Reviews of Tip of Spear Academy (Private Detective)

Clayton Kokotailo

Learning Krav Maga from Tip of Spear has been life changing. The cardio that goes with the class is exilerating and keeps the heart rate up and healthy. The techniques learned from Dave regarding Krav are laid out step by step, then drilled, and each part always leads into the next move or step. The confidence gained by learning such skills is motivation to keep going. Dave makes learning Krav fun yet always keeping a serious note to make sure you learn correctly. I would recommend Tip of Spear to anyone who wants to try something different to keep in shape, to walk in peace or to add enjoyment to their life.

Harp Mango

Having worked in the security industry, everyone I've spoke with has held Tip of Spear in very high regard. The Krav Maga classes are fun, interesting, and practical. If you want to learn self defense that you can actually use, then this is the place to take it. Dave is a fun, humorous, and extremely experienced person that I would listen to all day if he would let me. I only wish that I could spend more of my time learning from everyone, and I regret taking security training through my old company and not through Tip.

Tamara M.

I have been training in Krav Maga at Tip of Spear for a while now and recently took the Situational Awareness course which was a game changer. Dave is an experienced and highly skilled instructor who delivers the training effectively, in a way that allows one to grasp the concepts and advance with confidence. The personal and professional protection courses are essential tools that can be applied to everyday life, both personally and professionally. The training environment is one that fosters success and confidence, it is engaging and challenges you to level up, and it is a whole lot of fun. I highly recommend Tip of Spear and appreciate the commitment that Dave, Andrea and the team have to providing training with a standard of excellence.

Andrea Suffern

This is the best studio in the city to learn practical self defense and is the ONLY studio that teaches authentic, certified IKMF Krav Maga! As a single female, I was looking for a safe place to learn some great life skills to keep me and my loved ones safe, and Tip of Spear has proven to be that place. I learned skills in my very first class that I can use right away! The environment is fun, safe, friendly, and you get an awesome workout too. Dave is an incredible instructor - he is kind, humble, and breaks concepts down so they are easy to understand. He has decades of experience in security so he is able to explain why and where you would apply a lesson.

Adam Jensen

Will not return calls after promising to do so. Staff member was incapable of providing basic information about services offered. Receptionist was condescending and impatient. No refunds are given. Will never attend any training offered by tip of spear. There is a reason they are so cheap. Went to inquire about services offered but throughout the interaction the staff member at the customer service desk was incompetent when it came to customer service. The tone of voice she spoke in was impatient and rude even though I was treating her with respect and maintaining humility. I felt disrespected and I would have felt humiliated had the place not been practically empty. She was not training and was an adult. She did not appear to have any type of developmental disability but one can never be to sure. Even if that was the case, my wife works with people with disabilities and one of the things she has learned is to not pity people who are rude even if they have a disability. Unless it's something serious in which they have no control or no awareness of how they are behaving, a disservice is being done to the person by not treating them equally as you would someone who doesn't have a disability. Regardless of her problem, I maintained my deportment and was wearing the business casual attire I normally wear to work. It's not as if I walked into the office without a shirt smelling of bourbon. I see no excuse for any staff member to act like an obnoxious teenager. Absolutely unacceptable.

Julie Mitchell

Fantastic learning experience. Topics and materials covered thoroughly in class, and all questions were also thoroughly answered. My instructor was great!

Sumeet Kumar

Great Experience with great stuff members.

Ntema Lizazi

The training was professional and excellent

Craig Husband

Firearms training with Robyn highly recommend!

Desiree Ferris

I have been wanting to write a review for awhile now but didn't know quite how to express how truely awesome being a member of Tip of the Spear is. Dave isn't just knowelegeable, he's funny and friendly and most importantly passionate about giving the tools needed to defend yourself in a less then desirable situation. Once you try a class or too I guarantee you will be hooked. The whole atmosphere of the classes are amazing. Everyone goes out of the way to help and encourage you to learn and rise to the challenges put in front of you. Tip of the Spear doesn't just give you self defense skills it gives you life skills. A never give up attitude that you can apply to all areas of your life building your confidence and determination. I highly recommend coming out to try a few classes and judge for yourself. You won't be disappointed.

Christophe CB

My brother and I visited Top of Spear for the Canadian Firearms Safety Course and could not have been more impressed from start to finish. The facilities were well setup, with social distancing and masking in effect. The instructor was incredibly knowledgeable and was able to present the material in a manner that was both engaging and easy to understand. From past experiences I can say that such courses are often boring, as much of the material can be dry, but Colby made it very fun, interesting, and entertaining. The day flew by and I would absolutely recommend Colby and Tip of Spear!

rajbir Singh

They have the best course modules what makes the abst exam look so easy. I recommend them for quality of content!!

