Meet Your Instructor: Todd Wittlief

A lifetime of experience. A career of teaching. A commitment to safety and skill.
Todd Wittlief is a civilian firearms instructor with over 15 years of experience in handgun, shotgun, and practical rifle shooting. He spent two years as an instructor at the nations largest training facility providing specialized training in the safe use of handguns, shotguns, and rifles as defensive tools. He has had the pleasure to teach students with various experience levels ranging from never having touched a firearm to professionals that carry for a living with military and law enforcement backgrounds, as well as entertainment personalities for personal defense. His training emphasizes safe firearm handling, weapon manipulation, strong foundational and advanced skills, and practical defensive tactics designed for real-world situations.

Todd is married and a proud father of three. His dedication to family shapes his commitment to responsible firearm ownership and personal protection.

In addition to his firearms background, Todd brings valuable experience as a Sr Operations Manager for a general contracting company. His leadership, organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage risk translate directly into his role as a Firearms Instructor. He is passionate about creating a structured, professional, and safety-focused learning environment where students gain both confidence and competence.

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

Todd leads the shotgun and rifle programs at Permit & Protect. His 15 plus years of training experience shapes every course so students leave with real competence and confidence, not just a certificate.
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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