About Free State Firearms, LLC
Free State Firearms, LLC is a Baldwin City, Kansas-based firearms manufacturer and technology company dedicated to advancing firearm safety through user-authentication technology.
Co-founded by Tom Holland and Brennan Fagan, Free State Firearms developed Certifire Technology™ — a proprietary RFID-based user authentication system — and integrated it into the Sentry 1911™, a full-featured 9mm semi-automatic pistol built on the classic 1911 platform.
The Sentry 1911™ is the only commercially available RFID-enabled user-authenticated firearm (UAF) in North America. In 2026, Free State Firearms became the first company in the United States to achieve operational law enforcement deployment of a user-authenticated firearm, when the Real County, Texas Sheriff’s Office adopted the Sentry 1911™ for prisoner transport operations.
In addition to manufacturing the Sentry 1911™, Free State Firearms offers custom-designed user-authenticated security solutions for organizations seeking to develop their own user-authenticated firearms.
Tom Holland
Co-founder & President
Brennan Fagan
Co-founder
Our Milestones
2020 — Contracted with K-State Technology Development Institute to begin development of first UAF prototype
2022 — Featured in Reuters national coverage of the emerging UAF market
2023 — Completed beta product testing with six separate U.S. law enforcement agencies
2023 — Announced limited availability of the Sentry 1911™ 9mm pistol
2024 — Established first authorized dealer agreement (The Gun Guys II, Ottawa, KS)
2025 — Introduced lower-priced Sentry 1911™ at $1,895 MSRP, expanding market accessibility
2026 — Real Co., TX Sheriff’s Office becomes first U.S. law enforcement agency to operationally deploy a UAF
Our Mission
To deliver firearms that are both highly reliable and inherently safer through RFID-based user authentication — without compromise to the operator.
Why Choose a User-Authenticated Firearm?
Protection Against Unauthorized Use
A user-authenticated firearm responds only to you. Using RFID technology, your Free State Firearm UAF remains safe and inoperable in the hands of anyone who isn’t authorized — no exceptions!
Peace of Mind at Home
Accidents involving unsecured firearms are a leading concern for families. An authenticated firearm adds a critical layer of safety — especially if you have children in the home — without sacrificing instant access when you need it most.
Theft Deterrence
Even if your firearm is stolen, it’s useless without your authenticated credentials. That means less risk of your weapon being used in a crime — and potentially lower homeowner’s insurance premiums.
Immediate Access for Authorized Users
Don’t mistake safety for slowness. Today’s authentication technology is engineered for rapid response. Our systems unlock in milliseconds, so you’re never left waiting when it counts.
A Responsible Choice That Doesn’t Compromise Performance
User-authenticated firearms are built to the same performance and reliability standards you expect. You get the stopping power, accuracy, and durability of a traditional firearm — plus the confidence of knowing it’s yours alone.
Who Is a User-Authenticated Firearm Right For?
- Parents and families who want firearms accessible to adults but secured from children
- First-time owners who want built-in safety measures while they build experience
- Home defenders who want instant access without the risk of unauthorized use
- Responsible owners who want to lead by example in their community
Own It Responsibly. Own It Confidently.
The future of firearm ownership is secure and unapologetically yours. Browse our selection of user-authenticated firearms and find the model that fits your lifestyle and your values.
All firearms sold in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Authentication technology response times may vary by model and conditions. Consult your owner’s manual for reliability information.