Herfel Torres and Carlos Hernandez are EXCEPTIONAL instructors and their Valortec Self Defense Fundamentals - Pistol course should be on every pistol owner's list as MUST DO training. I have taken several courses with other certified instructors here in Florida; each provided a solid base of training for the safe use of a pistol. But Herfel and Carlos brought more experience, insight, and far greater depth of useful information into the effective use of a pistol for self defense than any previous training course I had attended. They helped me improve my existing skills in several areas giving me a better understanding of pistol craft, provided new and very helpful information on the subject, and showed me where and how to continue improving my skills. For first time pistol owners and those who have never taken a training course I would recommend attending a good basic pistol course with a certified instructor [e.g. Right to Carry, SIG Sauer] before attending Valortec's Self Defense Fundamentals if only to ensure you know and practice good gun safety.

This class was not only enjoyable but educational. I learned so much about body mechanics for shooting and had a great time doing it. The instructor’s were helpful, kind and humorous. There was No judgement they judged wanted to help you master the skills. I would highly recommend this class. I look forward to taking more classes with this wonder group. Thank you

I have attended numerous training courses from well known shooting organizations and by far Valortec lead by instuctor Mr. Herfel Torres is one of the best. I recently attended the "Night Fire" course held at the Volusia County Gun Club. I sought this course to refine my capabilities in low light conditions. Mr. Herfel Torres will watch you carefully and rebuild you from the ground up, he placed great emphasis on safety and making sure that I felt comfortable. He has a knack for explaining things to me in a way that I best understood, he is easygoing, no ego attitude and he is passionate about shooting. He is informative, and fun, he is like walking encyclopedia when it comes to shooting. I plan to register for the "Defensive Red Dot" course that is schedule in February, I am extremely excited about taking this course.

Herfel Torres and his professional team of highly skilled firearms instructors at Valortec are outstanding, second to none. The instructors have a wide range of military, personal security and law enforcement experience. Valortec’s “self-defense fundamentals” courses (pistol & rifle) are educational and entertaining. Herfel incorporates biomechanics into his compartmentalized training sessions which prepares students of all ages and medical conditions to safely and effectively defend their home and family. Valortec offers concealed carry courses. You can also sign up for private lessons. I highly recommend Herfel and Valortec. The skills you will learn may someday safe your life or the life of a family member.

I just completed the Pistol Defense Fundamentals clinic. I would highly recommend this program to ANYONE that wants to improve their skills and confidence. Herfel is an excellent instructor and the techniques that he teaches made an immediate impact. During the clinic I easily improved my accuracy and target acquisition speed by utilizing the foundational skills he teaches. More importantly, I feel I have an excellent platform to build on at the range or at home to continue to improve. The class size was small and Herfel provided immediate individual feedback to all participants. His science based instruction is easy to understand and execute and he a pleasure to learn from. I will seek out Herfel and Valortec for all my future training. I'm looking forward to Defensive Red-Dot and Night Pistol Defense!

Great training evolution. The amount of skills and knowledge is very impressive, professional and up to date information. This is the class that you discover where you at and where is you want to be. Highly recommend Herfel as a firearm instructor and not to mention he is the only Tactical Hive instructor in all Florida says alot.

There isn't a single training course that competes with this company. There is also no better instructor than Herfal.

I recently took the Night Pistol Defense course with ValorTech, taught by Herfel Torres, and it was honestly one of the best training experiences I’ve ever had. This was my second class with ValorTech, so I already knew their training was solid, but Herfel and his team took it to another level. The course is a full seven hours of low-light defensive shooting, and it really shows you how different things become once the sun goes down. Most gun owners only train in daylight, but real-life encounters don’t follow that schedule. Herfel walked us through how to properly use light, identify threats, maintain control, and protect our position when visibility is limited and stress is high. What really stood out to me was how down to earth, knowledgeable, and genuinely approachable Herfel is. His experience training law enforcement and military personnel is clear in every drill, but he teaches in a way that feels supportive, no sugar coated. He breaks down techniques, gives helpful feedback, and makes sure you understand the "why" behind every movement. I also want to highlight Carlos, the second instructor. He played a huge role in reinforcing everything we learned from Herfel. Carlos explained the scenarios behind each drill in a way that made the training feel real and practical. He connected the dots, showing how each skill applies during an actual defensive encounter. Having both instructors there brought an extra layer of clarity and value to the entire experience. The drills were realistic, the coaching was hands-on, and the learning environment was both challenging and encouraging. By the end of the night, I walked away with a completely new level of confidence, especially when operating with a handheld or weapon-mounted light under pressure. If you’re serious about improving your defensive skills, I can’t recommend ValorTech, Herfel Torres, and Carlos enough. This class is worth every minute, and I’m already looking forward to taking my next course with them.

