About Michigan CPL Training Academy, LLC
Michigan CPL Training Academy, LLC has established itself as the gold standard for concealed carry permit education in the Detroit metro area. Located in Westland, this academy operates under a clear philosophy: no student should ever leave the classroom confused about Michigan’s firearm laws, their rights, or their responsibilities.
Karl Kessler, the primary instructor and USCCA-certified firearms educator, has built this academy on the foundation that CPL training is fundamentally different from tactical firearms training. Rather than focusing on combat scenarios, the academy prioritizes comprehensive legal education, conflict prevention, and responsible self-defense knowledge. This approach has resonated with the community, earning the academy an exceptional 5.0 rating across nearly 1,900 reviews.
The curriculum is meticulously structured to cover everything a Michigan resident needs to know about carrying a concealed weapon legally and responsibly. Students engage with Michigan-specific legal requirements, police encounter protocols, threat recognition, and situational awareness - knowledge that extends far beyond marksmanship. The academy partners with legal experts, including representatives from Firearms Legal Services, who field questions from students about hypothetical scenarios and real-world legal complexities.
What truly sets Michigan CPL Training Academy apart is its innovative use of technology and training methodology. The facility includes a state-of-the-art simulation range where students practice in a controlled, comfortable environment before transitioning to live-fire instruction. This graduated approach serves two purposes: it allows instructors to assess student progress and comfort levels, and it reduces anxiety for first-time shooters. Students then move to the partner range where they practice marksmanship with provided ammunition, ensuring every participant leaves with practical experience handling a firearm safely.
Brad, the range instructor, complements Karl’s classroom expertise with an equally professional and patient approach on the firing line. Students consistently note that Brad has a talent for diagnosing and correcting shooting issues quickly, whether someone is picking up a gun for the first time or has years of experience. His emphasis on safety protocols and attention to detail ensures that every student develops good habits from day one.
The class is genuinely beginner-friendly, though it’s equally valuable for experienced shooters seeking Michigan-specific legal knowledge. First-time students often express initial anxiety about the course length - it’s a full, information-dense day - but graduate feeling confident, educated, and prepared. The structured environment, engaging presentation, and clear focus on responsible gun ownership create a learning experience that transcends typical CPL certification courses.
For anyone in Michigan seeking their concealed carry permit, this academy represents the gold standard: expert instruction, comprehensive curriculum, professional facilities, and a genuine commitment to creating responsible, educated gun owners.