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About Us.



Cindy Heitz

Cindy

Owner and Founder

My name is Cynthia Heitz. I have been in Pagosa Springs all my life. I am beyond excited to be the founder of Altitude Defense and to bring a safe, judgement-free zone to Pagosa where people can visit, learn new skills, gain a new mindset, and grow your firearm strength.

A few years ago, I decided I wanted to purchase my first firearm. I walked into a gun store and saw a “cool one” and asked if I could see it. I did not know the first thing about firearms or racking the gun but they just handed to me. I pulled the rack of the gun back, but I didn’t pay attention to the placement of my finger. Yes, it tore my finger! I handed the gun back and left immediately feeling inadequate.

A few weeks later, I grew the courage to go to a different gun store. After spending 15 minutes with the patient store owner, I was confident enough to purchase my first firearm, and I even signed up for his virtual training classes. In those classes, I got trained on using firearm. I also grew an awareness of my surroundings, a respect for owning a firearm, increased my self-confidence and a acquired a new mindset. I felt empowered. In the following months, I talked to many people who agreed that they wanted to be more confident in owning, carrying and handling firearms. Several of them owned guns and wanted to gain more confidence with how to use them. Others, like me, felt too intimidated to step into a gun store in the first place.

I wanted to create a judgment-free atmosphere where individuals felt empowered in owning and handling firearms. This is where the idea of Altitude Defense was born. Whether you have a safe full of firearms or you’ve never held a gun before, I encourage you to stop by and learn new empowering skills and grow your confidence.



Jeff

#1 Supporter & Biggest Fan

My husband, Jeff, is my biggest supporter. He stands behind me and will help me do whatever it takes to make this store and my vision success! He is also my best customer!

Jeff Heitz

Worth Defending

Altitude Defense was designed for the person who has always been curious about handguns & firearms but always felt too intimidated to walk into a gun store without feeling judged.
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Firearm Sales

We offer firearms from your favorite brands on the market. If there is a specific firearm you are looking for that is not in stock please talk to us first.

Virtual Training

With the Milo virtual gun simulator we offer over 1000 different situations with pistoland rifle training options. Read more about the Milo system on the training page

Ammo Sales

Altitude Defense offers ammunition for sale in a variety of calibers. If we don't carry the specific type or size of ammo you are looking for ask an associate and we can find it for you.

Conceal Carry Courses

Hands on conceal carry course in house with groups up to 10 people at a time. Contact us to learn more and to schedule your conceal carry course.

Clothing & Accessories

We offer clothing and firearm accessories from your favorite brands including Born Primitive, Grunt Style, Sticky Holster, Decibullz, Lady Conceal and more.

Cigars and Smoke Patio

In house cigar humidor with multiple available options. Come check out Altitude Patio to enjoy your cigar and unwind.