Throughout history, across many civilizations, being armed was considered a duty. We come from that tradition, and we built Oak Arms to keep it within reach of every New Yorker.
The right to bear arms predates the 1689 English Bill of Rights under which our Founding Fathers armed themselves. It was solidified through the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. It was always understood as an individual right, from the Declaration on the Causes and Necessity of Taking Up Arms to Federalist No. 46.
The 14th Amendment reaffirmed that right for freed slaves in 1868, serving as a check on states whose Black Codes restricted firearm ownership through permit requirements. And in 2022, the Supreme Court affirmed in NYSRPA v. Bruen that citizens have the right to bear arms outside the home.
New York answered Bruen with the CCIA, raising the training required to carry concealed from 4 hours to 18. We watched that requirement put carry permits out of reach for many New Yorkers: courses too expensive, group classes impossible to schedule around a working life.
That is why we started Oak Arms Training Group.
While we believe training should not be a requirement to exercise a right, we do believe in training, and in constant, deliberate practice with the firearms and tools you own. When you're learning a new skill you will make mistakes, and it is far better to make them in a controlled environment than during an actual emergency.
We formed out of the idea that each person is different and learns differently. We all have strengths, and we all have learning targets (the things we can improve).
Our come-to-you, tailored approach is designed to grow your confidence no matter your experience level. At the end of the day, you are your own first responder, so you need to be prepared.
Private, patient, personal instruction for wherever you are on the path.
I am my own first responder