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Lisa

5.0

Knowledge

Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

I cannot recommend Mantis Defense and Ryan Burkett highly enough. Ryan is an outstanding instructor who combines extensive knowledge, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to helping his students succeed.

Through his Maryland Concealed Carry training, I gained a thorough understanding of the course material, including the regulations, responsibilities, and best practices associated with responsible firearm ownership. The one-on-one time at the range was especially valuable, allowing me to fine-tune my skills with personalized guidance and feedback.

Ryan has a deep understanding of the laws and practical aspects of concealed carry, and he has a talent for explaining complex topics in a way that is clear, approachable, and easy to understand. He also goes above and beyond by sharing valuable resources, helpful links, and discounts that continue to benefit his students well beyond the course.

Ryan and Mantis Defense receive my highest recommendation. If you are looking for a knowledgeable, patient, and dedicated instructor, you will not be disappointed.
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3 months ago
Linn

5.0

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Experience

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Safety

I chose Ryan and Mantis Defense because of Ryan’s extensive background knowledge, strong reputation in the community, and proven experience as both an instructor and coach. From the very beginning, he was welcoming, approachable, and genuinely invested in helping me and my friend improve and refine our skills.

What stood out most was his ability to coach and provide practical feedback that immediately translated to better performance on the range. His instruction was clear, professional, and tailored to my goals, which helped enhance my shooting ability and confidence.

In addition to outstanding training, Ryan is also an excellent resource for products and equipment recommendations. His knowledge and willingness to help make the entire experience valuable for shooters of all skill levels. I highly recommend Ryan and Mants Defense for both firearms training and product guidance!
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4 months ago
Boaz L.

5.0

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Safety

Big shout out to instructer Ryan, He consistently created an engaging and supportive session. He was able to connect drills and holds to real-life scenarios.
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4 months ago
Angela Mason

5.0

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Experience

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Safety

Massive, massive, massive thank you to Ryan!
As an instructor, Ryan is EXTREMELY knowledgeable regarding the laws and the responsibility of gun ownership. My questions were answered and explained thoroughly, and I left the session more confident, better informed and a more responsible gun owner. Ryan is extraordinary and future training sessions will be on the calendar. Thank you Ryan, and happy you enjoyed the cookies!
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5 months ago
Celina + Daniel

5.0

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Skills

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Safety

We took the MD Wear and Carry class for the initial HGP + 2 renewals—that’s over 6 years of great experience. Ryan and his team are knowledgeable and passionate for their craft. They’re patience and thorough. Coming back to them is a no brainer for us. There’s a genuine interest in ensuring every student leaves their “classroom” understanding the information provided and the responsibility. Thank you for your excellence.
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6 months ago
Suzanne Bass

5.0

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Mantis Defense
I wanted to take a moment to give a shout out to Ryan Burkett and team of Mantis Defense for a spectacular class that I took this past weekend.

I recently completed my MSP CCW renewal class with Mantis Defense and it was excellent from start to finish with an outstanding experience. The instructors were extremely knowledgeable, professional, and made the entire process smooth and informative. They made what could be a routine renewal class actually interesting and valuable. They took the time to explain not only the legal requirements but also practical safety and real-world considerations for responsible carry.

The class was organized, efficient, and respectful of everyone’s time while still being thorough. The instructors created a comfortable environment where questions were encouraged and answered clearly. You can tell they genuinely care about responsible firearm ownership and making sure their students leave better informed. I left the class feeling confident, well-informed, and appreciative of the high level of training they provide.

If you’re looking for a professional, well-run CCW class with great instructors, I highly recommend Mantis Defense to anyone needing their MSP CCW training or renewal.

Thank you again Ryan for getting in me your class so quickly and being a wonderful part of my CCW training.
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7 months ago
Noah V

5.0

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Safety

One of the most valuable classes I have ever taken.

Ryan’s training was in-depth, paced perfectly, and extensive.

Whether you need a new permit, renewal, or lessons, Ryan is the guy.
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11 months ago
Martin V.

