John Baker
Instructor # 2159710 | Sentinel Defense Academy
Certified with the USCCA since 2/22/2026
Certification Renewal Date 2/22/2027
USCCA Certifications
- Concealed Carry & Home Defense
- Emergency & First Aid
My Biography
John Baker is a former United States Marine, retired Phoenix Police Officer, educator, and certified firearms instructor with a lifelong commitment to responsible firearms training and public safety.
John began his professional career in the United States Marine Corps, where he served in both a legal capacity and as a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter door gunner. In that role, he was responsible for aerial weapons systems and crew defense during flight operations. The Marine Corps instilled in him a deep respect for discipline, safety, and precision—principles that continue to shape his approach to firearms training today.
After completing his military service, John joined the Phoenix Police Department, where he served as a patrol officer. During his law enforcement career, he received extensive training in firearms handling, defensive tactics, and decision-making under stress. His experience in policing reinforced the importance of responsible firearm ownership, situational awareness, and sound judgment in high-pressure environments.
In 2009, John transitioned into the field of education, where he spent years as a classroom teacher before becoming a school administrator in 2017. His background in education has given him a unique ability to communicate complex concepts clearly, work with learners at all levels, and create structured training environments where students feel both challenged and supported.
Today, John combines his military, law enforcement, and educational experience to deliver firearms training that is practical, responsible, and accessible. He holds certifications as an NRA Law Enforcement Firearms Instructor and a USCCA Certified Firearms Instructor, and he remains committed to continuing professional development through additional advanced training and instructor certifications.
John believes that effective firearms training is about far more than marksmanship. It is about building safe habits, developing sound judgment, and preparing individuals to make responsible decisions under stress. Whether working with experienced shooters or individuals who have never handled a firearm before, his goal is to create a learning environment where students leave more confident, more capable, and better prepared.
Through his work with Sentinel Defense Academy, John is dedicated to helping responsible citizens become prepared, confident, and safe firearm owners.
Request a Class
This course is designed to build a strong foundation in defensive handgun use with iron sights or optic. Emphasis is placed on safe handling, proper grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control, and accuracy under controlled conditions. Instruction focuses on responsible firearms use, safety, and disciplined fundamentals applicable to real-world defensive situations. This course is ideal for new handgun owners or those seeking to strengthen their fundamentals through structured instruction.
This course provides an educational foundation for individuals who carry—or are considering carrying—a concealed firearm. Topics include safe concealed carry practices, situational awareness, legal considerations, and responsible decision-making. The focus is on understanding the responsibilities associated with carrying a firearm in public. This course is classroom-based
Home Defense: Lethal & Less-Than-Lethal Decision Making
Protecting your home requires more than owning a firearm—it requires judgment, preparation, and the ability to make critical decisions under stress.
This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of home defense strategies, focusing on when and how to appropriately use lethal and less-than-lethal force. Through a structured blend of classroom instruction and practical application, students will gain the knowledge and confidence needed to protect themselves and their families responsibly.
In this course, you will learn: • The legal foundations of using force in self-defense inside the home • The difference between lethal and less-than-lethal force—and when each may be appropriate • Decision-making under stress and how to avoid critical mistakes • Home defense planning, including layered security and safe room concepts • Integration of defensive tools (firearms and less-than-lethal options) • Situational awareness and threat identification
This course emphasizes responsible firearm ownership, safety, and the importance of having a clear, practiced plan before a critical incident occurs.
Whether you are new to home defense or looking to strengthen your existing knowledge, this training will equip you with the mindset and skills necessary to make informed, lawful, and effective decisions.
No prior experience required.
This course provides an educational foundation for individuals who carry—or are considering carrying—a concealed firearm. Topics include safe concealed carry practices, situational awareness, legal considerations, and responsible decision-making. The focus is on understanding the responsibilities associated with carrying a firearm in public. This course is classroom-based with optional live-fire components when applicable.
This course provides an educational foundation for individuals who carry—or are considering carrying—a concealed firearm. Topics include safe concealed carry practices, situational awareness, legal considerations, and responsible decision-making. The focus is on understanding the responsibilities associated with carrying a firearm in public. This course is classroom-based with optional live-fire components when applicable.