Today we’d like to introduce you to JUSTIN Brooks.
Hi JUSTIN, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey has been anything but traditional. I’ve always believed in working hard, serving others, and continuing to grow. For over a decade, I’ve worked as a Ramp Agent for Southwest Airlines, where I’ve learned the value of discipline, teamwork, and staying calm under pressure.
Outside of my career, I’ve always had a passion for firearms, safety, and helping people protect themselves responsibly. That passion led me to create Parabellum Firearms Academy. I wanted to build more than just a firearms training company. I wanted to create an environment where everyday people could feel comfortable learning, asking questions, and gaining the confidence to exercise their Second Amendment rights safely and responsibly.
Like many small business owners, I’ve faced challenges along the way. Building a business while balancing a full-time job and family life hasn’t always been easy, but those challenges have only strengthened my determination. Every student I train reminds me why I started. Seeing someone leave my class more knowledgeable, more confident, and better prepared is incredibly rewarding.
Today, Parabellum Firearms Academy continues to grow through word of mouth, social media, and a commitment to providing high-quality instruction. My goal is to keep expanding, reach more people throughout Maryland and beyond, and continue making a positive impact by promoting education, responsibility, and safety in the firearms community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like many entrepreneurs, I’ve had to build my business while working a full-time job and supporting my family. One of the biggest challenges has been getting my name out there in a competitive industry. You can be the best instructor in the world, but if people don’t know you exist, it takes time to build trust and grow.
There have also been financial challenges. Starting a business requires investing in equipment, insurance, training materials, marketing, and range time, often before seeing much of a return. There were moments when growth was slower than I hoped, but I never let that stop me.
I’ve also learned that running a business involves much more than teaching. You’re responsible for marketing, customer service, scheduling, bookkeeping, and constantly adapting to changes. Every obstacle has taught me something valuable and made me a better business owner.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change the journey. The challenges have made every success that much more meaningful, and they’ve reinforced my commitment to helping others through Parabellum Firearms Academy.
As you know, we’re big fans of Parabellum Firearms Academy . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Parabellum Firearms Academy is a Maryland-based firearms training company dedicated to providing high-quality, judgment-free education for people of all experience levels. Whether someone has never touched a firearm before or has years of experience, our goal is to make every student feel comfortable, confident, and prepared.
We offer Maryland Wear and Carry (HGP) classes, Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL) courses, HGP renewals, and Arizona Concealed Carry certification. Our classes focus on much more than simply meeting state requirements. We emphasize firearm safety, legal responsibility, situational awareness, conflict avoidance, and building confidence through proper instruction.
What sets us apart is our approach. We don’t rush students through the process or treat them like just another number. We take the time to answer questions, work with each student’s individual needs, and make sure they leave with a solid understanding of both the law and safe firearm handling. We believe great instructors don’t just teach people how to shoot. They teach people how to think, make good decisions under pressure, and carry responsibly.
The brand is built on discipline, integrity, and service. Our motto, “Fortune favors the strong,” represents more than physical strength. It’s about being mentally prepared, educated, and confident enough to protect yourself and the people you love.
What I’m most proud of is the reputation we’re building through genuine relationships and positive student experiences. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone who came into class nervous leave with confidence and a new level of respect for firearm safety and personal responsibility.
As we continue to grow, our mission remains the same: to provide professional, approachable firearms education that empowers everyday people with the knowledge and skills they need to protect themselves safely and responsibly.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My biggest piece of advice is to just start. A lot of people spend so much time waiting for the “perfect” moment that they never take the first step. The truth is, you’ll learn more by doing than by planning.
I also wish I had understood that running a business is about much more than being good at your craft. You have to learn marketing, customer service, networking, finances, and branding. Those skills are just as important as the service you provide.
Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. Social media often shows the highlights, not the years of hard work, setbacks, and sacrifices behind the scenes. Stay consistent, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance from people who have already been where you’re trying to go.
Most importantly, protect your reputation. Your name and your integrity are worth more than any single sale. Treat people well, stand behind your work, and always strive to leave your customers with an experience they’ll want to tell others about. Word of mouth has been one of the biggest reasons my business continues to grow, and that’s something money can’t buy.
Pricing:
- CCW aka HGP $300 not including fees
- HGP renewal $150 not including fees
- HQL $150 not including fees
- Multi state permit $150 not including fees
- HQL Renewal $75 not including fees
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.parabellumfirearmsacademy.com
- Instagram: Www.instagram/Parabellum_firearms_academy
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@pfabmore?si=MzeRRPcSqdnDCT8o
- Other: https://l.instagram.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Flinktr.ee%2Flegendarypnut%3Futm_source%3Dig%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_content%3Dlink_in_bio%26fbclid%3DPAb21jcATLfg1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAae7Iq-rne2Wd57AaUk4gMTOm6V42hF7dyCV-7qiWRcRQOJnUhxg5q9hwL-6XQ_aem_8EEw2bdOkb_20e7Ccc7yYg&e=AUA73EFgSEJKUvJrKTS0Hm8BPpUfSlXJ3srr1zghWvfRl8_TJDy3Pg4qibploLq_1s5fHWgUTqYajH_-Tg6kfeEqQ7sl2Gzfd2sHId__gdUeQi5FsYd2QRFrgPDv7vkuxUKEpzR8mnLM-ILF9Q&utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPNTY3MDY3MzQzMzUyNDI3AAGnuyKvq53tlneewGlJOIDEzpuleNoRe3cglfu6olkXEUDiZ1IcYOavYcC_ul0_aem_8EEw2bdOkb_20e7Ccc7yYg
