Testimonials
Jeff Apple-Firearms Instructor, Venture Security & Training
As a firearms instructor I am frequently asked what is most important in a defensive gun. The answer is that it must be absolutely
reliable. With that in mind, when it came time for some custom work on a Para-Ordinance 1911 I knew that Dave Helton (of D & V
Small Arms) was the gunsmith to do the work. I have seen many guns done by Dave and have always been impressed with the
quality of the work. Since getting my gun back from Dave, this pistol has been absolutely reliable with no malfunctions of any kind
after more than 2000 rounds fired. In addition, the sights were properly regulated and the trigger pull is clean and crisp ( and this
is a series 80 trigger system). The matt Gun-Kote finish looks like Parkerizing but has vastly superior corrosion resistance. I
recommend Dave's Services without reservation.
As a firearms instructor I am frequently asked what is most important in a defensive gun. The answer is that it must be absolutely
reliable. With that in mind, when it came time for some custom work on a Para-Ordinance 1911 I knew that Dave Helton (of D & V
Small Arms) was the gunsmith to do the work. I have seen many guns done by Dave and have always been impressed with the
quality of the work. Since getting my gun back from Dave, this pistol has been absolutely reliable with no malfunctions of any kind
after more than 2000 rounds fired. In addition, the sights were properly regulated and the trigger pull is clean and crisp ( and this
is a series 80 trigger system). The matt Gun-Kote finish looks like Parkerizing but has vastly superior corrosion resistance. I
recommend Dave's Services without reservation.
Mark Meissenbburg
I just wanted to thank you for building the finest pistol ever! The Colt Commander 45 ACP "Bobtail" package is a true work of art,
and most of all it is a real shooter. I would highly recommend your work, and this pistol package in particular to anyone. Keep up
the great work.
I just wanted to thank you for building the finest pistol ever! The Colt Commander 45 ACP "Bobtail" package is a true work of art,
and most of all it is a real shooter. I would highly recommend your work, and this pistol package in particular to anyone. Keep up
the great work.
Daryl Cross
34 Year Law Enforcement Veteran; Master Class PPC: Distinguished Revolver USA;
Distinguished Semi-Auto USA; Distinguished Canada: National Police Combat Champion;
US Presidents Match Top 20 Police: Washington State Governor's Top 20 List; Washington State Master Champion;
Washington State Duty Gun Champion; Washington State Record Holder.
I have been a competitive shooter and weapons aficionado for 30 plus years. Dave Helton built a custom Caspian Long Slide to my
specifications in 2000 for the National Police Championships. I won my class the first time out with it. The gun functioned
flawlessly from the first round fired and has been doing so since. I can't say enough for Dave's expertise, craftsmanship, attention
to detail, l and skill as a gunsmith extraordinary. Dave has also done superb work on my AR match rifle. His knowledge spans a
wide area of handguns, rifles, and shotguns.
If you are looking for a nationally recognized top-notch Gunsmith to build or upgrade your weapons, then Dave Helton is your man.
If you want quality workmanship, not cookie cutter assembly line guns, D & V Small Arms is your place to shop.
34 Year Law Enforcement Veteran; Master Class PPC: Distinguished Revolver USA;
Distinguished Semi-Auto USA; Distinguished Canada: National Police Combat Champion;
US Presidents Match Top 20 Police: Washington State Governor's Top 20 List; Washington State Master Champion;
Washington State Duty Gun Champion; Washington State Record Holder.
I have been a competitive shooter and weapons aficionado for 30 plus years. Dave Helton built a custom Caspian Long Slide to my
specifications in 2000 for the National Police Championships. I won my class the first time out with it. The gun functioned
flawlessly from the first round fired and has been doing so since. I can't say enough for Dave's expertise, craftsmanship, attention
to detail, l and skill as a gunsmith extraordinary. Dave has also done superb work on my AR match rifle. His knowledge spans a
wide area of handguns, rifles, and shotguns.
If you are looking for a nationally recognized top-notch Gunsmith to build or upgrade your weapons, then Dave Helton is your man.
If you want quality workmanship, not cookie cutter assembly line guns, D & V Small Arms is your place to shop.
Drew Dorsett USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association)-Area One Champion
I first met Dave Helton at a bowling pin shoot many years ago. He got my interest sparked in competitive shooting and I began to
attend his IDPA indoor shooting matches every week. As my skill level grew he let me try out his Custom Open-IPSC pistol one
night. I knew right then and there -- I had to have him build one for me! He delivered it to me the day before my birthday...The
craftsmanship was remarkable. The fit was solid, trigger job was great, and it produced tack-driving accuracy. If guns could dream
they would dream about being a gun that Dave built!
