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2026 Schedule – Adding classes daily. If you have a group looking to train, let me know ASAP and we’ll get it scheduled.
- There are a lot of firearms instructors out there, so why choose me? Simple…You won’t find someone with my experience, background and skill that come close to the same level of individual development that my training provides. Lots of instructors sell an “experience”. If you want to identify your weaknesses and learn how to improve, you won’t be disappointed with my training.
- I have great location for training in central Texas – Do some homework before taking a firearms class. I guarantee you’ll have a good experience here and find my courses an incredible value! I focus on training and developing your marksmanship skills. I provide individual feedback and assessments and give you the tools to improve. I don’t spend your time telling my stories. I focus on making you better.
- Contact me directly to schedule private or group sessions.
Training Strategy
- Establish the fundamentals of shooting first. Shooting is not complicated…properly point the gun at the target, then move the trigger without moving the gun. Simple isn’t always easy though. Good instruction and practice make the difference.
- Small classes focused on the individual
- Personal feedback. I can quickly assess your skill level and help you fix what needs fixed.
Courses
- Defensive Pistol 1 & 2
- Pistol Red Dot Sight (RDS) 1
- Texas License to Carry (LTC)
- School Safety (Guardian Program)
- Personalized training plans
- NRA Basic Pistol Course (link to register)
- NRA Basic Rifle Course
- Visit our calendar
Excellence
My training is designed to develop confidence and competence with whatever firearm you choose to own or carry. My shooting courses are centered around small classes, typically 8 or less, to provide the best individual and personal attention.
Expertise
Whether you are new to handguns or firearms in general and feel nervous about taking a class, or are very experienced and comfortable around firearms, I will meet you at your experience level and work with you to meet your goals.
Experience
With two tours at the US Army Marksmanship Unit, a “Master” classification with the US Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) and “Grandmaster” classifications in Steel Challenge Shooting Association (SCSA), my training courses bring over 20 years of experience to the client.
About Me
I graduated from Texas A&M University in 1998 and spent the next 20 years as a Field Artillery Officer. I retired from the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel after serving as the Commander of the US Army Marksmanship Unit. An avid competitive pistol shooter, I love to share my experience and teach others.
Get In Touch
(512) 912-6412
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Gatesville/Jonesboro area
I came to the basic pistol class with pretty much zero knowledge or experience. I actually dreaded attending the class, so much was my fear of guns. At the completion of the class, I felt confident in both the basic knowledge of how my gun works, and also in actually shooting it. Jim is very calm, patient, and encouraging, and I highly recommend his class.
Jim was an awesome instructor for the Basic Pistol Course. My friends and I learned a lot and left with confidence. Jim was very thorough with the information and dedicated time to each of us. We can’t wait to attend more courses offered by Sheepdog Marksmanship.
Jim was an imaging and instructor. His patients and attention to detail were so essential when it came to instilling confidence in our class. I would recommend any and everyone who wants to learn firearms to take his course. We had a blast.
*amazing*
I want to give Jim the highest possible recommendation and I’m trying to get my friends to come up to his place. Even if you’ve been shooting for years, like me you probably have room for improvement.
Great class for anyone from beginner to experienced with individualized training. Improved my shooting accuracy and Jim was a wonderful instructor.
Jim was an excellent instructor for the Basic NRA pistol class. He was thorough, patient and encouraging for this first time handgun shooter. I came having never shot a pistol and left with confidence.
Jim is great instructor. He helped me get threw my fear of taking the test because of my dyslexia. I encourage everyone to take his class. He explains everything very well
Amazing instruction with Jim. Anyone skill level will gain something from his class. Very professional, individualized, and structured class with a fun competitive task at the end. I highly recommend any of his classes!
I attended the Defensive Pistol Skills class and was tremendously satisfied with the training that I received. I walked away with a new wealth of knowledge and confidence in handling a pistol from the holster. I also appreciated the small class size that allowed for 2-way interaction. The training facilities and outdoor range are great. Jim Barrows is a confident and positive instructor and a great host! His personal attention to each shooter and thorough instructions through each drill are to be commended. I have and will promote to every gun owner that I know.
Thanks for the feedback, Rei. Great to have you out and hope to get you back!
My daughter (age 25) and I took the Combined basic pistol & LTC class. My daughter had no experience with a handgun but with Jim’s patience and expertise through each step of the course, we both left having passed the LTC course. JIm makes sure you are comfortable with each step of the course before moving on. Whether you are new to handguns or need a refresher- this is a great course to take.
Thanks for the feedback Teresa. Glad this was a good class for both of you!
I met Jim in June ‘24 and have trained with him numerous times. Training with Jim is always an amazing experience. Regardless of your skill level, Jim has the ability to adjust his training to meet you where you are and move forward at your pace. Constantly working to refine his craft, Jim’s many years of teaching, training, coaching and competing have resulted in an incredibly well-rounded and refined instructor with no ego. His only goal is to get on your level and provide the specific instruction/training you need to improve. Additionally, whether it’s in a group setting or a private session, I always leave Jims place with the assurance that I’m better and that I made a good investment with his training.
Thanks Chuck. I always enjoy having you out and value your feedback!
My work schedule stopped me from getting into one of his scheduled classes, so Jim worked with me and we figured out a day for a individual class. Going in, I had been shooting for a while, but thinking about going a little further and doing the USPSA thing. I realized shortly after arriving… there were a lot of things I thought I knew, and then there were some I had no idea about! Jim tailored my learning experience to things that were pertinent to my plans. Best class I have ever taken and I need another one for things that have become obvious since that first class! A+ all the way around.