Raziel Cohen, a 28-year-old who’s been dubbed the Tactical Rabbi, made a significant change from studying Talmud to practicing target shooting, and it’s certainly paid off.
He’s been nominated for a notable accolade—the Gandhi Award—which is often referred to as the Oscars within the firearms community. After more than a decade of skill development and obtaining certifications from both the NRA and the Department of Justice, he’s vying for the title of Firearms Instructor of the Year.
“This is beyond my wildest dreams,” he shared from his New Jersey home, expressing surprise at the nomination. “It’s an insane feeling,” he added, as the founder of the National Defense Firearms Academy.
His experience includes working in correctional facilities and teaching self-defense across the country, and he acknowledged that the competition this year is quite fierce, with contenders like Gun femme fatale Anna Taylor and Amelie Eichlinger Knoll.
“I think there’s always an initial shock, a disbelief that a rabbi could shoot like that,” he noted, adding that his appearance can be quite unexpected. One day he could be in tactical gear with a monogrammed bulletproof vest, while the next day he’s donning a traditional black hat and religious attire. “I’m definitely not who people expect,” he confessed.
Interestingly, he remarked, “Some folks take a second look, then just punch me and move along.”
No matter their backgrounds, Cohen emphasized that all firearms instructors share a common goal.
“We all want to protect our families, our communities, and each other,” he remarked.
In 2021, he gained some attention for designing a $550 capota—an item traditionally worn by married Hasidic men—to provide comfortable concealment for firearms.
However, it was really the landmark Supreme Court decision in 2022 that shifted the landscape of gun culture significantly. The events from October 7th further influenced people’s perceptions as well.
“Jews and guns have become more prevalent lately,” he reflected, noting that he has trained around 5,000 individuals—predominantly from Jewish communities—since those incidents.
The upcoming Gandhi Awards in Las Vegas promises to be a black-tie affair with all the fanfare expected, including red carpets and a warm desert environment.
He joked about his schedule: “Wake up, pray, and then head straight to the event,” intentionally steering clear of any Sin City distractions.
As he looks forward to meeting other nominees, including military veterans and law enforcement figures, he feels a mix of excitement and humility in categories like “Dapper Influencer,” “Top 2A Writer,” and “Best Outdoorsman.”
While he hopes for a win, he understands that the outcome isn’t solely in his hands.
“In the end, it’s G-d who decides.”
