BIG NEWS FOR THE CROSSHAIRS TEXAS FAMILY!
Crosshairs Texas Welcomes Mike Zardiackas as Our New Full-Time Lead Instructor & Director of Training
At Crosshairs Texas, we’ve always believed that great instructors change lives.
For more than a decade, we’ve had the privilege of helping thousands of Texans become safer, more confident firearm owners. As our training programs continue to grow, we knew it was time to find someone who could help lead the next chapter of firearms education at Crosshairs Texas.
After an extensive search, we’re proud to announce that Mike Zardiackas has joined the Crosshairs Texas Team as our new Full-Time Lead Instructor and Director of Training.
And frankly, we couldn’t be more excited.
Meet Mike Zardiackas
Full-Time Lead Instructor & Director of Training
28+ Years of Law Enforcement Experience. Professional Instructor. Servant Leader. Passionate Educator.
WHY MIKE?
Mike isn’t just another firearms instructor. He’s an educator, mentor, and lifelong public servant.
With over 28 years of combined law enforcement experience and a Bachelor’s Degree from Texas Tech University, Mike has dedicated his career to teaching others how to safely and effectively perform when it matters most.
Before honorably retiring from the Austin ISD Police Department, Mike spent the final years of his law enforcement career doing what he loves most: training others.
As the Primary Firearms Instructor for AISD PD, Mike coordinated annual firearms qualifications and professional training programs for more than 100 commissioned law enforcement officers each year.
Teaching isn’t something Mike added to his résumé. It has been the focus of his career.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR OUR CUSTOMERS
Mike’s addition to the Crosshairs Texas family represents a significant investment in the future of our training division.
Under Mike’s leadership, you’ll begin seeing:
- Expanded firearms training opportunities
- New performance-based shooting courses
- More beginner-friendly classes
- Advanced handgun, rifle, and shotgun programs
- Enhanced License to Carry training
- Private and semi-private instruction
- New curriculum development
- Improved instructor standards and student experiences
- Additional specialty courses for shooters of all skill levels
Whether you’ve never picked up a firearm or you’ve been shooting for decades, our goal remains the same:
To provide the highest quality firearms education in Texas in a welcoming, professional environment.
TRAINING PHILOSOPHY
Mike believes firearms training should be practical, professional, and approachable for shooters of all skill levels.
Whether you’re purchasing your very first handgun or attending advanced defensive firearms training, Mike’s instructional style focuses on developing safe gun handling habits, technical proficiency, sound decision-making, and confidence through repetition and performance-based training.
His passion is serving his community through education and helping every student become a more capable and responsible firearm owner.
PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS
Mike’s certifications include:
- TCOLE Master Peace Officer
- TCOLE Advanced Instructor
- TCOLE Firearms Instructor (Pistol, Patrol Rifle & Shotgun)
- ALERRT Level I Instructor
- Pistol MOS Instructor
- Certified GLOCK Armorer
- Texas DPS Level III Classroom & Firearms Instructor
- Texas License to Carry Instructor
- TASER Instructor
THE MAN BEHIND THE BADGE
Mike is a servant leader who believes that great firearms training begins with humility, professionalism, and a commitment to helping others succeed.
His favorite verse reflects the principles that have guided his life and career:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 (HCSB)
His signature firearm?
GLOCK 45 MOS
(Although we’re told SIG Sauer and Smith & Wesson are giving Glock some healthy competition these days. Even instructors are allowed to change their minds after enough range time.)
THE FUTURE OF TRAINING AT CROSSHAIRS TEXAS
Hiring Mike isn’t simply about adding another instructor to our roster.
It’s about investing in our students, our community, and our mission of teaching the world to shoot.
We’re building something special at Crosshairs Texas, and Mike will play a significant role in shaping the future of firearms education for our customers and the Central Texas community.
We’re honored to welcome him to the Crosshairs Texas family and cannot wait for you to meet him in class.
A MESSAGE FROM CROSSHAIRS TEXAS
At Crosshairs Texas, we believe that exceptional training begins with exceptional instructors. Mike’s experience, professionalism, and heart for serving others make him the perfect fit to lead the next generation of firearms education at Crosshairs Texas.
We are excited to have him join our family and look forward to introducing our students and community to everything he has to offer.
The future of firearms training at Crosshairs Texas has never looked brighter.
CROSSHAIRS TEXAS
Teaching the World to Shoot.
Professional Training. Proven Experience. Real-World Skills.
Voted Best Gun Store 10+ Years in a Row by the Austin American-Statesman.