5.0

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Skills

Experience

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Safety

I took HQL with Ryan. The class was very educational and he was very detailed when explaining all topics throughout the class. Ryan is a great instructor and I will definetly take future classes with him.
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2 years ago
Tim Pirrone

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

I just got done my renewal class for my Maryland Wear and Carry with Ryan and Wayne and it was a very informational class that got me up to date with everything new in Maryland when it comes to the laws of carrying a gun. I couldn’t recommend them both more if you are looking for instructors. They are both very knowledgeable and actually care about their students even after they leave the class.
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2 years ago
Andrew Rosenberg

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Ryan is easily one of the best instructors in the area. I’ve been working with him for about a year now for private instruction on multiple platforms (AR-15, handgun, tactical shotgun) and the growth I’ve seen in my shooting ability is night and day. If you’re looking to learn how to shoot or take what you already know to the next level, Ryan is your guy!
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2 years ago
Lester Rodriguez

5.0

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Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

My experience with Ryan has been nothing short of exceptional. I first met Ryan about five months ago during our initial one-on-one session, where he thoroughly educated me on disassembling, assembling, cleaning, lubricating, and maintaining my firearms. As a new firearms owner, I left that session feeling incredibly confident and knowledgeable thanks to the skills I acquired. My ongoing training with Ryan has significantly improved my proficiency with IWB/OWB drills. His teaching skills, patience, and guidance are truly outstanding. Ryan comes with my highest recommendation.
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2 years ago
Jess Simon

5.0

Knowledge

Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

I remember my one-on-one training with Ryan, which marked the beginning of my journey with Mantis Defense. Growing up around firearms, I surprisingly knew little about them and was even intimidated. However, Ryan’s exceptional instruction and guidance completely transformed my experience. His trainings have not only made me feel confident and comfortable with firearms but also left me eager to share my progress with others. Ryan’s teaching style is truly unique, making even the most novice students feel at ease. His vast knowledge and expertise in the field are unparalleled. Thank you, Ryan, for all that you do – I’m grateful for your dedication and passion!
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2 years ago
Josh Marks

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Took the Shooter 1 class with Ryan and learned a lot of protocols. Ryan Burkette of mantis defense llc is a great teacher and I believe I felt more comfortable in practice learning different modes of reloading and reacquainting target. Under timed situations. This is a class I recommend to anyone that has passed their CCW class and should learn different methodology of shooting under timed environment. I have a lot of confidence after practicing with Ryan
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2 years ago
Andrew

5.0

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Experience

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Safety

Amazing instructor and answered all my questions in full. I Recommend to my friends/family
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2 years ago
Josh Marks

5.0

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Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

First and foremost a strict proponent of safe protocols both on and off the range.

Bryan provide a through concise and easy to understand instruction on firearm operation, tactics , and situational awareness. Both he and Wayne engender the confidence of all who have trained with them and highly recommend their class. Very proud to give this review.
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2 years ago
1. Josh Marks
  
  I apologize Ryan. My bad on the name. We are coming back.
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  2 years ago
Joe Dale

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Ryan may come off as subtle and disciplined but he could eat your head off if the mood arises. Must be where the “Mantis” name derives. He’s like a mix between Leslie Chow and the terminator. He could be your best friend at the party, or lead an army through combat. Everything about Mantis is what you want in a class. It’s serious and professional, yet exciting and fun. Highly recommend. 5 stars. Will return!
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3 years ago
Amina Black

5.0

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Skills

Experience

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Safety

The entire experience was great. I learned so much & felt supported throughout! Ryan Is extremely knowledgeable & you will leave feeling more prepared than when you entered! I’m going to refer anyone that I know is interested in obtaining their conceal carry straight to him!!!
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4 years ago
Mike Double

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Totally enjoyed the CCW class with Ryan and Wayne. Their expertise and add lib made the 16 hours of information and training really sink in. Ryan has a wealth of information on firearms and shooting. Very professional and helpful. Looking forward to working with Mantis in the future…Thanks
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4 years ago
Bryan

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Great class! They were very knowledgeable and easy to learn from. Great communicators, and overall good people. Above all else, safety was always #1! Use Mantis Defence for you training needs, you’ll be happy too!
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4 years ago
Carl Maxin

