MEET THE ELITECCW TEAM
BUILT AROUND
BETTER TRAINING.
EliteCCW was built to make firearms training clearer, more practical, and more approachable. We focus on real-world skills, responsible ownership, and helping our students feel confident and prepared.
MEET THE ELITECCW TEAM
THE TEAM BEHIND
ELITECCW
Our instructors and staff bring real-world experience, patience, and a passion for helping our students. The EliteCCW team is here to support you every step of the way.
MIKE DUDA
FOUNDER & CEO
BAILEY DUDA
CO-FOUNDER / LEAD INSTRUCTOR & CHIEF RANGE SAFETY OFFICER
EDWIN PEREZ
INSTRUCTOR / RANGE SAFETY OFFICER
JOHN BONTOF
INSTRUCTOR / RANGE SAFETY OFFICER
DENNIS KOGOD
INSTRUCTOR / RANGE SAFETY OFFICER
MIKE DUDA
FOUNDER & CEO, ELITECCW
Mike Duda is the Founder and CEO of EliteCCW and brings more than three decades of combined military, law enforcement, firearms, and instructional experience to the company. Mike served 22 years in law enforcement with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, working a variety of assignments that included patrol, corrections, field training, and supervision.
His career included serving as a Patrol Supervisor in several Orange County communities and as Supervisor of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department CCW Unit, where he was directly involved in the administration and oversight of one of California’s largest concealed carry licensing programs.
Before his law enforcement career, Mike served 12 years on active duty in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Sergeant First Class (E-7). As an Armor soldier, his assignments included Armor Crewman, Loader, Driver, Gunner, Tank Commander, Senior Instructor/Operator, and Master Gunner. Mike is a combat veteran of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm and is a recipient of the Silver Star.
Today, Mike combines that operational experience with extensive professional firearms training credentials. He is a California POST Certified Firearms Instructor, California DOJ Certified CCW Instructor, BSIS Certified Firearms Instructor for Security Guards and Armed Security Guards, and NRA Certified Pistol Instructor.
Mike has also been qualified by the Orange County Superior Court as an expert witness in Self-Defense and the Use of Deadly Force, providing professional analysis based upon his training, education, and extensive real-world experience.
As the founder of EliteCCW, Mike's philosophy is that responsible firearm ownership requires far more than simply learning how to shoot. Effective training requires an understanding of firearm safety, sound judgment, California law, de-escalation, situational awareness, decision-making under stress, and the legal and practical consequences of using deadly force.
That philosophy forms the foundation of EliteCCW's training:
Safety. Knowledge. Confidence.
Whether working with a first-time firearm owner, an experienced CCW holder, an armed security professional, or a law enforcement officer, Mike's objective remains the same: provide professional, practical, experience-based training that prepares people for the tremendous responsibility that comes with carrying a firearm for personal protection. He believes there’s no better way to serve his community than training our EliteCCW clients to “Protect What Matters!”
His career included serving as a Patrol Supervisor in several Orange County communities and as Supervisor of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department CCW Unit, where he was directly involved in the administration and oversight of one of California’s largest concealed carry licensing programs.
Before his law enforcement career, Mike served 12 years on active duty in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Sergeant First Class (E-7). As an Armor soldier, his assignments included Armor Crewman, Loader, Driver, Gunner, Tank Commander, Senior Instructor/Operator, and Master Gunner. Mike is a combat veteran of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm and is a recipient of the Silver Star.
Today, Mike combines that operational experience with extensive professional firearms training credentials. He is a California POST Certified Firearms Instructor, California DOJ Certified CCW Instructor, BSIS Certified Firearms Instructor for Security Guards and Armed Security Guards, and NRA Certified Pistol Instructor.
Mike has also been qualified by the Orange County Superior Court as an expert witness in Self-Defense and the Use of Deadly Force, providing professional analysis based upon his training, education, and extensive real-world experience.
