About Us & Testimonials

Turning a passion into a profession is a dream for many. But for Young Guns owner Mike Beltran, it’s a vibrant reality. Mike is originally from California and raised in a small, logging and ranching town in the Sierra Nevada’s of Northern California. His father, a law enforcement officer and avid hunter, influenced Mike’s interest in firearms and hunting at an early age. Receiving formal gunsmith education at Colorado School of Trades in 1996, he continued to immerse himself in the firearm industry over the subsequent years. He had the unique opportunity to work under the tutelage of Ted Yost at Gunsite Academy in Paulden, Arizona. In addition, he gained significant experience building custom Ruger revolvers while working for Gary Reeder Custom Guns in Flagstaff, Arizona. In his own shop, located in Young, Arizona, Mike specializes in the building of custom carry guns, in particular, 1911s, Ruger revolvers and Encores. You’ll find his expertise covers a wide range of firearm skills and abilities - from action jobs, rifle rebarreling, muzzle brakes and more. He holds a Federal Firearms License through the ATF since 2007.

In addition to gunsmithing, Mike filled his life with other meaningful work and experiences. Though a career of military service enticed him, Mike chose a different direction and never looked back. He spent nearly three decades in the timber industry. In this line of work he operated various types of heavy logging equipment. A notable experience was the few years he worked as a Timber Faller which he describes as "a real rush.” He appreciated the often hard and industrious work and most especially that he could be amidst the great outdoors doing what he enjoyed. As far back as his high school years Mike understood the importance of the timber industry and the impact it had on our world - then and now. He finds this work shaped his life in many ways and was in large part, the vehicle that brought him to the person he is today.

Stop by, give Mike a call or shoot him an email for any questions you may have. He’s here to help with all your gunsmith needs. We look forward to hearing from you....