I took the pistol fundamentals class. Excellent class I recommend it for all experience levels. Herfel is an amazing teacher and knows his stuff. Had a great time and will be taking the other classes in the program.

These are excellent classes for anyone interested in learning about the fundamentals of stance and grip. Additionally, I just completed the concealed Carry fundamentals and highly recommend it. Herfel does a great job of accommodating the individual needs of each student based on their skill level.

Herfel Torres and his Valortec team provided outstanding, comprehensive, and easy-to-understand instruction in their "Pistol Self-Defense Fundamentals" class. The day-long class was structured and carried out with progressive layer upon layer drills, which became the building blocks leading to successful skill outcomes. The many, various "pearls of wisdom" shared along the way re: the finer points of defensive pistol skills were invaluable and easy to incorporate into one's at home dry fire practice as well as practice on the range. All the instructors were top-notch - they set the tone for safety first and focused safe training but were also relaxed and easy-going, making the day-long class a very fun and enjoyable experience. I highly recommend Valortec's "Pistol Self-Defense Fundamentals" class for anyone interested in becoming better prepared to protect yourself or your loved ones if it becomes necessary. Well done, Team Valortec! UPDATE: I recently attended (Sept 27-28, 2025) Valortec's 2-day Advanced Pistol Techniques class. Herfel Torres, lead instructor, provided an extremely knowledgeable, skill-based, detailed, comprehensive, and, yes, fun 2-day class. Herfel's class content was organized, moved at an optimal pace (not too slow and not too fast), and covered a variety of topics and concepts important and integral to success in self-defense, stressing and emphasizing above all, the importance of having solid fundamentals in the skills that go into marksmanship, gun handling, and mindset. Throughout the two days. Herfel remained patient, answering questions left and right, supportive, positive, and upbeat, displaying a wonderful sense of humor which put all students at ease. Herfel's three assistants, Carlos, Jalen, and Domingo, were likewise outstanding in their willingness and ability to help, and freely gave excellent assistance to all students present. Herfel is an exceptional and gifted firearms instructor. I strongly recommend this class to whomever is ready to take their self-defense to the next level.

I took the low light pistol course with Herfel in New Smyrna Beach, and it was excellent. As a woman training for home and self-defense, I really appreciated how focused and hands-on both of the instructors were. They spent time with me one-on-one, breaking down techniques and teaching me how to stay calm and shoot efficiently in what would be a high-stress environment. I also loved the venue - shooting outdoors in nature at night may have been one of my favorite parts about the class. The mix of professionalism, expertise, and a little charm made the class both challenging and fun.

From instructor to instructor, best defensive training experience I have ever had. Will be returning for additional courses including rifle and night time shoots. Course was clear, direct, and discussed any questions or gaps that came up during the training. Based on science and physics.

Excellent course and being able to connect with instructors with great experience. A unique learning experience, 100% recommended.

Great instructors, one of the best classes I’ve ever taken.

De los mejores cursos!! The best

I just took Valortec’s class for my 24 hours Law Enforcement & loved the class. Herfel & Jose are great guys, they know their stuff, I will be going back to do more classes with them. If your Law Enforcement or have a K license you need to take a class with them, if your just a shooter & what to up your game get hold of them they can help you. I’m an Firearms Instructor (Law Enforcement & K) and the guys at Valortec are top of the game, you will learn things.

Great course! Herfel is a great instructor who places emphasis on both precision and safety. 10/10 recommend for all levels of experience. Especially newbies like myself. Thank you again!