The gun he built for me was a SV wide body with a Caspain flat top slide, C-more sight, chambered in 38 Super. Dave did all up
with the D & V Small Arms Finish, a 1.5 lb trigger job and all the other features I wanted.
In the first 9 months I owned the gun I fired over 9000 rounds through it, and since then I lost count of the number of rounds I have
fired. The number of malfunctions have been almost non-existent and that is saying something for the kind of shooting I do!. This
gun is the most reliable pistol I have ever owned. I joined USPSA and within 2 years was shooting at the National Championships.
D & V Small Arms has since built two other guns for me, a customized Remington 870 tactical shotgun, and a Colt 1991 A1 for carry
and IDPA Competition. I am frequently complimented on my D & V Small Arms built guns.
I know every time I am shooting at a competition, a little bit of Dave Helton, is there with me! Thanks Dave for teaching me about
shooting sports and building me the guns to win with!
Drew Dorsett-
I first met Dave Helton at a bowling pin shoot many years ago. He got my interest sparked in competitive shooting and I began to
attend his IDPA indoor shooting matches every week. As my skill level grew he let me try out his Custom Open-IPSC pistol one
night. I knew right then and there -- I had to have him build one for me! He delivered it to me the day before my birthday...The
craftsmanship was remarkable. The fit was solid, trigger job was great, and it produced tack-driving accuracy. If guns could dream
they would dream about being a gun that Dave built!
The gun he built for me was a SV wide body with a Caspain flat top slide, C-more sight, chambered in 38 Super. Dave did all up
with the D & V Small Arms Finish, a 1.5 lb trigger job and all the other features I wanted.
In the first 9 months I owned the gun I fired over 9000 rounds through it, and since then I lost count of the number of rounds I have
fired. The number of malfunctions have been almost non-existent and that is saying something for the kind of shooting I do!. This
gun is the most reliable pistol I have ever owned. I joined USPSA and within 2 years was shooting at the National Championships.
D & V Small Arms has since built two other guns for me, a customized Remington 870 tactical shotgun, and a Colt 1991 A1 for carry
and IDPA Competition. I am frequently complimented on my D & V Small Arms built guns.
I know every time I am shooting at a competition, a little bit of Dave Helton, is there with me! Thanks Dave for teaching me about
shooting sports and building me the guns to win with!
Drew Dorsett-
Ty Moore-www.CoolGunSite.com
I have had guns built by a lot of companies and Smiths but this latest STI I picked up built by you reminds me why I love your work
above all others. After you finish with my Colt Commander I will have 4 guns that you have tuned. That is more than any
other....love your Bobtail work, even better than Ed Brown's.
You are one of the best Smiths and kindest people I have ever met. I just want to say thank you and let you know I truly appreciate
the fine work you perform on these pistols. The Colt you are working on is my full time carry pistol and one I would only trust you in
putting the finishing touches on. I could have sent it to Yost, Burns and a host of others but I handed it over to you. You are truly the
best of the best.
I have had guns built by a lot of companies and Smiths but this latest STI I picked up built by you reminds me why I love your work
above all others. After you finish with my Colt Commander I will have 4 guns that you have tuned. That is more than any
other....love your Bobtail work, even better than Ed Brown's.
You are one of the best Smiths and kindest people I have ever met. I just want to say thank you and let you know I truly appreciate
the fine work you perform on these pistols. The Colt you are working on is my full time carry pistol and one I would only trust you in
putting the finishing touches on. I could have sent it to Yost, Burns and a host of others but I handed it over to you. You are truly the
best of the best.
Mike Kinney, Trapshooter
Dave, I just wanted to thank you again for installing the adjustable pad on my shotgun. It has completely improved the feel and the
handling. The job you did is exceptional. The hardware matches and fits superbly. On top of all that I am shooting better, finishing
with 50 straight on Sunday. Might have been better but the rain through me off....
Dave, I just wanted to thank you again for installing the adjustable pad on my shotgun. It has completely improved the feel and the
handling. The job you did is exceptional. The hardware matches and fits superbly. On top of all that I am shooting better, finishing
with 50 straight on Sunday. Might have been better but the rain through me off....
Ike Sarfati;
Dave, I would like to thank you very much for the beautiful, 100% reliable, and accurate Colt Officers 45 ACP that you built for me.
Not only with what I wanted but with everything else that you felt was important to have an accurate, reliable gun that looked
incredibly good. I shot the gun this weekend at the SPAA range with my favorite defense ammo. 150 rounds of WW Ranger 230
grain JHPs and 50 rounds of Remington Golden Saber 230 grain JHPs.