Martin Beaulieu

Good course, I will recommend it, to anyone who want to join the security industry.

Velta S.

Fantastic team! Lessons are super fun yet practical and well thought through, great communication, nice location with enough parking ????

sahil rohini

Awesome service .......... Thank you so much tip of spear team ....

Karan komal nar

They are doing very well in their sector. I highly reccomend their services. Moreover, they are also very helpful after and before the examm Lastly, they properly address our problems and calls, which shows their elite customer service. Thanks you for elegant service.

Sadi S

Excellent place to learn self defense. Its fun, good atmosphere, and you dont feel embarassed lol. I have been admitting my 3 kids since last 10 years in different karate, ju jitsu clubs, recreation place, etc. - they never learnt ANYTHING. All the schools focused on a fee and ofcourse Uniform fees etc. I found this place on Groupon, checked reviews and thought 'ok, lets try one last time'. So I sat in the waiting room for my teens to come out and they came out all red faced and breathing hard, they looked excited. To my surprise not only class was focused on excercises, scenarios of attack, but also tactics of how to defend oneself in a fun environment. Dave is no doubt excellent teacher. My kids have continued learning Krav Maga.

Rizvi

I took an online ABST course and it is so much difficult to find the office to talk to someome merely to ask about a few questions re scheduling the exam and the like. The lady was not rude at all but she could not tell me the office location. She just advised me to email Dave which I did and left the place. Still dont know if I am writing the licensing exam or not this Friday the 10th.

Gurpreet Singh

Make easy to understand each and every thing about security licensing….. thanks ❤️

Dale Deschepper

The staff at Tip of Spear are great. The lady at the front is very professional. The owner and teacher is great, the knowledge and experience is by far the best I have seen in the business. I would recommend Tip of Spear to anyone across Canada, to take the training. You will not be disappointed at all.

Harpreet Kaur

I've been doing lot of things with tip of spears. It's really amazing as over all. It offers so many opportunities to improve yourself such as security courses, social awareness, Krav maga (self defense) so on.

Ashley Alton

This is the only thing that has kept me sober since September of this year. I wanted to acquire new life skills, and the dedication from both Andrea and Dave has been astounding. I have met so many great people, and I am excited to continue on this journey, to challenge myself both mentally and physically. THANK YOU

Pete Klassen

About a year ago, I paid the fee for a few classes, contacted the place to ask when I could start, what I should bring, and if they recieved my payment. Every time I got a receptionist that wasn't part of the business but had recieved many related calls and I was told that the owner of the business wasn't in at the time. She assured me that she'd let them know to call me back but this happened 3 times before I accepted that I'd been ripped off. Be careful folks.

Vlad Impaler

The level of professional provided here goes way and beyond what I expected. I'm new to the business of security but both receptionist and teacher (Dave) did a great job teaching out the material needed to pass and to feel comfortable in doing your duty as a citizen and as a professional security guard. Big thanks to Dave and receptionist for a professional and respectful treatment. I got my money's worth going here to learn and absorbe the new career change of mine. Thanks for everything... God bless =]

Lina Attwell

Excellent training provided, Dave goes above and beyond to not only teach you what you need to know to pass the exams but also what you need to know to keep you safe on the job. I’ve been training through Dave for years. There’s no one else I will go through for security training or advice.

Thunderclap 911

Tip of Spear provides a first rate PAL course that I would highly recommend for anyone interested in firearms safety. David delievers very thorough instruction, but in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Absolutely enjoyed the experience, and looking forward to my next class with them!

Leah Flemmer

Attending Krav Maga classes with TIP OF SPEAR has changed my life in so many positive ways. This does not only support fitness, but teaches practical self-defense, something I can actually use to protect myself. I feel like I am accomplishing something; building a skill I am proud of. The class environment is supportive and welcoming. David Suffern is amazing at what he does. He is positive, brings in humour, and fun into the class. David challenges his students, but is supportive. He is flexible, working with a variety of different body types and abilities. He clearly breaks down technique, supports, and adapts as necessary to ensure his students are grasping the material. He not only explains why we do something, but also demonstrates context to further understanding. On a personal level, I have seen improvements in all aspects of my life. My confidence, fitness, mental health, and quality of life have improved greatly. No matter how terrible my day is, I am determined to go to class, because when I get there, I am smiling, laughing, and ready to go. As someone with anxiety and PTSD, Krav Maga with David and the Krav Maga family has been a safe and incredible place to be. No matter how anxious I am before class, my anxiety disappears after walking in. It has taken some of my PTSD symptoms and redirected them into a skill, given them a focus, so much so, that my family has noticed a difference. I can’t imagine my life without Krav Maga, and more importantly the people at Tip Of Spear who I have grown to respect and care for.