January 18, 2024 I would like to give a Review and Evaluation of Herfel Torres’s performance as a NRA Certified Master Law Enforcement Instructor for the Pistol – Self Defense Fundamentals course held on November 25; and December 23, 2023 at the Volusia County Gun Club. First, I would like to “Qualify” myself as having the Credentials and Experience to make such Statements and Observations. From 1982 to 1995, I was the Training Officer in the various Military Units in which I served. In 1995, I became the Command Senior Chief at the Fleet Training Center, Firefight School, Mayport, FL. I had (65) High Risk Firefighting Instructors in my Command, their performance had to be Evaluated – Quarterly. Because of my rank, I received my Instructor Training from the Naval War College. Herfel Torres’s performance at the Pistol – Self Defense Fundamentals Course on November 25; and December 23, 2023 was “Excellent”! He was smooth and confident, covering the assigned material and objectives thoroughly and clearly. Herfel states: he does not teach or train students for “Competition”, he teaches and trains them for “Self Defense and Combat” in modern day situations. He involved the students, inviting their participation and comments. He dispels “Myths” about firearms training, and corrects years of misinformation and bad habits. Most civilian firearm instructors only teach what they have read or learned from someone else, and have never actually been in a “Fire Fight”. As a “Vietnam and Desert Storm Decorated Combat Veteran”, I like to know my instructors have “Felt the Heat”, survived and lived to tell about it. Herfel related “Real World Scenarios” and his personal life experiences, keeping the course interesting. The Valortec Training Team assembled by Herfel is also “Impressive”! Comprised of Ex – Military, Special Forces, Law Enforcement, and World Class Shooters. He took their skills and ability, and molded it into the Best Firearms Training available. Their motto: Take (1) class with us and you will be a Better Shooter – Guaranteed! I have been fortunate to attend more than (1) Pistol-Self Defense class, and “Thanks” to Herfel Torres and his Valortec Team, I am the “Best Shooter” I have ever been in over (50) years! Thanks Again! His appearance, demeanor, and the way he held and conducted himself showed Confidence and Experience. He did an “Outstanding Performance” on those days. In over (50) years of combined Military and Private Security experience and training, Herfel Torres is the “Best Firearms Instructor” I have ever had – bar none! I would gladly attend any course that Herfel Torres was the Instructor. Herfel Torres has my “Highest Professional Recommendation” as an “Excellent NRA Master Law Enforcement Instructor”!! Respectfully, ENCS Jack L. Thrasher USN-RET Command Senior Chief Vietnam and Desert Storm Veteran

Had an amazing Self Defense Fundaments Pistol class with Herfel. He is a great guy and amazing instructor who I would recommend to anyone who is looking to up their firearm skills, new or experienced. Herfel is very experience and will teach you the right techniques and tips to make yourself more skilled with your firearms as well as making the class a fun time. Overall 10/10 experience!

This class is a must go! Herful made the class very fun and enjoyable but it was also very informative. He put so much care into giving us the best experience and leaving us with as much knowledge as possible. I will be back and will tell all my friends and family!!

Herfel’s instruction was great. I’m a beginner, and his guidance and tips allowed me to manage my anxiety in learning how to handle a pistol. I would highly recommend him to anyone else.

Very knowledgeable.

I’m 67, military brat, around guns for 20 years but after I lost a brother to gunfire I gave up until this year. I wanted a instructor that was world class - credentials current, expertise needed to be obvious. But I found there were actually a lot to choose from. So I went snooping :). Went to gun clubs and watched some instructors, talked to numerous gun owners at Top Gun, Volusia Gun Club. Only one name really stood out. Herfel Torres of VALORTEC. Today I completed my Conceal Carry training with Herfel. His understanding of the intricacies and applied physics and his ability to explain all this in a manner that instantly makes sense….so that when you actually fire you understand what’s happening. How your actions impact the momentary chaos that fallows a trigger pull. He changed my approach to shooting and practicing. I’m not doing firearms training as much for defense as I am the enjoyment of learning, practice, apply, repeat. I see Herfel as a new regular in my retired life - keeping me trained, sharp, and enjoying doing so! Of course, if the call ever does come to defend Herfel will have me ready. I’ll answer. Thank you VALORTEC and Herfel Torres.

Excelente la experiencia! La calidad del entrenamiento y el conocimiento del instructor sobre los temas discutidos y desempeño en el field, denotaban el profesionalismo y seriedad de la compañia. Definitivamente altamente recomendado!

By far one of the best instructor experiences I ever had and I've been through a few courses in different in the military.

Haven't seen this level of profesionalism in a long time, these are real profesionals guys. The Best of the Best!!!

I have 25 years of military experience, 18 years on Specialize units like SWAT/SRT and still working as a contractor for the federal government and the level of professionalism, proficiency and the knowledge you get if super B. I recommend this company and instructors for real cuality training civilian and law enforcement. Thanks Valortec see on the next one.

Herfel's Rifle Self-Defense Class is a highly engaging and informative experience. Led by the knowledgeable Herfel, the course effectively blends theory with practical application, catering to all skill levels. The initial session focuses on rifle handling basics, emphasizing safety and responsible use, with Herfel's clear and passionate teaching style making complex concepts easily understandable. The practical shooting part allows participants to apply their learning, with Herfel offering individualized tips to improve technique and build confidence. Additionally, the course covers vital self-defense aspects, including situational awareness and legalities. Overall, it's a comprehensive, enjoyable, and safe learning environment suitable for both beginners and seasoned shooters.