As the founder of EliteCCW, Mike's philosophy is that responsible firearm ownership requires far more than simply learning how to shoot. Effective training requires an understanding of firearm safety, sound judgment, California law, de-escalation, situational awareness, decision-making under stress, and the legal and practical consequences of using deadly force.
That philosophy forms the foundation of EliteCCW's training:
Safety. Knowledge. Confidence.
Whether working with a first-time firearm owner, an experienced CCW holder, an armed security professional, or a law enforcement officer, Mike's objective remains the same: provide professional, practical, experience-based training that prepares people for the tremendous responsibility that comes with carrying a firearm for personal protection. He believes there’s no better way to serve his community than training our EliteCCW clients to “Protect What Matters!”
BAILEY DUDA
CO-FOUNDER, LEAD FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR & CHIEF RANGE SAFETY OFFICER
POST Certified Law Enforcement Firearms Instructor
California DOJ Certified CCW Instructor
USPSA Master Class Competitive Shooter
Chief Range Safety Officer
Glock Certified Armorer
SIG Sauer Certified Armorer
Mechanical Engineer by Education — Firearms Instructor by Profession
Bailey Duda is the Co-Founder of EliteCCW and one of the driving forces behind the training standards for which EliteCCW has become known. As a POST Certified Law Enforcement Firearms Instructor and California DOJ Certified CCW Instructor, Bailey possesses professional instructor credentials that reflect both the technical and legal responsibilities involved in teaching individuals who carry firearms for personal protection.
But certifications only tell part of the story.
Bailey is also a USPSA Master Class competitive shooter, placing him among a relatively small percentage of competitive shooters who have demonstrated an exceptional level of speed, accuracy, firearm manipulation, and shooting proficiency. As a Glock and SIG Sauer Certified Armorer, he also brings an advanced understanding of the mechanical operation of two of the most widely carried handgun platforms in America.
Educated as a Mechanical Engineer, Bailey approaches shooting differently than many instructors. He can break down the mechanics of grip, recoil management, trigger manipulation, vision, movement, transitions, and firearm operation—and then translate those concepts into instruction that makes sense to the individual student.
That ability to teach, rather than simply demonstrate, is what truly separates Bailey.
He has trained students across the entire spectrum of firearms experience: from young adults firing their first handgun, women who may initially be uncomfortable or apprehensive around firearms, CCW applicants and experienced concealed carriers, to advanced shooters and competitive athletes seeking measurable improvements in performance.
Bailey's professionalism and demeanor are particularly evident when working with new shooters. He creates an environment where students can learn without intimidation or ego. Female students consistently report feeling comfortable and respected during his instruction, while experienced shooters appreciate that he can immediately identify deficiencies and provide practical corrections that produce results.
His instruction has generated hundreds of five-star reviews, covering everything from basic handgun fundamentals and CCW training to advanced firearm manipulation and competitive shooting.
There are plenty of excellent shooters who cannot teach, and plenty of excellent instructors who cannot perform at an elite level. Bailey can teach and perform at the highest level.
Whether he is teaching someone who has never held a firearm or working with an advanced shooter trying to shave tenths of a second from a stage, Bailey brings the same patience, professionalism, technical knowledge, and uncompromising attention to safety.
Instructor extraordinaire by trade. Competitor by passion. Engineer by education. Bailey Duda represents the best of what EliteCCW training is intended to be.
California DOJ Certified CCW Instructor
USPSA Master Class Competitive Shooter
Chief Range Safety Officer
Glock Certified Armorer
SIG Sauer Certified Armorer
Mechanical Engineer by Education — Firearms Instructor by Profession
Bailey Duda is the Co-Founder of EliteCCW and one of the driving forces behind the training standards for which EliteCCW has become known. As a POST Certified Law Enforcement Firearms Instructor and California DOJ Certified CCW Instructor, Bailey possesses professional instructor credentials that reflect both the technical and legal responsibilities involved in teaching individuals who carry firearms for personal protection.
But certifications only tell part of the story.