Austin

I came here for my security license a couple years ago and Dave taught me my course. He was great, I really enjoyed learning from him!

Bob Caouette

Our instructor Dave was excellent. He kept the course moving along nicely and provided plenty of time for in class review and study.I would highly recommend his in class training to anyone.

Thor Wagner

So, I was told that this was the best place to apply for your basic security training and I have to say, I am very glad I applied at tip of spear. To anyone who has doubts, because they might not be a good learner, or is scared of test writing, any issues or concerns, tip of spear makes learning easy and efficient. We learned some great acronyms, the teacher taught us what exactly we needed to know and gave us really helpful tips. Tip of spear is the go to place for security training. Thank you Kathie Brooks for the wonderful time, super helpful as a teacher, and overall a great way to learn. I passed with a 92, and it was all thanks to Kathie!!!

David Nguyen

Positive place. Great educators.

Evan T. Rutherford

KRAV KRAV KRAV. Your authority in this art form! Get fit, learn great self defense skills, all in a SUPER comfortable and welcoming environment.

Alyssa Baker

Amazing instruction and atmosphere!

Jerry Blaha

Took my firearms course there. Facility was clean, well laid out, and suitable. Instructors were excellent, really enjoyed my 3 evenings here. 5 stars, highly recommended!

Ryan A

By far the most up to date training great vibes every hands on training and great confidence booster. Dave is an A++++++ instructor I highly recommend TIP OF SPEAR to everyone

Leigh Nate

I Took the CFSC there. Dave really went the extra mile to teach us. He is very experienced, and passionate, and the training was very practical.

Kerry Brewer

I highly recommend taking these courses if you want to get into the Security industry. Dave not only makes sure you receive the knowledge that you need he makes the courses fun. I have taken a few course with him. A fun & memorable awesome time.

Avi Nesher

Ive tried a couple other krav maga and martial arts places but tip of the spear are the Best self defence classes in the city. I always enjoy coming to class. Dave is a great insturctor very professional and friendly. I highly recommend tip of the spear to anyone looking to get into self defence!

Charanjit Singh

I took an online course for Alberta Basic Security Training at Tip of Spear Inc. They have a very good course. The presentation needs a review as it has some missing links, but the content is accurate. Their team is very responsive and the review class before the exam was very helpful in refreshing the contents and clearing any doubts. They also helped me with my license application. Overall, the course is helpful and the team is very professional and cooperative!

Penny Paradis

Classes are straight forward and also fun

Dean MacNeill

I took my training as a security guard from one of Dave' s courses. Dave's training was always delivered in a straightforward manner with lots of good experience and insight into the security industry to back it. I did my Alberta Basic Security Training here, eventually moving on to my Pressure Pressure Points and Control Tactics and Alberta Investigative Training. Dave's instruction and clarity of teaching has allowed me to excel in the security industry, because I was given the skills I needed to deliver awesome service and results while on-duty. I now own my own security company, I am continuing my training with the Tip of Spear personally, and I also use it as our go-to training school for all our new and senior level guards. I trust this school to not only provide the most knowledgeable guards, but give them the best chance at a future in the security industry by continually expanding their skillsets to include higher professions, such as: being a private investigator.

J Watsn

Dave is absolute master of self defense. I took his PPCT course and attended some krav Maga classes. Let just say that the 5 day course was an absolute pleasure. It exceeded the standards for PPCT and also gave you very real, usable techniques on how to protect yourself. After I attended his Krav classes and not only is Dave a student where he let's you have a voice but gives very practical and useful skills to deal with any situation that you may come across. My only regret is that I was not able to continue to learn and go to more classes. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn a self defense. Or wants to improve what they already know.

mutombo mamba

(Translated) It is a better 'Security professional training training school. It is the best sc9hool. (Original) C'est une meilleure 'Ecole de formation en security professional training. It is the best sc9hool.