5.0

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Skills

Experience

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Safety

Excellent instructor.
Definitely worth spending the money going with him, rather then spending 200 bucks going to a shady “instructor” that’s been teaching for 3 months.
You get what you pay for, and you get alot with Ryan.
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4 years ago
Naomi

5.0

Knowledge

Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Ryan is truly an amazing firearm instructor!! I met Ryan in 2018; I signed up for his holster class. At the time, I knew veryy little about firearms. Today, my knowledge and skills on how to handle a firearm are allll thanks to Ryan!! You can 100% tell the passion Ryan has for teaching by just taking one class with him. He does such a great job at making his students feel so comfortable and calm on the range. He is super safe, knowledgeable, patient, and professional! He is the total package! You will not regret booking a class with Ryan!
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4 years ago
Joy

5.0

Knowledge

Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

I took the CCW course with Ryan as he was recommended to me by a friend. I was blown away by how professional and knowledgeable he was. His expertise is truly unmatched! I learned so much from him in such a short time that I am going to come back for one on one training. As a mother, the knowledge and piece of mind I got from taking this course led by Ryan is truly priceless. Ryan more than exceeded my expectations – he was SO much better than my HQL instructor. I highly recommend him!!
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4 years ago
Nate Homayouni

5.0

Knowledge

Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

If you’re looking to get your CCW or HQL, Ryan is the man. I took his CCW class and I’m happy I did. Ryan has the gun acumen like no other. I took one on one lessons with him and he trained me how to shoot. When it comes to firearms training, he’s the only guy I trust.
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4 years ago
Leon E Hairston Il

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Ryan was an excellent instructor with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. For the course, he was hands on in the classroom and at the range. I have known him for 2 years and this is my first training with him. I’m going back for private sessions also. Great selection on my CCW journey and after class email we’re followed up promptly. Highly recommend his service. Thanks for the time and energy!
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4 years ago
Nicole

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

It’s been a while since I’ve done any training with Ryan, but he’s definitely a top notch instructor that I’d recommend time and time again. Whether you’re a novice or an advanced shooter, rest assured that there’s still plenty to learn and Ryan is your guy to help strengthen whatever skill set you have. Ryan genuinely cares about his students and makes sure you feel confident in the material he’s teaching. He’s super professional, extremely safe, patient, helpful, and makes learning fun! He’s passionate about firearms and firearm safety and it shows in his teaching. I’ve seen him teach students from all walks of life – male and female, young and old – and can confidently say that he’s great with shooters from all backgrounds. Book a class and tell your friends… you’ll be happy to have Ryan to learn from!
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4 years ago
Robert Sigillito

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

I just attended a W&C class where Ryan was half of the team, and I must say that he has an impressive breadth of knowledge that he conveys in a very clear manner. I have been shooting handguns for many years attending Steel Challenge and IDPA matches and he taught me somethings to tweak my grip and stance that I am using to fine tune my skills. I plan on taking more classes with Ryan and recommend him to both new and experienced shooters.
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4 years ago
Steve

5.0

Knowledge

Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Ryan is great!!! I have been to him multiple times and will continue to go back.
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4 years ago
John M

5.0

Knowledge

Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

I recently took the MD W & C course from Ryan and his associate Wayne. Ryan was extremely knowledgeable, very easy to understand and also very patient in going over some items several times to make sure the class understood the concepts presented. They are very organized and are wonderful communicators, before, during and after the class. I will be taking additional courses from Ryan and Wayne.
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4 years ago
Natalia

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Looking for an instructor? Look no further. Ryan is your guy. I’ve taken classes from many other instructors but have kept coming back to Ryan. He knows how to break down skills and concepts in such a way that anybody could understand. He really motivates me during sessions and it’s always a great time. I can’t wait for our next one!
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4 years ago
Jon G.