Bailey is also a USPSA Master Class competitive shooter, placing him among a relatively small percentage of competitive shooters who have demonstrated an exceptional level of speed, accuracy, firearm manipulation, and shooting proficiency. As a Glock and SIG Sauer Certified Armorer, he also brings an advanced understanding of the mechanical operation of two of the most widely carried handgun platforms in America.
Educated as a Mechanical Engineer, Bailey approaches shooting differently than many instructors. He can break down the mechanics of grip, recoil management, trigger manipulation, vision, movement, transitions, and firearm operation—and then translate those concepts into instruction that makes sense to the individual student.
That ability to teach, rather than simply demonstrate, is what truly separates Bailey.
He has trained students across the entire spectrum of firearms experience: from young adults firing their first handgun, women who may initially be uncomfortable or apprehensive around firearms, CCW applicants and experienced concealed carriers, to advanced shooters and competitive athletes seeking measurable improvements in performance.
Bailey's professionalism and demeanor are particularly evident when working with new shooters. He creates an environment where students can learn without intimidation or ego. Female students consistently report feeling comfortable and respected during his instruction, while experienced shooters appreciate that he can immediately identify deficiencies and provide practical corrections that produce results.
His instruction has generated hundreds of five-star reviews, covering everything from basic handgun fundamentals and CCW training to advanced firearm manipulation and competitive shooting.
There are plenty of excellent shooters who cannot teach, and plenty of excellent instructors who cannot perform at an elite level. Bailey can teach and perform at the highest level.
Whether he is teaching someone who has never held a firearm or working with an advanced shooter trying to shave tenths of a second from a stage, Bailey brings the same patience, professionalism, technical knowledge, and uncompromising attention to safety.
Instructor extraordinaire by trade. Competitor by passion. Engineer by education. Bailey Duda represents the best of what EliteCCW training is intended to be.
EDWIN PEREZ
FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR & RANGE SAFETY OFFICER
California DOJ Certified CCW Instructor
POST Certified Law Enforcement Firearms Instructor
NRA Certified Handgun Instructor
NRA Certified Range Safety Officer
Glock Certified Armorer
Edwin Perez has been an integral part of the EliteCCW instructional team for years, working alongside Mike and Bailey to provide professional firearms and concealed carry training to shooters of all experience levels.
A California DOJ Certified CCW Instructor and POST Certified Law Enforcement
Firearms Instructor, Edwin combines formal instructor training with years of practical
experience. He is also an NRA Certified Handgun Instructor, NRA Certified Range Safety Officer, and Glock Certified Armorer.
But Edwin's importance to EliteCCW extends well beyond his certifications.
Edwin has become part of the Duda family—our adopted son, Bailey's adopted brother, and an invaluable part of EliteCCW. His professionalism, loyalty, knowledge, and commitment to our students have been significant contributing factors to the success and reputation of the company.
A lifelong firearms enthusiast, Edwin brings genuine enthusiasm to his instruction. He has the ability to connect with students, explain concepts clearly, recognize areas where a shooter can improve, and reinforce the fundamentals of safe and responsible firearm ownership.
Most importantly, Edwin understands that carrying a firearm isn't about the firearm itself. It's about the responsibility that comes with being prepared to protect yourself and the people who depend on you.
As a husband and father of two, that responsibility is personal to Edwin. He understands exactly what we mean when we say:
Protect What Matters.
For Edwin, it isn't simply EliteCCW's philosophy. It's why we train.
POST Certified Law Enforcement Firearms Instructor
NRA Certified Handgun Instructor
NRA Certified Range Safety Officer
Glock Certified Armorer
Edwin Perez has been an integral part of the EliteCCW instructional team for years, working alongside Mike and Bailey to provide professional firearms and concealed carry training to shooters of all experience levels.
A California DOJ Certified CCW Instructor and POST Certified Law Enforcement
Firearms Instructor, Edwin combines formal instructor training with years of practical
experience. He is also an NRA Certified Handgun Instructor, NRA Certified Range Safety Officer, and Glock Certified Armorer.