Megs 1229

Training in Krav Maga at Tip of Spear has been a life changer for me. The class options and facility location are ideal, allowing me to attend classes at my convenience. This is the only school in Edmonton offering IKMF Krav Maga, the original and leading organization for Krav Maga worldwide. Krav Maga is an easy to learn, practical, and effective system of personal protection that teaches prevention, recognizing risk and counter combat. Most importantly instructor David Suffern is the best this city has to offer. Of all the classes, workshops, and courses I have ever attended, Dave has an instruction style second to none. He pushes his students to their personal best with respect, humor, humility, and a wealth of experience he relates back to real-world application. I have found comfort, encouragement, and a sense of belonging with my fellow students. Being confident in my ability to defend myself gives me a sense of peace and security that is priceless! I can walk down the street, go out at night or travel in a foreign country with confidence. Thank you Tip of Spear and Dave for encouraging my personal growth in every aspect… mentally, emotionally and physically I am becoming a stronger person as a result of these classes and am forever grateful.

Luna Rodric

Worst customer service and rude receptionist. Whoever picks up the phone does not want to offer this company business.

alex nig

Best training school I've ever seen.. from the basics of security to Krav Maga, tip of spear will truly help u in the security field.

Roberto Del Pilar

I don't know what to say yet , but Ida is very helpful !

Connor Miller-Stephen

Tip Of Spear is the best place in all of Alberta you can go to if you are in the security industry or trying to get into military or policing. The team there is a tight knit group of people that will always teach you the skills you will need as well as make your experience as great as it can be. The quality they have does make some of the prices a little higher than other training companies, but the value is more. ABST (Alberta Basic Security Training), AIT (Alberta Private Investigation), Firearms, Krav Maga, Handcuff Training, and more. Whether you are brand new, been in the industry a few years, or are very advanced and worked in this industry for years, Tip of Spear has a way for everyone to grow. This is the only place I recommend for training to anyone in the industry or wanting to get into the industry.

Melanie Davey

Bought some Tip of Spear Krav Maga classes from groupon. The instructor, David, is very knowledgable and welcoming. The classes are a lot of fun, while being useful and a great workout! I liked it so much I'm buying a punch pass for 10 more classes. Thanks, David!

Marc Demmon

I studied the page, doesn't look to egotisscal, I've notice good structure , I've recommended two people to yuor program, I'm former student of RSM bill wolf Seaforth Highlanders basic military training 1979

Jeremy

Whenever I think of security training Tip of Spear is my go to every time. From classroom to the field you cannot go wrong with any of the courses provided. In the classroom Dave’s method of teaching gives you the best results whether you’re new to the field or returning to re-cert. 10 out of 10 would recommend every time!

Wes Scheideman

Completed my PAL/RPAL course at Tip of Spear. Our instructor, Robyn, was very personable and clear on all points discussed and allowed ample time in class to discuss any questions we had. I had a great sxperience and will absolutely recommend Tip of Spear and Robyn to anyone looking to get their licenses.

Anthony Hennig

This was my 6th year taking PPCT with Tip of Spear. Trainer, Facility both were amazing. Dave is so knowledgeable and his delivery of the material trains you for real life.

CrazyCow 514

Me & my husband started Krav Maga session online for P1 during pandemic restrictions and it was very nice to be online with other people. When we go in class, it was very different, to avoid the hit, movement's correction, explain to the movement, games with different people... It's way better in class. You have other opponents, it's a opportunity to open your knowledge and share! They alway following the government restrictions for pandemic.

mona sharma

My experience for the online ABST program was good with the detailed information provided in the module.

Meghan Vallee

Great course! Short and sweet. The manuals are going to be great resources to refer to in the future.

Abiodun Olawepo

I did my Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) on line and the Instructor was precise and helpful . I will definitely recommend Tip of Spear Academy to anyone

Ida Agronin

The Krav Maga classes offered at Tip of Spear are fantastic. You get a work out, learn some defensive and situational awareness skills, as well as having fun. Dave Suffern is an excellent, patient instructor, and his long term students are welcoming, inclusive and passionate about Krav Maga. I highly recommend checking it out if you are at all curious. This isn't your typical martial art/self defense.

Seany Abides

Kathie was an absolutely incredible instructor for the ABST training course. Her teaching methods were a breathe of fresh air, especially compared to online learning. She takes the time to understand the needs of her students, and learns each of them by name. TLDR; long class, it was awesome

Patrick Kelly

Absolutely love training with Dave! Great atmosphere, training and dedication from the trainers. Highly recommend Tip of the Spear for Krav Maga!

candicestephens16

Absolutely fantastic. The best place to go for self defence and Krav Maga training facility in ALBERTA. Dave is extremely knowledgeable in all aspects and I highly recommend him and his facility.

