Ernie Medina is renowned for his vast firearms knowledge, proven training methods, and capability to mentor other instructors for superior weapon proficiency training. His reputation is founded on extensive field experience, customized training methodologies, and unwavering professionalism. Ernie, a United States Naval Academy graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering specializing in Thermodynamics, boasts a distinguished career. Serving as a decorated U.S. Marine Captain and infantry officer for eight years, Ernie commanded and supported over 1,200 Marines in various leadership roles. With almost three decades of experience, he’s a certified USCCA Training counselor & instructor, NRA pistol instructor and an authority in combatives and weapons training. Ernie is a life long martial artist holding black belts in karate (7th degree master level instructor ranking in Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan).

Joshua Cabato is a proud husband and father of five. His journey with Tap Rack Bang began in 2019 when he took his first CCW class, laying the foundation for his development as a responsible and capable gun owner. From there, he continued training regularly, refining his skills in advanced weapons manipulation, shooting while moving, shooting from compromised positions, room clearing, and low-light shooting. His dedication to training led him to compete in the International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA), where he holds a Sharpshooter ranking in the Stock Service Pistol (SSP) and Back-Up Gun (BUG) divisions and a Marksman ranking in the Carry Optics (CO) and Pistol-Caliber Carbine (PCC) divisions. Now, as an instructor, Joshua is committed to passing on his knowledge and skills to help others become confident and capable in defending themselves and their loved ones. His goal is to empower students with the tools they need to succeed both on the range and in real-life scenarios.

Tyrin served as a police officer and Sergeant with the Inglewood PD for 21 years. There, he worked as a gang enforcement officer, field training officer, and field training supervisor. He is a graduate of the University of Arizona with a B.A. in Psychology, with an emphasis in training and decision-making.
Tyrin has become an NRA and USCCA instructor, He also works in private security, executive protection and residential and business security. He is dedicated to passing on his extensive training and experience along to his students.

Dustin Dager is a firearms instructor, USCCA Certified Firearms Instructor, and former United States Marine Corps Military Police Officer with five years of military service. During his time in the Marine Corps, Dustin deployed to Afghanistan, where he supported a variety of operational missions, including convoy security and military policing.Dustin also served as a Marine Corps Range Coach for both rifle and pistol, mentoring Marines in marksmanship, safe weapons handling, and firearms proficiency. His experience training others, combined with his operational background, has given him a strong foundation in developing competent, disciplined, and responsible shooters.Today, Dustin brings that same commitment to every class he teaches at Tap Rack Bang. Whether working with first-time firearm owners or experienced shooters looking to refine their skills, he emphasizes safe gun handling, solid fundamentals, practical defensive techniques, and the mindset needed to become a confident and capable armed citizen. His patient, professional teaching style helps students build both skill and confidence in a supportive learning environment.