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

ARC America 2026 2
ARC America 2026 2

NRA Launches ‘ARC Across America National Challenge’ for Nation’s 250th Anniversary

NRA’s new ARC Across America National Challenge runs Memorial Day through Labor Day 2026, aiming for 250-plus clubs hosting matches with national rankings and prizes to mark the nation’s semiquincentennial.

How Two Champion Skeet Shooters Launched Backwoods Suppressors

Olympic skeet medalists Vincent Hancock and Conner Prince co-founded Backwoods Suppressors, a hunter-first brand offering five titanium and stainless cans built for the field.

Kim Rowe Captures 2026 NRA National High Power Mid-Range Championship

Kim Rowe wins 2026 NRA National High Power Mid-Range Championship and Patriot Minuteman Trophy with a 2399-171X aggregate.

Federal’s 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak Adds 300 FPS to a Cartridge You Probably Already Shoot

Federal’s 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak uses Peak Alloy cases to push velocities 300 fps faster while fitting existing 6.5 Creedmoor rifles.

AMU Competitors Top 2026 Dixie Match Leaderboard

USAMU swept the podium at the 2026 Dixie Matches in Jacksonville, with Greg Markowski claiming Top Gun and the NRA Regional Championship.

The Whistler Boy Match Returns to NRA Smallbore

Sponsored by Ruger, the popular junior rifle competition is coming back in July during the 2026 NRA Smallbore Rifle Nationals at Cardinal Center in Ohio.

Interests



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