0844 5874525

THE DIRECTOR OF SHOOTING TRAINING SOLUTIONS

We are filling up the courses for 2025 fast and are now open for bookings for 2026, if you see there are NO course dates available for when you would like to do a course please get in touch via the contact page or give me a ring to explain your requirements and aspirations and I will do my best to accommodate you. Please allow plenty of time when thinking of booking a course as we are extremely busy with new and old clients wanting to continue their training both here in the UK and abroad.

Shooting Training Solutions courses are open to anyone, whether you are a keen enthusiast, a beginner, aspiring actor or going on an expedition to the Polar regions. There are many other dangerous environments which require you to be safe and competent whilst in possession of a firearm, or you may be curious and interested in learning how they operate. We will accomodate your requirements and have trained people as far a field as Australia, Cayman Islands, Japan, India, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Kenya and the Netherlands. The training is conducted all indoors in a warm and inviting location under the watchful eye of a very experienced trainer. Shooting Training Solutions will make your experience enjoyable, fun filled and memorable.

Your safety is paramount and we will make sure you feel safe and confident attending a course with STS. We have very strict safety guidelines in place and daily checks are carried out. Thank you again for you're continued support, understanding and patience. Your safety is paramount, keep safe, keep smiling and I hope to meet you soon.

MK “Nobby” Director of Shooting Training Solutions is the sole instructor on the firearms training courses run by Shooting Training Solutions. Mark has some 33 years of military service in UK Special Forces, Royal Marines and 14 years teaching in the commercial sector. His operational service stretches from the Falklands war in 1982, to serving in every major conflict since, including 4 tours of Afghanistan. MK served for 5 years as the chief instructor of the Special Boat Service and 2 years as the senior SBS instructor at 22 SAS.

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Shooting Training Solutions continues to improve training standards.


Shooting Training Solutions are proud to have been awarded ISO 9001:2015 quality standard. We now continue to improve training standards so clients go away feeling confident, safe and competent.

Shooting Training Solutions was the first and only firearms training establishment to have been awarded this most exacting of quality standards and led the way in quality training.

STS commitment to safety and quality has been a constant feature of STS training and we are continuing to implement better standards and quality control for the courses we run.  STS continually monitor and manage quality across our business and identify and implement improvements.

STS commitment to these quality standards is proof to both our private customers and corporate clients that they can have absolute confidence in the safety and effectiveness of the courses that we deliver.

You are a valued client and it is  hoped that you will acknowledge that Shooting Training Solutions continues to represent the best firearms training in the UK today.



As an established training provider Shooting Training Solutions hope it shows to you, our valued customers, we are constantly improving, updating and giving to you the best training we can supply.
Shooting Training Solutions

Testimonials

A random selection of our testimonials. For more look at our testimonial page
Chris Swales | Maritime Firearms Competency Course | 4th May 2014

As most of you guys reading about this course will know, Nobby's courses are always of extremely professional and insightful. The course starts around 8 in the morning and starts with introductions to course and the reasons behind such courses existing. It is run for the right number of people, at 4 the instructor can give the right attention and teaching to all students. The course runs for around 8 hours and covers everything you need revision in, from marksmanship principles with lots of hands on with weapons, to all other considerations of the carriage of weapons and possible use of weapons in foreign waters. There is lots of hands on with a huge range of weapon systems used in the industry and lots of range time making this course a must for everyone. In industry where cap badges mean little anymore it's good to know that if the lads have done Nobby's course then they have a high standard of weapon drills and skills and a good background knowledge of the industry past, present... Read more
Benjamin James Park | Maritime Firearms Competency Course | 28th April 2015

A very in depth and intense course but feel under the current circumstances in the industry it is needed. The course high-lighted areas where instruction on previous courses was not satisfactory or correct and I learnt far more by conducting this firearms course.. All this being said the course was very enjoyable and relaxed but still maintaining the right standards needed. Mark Knowles subject knowledge was excellent and will certainly recommended the course to others in the industry. Thank you
Gareth Mclellan | Maritime Firearms Competency Course | 20th October 2015

Highly recommend this course for any one in the industry or stmarring out. Nobby's knowledge skills and training is second to none and very enjoyable course.
James Barriscale | Bespoke Firearms Course | 22nd June 2025

My brother and I spent an amazing day with Nobby. I've only had basic safety blank firing weapons training before so this was another level. Learning about his remarkable career was an incredible honour. moving onto the weapons afterwards, we learnt how to dissemble and reassemble weapons and learn how to handle them properly. On the firing range Nobby took us through the technique of how to achieve a consistent target score. It made me want to continue the application we learnt on further courses. We learnt so much. Nobby was the best instructor and a really good man. We owe so much to him most of which we'll never know. It was an honour to spend time with him.
Adam Cunnington | Maritime Firearms Competency Course | 14th November 2014

