Valhalla Precision Firearms owners Aaron Cullor (left) and Erik Apperson (right) during a private training session in Smartsville. The Plumas Lake-based instructors offer personalized, reality-based training focused on comfort, confidence, and community safety.

PLUMAS LAKE, CA (MPG) - For Valhalla Precision Firearms owners Aaron Cullor and Erik Apperson, safety starts with comfort. The Plumas Lake–based business opened in January 2025 with a mission to provide knowledge through reality-based training and a high level of personalized accessibility.

“The underpinning of this business is really to make people comfortable,” said Apperson. “Once you find something that makes you comfortable, our goal is to make you effective with that.”

Cullor, who has been shooting since the age of 5, brings decades of hands-on experience. A military veteran who served as a law-enforcement officer since 1997, he now works in Child Support Services while overseeing the business.

“We do training for all levels, from those who have never handled a gun all the way to advanced combat practice,” said Cullor.

A longtime fan of long-range target shooting — his personal best being a mile-long shot — Cullor said his vision for Valhalla grew from “a love for firearms and a drive to take care of those that protect our way of life.”

Apperson, who serves as director of training for Valhalla, brings 25 years of law-enforcement experience, including two terms as sheriff in Del Norte County. He currently works for the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, and like Cullor, views the new business as a way to invest in the local area.

“I’m new to this community and this is kind of a way to support it,” Apperson said.

Target silhouettes display the results of a live-fire exercise during a Valhalla Precision Firearms training in Smartsville. Instructors emphasize real-world readiness, noting most defensive encounters occur within three to five yards and last just a few seconds.

Together, the two balance skill sets — Cullor specializing in long-range precision and Apperson in short-range, defensive combat techniques. Their goal is to meet each student where they are, tailoring instruction to build both skill and mindset.

“One of the cornerstones we like to apply in a particular training modality is we will bring out several handguns — you get to pick different calibers, different feels, different versions,” explained Apperson. “Everyone has advice regarding what the best options are, but operating a firearm, becoming effective with it and continuing to seek improvement are all very personal choices. Selecting the right firearm should be too.”

Valhalla offers training for every experience level, from first-time shooters to advanced tactical learners. They also offer virtual-reality training for those hesitant about live-fire exercises.

“What’s nice about starting out with virtual reality is you’re not going to pick up some of the bad habits because that apprehension isn’t going to be there,” Apperson explained. “We start people leveraging technology like that in some cases — not all cases — but it’s very advantageous.”

The pair say their philosophy centers on confidence, comfort, and continued learning, noting that most defensive firearm encounters occur within three to five yards, lasting about three seconds, with an average of three rounds exchanged. For that reason, Apperson said, being calm and capable under pressure is essential.

Both men also emphasized their desire to engage with the community — not only to support military and first responders, but also to help responsible citizens navigate firearm ownership safely and confidently.

“Law-abiding, knowledgeable, responsible and effective firearm owners create a safer community,” said Cullor.

In addition to training, Valhalla Precision Firearms offers gunsmithing, customization services, accessories, and consultation for customers looking to make informed, comfortable choices.

For more information or to explore upcoming training opportunities, visit vpfirearms.com.