NAAGA Founder and President, Philip Smith got a chance to speak with Robert A. Holloway, owner of the Gorilla Firearm Instruction gun range. Robert is the founder of The Queen’s Guard Chapter of NAAGA San Antonio, Texas, but he moved to Mississippi to launch his gun range and focus on building firearms instruction programs and range amenities on his property.  Although he is no longer a chapter president, Robert remains an active member of NAAGA with the hopes of founding a chapter in Mississippi in the years to come.

PS: Hello, Robert. I want to thank you for speaking to us today. We want to hear how you got started in the firearms industry and your journey toward land ownership as an African American gun owner. Where is the location of your Gun Range?

RH: State Line, Mississippi.  

PS: What type of teaching experience and certifications do you have? 

RH: Military, DOD, USCCA home defense, personal defense, and I’m also a first aid and women’s defense Instructor. Additionally, I am an NRA pistol, rifle and shot gun instructor, home safety and certified RSO, and a proud and active NAAGA member.

PS: Do you have military or law enforcement experience?

RH: Military chemical, airborne, and weapons trainer.

PS: When and where did you shoot your first firearm? Who instructed you to shoot? 

RH: I shot my first firearm when I was 6yrs old hunting in the woods in Mississippi. I was taught by my father who is a Vietnam veteran.

PS: What are your favorite guns to shoot?

PH: All AR platforms, Sig 40mm and Springfield 1911.

PS: How many years of instructor experience do you have?

RH: It’s hard to quantify this, but I would say at least 10yrs.

PS: What made you decide to acquire land for a gun range?

RH: I already owned the property, and I have a passion for firearm safety. I was also concerned about the lack of black gun ranges where my fellow brothers and sisters can feel comfortable taking classes, get mentorship, or just practice.

PS: What is the overall goal of your training and company?

RH: To provide proper training in a sanctuary for the African American family and community.

PS: Why do you like firearms training?

RH: I see the purpose in training, having lost family and friends to the lack of knowledge regarding firearm safety.

PS: Does your family shoot also?

RH: Yes, all eight of my children enjoy shooting with my wife and me. My wife is in the military currently, so our children usually start shooting around 4yrs old. We develop a strong emphasis on safety from the time they can walk.

PS: Thanks for speaking with us today, and good luck on your gun range.  

Gorilla Firearm Instruction invites NAAGA to bring their chapter members, family and friends for firearms instruction, outdoor range rental and competitions. In the months to come, they will offer areas on their beautiful riverfront property for camping and recreational activities.  For more information, visit: GorillaFirearmInstruction.com.