I also shot 300 rounds of FMJ ball reloads with ZERO malfunctions. The gun shoots to point of aim and feels great in the hand
(due to ) the checkering that you did on the front strap and the carry bevel.
Thanks again for everything. I have used your services before and I shall continue to use your services in the future,
Thanks, Ike
Dave, I would like to thank you very much for the beautiful, 100% reliable, and accurate Colt Officers 45 ACP that you built for me.
Not only with what I wanted but with everything else that you felt was important to have an accurate, reliable gun that looked
incredibly good. I shot the gun this weekend at the SPAA range with my favorite defense ammo. 150 rounds of WW Ranger 230
grain JHPs and 50 rounds of Remington Golden Saber 230 grain JHPs.
I also shot 300 rounds of FMJ ball reloads with ZERO malfunctions. The gun shoots to point of aim and feels great in the hand
(due to ) the checkering that you did on the front strap and the carry bevel.
Thanks again for everything. I have used your services before and I shall continue to use your services in the future,
Thanks, Ike
Darrel Newton, Sgt. Maricopa County Sheriff's Office
I finally had the opportunity to fire my pistol, and to say that I am impressed with the results
would be a gross understatement. I have been in law enforcement for over 20 years,
serving in more capacities and fields than I would care to list. But, in addition to this experience,
I have also served as a AZ POST/NRA certified firearms instructor of; Basic Police Firearms, Patrol Rifle, and Tactical Pistol.
I place a high priority on carrying a service weapon that has gained my complete confidence in function and reliability. That in
mind; I have chosen to exclusively carry 1911 style handguns,
in both patrol and plain clothes assignments, (not to mention while off duty). I have always found it necessary to have at least
some customizations completed on each of my weapons; and have always had the services performed by some of the top smiths
in the country. When I came to you for my last pistol, I was familiar with your work product, but had never seen or utilized any first
hand.
Let me just say after receiving the Government model that you just built for me; I have found
that you definitely fit into this category of "top gunsmiths." I was extremely impressed with the appearance, quality of work
performed, attention to detail, and accuracy produced on my weapon.
This doesn't even take into account how impressed I was with your attention to customer service
and turnaround time.
You have truly produced a quality piece of work, and a customer for life. I would highly recommend your services to anyone,
especially in the field of law enforcement. And, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for all of your indulgences and
assistance while providing your quality services on my handgun. I sincerely hope that we will be doing more in the future.
Thanks again, Darrel
I finally had the opportunity to fire my pistol, and to say that I am impressed with the results
would be a gross understatement. I have been in law enforcement for over 20 years,
serving in more capacities and fields than I would care to list. But, in addition to this experience,
I have also served as a AZ POST/NRA certified firearms instructor of; Basic Police Firearms, Patrol Rifle, and Tactical Pistol.
I place a high priority on carrying a service weapon that has gained my complete confidence in function and reliability. That in
mind; I have chosen to exclusively carry 1911 style handguns,
in both patrol and plain clothes assignments, (not to mention while off duty). I have always found it necessary to have at least
some customizations completed on each of my weapons; and have always had the services performed by some of the top smiths
in the country. When I came to you for my last pistol, I was familiar with your work product, but had never seen or utilized any first
hand.
Let me just say after receiving the Government model that you just built for me; I have found
that you definitely fit into this category of "top gunsmiths." I was extremely impressed with the appearance, quality of work
performed, attention to detail, and accuracy produced on my weapon.
This doesn't even take into account how impressed I was with your attention to customer service
and turnaround time.
You have truly produced a quality piece of work, and a customer for life. I would highly recommend your services to anyone,
especially in the field of law enforcement. And, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for all of your indulgences and
assistance while providing your quality services on my handgun. I sincerely hope that we will be doing more in the future.
Thanks again, Darrel
Investigator C. Cassady
Arizona Department of Corrections-Special Services Bureau
I just wanted to send you a note and tell you how pleased I am with th finish you performed on my Colt pistol. It looks really, really
good. Your attention to detail was obvious as soon as I took it out of the box. I feel like I didn't pay enough! I am very happy with it.
Thanks again - Craig
Arizona Department of Corrections-Special Services Bureau
I just wanted to send you a note and tell you how pleased I am with th finish you performed on my Colt pistol. It looks really, really
good. Your attention to detail was obvious as soon as I took it out of the box. I feel like I didn't pay enough! I am very happy with it.
