About Us
The Gunsmith
Growing up in the Phoenix Valley, Stephen Kopp treasures his home state of Arizona. His family’s modest automotive parts business, operated for 25 years, provided opportunities for each family member to contribute in a meaningful way. Stephen’s experiences working in the shop reminds him of the value of small business operations and the rewards of hard work.
After graduating from Cactus High School in Glendale, Arizona, Stephen joined the US Army Infantry to carry on the long family tradition of service. He was first stationed in Grafenwohr, Germany, and then was deployed to Afghanistan shortly after. When Stephen returned from his combat deployment, he was sent to Fort Bliss, Texas. While stationed at Fort Bliss, he attended the Army’s Unit Armorer Course and became the armorer for his unit. This duty inspired him to become a gunsmith after his honorable discharge.
Not long after being discharged from the Army, Stephen worked at Cabelas as a Firearm Sales Outfitter. While selling firearms, he quickly took note that customers were looking for a reliable and friendly gunsmith. Stephen took advantage of the need for a gunsmith and starting servicing customers at his home shop. Not long after, Stephen linked up with Colten Bacs of Realistic Snaps and they founded Valley Forge Weaponry. Today you can find Stephen at the shop working hard to carry on the small business tradition and modernize the gunsmithing industry.