Jason London

I’ve been training at the Tip of Spear Academy for 3 months and absolutely love it Dave is a fabulous instructor, his sense of humour often has the entire class laughing. His teaching is efficient and it ensures that I leave each class feeling as though I’m progressing towards becoming a more confident and proficient disciple. The class environment is very positive and I highly recommend that people train here.

Jessica R

I joined Tip of Spear after hearing my manager rave about it for months. I was instantly welcomed by the whole group. Dave goes above and beyond for everyone and brings such an amazing energy to the class. Each class is different, super informative and relevant to real-life situations. You leave every class feeling empowered and energized. Highly recommend this class to anyone! Don't wait any longer to give it a shot, I wish I knew about this years ago!

Gee Orgy

Kathie, did amazing job. She explains everything to the smallest details. I have so much experience right now as if I’ve been in this security job for years, but it’s my first certificate been in Canada. I came from Germany way down to Edmonton since almost a year now and was struggling with English a little bit but I understood every word I was thought. So thank you „TIP OF SPEAR“ and I’ll always recommend this company because they do amazing job.

Geoff Klompas

I had previously trained in MMA before switching into Krav Maga. Krav Maga is what I strongly believe to be the most effective self defense program out there. Dave Suffern, is an outstanding teacher. He keeps the class fun while learning the techniques of the art. He is very focused on keeping people safe on the streets and also doing what ever is required to prevent injuries while training. Each class is always riddled full of new skill sets to work on. I would highly recommend anyone to train at Tip Of Spear, regardless of age, gender, or any physical barriers they might have.

Jake Sam Nipahoy

Kathie has a good technique in teaching us on how to handle situations in the real world and ways for us to understand or remember some key points for the exam which really helped a lot for most of us.Highly recommended

Ronette Mac Gillivray

Very good instructor

Tammy Hastings

great course. would recommend to anyone interested in the field.

K.A. A F

I have taken the HFRG PPCT course a few years ago and it was amazing, the trainer that trained us actually attended tip of Spear to see if he can improve of his teaching and he recommended Tip of Spear. I am in need of my PPCT course again and will be taking it at Tip of Spear in December 2021.

Darryl Adamson

Well put together and very informative!.. Welcoming and warm atmosphere! Highly recommend

Joe Trumbley

I have taken many courses through Tip of Spear, and with Dave. He and his team have gone above and beyond preparing me for my career. Through the training I have gained tools and skills that provide me with the confidence needed to perform at my best. I have and will continue to recommend Tip of Spear to anyone.

Woody Poleon

Dave at Tip of Spear is the real deal!!! He is a very effective and professional instructor. Andrea is always on top of things and replies to emails in a timely manner, very reliable and informative. They also offer strength and conditioning classes too with another Dave on the TIP team that knows exactly what he is doing.I would recommend Tip a of Spear 100%!

Patrick Tamm

Great instruction, and an overall good experience!

Jennie Kovacevic

I'm very happy with and impressed with everyone at Tip of Spear, especially Dave. He has supported and trained my son, who is 14, to excel at what he loves. His entire life has found balance since he started training here. I've attended classes and have felt very welcomed by everyone and comfortable.

david mcgee

I love it here. I've trained at a couple of martial art schools and though this is something very different, I am addicted. Dave is one of the best instructors I've trained under, his ability to adapt to each student is impressive and effective. Most gyms make you pay for a month just to see if its for you. The groupon allowed me to check this place out for a steal of deal. Not a walk through the park though, you will sweat. All in all, you get what you put it , but a great environment and a wicked teacher defiantly helps. I'd defiantly recommend.

parangta rajput

GOOD, THANK YOU TIP OF SPEAR ACADEMY GO FOR IT PEOPLE.

A M (Gobot)

Great place for security training, you get every cent worth from the instructor Dave.

manpreet kaur

Great experience.

montana kasper

For training of self defense or work, Tip of Spear is by far the best choice. This is because of the foundation that it was built upon from Dave. Foundation of helping others to succeed. If you take any class or training through them this will be displayed through out the course of your time. Whether you have no experience or you are already seasoned, when you show up you will be welcomed and given 100% effort in making you better. Training now days with proven success in the field can be hazy sometimes. Having a place like Tip of Spear where you can feel confident walking in and out of those doors, not only with skill set but of mind as well. That is a value to be truly thankful for. Thank you Dave for the time, patience and commitment you displayed.