Herfel was knowledgeable and funny in an offbeat way. He made learning and reviewing the information enjoyable. Wish we could have had more time doing shoot house drills and ammo down range. It was raining so we were lucky that Valortec had the facility where we could shoot out from their structure on the range. Overall a good experience and I bought a scope on Black Friday sales that Herfel had on one of his guns. Everybody should continue to train with their firearms and with qualified instructors. I would recommend taking this course.

Awesome training! Highly recommended,

Had a good time doing my requal. Herfel is very knowledgeable and I look forward to working with him for my next requal.

Great class! Herfel was very good at providing the information we needed and was very professional.

Herfel was the best instructor, well organized and Informative with everything there is know about safety, laws, real world experience and what firearm best fits your skill level.

Herfel is amazing instructor, he's very patient and helps u nd pushes u to get the very best out of u. I will definitely be going back to Herfel to further enhance my shooting skills. I definitely recommend Hurfel for all ur shooting needs.

Very proffesional and I learned alot.

Valortec instructor Herfel Torres conducted his class with care and Discipline as a first time student i was able to follow along and understand the laws , gun safety regulations and importance it incorporates for my Duties as an armed officer i look forward to training with Valortec in the future.

Herfel Tores was my instructor during my G class certification course. He was strict about Gun safety but patient with his students. As an instructor he was very professional and Charasmatic. The class from start to finish was filled with important information for people from beginners to expert shooters. My experience with Valortec will insure my return to requal with them in the future.

Herfel Torres and Carlos Hernandez are EXCEPTIONAL instructors and their Valortec Self Defense Fundamentals - Pistol course should be on every pistol owner's list as MUST DO training. I have taken several courses with other certified instructors here in Florida; each provided a solid base of training for the safe use of a pistol. But Herfel and Carlos brought more experience, insight, and far greater depth of useful information into the effective use of a pistol for self defense than any previous training course I had attended. They helped me improve my existing skills in several areas giving me a better understanding of pistol craft, provided new and very helpful information on the subject, and showed me where and how to continue improving my skills. For first time pistol owners and those who have never taken a training course I would recommend attending a good basic pistol course with a certified instructor [e.g. Right to Carry, SIG Sauer] before attending Valortec's Self Defense Fundamentals if only to ensure you know and practice good gun safety.

This class was not only enjoyable but educational. I learned so much about body mechanics for shooting and had a great time doing it. The instructor’s were helpful, kind and humorous. There was No judgement they judged wanted to help you master the skills. I would highly recommend this class. I look forward to taking more classes with this wonder group. Thank you

I have attended numerous training courses from well known shooting organizations and by far Valortec lead by instuctor Mr. Herfel Torres is one of the best. I recently attended the "Night Fire" course held at the Volusia County Gun Club. I sought this course to refine my capabilities in low light conditions. Mr. Herfel Torres will watch you carefully and rebuild you from the ground up, he placed great emphasis on safety and making sure that I felt comfortable. He has a knack for explaining things to me in a way that I best understood, he is easygoing, no ego attitude and he is passionate about shooting. He is informative, and fun, he is like walking encyclopedia when it comes to shooting. I plan to register for the "Defensive Red Dot" course that is schedule in February, I am extremely excited about taking this course.

Herfel Torres and his professional team of highly skilled firearms instructors at Valortec are outstanding, second to none. The instructors have a wide range of military, personal security and law enforcement experience. Valortec’s “self-defense fundamentals” courses (pistol & rifle) are educational and entertaining. Herfel incorporates biomechanics into his compartmentalized training sessions which prepares students of all ages and medical conditions to safely and effectively defend their home and family. Valortec offers concealed carry courses. You can also sign up for private lessons. I highly recommend Herfel and Valortec. The skills you will learn may someday safe your life or the life of a family member.

I just completed the Pistol Defense Fundamentals clinic. I would highly recommend this program to ANYONE that wants to improve their skills and confidence. Herfel is an excellent instructor and the techniques that he teaches made an immediate impact. During the clinic I easily improved my accuracy and target acquisition speed by utilizing the foundational skills he teaches. More importantly, I feel I have an excellent platform to build on at the range or at home to continue to improve. The class size was small and Herfel provided immediate individual feedback to all participants. His science based instruction is easy to understand and execute and he a pleasure to learn from. I will seek out Herfel and Valortec for all my future training. I'm looking forward to Defensive Red-Dot and Night Pistol Defense!

Great training evolution. The amount of skills and knowledge is very impressive, professional and up to date information. This is the class that you discover where you at and where is you want to be. Highly recommend Herfel as a firearm instructor and not to mention he is the only Tactical Hive instructor in all Florida says alot.

