Who We Are
About Bart Goldbar
Bart Goldbar has called Missoula, Montana home since he was six months old. Deeply rooted in the community, he’s a proud husband, father, and outdoor enthusiast. He and his wife Dorothy have been together for over 20 years, raising three children—one of whom has complex medical needs. Their journey has connected them deeply with the special needs community, and both Bart and Dorothy have actively supported Special Olympics. Together, they coached their daughter’s team, The Power of the Trinity, where she proudly earned multiple gold and silver medals.
Bart has a lifelong passion for empowering others. He thrives on seeing people grow in confidence as they learn skills they never thought possible—whether it’s mastering a punch combination or executing a judo throw. This passion ultimately led to the creation of Goldbar Defense—a vision that has been decades in the making.
Bart began his martial arts journey in 1992 at Sakura Warrior Arts. Within a year, he discovered his gift for teaching and began assisting Grand Master Jim Harrison with classes. Over time, Bart developed advanced skills in self-defense, situational awareness, firearms tactics, and defense against weapons. In 2016, he earned his black belt in Ronin Goshin Jutsu—an achievement accomplished by only a select few under Grand Master Harrison.
His formal education includes:
Associate Degree in Criminal Justice (University of Phoenix, 2010)
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration (2012)
Master of Arts in Biblical Exposition (2021)
Pastoral License (2021)
Certified Firearms Instructor through the USCCA (2023)
Bart’s experience also extends to ministry and community leadership. He served as head of security, Youth Pastor, and Interim Pastor at a local church for four years, and worked with The Strength Team, traveling to inspire and motivate both youth and adults. Eventually, he felt called to step out in faith and combine his spiritual mission with his practical training—using his skills to protect churches, businesses, and families across the country.
With years of teaching experience, Bart has learned how to connect with students of all ages and backgrounds. Whether working with children, adults, retired military, law enforcement, or civilians, his goal is the same: to help people become the best version of themselves and to live with greater confidence and preparedness.
As more people seek personal protection and begin purchasing firearms, Bart recognized a critical need: many lacked proper training in how to safely and effectively use these tools. He now teaches a variety of firearms and self-defense classes, including weapons retention—a vital skill that answers the question: What happens if someone tries to take your weapon from you?
Goldbar Defense provides comprehensive training in:
Firearms and weapons handling
Self-defense and situational awareness
Security and threat response
Church and organizational safety
If you want to protect yourself and your loved ones with confidence, Goldbar Defense is the partner you can trust. Bart is honored to train individuals and teams who are serious about their safety in today’s chaotic and unpredictable world.
When seconds count and help is minutes away—
You are your own first responder.