The course is run by Mark Knowles, a highly experienced weapons instructor to the special forces and the Maritime sector. Mark has lots of contacts within the industry so not only does this course deliver on professionalism it also provides valuable insight into where the industry is going and who to go to for contracts. I would highly recommend this course.
Lubka Hallam | Special Forces Firearms Experience | 23rd April 2019

My husband, my 13 year old son and myself (all of us complete firearms novices) had the immense privilege to meet Mark “Nobby” Knowles MSM, QCB and get an insight into his professional career, learn about a number of firearms and of course having various opportunities to try them by way of shooting from different positions on a stationary target. Nobby was by our side all day - giving superb instructions both in the classroom (also using presentations) and on the firing range. He had his eye on us at all times ensuring his instructions are carried out and thus ensuring everyones safety. The live firing experience was fun, relaxed and safe. Nobby’s hospitality skills has to be given a mention too. Plenty of refreshments throughout the day, lovely choice of sandwiches and perfect organisation of everything. In summary, we all had a SUPERB day. We were truly inspired by Nobby’s career and felt extremely thankful to all those army/special forces guys out there who put themselves... Read more
Prem Rai | Maritime Firearms Competency Course | 1st March 2014

This is really a good course, delivered in a professional and skillful manner. It is an absolutely brilliant course.
Toby Storie-Pugh | Bespoke Firearms Course | 21st March 2016

Mark put together a weapons familiarisation, safety, handling and shooting course for an upcoming expedition that will spend a year in the DR Congo. He provided training on the major weapons systems that the team would be likely to encounter, incl AK47, M-16, H&K G3, SLR, bolt-action rifles and variants of the above. Expedition team members arrived with no effective weapons knowledge but left with a solid grounding in the fundamentals of safe handling and firing of those weapons, and with an understanding of core weapons principles that will, if necessary, allow quick adaptation to any weapons system. The course was rigourous, with a relentless focus on safety, and the team was able to cover a lot of material in a short time. Highly recommended.
Natasha Talarico | Special Forces Firearms Experience | 19th May 2017

A superb day of learning. Mark is a fascinating man with an incredible background. The day was informative, challenging and fun. I highly recommend it.
Mat Lewis | Maritime Firearms Refresher Course | 1st May 2015

This is the Second time that I have done the STS Course and I would highly Recommend it,it is well instructed from start to finish by instructor Mr.Mark Knowles who brings a Wealth of Experience and Knowledge in all Areas regarding Armed Maritime Security. Thanks once again for a Good Day.

Our Firearms and Shooting Training Courses



This course is open to anyone. If you are looking for firearms training in anti poaching, acting, film set extras, expeditions or just interested in being trained on firearms, I will design a course for you 

Your dedicated instructor will create a package to suit your individual objectives either as part of a small group (no more than 4 people) or on a one to one training basis with exclusive range use.

You will learn from scratch all about the safety side of handling these weapons, understand how they work and function before getting in depth training on the drills and skills you need to operate them correctly and safely.

It will be challaging, fun, exhilarating and rewarding and you will go away feeling you want more.

If this is what you are after, drop me an e-mail or give me a call and I will be happy to take up the challenge.

Find out more and book a course
If you would like a course arranged please contact us.
15th NovemberFully Booked
21st NovemberFully Booked
23rd NovemberFully Booked
27th NovemberFully Booked
29th NovemberFully Booked
4th DecemberFully Booked
6th DecemberFully Booked

Are you looking for an insight into the Special Forces and want to experience handling and firing weapon systems used in a safe and welcoming atmosphere?

This is the experience for you then. Based in the UK, this one day Special Forces Experience is designed for individuals or up to 4 participants. You will taught the safety aspects and marksmanship principles before getting your hands on AK74's, M16's and various other weapons. You will be taught how to safely handle them, strip and assemble and carry out the correct drills when operating them, before live firing later in the day.   

The day will be hosted and run by MK (Nobby) Director of Shooting Training Solutions who will give you an insight to his 33 years career in the Special Forces and be your instructor throughout.

Find out more and book a course
If you would like a course arranged please contact us.
13th NovemberFully Booked
22nd NovemberFully Booked
12th DecemberFully Booked

For those of you who are unaware of the UK Firearms regulations you cannot fire 9mm pistols in the UK. STS offer two packages where you can learn all about Pistol handling and become proficient and safe with the weapons.

 

The first is a one-day course based in the UK and is designed to develop the skills of those who wish to learn how to use a pistol as a primary firearm. We cover all the safety aspects, workings of the weapon, function tests and correct grip and hold before shooting on a range with high powered BB Glock 17 and SIG 226 pistols . This will give you a good insight to all pistol techniques and a platform to build on. 