There isn't a single training course that competes with this company. There is also no better instructor than Herfal.

I recently took the Night Pistol Defense course with ValorTech, taught by Herfel Torres, and it was honestly one of the best training experiences I’ve ever had. This was my second class with ValorTech, so I already knew their training was solid, but Herfel and his team took it to another level. The course is a full seven hours of low-light defensive shooting, and it really shows you how different things become once the sun goes down. Most gun owners only train in daylight, but real-life encounters don’t follow that schedule. Herfel walked us through how to properly use light, identify threats, maintain control, and protect our position when visibility is limited and stress is high. What really stood out to me was how down to earth, knowledgeable, and genuinely approachable Herfel is. His experience training law enforcement and military personnel is clear in every drill, but he teaches in a way that feels supportive, no sugar coated. He breaks down techniques, gives helpful feedback, and makes sure you understand the "why" behind every movement. I also want to highlight Carlos, the second instructor. He played a huge role in reinforcing everything we learned from Herfel. Carlos explained the scenarios behind each drill in a way that made the training feel real and practical. He connected the dots, showing how each skill applies during an actual defensive encounter. Having both instructors there brought an extra layer of clarity and value to the entire experience. The drills were realistic, the coaching was hands-on, and the learning environment was both challenging and encouraging. By the end of the night, I walked away with a completely new level of confidence, especially when operating with a handheld or weapon-mounted light under pressure. If you’re serious about improving your defensive skills, I can’t recommend ValorTech, Herfel Torres, and Carlos enough. This class is worth every minute, and I’m already looking forward to taking my next course with them.

I took the pistol fundamentals class. Excellent class I recommend it for all experience levels. Herfel is an amazing teacher and knows his stuff. Had a great time and will be taking the other classes in the program.

These are excellent classes for anyone interested in learning about the fundamentals of stance and grip. Additionally, I just completed the concealed Carry fundamentals and highly recommend it. Herfel does a great job of accommodating the individual needs of each student based on their skill level.

Herfel Torres and his Valortec team provided outstanding, comprehensive, and easy-to-understand instruction in their "Pistol Self-Defense Fundamentals" class. The day-long class was structured and carried out with progressive layer upon layer drills, which became the building blocks leading to successful skill outcomes. The many, various "pearls of wisdom" shared along the way re: the finer points of defensive pistol skills were invaluable and easy to incorporate into one's at home dry fire practice as well as practice on the range. All the instructors were top-notch - they set the tone for safety first and focused safe training but were also relaxed and easy-going, making the day-long class a very fun and enjoyable experience. I highly recommend Valortec's "Pistol Self-Defense Fundamentals" class for anyone interested in becoming better prepared to protect yourself or your loved ones if it becomes necessary. Well done, Team Valortec! UPDATE: I recently attended (Sept 27-28, 2025) Valortec's 2-day Advanced Pistol Techniques class. Herfel Torres, lead instructor, provided an extremely knowledgeable, skill-based, detailed, comprehensive, and, yes, fun 2-day class. Herfel's class content was organized, moved at an optimal pace (not too slow and not too fast), and covered a variety of topics and concepts important and integral to success in self-defense, stressing and emphasizing above all, the importance of having solid fundamentals in the skills that go into marksmanship, gun handling, and mindset. Throughout the two days. Herfel remained patient, answering questions left and right, supportive, positive, and upbeat, displaying a wonderful sense of humor which put all students at ease. Herfel's three assistants, Carlos, Jalen, and Domingo, were likewise outstanding in their willingness and ability to help, and freely gave excellent assistance to all students present. Herfel is an exceptional and gifted firearms instructor. I strongly recommend this class to whomever is ready to take their self-defense to the next level.

I took the low light pistol course with Herfel in New Smyrna Beach, and it was excellent. As a woman training for home and self-defense, I really appreciated how focused and hands-on both of the instructors were. They spent time with me one-on-one, breaking down techniques and teaching me how to stay calm and shoot efficiently in what would be a high-stress environment. I also loved the venue - shooting outdoors in nature at night may have been one of my favorite parts about the class. The mix of professionalism, expertise, and a little charm made the class both challenging and fun.

From instructor to instructor, best defensive training experience I have ever had. Will be returning for additional courses including rifle and night time shoots. Course was clear, direct, and discussed any questions or gaps that came up during the training. Based on science and physics.

Excellent course and being able to connect with instructors with great experience. A unique learning experience, 100% recommended.

Great instructors, one of the best classes I’ve ever taken.

De los mejores cursos!! The best