True Shot Training Academy (TSTA)
provides an environment where shooters of all experience levels can partake in unique marksmanship and tactical training programs on a simulated range system.
About the Range
Utilizing state-of-the-art simulation software, TSTA offers an immersive experience with customizable packages for shooters of all experience levels. Utilizing firearm simulators, shooters can sharpen their skills without the pressure of rising ammunition costs and the struggle for range time. Emitting an infrared laser pulse rather than live ammunition, TSTA offers a safe environment utilizing a selection of sim guns, recoil-enabled handguns, and rifles. Shooters participate in standard, refresher, or extended firearm safety training. Shooters can engage in the art of marksmanship on a variety of targets, courses, and training scenarios. Certified instructors will assist shooters in finding the shooting experience that best suits their training level and desired learning.
Our History
In 2020-2021, at the height of the COVID‑19 pandemic, ammunition prices soared and access to traditional shooting ranges became increasingly limited. Out of these challenges emerged an innovative idea — the creation of True Shot Training Academy (TSTA). By integrating cutting‑edge hardware and software from multiple industry‑leading providers, TSTA transformed a difficult moment into a breakthrough opportunity, becoming a truly unique shooting destination where technology and training come together.
To bring this vision to life, we secured an 18‑foot enclosed trailer to serve as our mobile venue. From there, the transformation began. Every inch of the trailer was customized to build the ultimate mobile simulated shooting range — a fully self‑contained, premium training environment designed to bring the experience directly to shooters anywhere. This mobile platform allowed TSTA to continue providing safe, accessible, and high‑quality training even when traditional ranges were closed or out of reach.
Community Events & Outreach
As TSTA continued to grow, we took our mission on the road—attending community events across Northern and Central California and building strong relationships with venues, promoters, and local organizations. Our mobile simulated range quickly became a crowd favorite, giving thousands of people the opportunity to experience safe, engaging, and educational firearm simulation firsthand.
Over the years, we’ve added numerous annual events to our calendar, many of which we still proudly attend today:
San Luis Obispo Craft Beer Festival – February Paso Robles Taco Festival – April Chular 4H Spring Celebration- May San Luis Obispo Sheriff’s Rodeo – May Spreckles 4th of July Celebration- July San Luis Obispo Oktoberfest- October Paso Robles Salute to Heroes – November Salinas Flair on the Farm – November
We’re always looking to expand our outreach. If you’re hosting an event or fundraiser and want to bring the TSTA mobile range experience to your community, we’d love to connect.
“Trailer Days” & CCW Training Support
In partnership with Del Valle Gunsmithing, TSTA launched “Trailer Days”—a monthly event where we opened our mobile range outside the gun shop at least one Saturday each month. These sessions offered convenient access to hands‑on training and allowed the community to experience our mobile simulator in a relaxed, approachable environment.
Building on this collaboration, TSTA also began assisting DVG with their CCW classes. By integrating our Use of Force Scenarios into their curriculum, we elevated the training experience and provided students with realistic, judgment‑based decision‑making practice. This combination of proven methods, real‑world experience, and advanced simulation technology helped raise the standard of CCW instruction for the region.
In 2025, True Shot Training Academy (TSTA) strengthened its collaboration with the team at Del Valle Gunsmithing as we worked together to build out our first storefront inside their new gun shop. Although unforeseen circumstances caused that initial location to fall through, the setback didn’t stop the mission. A new location was identified, construction began, and the vision evolved.
With the new location came a new brand. Del Valle Gunsmithing transitioned into Valley Armory & Gunsmithing, and on Black Friday 2025, TSTA and Valley Armory & Gunsmithing proudly opened their doors side‑by‑side—creating the premier one‑stop shop for all your firearm and training needs.
Being located next to each other gives shooters a seamless experience. Visitors can train on the TSTA simulated range, learn firearm safety and operation, and explore a variety of firearm platforms. Then, with that hands‑on knowledge fresh in mind, they can step next door to Valley Armory & Gunsmithing to browse a wide selection of firearms, ammunition, and accessories.
Together, we’ve built a space where education, safety, and responsible firearm ownership come first—and where every shooter, from beginner to expert, can find exactly what they need.
2026: A New Era for True Shot Training Academy
2026 opened a new chapter for TSTA. With our storefront location fully operational, we expanded our Academy in every direction—introducing new classes, adding more firearm platforms to our arsenal, and building out a deeper library of challenges for shooters of all skill levels.
Monthly League Nights
Our Monthly League Nights launched as a way to bring like‑minded shooters together in a friendly, competitive environment. These events quickly became a community favorite. We also introduced ACE VR League Nights, giving shooters a virtual arena to compete, collaborate, and sharpen their skills in a whole new way.
Membership Programs
To give our shooters even more value, we rolled out our Membership Program—offering range‑time benefits, exclusive savings, and early access to new offerings. Member‑only events are on the horizon, bringing even more opportunities for connection and growth.
New Collaboration: Edge Concepts
In 2026, we also partnered with another outstanding local business: Edge Concepts. Known for top‑quality custom Kydex holsters for firearms, blades, and outdoor gear, EC has outfitted our range with custom holsters for many of our platforms. This allows TSTA shooters to safely learn holster manipulation and draw techniques during their sessions.
Edge Concepts holsters are available both in our online store and at our Salinas location, giving shooters access to premium gear that complements their training.
