Trusted Since 2016
Built for
Training Centres.
Trusted by Learners.
From learners starting their journey to providers growing their centres, we raise the standard of firearm training across South Africa.
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Accredited Training Centres
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Provinces Covered
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Years Raising the Standard
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Languages: English & Afrikaans
Our Story
From One Centre to a
National Network.
Global Firearm Trainers was established in 2016 with one goal: build a national firearm training platform that actually works, not a directory anyone can join. Every listed centre is PFTC-accredited, and any centre still awaiting SAPS approval is clearly marked. So anyone applying for a competency certificate under the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 can find the right centre with confidence.
We started from scratch. No shortcuts. No inherited network. Just a clear understanding of what the industry needed and the commitment to build it properly.
GFT was founded by Johan Carelse, one of South Africa’s youngest accredited firearm instructors and assessors when the Firearms Control Act came into effect in 2004. 22 years later, he’s still in the industry. Still training. Still building.
“We didn’t grow by lowering the bar. We grew because we raised it, and the industry followed.”
The Journey
- 2016
GFT is established. A national firearm training platform built from the ground up, connecting learners with accredited training centres across South Africa.
- 2017
First training material launched. GFT begins supplying PFTC-accredited training material to accredited training centres across South Africa.
- 2021
Master Instructor Programme, PFTC approved. GFT launches its own Master Instructor Programme, recognised by the PFTC as exceeding the criteria required for certification.
- 2024
200+ training centres. GFT grows to over 200 accredited centres nationwide.
- 2025
FETC: Firearm Training (SAQA 50480). GFT now offers every unit standard in this full qualification.
- 2026
Afrikaans manuals introduced. Training material is now available in Afrikaans as well as English.
What GFT Does
We Train. We Connect.
We Equip.
GFT trains learners at its Krugersdorp head office, connects them with SAPS-accredited training centres in every province, and supplies the PFTC-accredited material those centres teach from.
Firearm Training
Accredited firearm training at our Krugersdorp head office, from basic proficiency through to instructor level.
Training Centres Nationwide
SAPS-accredited training centres across South Africa. GFT reviews each centre's details and accreditation before it is listed.
The GFT Member Network
Not a passive listing. Centre accreditation and instructor credentials are checked before a member appears on the platform.
Training Material
PFTC-accredited learner guides and assessments, supplied to accredited centres and kept up to date.
Why We’re Different
We Set the Standard.
Others Follow.
Built for training centres that need reliable, up-to-date material, and for learners who want training they can trust. Everything we do keeps firearm training consistent and professional.
Experienced Professionals
Our network is made up of experienced firearm training professionals who know what responsible ownership and good training take.
Always Up to Date
Consistently updated to reflect the latest laws and best practices, providing you with the most relevant information.
Provider Partnerships
We don't just list training centres. We help them get accredited, supply their training material and send learners their way.
Built by the Industry, for the Industry
GFT was not built by a marketing agency. It was built by people who understand South African firearm training from the inside: the regulations, the challenges, the gaps.