About Me

The Origin Story

firearm safety class instructor James Dowler

James Dowler

With more than 40 years of hands-on firearms experience, I am the founder and lead instructor of Survival Fittest, a dedicated firearm safety and training business based in Clearwater, Florida. My expertise spans rifles and shotguns since 1985 and extensive handgun training since 1988, encompassing safe handling, marksmanship fundamentals, malfunction resolution, and responsible firearm use across multiple platforms.

My professional journey includes working at Smith & Wesson in Massachusetts, where I gained in-depth insight into firearm design, quality, and performance, as well as serving as an armed security professional. I later held the position of Range Safety Officer in Clearwater, Florida, where I enforced rigorous safety standards and guided shooters in dynamic range environments.

As a certified instructor through the National Rifle Association, I hold the following credentials:

•  NRA Certified Pistol Instructor

•  NRA Home Firearm Safety Instructor

•  NRA Range Safety Officer

Through Survival Fittest, I provide professional, patient, and comprehensive training tailored to both beginning and experienced gun owners. My programs emphasize legal compliance, personal responsibility, safe storage, and confident, effective firearm handling.

I firmly believe that responsible gun ownership demands proper education and ongoing training: every firearm owner should possess the knowledge, skills, and mindset to use, store, and maintain their firearm safely and with assurance. My mission at Survival Fittest is to foster a culture of safety, competence, and accountability within the firearms community, empowering students to protect themselves, their families, and others through informed and responsible practices.

firearm safety class instructor James Dowler	holding gun
NRA Instructor James Dowler and Family

Personal Life