Gunsmithing Careers

Gunsmithing careers work well those those who are interested in firearms, for example mechanics and assembly, completing a program in gunsmithing will prepare you for a career in this area. You would take classes in metalwork, soldering, welding, stock making, finishing, barrel-fitting, and polishing and bluing techniques.

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You would then be prepared for a career in firearms manufacture and repair. You can also further specialize in custom design, pistol smithing, and master engraving. Eventually you can work in various places for example gun manufacturers, armories, sporting goods establishments, and gunsmith shop. As a gunsmith you would use hand tools and machines e.g. grinders, planers, and miller to restore antique guns, convert and update old rifles, or adapt firearms to the customized requirements of clients.

Request FREE additional information from colleges that offer gunsmithing courses, including:

• Colorado School of Trades - Gunsmithing
• Ashworth University - Diplomas
• Penn Foster Career School

Gunsmiths must know how to handle and operate guns, and also understand various assembly requirements, for example fitting the action (moving parts) and barrel into the stock (handle or butt end). They should also be able to attach optical sights, pistol grips, recoil pads, and install choking devices.

Education and Training

For preparation of gunsmithing careers, in the program of study you can expect to learn more about the operations and special techniques relevant to the trade. You also learn about the function, disassembly, assembly, and customizing of rifles, shotguns, and handguns. Further, you will be exposed to fitting barrels on rifles and handguns, consisting of threading, chambering, crowning, and custom contours, how to correctly and accurately install metallic, and optic sights. In some classes you would cover information on metal refinishing, including black oxide, phosphate, slow rust, and nitre bluing, and Internal and external ballistics. Upon graduation, you should be able to:

• Refurbish metal and wood for firearms and guns
• Diagnose malfunctions in handguns, shotguns and rifles and other firearms
• Make custom stocks and customize firearms
• Operate machine tools and rebarrel firearms
• Manufacture tools and parts for firearms

Courses you would take include algebra, drafting, technical report writing, metallurgy, ballistics, and machine tool processes. You also spend a lot of time doing practical shop work that includes parts design, barrel fitting, soldering, welding, and custom stock making.

Expected Salary

The salary range for a career in gun smithing is about $11.81 — $33.21/hr. In 2006 the salary range for gunsmiths was $18,000 to $35,000 per year.

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