Our Team

Practical Guardian is a firearms training company dedicating to cultivating confident, responsible, and skilled armed citizens. We blend classroom instruction with practical coaching and live-fire training.

Chris G.

Chris G.

John “JT” Thompson is the lead instructor at The Practical Guardian, bringing more than 15 years of civilian, military, and law‑enforcement firearms experience to the range. A USCCA‑Certified Firearms Instructor, NRA‑certified Range Safety Officer, and former Army marksmanship coach, JT specializes in defensive pistol, rifle, and low‑light tactics. His courses combine clear classroom instruction with scenario‑based drills that emphasize safety, situational awareness, and legal responsibility. Known for his calm demeanor and knack for breaking down complex skills into practical steps, JT has trained over 2,000 students—from first‑time gun owners to seasoned professionals—helping each develop the confidence and competence to protect themselves and those they love.