Gunwerks' New Lead Shooting Instructor is Phillip Velayo

by
posted on May 15, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
velayo1.jpg

Gunwerks recently announced they are adding talented precision long range shooter Phillip Velayo as their new Lead Shooting Instructor. I recently had the chance to meet and receive some instruction from Velayo, he is one of the most knowledgeable instructors I've ever met. After just 30 minutes working with him, I already felt more confident in my precision long range abilities.
Phillip Velayo
Velayo is a 10-year U.S. Marine Corps veteran having served his whole career in the Scout Sniper community. During his time in the Marine Corps, Velayo completed four overseas deployments and served in all billets available to a Scout Sniper, including: Scout Sniper Team Leader, Chief Scout Sniper, and Scout Sniper Instructor. His last three years in the Marine Corps were spent at the 1st Marine Division Scout Sniper School as the Primary Marksmanship Instructor. Velayo has attended all follow-on formal Scout Sniper courses, graduating with honors and recognized as "High Shooter" from all of them.

In 2016, Velayo was nominated for Scout Sniper Instructor of the Year for his meticulous instruction that resulted in institutional changes in the training of Marine Scout Snipers in both formal schools and unit level training. Velayo is a nationally ranked precision rifle competitor in the Precision Rifle Series and National Rifle League circuits.

“We’re excited to welcome Phillip to our team.” said Aaron Davidson, Gunwerks founder and CEO. “Phillip has a lot to offer, bringing his in-depth experience as a USMC Scout Sniper and Instructor to our team. He’s a perfect fit to be teaching our Long Range University Courses, not just because of his experience, but his personality and teaching style are what set him apart. We couldn’t be happier to have him on board.”

Velayo will be leading the instruction for Gunwerks Long Range University courses taught this May through October in Cody, WY. You can visit www.gunwerks.com/store/long-range-university for more information.

Latest

Benelli Artofperformance Videoseries 1
Benelli Artofperformance Videoseries 1

Benelli’s ‘Art of Performance’ Series Goes Inside the Making of a Lupo Barrel

First video in Benelli USA’s new “Art of Performance” series showcases the three-step barrel engineering process in its Lupo bolt-action rifle.

Parcell, Powell Lead Team Remington’s Podium Run at 2026 Gator Cup

Brandon Powell finishes HOA runner-up and Turner Parcell takes third in the Main Event at the 2026 Gator Cup.

2026 NRA National Smallbore Rifle Championship Preview

The NRA National Smallbore Rifle Championship returns to Ohio’s Cardinal Shooting Center in 2026 with expanded junior programs, major sponsor support and three national titles at stake.

Cartridge Case Materials Explained: Brass, Steel, Aluminum and Nickel-Plated Brass

A breakdown of four common cartridge case materials—brass, steel, aluminum and nickel-plated brass—covering cost, performance, reloadability and identification.

New: Federal Subsonic Rifle Target Loads

Federal Ammunition’s new Subsonic rifle target loads eliminate the supersonic crack that suppressors cannot silence, shipping now with three cartridges at 1,000 fps from $36.99 to $54.99.

New: Ruger 250th Anniversary Series

Ruger’s 250th Anniversary Series marks the U.S. semiquincentennial with eight limited-production items.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.