Happy Birthday Dad!

Happy Birthday to the guy that started it all - Tom Volquartsen!

One question we always get is where did we get started? The answer many times will surprise people. Dad began in the basement of a rented home back in 1974. At that time, it was known as Tom's Gun Bluing Shop. Dad excelled at bluing but it was more than that back then. His business also included repairs and all-around gunsmithing, which would serve him well in later years as our business evolved into full-scale manufacturing of rifles and pistols.

One thing I think is often overlooked is how many of the guys before my time had to learn their craft. It was trial and error. If you were lucky you might have somebody to ask the right questions to, that was an added bonus. There were no internet forums and definitely no YouTube videos.

Dad combined his passion for firearms with his desire to not stop until it was done to the best of his ability. He went all-in on the firearms business in 1986. Mom & Dad had a family to feed and there was no Plan B.

That desire to not stop until "it was perfect" was engrained into us as kids. At the time, it drove me crazy. I was a lazy kid that thought just getting a project done was good enough. Years later, I owe Dad a thank you for making me realize the value of never being satisfied!

Dad is enjoying his retirement but still checks in to make sure we are still doing it the right way.

Happy 72nd Birthday, Dad!