and apps that can be used, and certain criteria that should be met before an agent can use reasonable force to evade or subdue an attacker.
The point of this class is to try out a few different firearms before you decide on what you would like to buy for yourself. This exposes new and old shooters to firearms that they may not own or in a different configuration than what an experienced shooter may already have, without having to change your set up. The cost includes the use of firearms and ammunition provided by Hill Country Firearms Training LLC. This evolution can be modified to fit your specific needs with a growing roster of firearms to try. An instructor will contact you directly after signing up to tailor the experience to your needs.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) License to Carry Class outlines the curriculum into distinct components, designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for safe and legal carry. Here is exactly what you will learn in our class:
• Texas Firearms Laws: You will review federal and state statutes, including rules on concealed vs. open carry, where you are legally prohibited from carrying, and how to spot legal 30.06 and 30.07 signs.
• Use of Force & Deadly Force: Detailed instruction covers the legal definitions of self-defense, the "Castle Doctrine," and when you are legally justified in drawing or firing a weapon.
• Handgun Use, Safety, and Storage: The course breaks down basic handgun anatomy, fundamental aiming principles, safe loading/unloading, and how to safely store firearms in your home to keep them out of the wrong hands.
• Non-Violent Dispute Resolution: You will learn situational awareness and de-escalation techniques to avoid physical altercations or resolve conflicts safely before resorting to deadly force.
After the classroom portion, you must successfully pass a written exam and complete a 50-round live-fire shooting qualification. You will shoot at a B-27 silhouette target from 3, 7, and 15 yards, needing a score of at least 175 out of 250 to pass.
*Handguns are available for rent for $25 on site with prior notice. Cash only for rentals.
PROFICIENCY DEMONSTRATION
The Texas License To Carry (LTC) Shooting Proficiency Demonstration is a state-mandated Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requirement. To successfully complete the requirement, you must shoot a standard B-27 silhouette target from three varying distances.
The Course of Fire The demonstration consists of 50 rounds fired at a standard B-27 silhouette target, with a maximum possible score of 250 points. A minimum score of 175 (70%) is required. The test evaluates accuracy and safe handling across several stages: • 3-Yard Stage: This stage focuses on fundamental handgun operation and accuracy at close range, involving multiple strings of fire, Texas LTC Shooting Proficiency Demonstration Exam. • 7-Yard Stage: This stage tests the ability to maintain accuracy and control at a moderate distance under instructor-led intervals. • 15-Yard Stage: The final stage requires precision shooting at the longest distance of the qualification. What to Bring When attending the session with a certified instructor, participants should be prepared with the following items: • A handgun (at least .22 caliber) • 50 rounds of factory-made ammunition. • Standard safety gear, including eye and ear protection. • Range-appropriate attire, such as closed-toe shoes and long pants. • The classroom completion certificate (Form LTC-100 or LTC-101)