 

The second course we offer is a full-bore 9mm pistol shooting course in Europe. The European package Is a 3/5 day shooting package, you will be required to travel out the day before the course starts and travel back the day after, you will get 2 or 3 days on the range. I will book your flights and take care of everything else, you just need to turn up with your passport and case. Everything is included car-parking at the airport, transfers, accommodation, meals, equipment, weapons and ammunition all in the price. Pistol shooting is an art on its own. It takes time and effort to be able to engage targets out to 30m using the correct techniques with both your strong and weak arm. One handed pistol is essential and has to be practiced. You will practice these skills and this will reduce your reaction time, allow you to shoot faster with a higher degree of accuracy and increase your confidence with your weapon. I will endeavour to get you to the ACPO (Association of Chief Police Officers) pistol firearms standard with the time allocated and show you that with good instruction and coaching you can in a very short time become proficient safe and accurate with a pistol.  .

Find out more and book a course
If you would like a course arranged please contact us.
14th NovemberFully Booked

This Ultimate Special Forces European Experience package is unique and has an all-inclusive price, your every need will be catered for.

It is open to anyone regardless to firearms experience. Your host and instructor is a a former Special Boat Service Operative MK (Nobby) Director of Shooting Training Solutions who will arrange everything and accompany you for the whole experience in Europe.

It is open to individuals who would like a one to one experience or a group of up to 3 participants. Your 2 or 3-day live firing (4 or 5 days in total option will consist of learning how to safely use AK74's, M4's, H&K MP5's and pistols.  

If this is what you are looking for from a highly established training company with everything arranged for you and a personal touch to go with it and you want to learn in a safe and welcoming environment give me a ring and I will arrange everything for you.

Find out more and book a course
If you would like a course arranged please contact us.

There are no courses currently available.
Contact us to arrange a course.


Most expeditions to Polar regions ( which Svalbard have approved our course ) and to countries around the world where you would want to be armed for your own protection require you to demonstrate you are safe and competent before issuing a firearms for that trip. The Police in various counties ask for a certificate of competency with firearms before issuing you a license or renewing one.

STS Firearms Competency Course and certificate are recognised by a number of organisations and Police forces in the UK.  

The aim of this course is to introduce new clients to firearms and to refresh those who may be returning to the sport to ensure a level of competence. This course aims to take clients through the relevant safe handling and safe shooting requirements to meet the standards relating to public safety and the Police.

The course combines a training room based input with practical experience on the range with various weapon systems.

Over the years we have worked with a large number of individuals who are going on expeditions, renewing or trying to obtain a firearms license and all of them have returned home after the course better informed, safer and more knowledgeable about all aspects of firearms handling. 

 

Find out more and book a course
If you would like a course arranged please contact us.
20th NovemberFully Booked

Have you ever been intrigued or interested to know how the Special Forces here in the UK operate and how firearms feel when you fire a full calibre round at a target? Well this one-day experience might be the day out for you. Your Instructor will talk you through his 33 years of sevice to Queen and Country from the Falklands war to four tours of Afghanistan. You will fire various weapons to name a few, M4, MP5, Ruger, Tikka T3, Lee Enfield 303 and The American Sniper weapon the 300 Win mag.
Find out more and book a course
If you would like a course arranged please contact us.

There are no courses currently available.
Contact us to arrange a course.


MK “Nobby” Director of Shooting Training Solutions is the sole instructor on the Firearms training courses run by Shooting Training Solutions. Mark has some 33 years of Military service in UK Special Forces and the Royal Marines.

His operational service stretches from the Falklands war in 1982, to serving in every major conflict since, including 4 tours of Afghanistan. MK served for 5 years as the chief instructor of the Special Boat Service and 2 years as the senior SBS instructor at 22 SAS.

He will host and take you through your personally designed, unique Corporate Firearms Package.

 

Find out more and book a course
If you would like a course arranged please contact us.

There are no courses currently available.
Contact us to arrange a course.


This course has grown in popularity since its introduction by STS for potential Police firearms officers to attend before they undertake their Police firearms course. 

Here at STS we are proud of our very high pass rate from clients who have attended our course and continued on to aspire to be police firearms officers.

Each course will be designed specifically for you as different Police forces use different firearms. It will give you the confidence and reassurance that you will be able to handle the firearms safely and correctly, allowing you to concentrate on the other aspects of the course you have to assimilate.

Find out more and book a course
If you would like a course arranged please contact us.

There are no courses currently available.
Contact us to arrange a course.


View feedback from those who’ve completed the course


All live firing training is conducted in .22 Rimfire Semi-Automatic Rifles or simulated Pistols due to UK legislation.