But Edwin's importance to EliteCCW extends well beyond his certifications.
Edwin has become part of the Duda family—our adopted son, Bailey's adopted brother, and an invaluable part of EliteCCW. His professionalism, loyalty, knowledge, and commitment to our students have been significant contributing factors to the success and reputation of the company.
A lifelong firearms enthusiast, Edwin brings genuine enthusiasm to his instruction. He has the ability to connect with students, explain concepts clearly, recognize areas where a shooter can improve, and reinforce the fundamentals of safe and responsible firearm ownership.
Most importantly, Edwin understands that carrying a firearm isn't about the firearm itself. It's about the responsibility that comes with being prepared to protect yourself and the people who depend on you.
As a husband and father of two, that responsibility is personal to Edwin. He understands exactly what we mean when we say:
Protect What Matters.
For Edwin, it isn't simply EliteCCW's philosophy. It's why we train.
JOHN BONTOF
FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR & RANGE SAFETY OFFICER
Jonathan Bontoft is a highly trained firearms instructor dedicated to responsible firearm
ownership, safety, and practical defensive training. He is a California Department of Justice Certified CCW Instructor and holds multiple certifications through the National Rifle Association, including NRA Pistol Instructor, Personal Protection Inside the Home Instructor, and Personal Protection Outside the Home Instructor. Jonathan is also a certified NRA Range Safety Officer, committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety on the range.
A passionate firearm enthusiast, Jonathan combines his technical knowledge with a professional, student-focused teaching style. He is committed to helping individuals of all experience levels develop the skills, confidence, and mindset necessary to safely and responsibly own, carry, and use firearms for personal protection. His instruction emphasizes safety, legal considerations, marksmanship fundamentals, and practical defensive techniques, providing students with a solid foundation for lifelong responsible firearm ownership.
ownership, safety, and practical defensive training. He is a California Department of Justice Certified CCW Instructor and holds multiple certifications through the National Rifle Association, including NRA Pistol Instructor, Personal Protection Inside the Home Instructor, and Personal Protection Outside the Home Instructor. Jonathan is also a certified NRA Range Safety Officer, committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety on the range.
A passionate firearm enthusiast, Jonathan combines his technical knowledge with a professional, student-focused teaching style. He is committed to helping individuals of all experience levels develop the skills, confidence, and mindset necessary to safely and responsibly own, carry, and use firearms for personal protection. His instruction emphasizes safety, legal considerations, marksmanship fundamentals, and practical defensive techniques, providing students with a solid foundation for lifelong responsible firearm ownership.
DENNIS KOGOD
FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR & RANGE SAFETY OFFICER
Dennis Kogod brings a unique combination of executive leadership, instructional excellence, and a passion for responsible firearm ownership to the EliteCCW team. As a former CEO in the healthcare industry, Dennis spent years leading large organizations, managing complex operations, developing high-performing teams, and making strategic decisions in one of the nation's most demanding professional environments. His extensive management experience and leadership background make him a tremendous asset to both EliteCCW and its students.
Dennis is a California Department of Justice Certified CCW Instructor and holds multiple certifications through the National Rifle Association, including NRA Pistol Instructor, NRA Personal Protection Inside the Home Instructor, NRA Personal Protection Outside the Home Instructor, and NRA Range Safety Officer.
A dedicated firearm enthusiast and lifelong advocate for safe, responsible gun ownership, Dennis combines his executive leadership experience with a calm, professional teaching style that helps students build confidence and competence. His attention to detail, commitment to safety, and ability to communicate complex concepts clearly make him an invaluable member of the EliteCCW instructional staff.
Whether working with first-time firearm owners or experienced shooters, Dennis is committed to providing every student with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to safely and responsibly exercise their Second Amendment rights.