Thanks again - Craig
Bob Bruce-Internet Customer
Just received my beautiful gun. Workmanship was fantastic. I have had nothing but compliments. I showed my gun to my brother
and now he has to have one just like it. The night sights are some of the brightest and low profile that I have ever seen. Can't wait
to take it to the range. Again thank you for working with me and for the excellent workmanship.
Para Ordinance P-14
Just received my beautiful gun. Workmanship was fantastic. I have had nothing but compliments. I showed my gun to my brother
and now he has to have one just like it. The night sights are some of the brightest and low profile that I have ever seen. Can't wait
to take it to the range. Again thank you for working with me and for the excellent workmanship.
Para Ordinance P-14
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March 2009
Dale Stroklund-Retired, Fugitive Retrieval Task force
I have known Dave Helton for many years, both professionally and as a friend. I came to know of Dave’s gunsmith work when I
saw what he had been producing for my fellow law enforcement officers. Initially, when I had Dave do work for me it was repairing,
or modifying my personal firearms. I would consider Dave a master gunsmith. He has the combination of training, skill, and
experience to work on most pistols and rifles. Simply put, I’ve never heard of anyone say they were not totally pleased with the
work Dave did for them.
After I retired from law enforcement I asked Dave to help in building some custom pistols. To that end Dave produced custom Colt
1911A1’s and a Browning P-35. I still have these firearms, and they are the pride of my gun collection. Additionally, for personal
home defense I changed from a Benelli M-1 to a custom Remington 870 that Dave built. It’s a fine piece of gear that would make
one feel secure in any adverse situation. Shotguns make a statement, different from any other firearm. Remember the old
adage: there are only two things you can’t argue with: Rottweiler’s and shotguns, it still holds true.
Currently Dave is starting his own line of custom 1911A1 handguns. Believe me, if you are looking for a well-built, custom
handgun that you can depend on with your life, Dave’s the guy that can build it. He doesn’t put anything out the door that he wouldn’
t pack himself, no shoddy work, no slapping in of someone else’s parts. His mill work is superb, his attention to detail,
outstanding. You can pay more, but you can’t buy better. Invest in a quality firearm that just may save your bacon when the chips
are down.
Dale Stroklund-Retired, Fugitive Retrieval Task force
I have known Dave Helton for many years, both professionally and as a friend. I came to know of Dave’s gunsmith work when I
saw what he had been producing for my fellow law enforcement officers. Initially, when I had Dave do work for me it was repairing,
or modifying my personal firearms. I would consider Dave a master gunsmith. He has the combination of training, skill, and
experience to work on most pistols and rifles. Simply put, I’ve never heard of anyone say they were not totally pleased with the
work Dave did for them.
After I retired from law enforcement I asked Dave to help in building some custom pistols. To that end Dave produced custom Colt
1911A1’s and a Browning P-35. I still have these firearms, and they are the pride of my gun collection. Additionally, for personal
home defense I changed from a Benelli M-1 to a custom Remington 870 that Dave built. It’s a fine piece of gear that would make
one feel secure in any adverse situation. Shotguns make a statement, different from any other firearm. Remember the old
adage: there are only two things you can’t argue with: Rottweiler’s and shotguns, it still holds true.
Currently Dave is starting his own line of custom 1911A1 handguns. Believe me, if you are looking for a well-built, custom
handgun that you can depend on with your life, Dave’s the guy that can build it. He doesn’t put anything out the door that he wouldn’
t pack himself, no shoddy work, no slapping in of someone else’s parts. His mill work is superb, his attention to detail,
outstanding. You can pay more, but you can’t buy better. Invest in a quality firearm that just may save your bacon when the chips
are down.
Jun 2009-(Gun Broker Auction Customer)
Hi Dave, I received my Kimber today and I want to thank you for the excellent work. The gun looks better in person than in the
photos. The Kimber was an excellent gun already, and I think the bobtail and trigger job made it even better. Thanks again,
Dave Geraurd
Hi Dave, I received my Kimber today and I want to thank you for the excellent work. The gun looks better in person than in the
photos. The Kimber was an excellent gun already, and I think the bobtail and trigger job made it even better. Thanks again,
Dave Geraurd
AUG 2009-(Gun Broker Auction Customer) Customized Safari Arms 45
Dave Helton and all at D& V;
My 1911 has arrived in good condition, and I wanted to thank you. The fit and the finish are so much better than when I sent it to
you. Trigger, slide, and safeties all feel just right. I am very satisfied with your excellent work. I expected craftsmanship, and you
have delivered it. It is obvious you are a pistol-smith of the highest skill; I hope to do more business with you in the future.
