Meet the family.

Erik moved to MN from Michigan in 2002. At age 17 he joined the MN Army National Guard as an Infantryman. Deployed to Iraq in 2011 for OIF/OND. With over 10 years of Total service in multiple positions such as: Weapons instructor, training coordinator, and range NCO. Outside of the military Erik is proficient in and competes in many shotgun sporting and tactical games. He believes in making sure that Americans understand the laws around them and feel a sense of comfort while carrying a firearm. "Protecting ourselves, loved ones, and the law abiding citizens is our responsibility as Americans." 

Shane was raised in Stillwater and currently lives with his family in Ham Lake.  With over 20 years of experience in finance and small business management, Shane's initial role as passive investor quickly evolved to an active role in the company after seeing the vision being built.  You'll most often find Shane behind the scenes absolutely dorking out over spreadsheets and super boring garbage like leverage ratios, SWOT analysis and C.U.P. applications for long term expansion planning.  Shane's passion for firearms started with grandpa's Wingmaster (still a prized possession) and a very young, very bruised shoulder.  

Mike was born and raised in the St. Paul and currently lives with his family in Hugo.  Mike's path has evolved from a top customer of the former business to co-founder of the new venture.  His passion for firearms was seeded by his late father Mike Steiner Sr. as a young boy.  Losing Mike Sr. in 2019 unexpectedly fueled his drive to embrace a dream they both had and here he is, living it.  Among many things, Mike heads up our shooting sports engagement.  Get a private hour with Mike for a familiarization session in our range or at the gunsmithing table building a custom AR and you'll be hooked. 

Chad is originally from Rush City and now lives with his family in Shafer.  After 2 years as Lieutenant with the Shafer Fire Department, he currently serves as its Training Captain.  Aside from his ability to guide you with a vast knowledge base of firearms and accessories, Chad wears many hats at Best Defense, not the least of which is the point person on all things technical and computer related to this bunch of Neanderthals.