At Guts & Grit, we take pride in highlighting individuals who embody resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Meet Chris McGiboney—a police officer, SWAT team leader, firearms instructor, competitive shooter, and passionate rancher. His life is a testament to hard work, family values, and an unshakable sense of duty.
A Life of Service and Strength
Born and raised in the Bay Area, Chris has dedicated the last 18 years to serving his community as a police officer. His experience spans across various high-intensity roles, from patrolling the streets to tackling gang activity, narcotics, and robbery investigations. Today, he leads the gang unit and serves as the entry team leader for his agency’s SWAT team—a role that demands both mental and physical toughness. Beyond law enforcement, Chris has a deep passion for training and mentoring others. As a firearms instructor and founding member of Optempo Training Group, he helps law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilians refine their shooting and tactical skills. Whether in the field or on the range, Chris is dedicated to pushing himself and those around him to be better.
The Ranch Life—Finding Peace in the Wild
When he’s not on duty, Chris finds solace on his family’s horse ranch in Livingston, Montana. Ranching has become more than just a hobby—it’s a way of life. His days off start with early morning chores, followed by arena work and trail riding. The ranch represents a stark contrast to the high-stakes world of law enforcement, offering a grounding balance between duty and personal fulfillment.
Discovering Guts & Grit
Chris first discovered Guts & Grit through Instagram, drawn in by the bold designs and unique quotes that stood out from the typical clichés. But beyond the apparel, it was the brand’s unwavering patriotism and support for first responders that resonated deeply with him. “As a first responder, especially in the Bay Area, support isn’t something we often receive. It’s refreshing to see a brand that genuinely backs those of us who put our lives on the line every day.”Chris also appreciates Guts & Grit’s involvement in events like The Tactical Games, a competition he’s had the privilege of participating in—testing both his physical and tactical abilities in a high-pressure setting.
Favorite Picks from the Collection
Chris has two go-to tees from Guts & Grit:
Earn Everything – A motto he lives by, reinforcing the belief that success is never given, only earned through relentless effort.
All Good – A design that humorously captures the unpredictable nature of life, something he faces daily in both his law enforcement and ranching roles.
More Than Just a Brand—A Community
For Chris, Guts & Grit is more than a clothing company; it’s a movement that unites like-minded individuals who value discipline, patriotism, and perseverance. His interactions with Andre and Megan have only reinforced his respect for the brand, as they actively support him and Optempo Training Group. “Their outreach and commitment to their community are what make this brand stand out. It’s not just about selling shirts—it’s about building a culture of hard-working, driven individuals.”
Where to Follow Chris
Want to see Chris in action? Follow him on Instagram at @cgibs425_optempo or train with him at OptempoTraining.com. Whether he’s on duty, on the range, or on horseback, Chris embodies the values of Guts & Grit—resilience, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. We’re honored to have Chris as part of the Guts & Grit family and can’t wait to see what’s next for him!