A military veteran John "JJ" Wyatt has started a new career as a business owner.

Z32 Armory Firearms Academy first began online and now has become a place where new and experienced gun owners can get training.

Wyatt, a 25-year military veteran, served both in the Marine Corps and Army in infantry and as an instructor.

He opened Z32 Armory off W. 8th St. in Erie less than one year ago.

No guns are sold there, but a retail portion with equipment in the front leads to a firearm and personal defense training area in the back.

"Here, I solely do training," said Wyatt. "One person, four people."

It starts in an intimate classroom for an hour and a half. Clients can then schedule their own time to work on different applications, some of which JJ has created himself as a simulated way to train.

"This training platform has air-operated firearms," said Wyatt. "They’re both for experienced and newer shooters, so they can hone their skills."

Customized training is also offered for people wanting education about their own gun.

"Bring your firearm in, we’ll go back to the classroom, we’ll disassemble it, go over how to clean it, how to maintain it and what we need to inspect," said Wyatt.

He also offers systems for those wanting a less-lethal option for personal protection.

"Byrna is one of the top research and development companies for pepper spray guns," said Wyatt.

Wyatt also does gunsmithing.

He opened the business with his wife, whom he met in the military, and says the business's name, Z32, comes from his last Special Forces deployment with his team called Zombie 32.