Owner Profile

Tom Koch, Owner and Instructor

I started my love affair with firearms as a little boy of seven when my father came into possession of a single shot bolt action twenty-two. It was a special time and each of the cartridges with its shiny brass case seemed to have mystical power to conjure up anticipation and enjoyment and responsibility in me. My dad would be laughing behind me as I shot. He said it was comical to watch the barrel dancing all over the place as the rifle cracked and then hearing the ‘clank’ of a metal hubcap being struck 60-70 yards away.

Around 17 years of age I progressed into small game hunting with my friends. I then trained bird dogs to join me on my hunting forays. And, I still do to this day. My pulse still quickens when one of my dogs goes on point. In my late twenties till my early forties I was in law enforcement. I was a deputy sheriff in Washington State. I worked with a great group of guys and enjoyed the challenges of that position. Of course, I always enjoyed range time. Free ammo for me to shoot. Count me in.

I also shot my own ammo at a local range where I was a member. I competed in rifle and pistol disciplines and received several trophies, including a second place showing in a national silhouette match. I was one of the safety officers for the club as well. I am still certified as a range safety officer today.

My programs are designed around the guns that I find of interest and hopefully you will find them of interest as well.

My favorite subject in school was history. Shooting Through History allows us to view history from the standpoint of how and what firearms contributed to the creating, shaping, and preserving of this great country.

Police Patrol brings back my days on the force. I started with a 357 revolver and then transitioned to a 45 acp 1911. I, of course, carried an 870 shotgun in the rack of my patrol car and also had a rifle, AR-15 then a M1A, in the trunk.

Concealed Considerations pays tribute to the Second Amendment, an individual right that allows us to keep and bear arms. Along with 36 other states, Nevada allows for concealed carry. I just wish government had fewer restrictions on this right, starting with the costs. In this program I’ll pass along what I have learned about handguns from all my experiences.

Recreational Rim Fire takes me back to where it all began, shooting that 22 with my dad, relaxing on a Sunday afternoon. This program is structured for families to come out, have fun, learn about guns, and above all, relax.