Meet Marchelle Davis | Firearm Instructor

I am a survivor of sexual assault and domestic violence. The thought process behind starting my firearm instruction company was making sure that no other woman experienced that type of violence in her life. I learned certain self defense skills while serving in the military and I decided to use them to start my business when my enlistment ended. My goal is to teach 1 million women how to defend themselves with firearms.

My business is unique because I am a black woman teaching other black women how to defend themselves with firearms. Gun ownership is typically a non-black, male sport. I’m most proud and excited about the impact I’ve made on the gun industry. I’ve had other black instructors come to me citing that I’m the reason they decided to start their own instruction company. It’s humbling to hear that. I got to this point in my business through hard work and resilience. The journey has been bittersweet. I’ve experienced overt racism, sexism and ageism coming into this industry but I overcame the challenges by ignoring the criticism that wasn’t constructive.

If my friend was visiting Atlanta I would take them to Kupcakerie, my favorite black owned cupcake spot. Then we’d hit up Jayida Che Tea Spot for some tea. I haven’t eaten here yet but I’d also take them to Slutty Vegan. After lunch we’d go shoot at Stoddard’s Range and Guns in midtown. Then I’d take them to Ponce City Market to check out the view and take some pictures.

I’d like to give a shout-out to Wilson Brothers Armory of Baltimore, Maryland. They’ve been instrumental in my growth as a business woman and instructor.