Aaron Acklin - Owner/Operator

• Established Aaron’s Gun Cabinet in 2014 in North Little Rock/Little Rock, AR, starting as a firearms retailer, gunsmithing service, and apparel outlet. Over time, it evolved into a specialized firearms training for Central Arkansas.  He has completed 350+ hours of instructor development and firearms training with nationally recognized experts and a whopping 10,000+ hours of total firearms training experience in the industry
   
• Offers a full suite of services: firearms sales, maintenance, concealed carry classes (Basics of Concealed Carry), and advanced shooting skills instruction.
   
• Recognized locally for high-quality training—praised in Yelp reviews for being an “Excellent FFL/SOT & Firearms instructor”
   

• Operates as the sole proprietor of Aaron’s Gun Cabinet, based at 2100 Brookwood Drive By Appointment Only
   

• Serves as a passionate Second Amendment advocate, providing training to a broad audience, from novices to experienced shooters 
• Engages in youth safety education as well—one reviewer highlighted that he provided pistol safety instruction to a 9-year-old.
   
• Complements retail operations with gunsmithing and equipment customization, including holster consultations, suppressor demos, and maintenance services
   

• A Yelp user commended Aaron for teaching gun safety to her child, “spent quality time making sure he understood” .
   

1. Built a reputable firearms business that blends retail, customization, and education over the past 13 years 
2. Modern Samurai's First Arkansas Endorsed Instructor, NRA‑certified instructor offering a range of classes, particularly focused on concealed-carry, performance shooting, and safe handling. 
3. Community educator and advocate, demonstrating commitment to safe gun ownership across ages and skill levels.

CategoryHours / ExperienceInstructor development350 + – 360 + hoursTotal firearms training≈ 10,000 hours industry-wideYears in the firearms industry12 years  

So in total, Aaron has at least 350–360 hours of formal instructor training, plus around 10,000 hours of on-the-job firearms training and instruction.
 

Aaron Acklin’s instruction style and personality shine through clearly in his training philosophy, student interactions, and how others describe working with him:

• Action-oriented with a no-nonsense approach: As one retired police detective put it, Aaron has a “no BS attitude towards what works and what doesn’t.” This shows he’s all about practical, effective training—no frills, no gimmicks.
   
• Safety-first mindset: Reviews consistently emphasize his professionalism and dedication to ensuring a safe, controlled learning environment.
   

On the Practical Training Professionals podcast, Aaron described his training principles as focusing on three core foundations:

1. Mental preparedness
    
2. Spiritual readiness (accepting that victory isn’t guaranteed)
    
3. Physical preparedness
    

This shows he trains more than marksmanship—he builds resilient, well-rounded individuals.

• Welcomes all levels: His ability to connect with novices and experienced shooters alike is highlighted by patrons who said his classes “foster a sense of community,” and that they saw significant improvement under his guidance.
   
• Ethical, values-driven: Aaron operates under strong principles (“God, family, and country”) and trains with integrity.
   

• Professional yet personable: Clients praise his professional demeanor, attentiveness, and respectful engagement—traits that make learning accessible and effective for all.
   
• Mentor-like presence: Students note that he’s patient and approachable, taking time to ensure confidence and competence—qualities typical of great instructors. 

 Summary: Aaron’s Instruction & Personality at a Glance

• Direct and results-focused: Prioritizes practical skills, efficient workouts, and real-world readiness.
   
• Mentally rigorous: Emphasizes psychological resilience and acceptance of uncertainty.
   
• Safety-minded and professional: Maintains a secure, respectful environment.
   
• Encouraging and community-oriented: Welcoming to diverse skill levels, always ready to support student growth.
   
• Values-driven: Operates with clear principles and ethical standards.