About Flathead Firearm Handling
Firearm Handling began as a dream between my father and me in 2013. My dad—a police officer, armorer, and firearm instructor for over 30 years—inspired my love for marksmanship. After my service in the Marine Corps, we set out to create a training company that welcomed beginners without intimidation, while still challenging seasoned shooters.
Sadly, my father passed away in 2014 before we could realize that dream together. Nevertheless, his legacy continues to guide the intentionality and integrity of Firearm Handling. It has been an absolute honor to relaunch our vision here in the Flathead Valley of Montana, offering safe, effective, and approachable firearms training for individuals and groups. Even the name, logo, and URL remain true to the plans we made back in 2013
In 2003, JT enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving multiple deployments to Iraq. After his service, he earned a Bachelor of Journalism in Strategic Communications with a minor in Business from the University of Missouri.
JT went on to co-found a defense contracting firm, serving as both CEO and a licensed protection specialist. Over the years, he has trained extensively across nearly every discipline of shooting—from long-range precision and close-quarters battle to personal protection both inside and outside the home. He is nationally certified as a firearms instructor and range safety officer, as well as holding state-level certifications in Montana.
With decades of training and real-world experience, JT brings unmatched expertise and a passion for teaching others to handle firearms safely and effectively.
Primary Instructor
Jonathan Pharr (CFI, PPITH, PPOTH, RSO)
I grew up in a home where the only firearm we had was a 12 gauge shotgun. Firearms were new to me when I married JT in 2006. Over the course of our marriage I have enjoyed shooting but I was never able to really focus on my training, especially while raising littles. I am excited to be a in a place where I feel more mentally ready to take on the responsibility and be more intentional with my firearm training. I have an Associate of Arts degree and 20 years of experience in management in various industry fields: retail, mortgage, non-profit, creative media and financial. I am so passionate to help other women build their confidence and capabilities in firearm handling here in the Flathead Valley!