Dennis is a California Department of Justice Certified CCW Instructor and holds multiple certifications through the National Rifle Association, including NRA Pistol Instructor, NRA Personal Protection Inside the Home Instructor, NRA Personal Protection Outside the Home Instructor, and NRA Range Safety Officer.
A dedicated firearm enthusiast and lifelong advocate for safe, responsible gun ownership, Dennis combines his executive leadership experience with a calm, professional teaching style that helps students build confidence and competence. His attention to detail, commitment to safety, and ability to communicate complex concepts clearly make him an invaluable member of the EliteCCW instructional staff.
Whether working with first-time firearm owners or experienced shooters, Dennis is committed to providing every student with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to safely and responsibly exercise their Second Amendment rights.
BUILT FROM THE GROUND UP.
ELITECCW'S STORY
PAST. PRESENT. FUTURE.
Mike founded Elite CCW & Firearm Training with a mission to help individuals responsibly exercise their Second Amendment rights.
Early on, he became a trusted resource for navigating the complex CCW application process, especially by guiding applicants in crafting compelling ‘Good Cause Statements’—a crucial requirement for approval under previous California regulations.
Early on, he became a trusted resource for navigating the complex CCW application process, especially by guiding applicants in crafting compelling ‘Good Cause Statements’—a crucial requirement for approval under previous California regulations.
We moved into our third office space—and this one comes with our very own private bathroom! It might seem like a small win, but to us, it marks a major milestone in our growth.
From a humble start, we strive to have a space that reflects our professionalism and dedication, we were proud of how far we had come. Big things were happening, and little did we know, this was just the beginning.
From a humble start, we strive to have a space that reflects our professionalism and dedication, we were proud of how far we had come. Big things were happening, and little did we know, this was just the beginning.
We expanded into a 4,100 sq. ft. facility with one clear goal in mind—building our own private shooting range. From the start, our vision was to create a dedicated space where CCW holders, law enforcement, and military members could train with purpose, sharpen their skills, and build confidence in a controlled, professional environment.
That move represented more than just extra square footage—it was a step toward a facility that reflected our commitment to serious training and community safety.
That move represented more than just extra square footage—it was a step toward a facility that reflected our commitment to serious training and community safety.
After 14 months of planning, development, and working closely with the city, we were proud to announce that our private shooting range was officially open! The project had been a labor of dedication, vision, and perseverance—and it finally became a reality.
Designed for CCW holders, law enforcement, military members, and responsible citizens, the range provided a safe, controlled, and professional environment to train, grow, and refine their skills. We couldn’t have been more excited to welcome everyone in.
Designed for CCW holders, law enforcement, military members, and responsible citizens, the range provided a safe, controlled, and professional environment to train, grow, and refine their skills. We couldn’t have been more excited to welcome everyone in.
Elite CCW has quickly outgrown its 4,100 sq. ft. facility—a testament to the demand for quality training and the strength of our growing community. As a result, we’ve set our sights on the next big step: expanding into a fully public, state-of-the-art indoor shooting range with 24 lanes designed for both pistol and rifle use.
This future facility will allow us to serve not only our core CCW holders, law enforcement, and military members, but also the broader public seeking a safe, modern environment to train, learn, and grow. Our vision is to create Southern California’s premier destination for responsible firearms education and skill development.
This future facility will allow us to serve not only our core CCW holders, law enforcement, and military members, but also the broader public seeking a safe, modern environment to train, learn, and grow. Our vision is to create Southern California’s premier destination for responsible firearms education and skill development.
OUR MISSION
BUILD TRUST THROUGH TEACHING
Our goal is to empower our clients — beginners, enthusiasts, agencies and corporations — through safety, education, and professional training.
We aim to equip our clients with the tools and resources they need to excel in any shooting discipline: for recreation, for competition and for personal protection
WHY OUR CLIENTS TRUST ELITECCW FOR ALL THEIR FIREARM NEEDS.
EliteCCW was built to make firearms training clearer, more practical, and more approachable. We focus on real-world skills, responsible ownership, and helping our students feel confident and prepared.
