About ShotCraft Firearms Training
Real-world skills. Professional instruction. A safe, welcoming environment for every student.
NRA Certified
5 Disciplines
Meet Your Instructor
Mike Carlson
Owner & Lead Instructor
Mike Carlson is an NRA Certified Instructor with over 15 years of experience in firearms training and personal protection. A lifelong Minnesotan and competitive shooter, Mike founded ShotCraft with a single mission: to make safe, professional firearms education accessible to everyone — from first-time handlers to experienced shooters looking to sharpen their skills.
Mike holds NRA instructor certifications in Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun, and Personal Protection Inside the Home. He is also a USCCA Certified Instructor and has trained hundreds of students across central Minnesota. His teaching style emphasizes safety, confidence-building, and practical real-world application.
Certifications & Credentials
- NRA Certified Pistol Instructor
- NRA Certified Rifle Instructor
- NRA Certified Shotgun Instructor
- NRA Personal Protection Instructor
- USCCA Certified Instructor
- 15+ Years of Instruction Experience
- 500+ Students Trained
Teaching Philosophy
Every student walks in with a different background, comfort level, and goal. Mike's approach starts with safety fundamentals and builds from there — at a pace that works for you.
Safety First, Always
Every class begins with the four fundamental rules of firearm safety. No exceptions. A safe student is a confident student.
Practical Skills
Classroom knowledge is reinforced with hands-on range time. You'll leave each class with skills you can actually use.
Welcoming to All
No experience required. ShotCraft classes are designed for beginners and experienced shooters alike — judgment-free, patient instruction every time.
Range Locations
Classes are held at established, licensed shooting ranges across central Minnesota. Specific range details are confirmed with your registration confirmation email.
Cold Spring Sportsmen's Club
Cold Spring, MN
Primary location for pistol and rifle courses
Kimball Sportsmen's Club
Kimball, MN
Shotgun and select rifle courses
All ranges are fully licensed, insured, and equipped with covered shooting positions. Loaner firearms available for students who do not own one — just ask when you register.
Ready to Get Started?
Browse the full class schedule and reserve your seat with a deposit today.