Death or Glory Tattoo

Manuel Hernandez (Manny) — 5/5 (via Google) May 27, 2024

I had my first tattoo done a little over two years ago, by Ciro @PatientCiro. He joined Death or Glory Tattoo this summer and we planned for a session to have a macaw tattooed during this visit to Davis. It was a lengthy process (over five hours altogether), but well worth it, as you can see in the photos. Besides him being there, the experience at Death or Glory is hard to top: - I met the studio co-owner, Phil. He was super nice and skillful. He also an amazing taste in music, which led to the most amazing music selection all afternoon long. - The studio is SUPER-clean… I mean “eat on the floor” clean. And the stations for the tattoo artists have all they need to focus on creating the most amazing art! I am super happy with my tattoo and I know I will be back for more in the future. Gotta let this one heal first, though. 🙃

Jesse Fiero — 5/5 (via Google) Oct 9, 2025

Phil's work is legendary. His 25+ years in the industry is evident in every aspect of his approach to a tattoo from the clean working environment, organization, art, preparation, equipment, inks, the tattooing itself, the speed at which he works, and the rates that result from his efficiency and fair pricing. The vibe in his shop is the ideal parlor feel, between Chelsea making sure guests are right at home and an iconic collection of art, oddities and memorabilia. I've also worked with Moe, Freddy, and Dakota. Professional, cool people all around.

Chris Campbell — 5/5 (via Google) Oct 18, 2025

Last Friday my gf and I were in town for aftershock and wanted a souvenir for our first time out west. This shop was amazing. Unfortunately I'm awful with names but our artist was friendly and very reasonable priced. The girl who was working the counter was very nice and helpful. She even helped looked up directions for me since I was in a new city. If I'm ever in the area again I will definitely be coming back!!

Tracy Eagan — 5/5 (via Google) Jan 10, 2026

Phil Geck was amazing!!! I'm 61 and got my first tattoo with him in November. Phil and all of the staff made me feel very comfortable and answered all my questions. Phil is such a tremendously talented artist!!! I recommend him 100%!!

Luke Slotton — 5/5 (via Google) Jun 3, 2023

This is an amazing shop with excellent staff. Phil Geck is a renowned artist with a wide variety of styles he has perfected over his years tattooing. I have wanted to get some realistic looking poppies on my side for quite some time, and due to a last minute cancellation, I was able to get a next day appointment, which Phil was totally prepared to do. He drew up an amazing sketch that night and fine tuned it with me the next morning. Very professional, very kind, very talented, and all around wonderful experience. I strongly recommend this shop, and Phil in particular.