Meet Your Instructor: Steve Fennell

A lifetime of experience. A career of teaching. A commitment to safety and skill.
Steve Fennell is a certified firearms instructor with over a decade of experience dedicated to safe, responsible gun ownership. A Las Vegas native, Steve has been an NRA Certified Instructor since 2012 and is a current LVMPD-approved CCW instructor. He has trained individuals from a wide range of backgrounds in firearm safety, marksmanship fundamentals, defensive skills, and the legal responsibilities of carrying a firearm.

Safety is the foundation of everything he teaches. Whether in the classroom or on the range, Steve is known for maintaining a controlled, supportive environment that builds confidence while reinforcing strict safety standards. His background as a business owner and educator gives him a patient, structured teaching style that connects with both new and experienced shooters.

Outside of firearms instruction, Steve has a wide range of interests that reflect his curiosity and creativity. He is a B-movie enthusiast, podcaster, and 3D-printing hobbyist, with a lifelong appreciation for hands-on problem solving. He is also a licensed cosmetologist, reinforcing his belief that safety, discipline, and proper technique matter in every skill set. When he’s not teaching, Steve prioritizes physical fitness and spending active time with his wife and sons.

Steve’s mission is simple: to ensure every student leaves with a deeper respect for firearms, a clear understanding of the law, and the skills needed to handle a firearm safely and responsibly.

Experience and Background

45+
Years in the Field
4,000+
Training Hours
15+
Certifications
20+
Years of Teaching

More Than 45 Years in the Field

Ed has spent decades hunting big game, small game, and waterfowl throughout the country. He has competed in IPSC, IDPA, and local law-enforcement-sponsored practical shooting matches. His background also includes competitive trap, skeet, 5-stand, and sporting clays.

More Than 4,000 Hours of Professional Training

Ed has completed extensive training with nationally recognized schools, including:
  • Progressive Force Concepts
  • Front Sight Firearms Training Institute
  • Safety First Firearms Training
  • Eagle Guardian Solutions
This includes coursework in defensive handgun, tactical shotgun, practical rifle, edged weapons, close-quarters engagements, select-fire platforms, scenario-based training, night shooting, and more.

Instructor Certifications

Ed’s training and certification background ensures each student receives instruction that is safe, structured, and aligned with best practices across the industry.

NRA Certifications

  • Chief Range Safety Officer
  • Range Safety Officer
  • Basic Pistol
  • Basic Shotgun
  • Basic Rifle
  • Personal Protection Inside the Home
  • Personal Protection Outside the Home
  • Refuse To Be A Victim
  • Basic Instructor Training

Additional Instructor Credentials

  • Nevada CCW Instructor
  • Utah CCW Instructor
  • USCCA Instructor
  • Eagle Guardian Solutions Handgun Instructor
  • Front Sight Handgun Line Coach
  • JES Supply Company CCW and Basic Firearm Safety Instructor

Formal Firearms Training Highlights

Foundational Credentials

  • Hunter Safety Course, 1972
  • Nevada Concealed Firearms Permit, 1985 to present

Advanced Training (sample of coursework)

  • Defensive Handgun, 2-day and 4-day
  • Tactical Scenarios
  • Handgun Skill Builder
  • Tactical Shotgun, 2-day and 4-day
  • Shotgun Skill Builder
  • Practical Rifle, 2-day and 4-day
  • Select Fire (M16, Uzi)
  • Close Quarter Combat
  • Edged Weapons
  • Nevada and Utah CCW course instruction

Why Train With Ed McSwain

Safety First

Every class is conducted with strict adherence to proven safety standards and range protocols.

Clear, Practical Teaching

Ed explains concepts in a straightforward, accessible way that helps students retain skills and apply them under pressure.

Real-World Application

Training is built around scenarios, defensive accuracy, and true firearm manipulation rather than simple “check the box” requirements.

Supportive Learning Environment

Whether you are brand new to firearms or experienced and seeking mastery, Ed provides guidance that builds confidence without intimidation.

Train With 
Permit & Protect

Ed leads all handgun, shotgun, carbine, and CCW programs at Permit & Protect. His experience shapes every curriculum so students leave with true capability, not just certificates.
Book your class, build real skill, and train with one of Nevada’s most experienced firearms instructors.
Book Your Class Today
Professional firearms training and CCW instruction for all experience levels.
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