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Ryan was great, easy to talk to and answered all my questions. He has a very safe and comfortable environment for training. Definitely plan on taking another lesson with him!
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4 years ago
Adrienne Hansen

5.0

Knowledge

Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Oh my gosh, where do I begin. Ryan is amazing. Not only is he super knowledgeable but he is patient and understanding. He personalizes your education without judgement. Honestly I never liked Handguns I was more of a long gun fan, but I knew I needed to face the fear I had. Ryan was patient and guided me thru all my education. Even helped me find the best handgun for me! He could tell thru my training when it was me just being fearful or me just not understanding. He would guide me thru my fears. I never felt judged and always felt safe. We took many amazing safety classes he taught which I feel like everyone should take. Ryan is the best!
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4 years ago
Bernie Bass

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Ryan is very knowledgeable when it comes to firearms and training. He has a great personally that makes learning fun and keeps you interested and on topic. I would recommend him for any type of firearms training you’re looking to take. You will not be disappointed having him as an instructor.
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4 years ago
Derek F

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Everything with the class went smoothly. Ryan and team have a soothing effect on their students. One of the most valuable additions to the class is the amount of communication that Ryan has with MSP about the most up to date guidance in Maryland.
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4 years ago
Justin Dennie

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Ryan is a stand up instructor who will break it down in any way possible to make sure that you understand what he wants you to learn in his sessions. For Ryan, there’s no such thing as a stupid question. He encourages all questions no matter how small it may seem. He not only will answer your questions and train you on the fundamentals but if you are trying to build and you don’t know what parts to go with, he will help guide you through the process. But he will not tell you “this is the only part that you can use”. Instead, he will recommend parts that he likes and that he uses himself.
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4 years ago
Arty Bolembakh

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

I’ve used various instructors over the years but Ryan’s knowledge and ability to teach surpasses every one of them. His dedication to his students is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. He will take his time to break down every little detail in a way that makes it easy to understand and apply. I now send everyone I know to Ryan.
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4 years ago
Michael Frank

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Honestly, not knowing where to turn, I’ve leaned on Ryan for many things over the years, as he has always been an open book of communication and support. I went to him first to get my HQL license, which was when I was most surprised by the content, the way he shared, and the patience he had with shooters of all ages. He never made me feel dumb in my learning process, and he even encouraged asking silly questions because that’s how we learn. Ryan has been my go to for education, training, and now, gun ownership/management. His approach is hands on, real time, and “don’t over think it”, which has been pivotal in my learning curve.
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4 years ago
Jeremy Dowden

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

I’ve known Ryan for a little over 10 years. Wouldn’t say we’re the closest of friends but whenever I’ve needed anything firearm related he is always willing to help in any way he can. When Maryland made to move to be a better state I immediately texted Ryan and he got me the forms for the class and got me in asap. Throughout the class he answered every single question with the utmost professionalism, gave great knowledge tidbits and was extremely patient during the live fire portion. Ryan is just a real stand up guy if you ask me, you couldn’t ask for a better instructor and if you did, you probably wouldn’t find one.
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4 years ago
Tim R

5.0

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Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

I have taken a few classes from Ryan, he’s definitely one of the best instructors in the area, very knowledgeable. I spend a lot of times with firearms, I’ve been a firearm enthusiastic for over a decade but Ryan has taught and showed me so many things that I never knew. I took HQL , CCW , and learned a few firearm training (pistol & rifle) from him, he’s very patient and helpful to his students.
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4 years ago
Steve

5.0

Knowledge

Skills

Experience

Helpfulness

Safety

Very educational class,
offered constructive insight on fixing my shooting.
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4 years ago

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I started Mantis Defense with a friend from college in 2013 and grew that passion into a full LLC offering training focusing on the student needs, not just a curriculum sheet. Methods and concepts have been refined and expanded. In addition to training, Mantis Defense has provided photography, media, and consultation for others. Our goal has always been to make someone self sufficient and reliable upon themselves. I have trained 10 year olds, 80 year olds, civilian, military, law enforcement, and high profile students. I have trained under Mil, LE, various 3 letter agencies instructors, and other civilian instructors. Graduate of TU Bachelor’s in Sociology and Anthropology with a concentration in Criminal Justice. Minority Leadership Awards. Eagle Scout.

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