Baxter Firearms Training

Barrier Firearms Training operates out of Citrus Heights and Sacramento Valley Shooting Center in Sloughhouse. Mike Baxter runs the operation as a one-man shop focused on teaching shooters—from nervous first-timers to competitive shooters looking to refine skills.

• •Small class sizes. Every class caps at 10 students or fewer. That's not marketing speak—it's how the training actually works. You get personal coaching instead of getting lost in a crowd.

• •Real teaching experience. Baxter was a student tutor in grade school, a running coach in college, and an assistant training officer in the US Army. He shoots competitively himself. He knows the difference between target practice and actual training.

• •Flexible scheduling. Work weekends? Can't do Saturday classes? Baxter offers weeknight training at the indoor range, plus private and semi-private sessions year-round. Email to request a time that works.

Barrier uses Mantis X Training Systems—laser-based dry fire and live-fire training technology that tracks your performance and gives real-time feedback on trigger control and sight alignment. This isn't a gimmick; it's how serious shooters identify problems that target paper can't show.

According to Baxter: "I train to a standard of consistency that you can learn and repeat when it counts."

That means: - Basic firearm safety (every single class) - Proper ammunition selection and storage - Legal obligations around ownership and carry in California - Marksmanship fundamentals - Defensive shooting techniques for advanced students - What to do after a defensive incident (legal, medical, psychological)

For CCW students, the curriculum includes avoiding becoming a victim in the first place—de-escalation, situational awareness, legal considerations—not just trigger pulling.

If you're buying your first handgun and have no idea what to get, this is the course. You'll learn: - Revolver vs. semi-auto differences - Caliber selection trade-offs - Grip ergonomics - Safety mechanisms - Pros and cons of the most popular models - You'll actually fire several different handguns to see what feels right

Class runs 2-4 hours depending on student experience. Ammunition is included. You'll need eye/ear protection (loaner gear available if you don't own it), closed-toe shoes, and a hat. Bring water and snacks—the range is isolated from food options.

"I am combining my passions to share with the next generation of gun enthusiasts, and those who are curious about what we do."

Barier started shooting at 10 years old. He competes, hunts, and shoots sporting clays. He teaches because he understands that new shooters get nervous and need patience—not attitude. He explicitly states his goal is to make classes "safe, comfortable, and fun."

Testimonial from a first-timer: "It was my first time to hold a gun with Mike Baxter as my instructor. I was nervous in the beginning but after our first session I feel confident that I will be a responsible gun owner because of the knowledge that I learned from him. He's very detailed and patient." —Anton R.

Citrus Heights, CA - Indoor range training for midweek classes

Sacramento Valley Shooting Center, Sloughhouse, CA (15501 Meiss Rd) - Outdoor range for weekend and full-day courses

No upcoming public schedule posted? That's normal. Email or call to request a class date. Private training, group sessions, and custom scheduling are the norm here.

Email [email protected] (preferred) or call (916) 729-8377 to: - Request a free skills assessment - Schedule a private or semi-private class - Ask about Mantis X training - Get details on any course

Barrier says: "For quickest response, please send an email with your questions. I will try to respond as quickly as possible."