Thank you very much,
Duane Isaacs
Dave Helton and all at D& V;
My 1911 has arrived in good condition, and I wanted to thank you. The fit and the finish are so much better than when I sent it to
you. Trigger, slide, and safeties all feel just right. I am very satisfied with your excellent work. I expected craftsmanship, and you
have delivered it. It is obvious you are a pistol-smith of the highest skill; I hope to do more business with you in the future.
Thank you very much,
Duane Isaacs
AUG 2009-(Gun Broker Auction Customer) Custom Bobtail Commander (CBC
I picked up the gun today and boy am I happy! The action is smooth as silk and so is the finish. It is exactly what I had been
looking for, and at a price I could afford. I can't thank you enough. Oh, and thanks for the brochure on the mags.
John Gilmer
I picked up the gun today and boy am I happy! The action is smooth as silk and so is the finish. It is exactly what I had been
looking for, and at a price I could afford. I can't thank you enough. Oh, and thanks for the brochure on the mags.
John Gilmer
SEPTEMBER 2009-Internet Customer
Dave
I received my gun back yesterday. WOW!!!!! Your work is amazing. I couldn't be more pleased with the work and it looks better than
I expected. The grip safety has the exact feel I was hoping for and the machine work I love. Last but not least the finish looks
awesome. Dave thanks again for the outstanding work and you will have all my future business.
Don Fredenhagen
Dave
I received my gun back yesterday. WOW!!!!! Your work is amazing. I couldn't be more pleased with the work and it looks better than
I expected. The grip safety has the exact feel I was hoping for and the machine work I love. Last but not least the finish looks
awesome. Dave thanks again for the outstanding work and you will have all my future business.
Don Fredenhagen
FEBRUARY 2010-Internet Customer
Dave, Just got pistol back and all I can say is….WOW. If it shoots half as good as it looks, I will be in shooters heaven!
Thanks, John M. Murphy-President, MMD Logistics, Inc.
Dave, Just got pistol back and all I can say is….WOW. If it shoots half as good as it looks, I will be in shooters heaven!
Thanks, John M. Murphy-President, MMD Logistics, Inc.
FEBRUARY 2010-Internet Customer
Dave...Just got it (Colt 1911)..Absolutely beautiful and exactly what I wanted done
Kim Wroble-Florida
Dave...Just got it (Colt 1911)..Absolutely beautiful and exactly what I wanted done
Kim Wroble-Florida
March 2010-Internet Customer
Dave, I would like to thank you for the excellent work and reasonable turn-around time on my Series 80 .38 Super Custom Colt
package. I am extremely pleased with the quality of your work. The trigger is perfect for a carry pistol, is breaks clean at 4 lbs. The
machine work on the frame is top shelf. I cannot say enough about how pleased I am with the finished product. I will definitely be
sending more of my base 1911's your way. Thank you again for the outstanding work, and I look forward to doing business with
you again in the very near future!
David R. Cote
Dave, I would like to thank you for the excellent work and reasonable turn-around time on my Series 80 .38 Super Custom Colt
package. I am extremely pleased with the quality of your work. The trigger is perfect for a carry pistol, is breaks clean at 4 lbs. The
machine work on the frame is top shelf. I cannot say enough about how pleased I am with the finished product. I will definitely be
sending more of my base 1911's your way. Thank you again for the outstanding work, and I look forward to doing business with
you again in the very near future!
David R. Cote
FEBRUARY 2011-Internet Customer
(I just wanted to tell you) how pleased I am with the work, the barrel fit is perfect, the flat top slide looks awesome and the front
strap checkering feels great. The matte bead blast finish looks better in person than any pictures I have seen.
Thanks again, I look forward to doing business with you again.
Jeff Lind
(I just wanted to tell you) how pleased I am with the work, the barrel fit is perfect, the flat top slide looks awesome and the front
strap checkering feels great. The matte bead blast finish looks better in person than any pictures I have seen.
Thanks again, I look forward to doing business with you again.
Jeff Lind
FEBRUARY 2011-Internet Customer
Dave, I received my Kimber yesterday and WOW! I was really pleased and impressed with the work that you preformed, I had an
image in my head on what I was hoping the end result would be, and when I opened the gun case I was blown away. Thanks
again I am very pleased with your work.
Chris
Dave, I received my Kimber yesterday and WOW! I was really pleased and impressed with the work that you preformed, I had an
image in my head on what I was hoping the end result would be, and when I opened the gun case I was blown away. Thanks
again I am very pleased with your work.
Chris