The United States averages 120.5 firearms for every 100 people. Gun culture is alive and well in this country. It’s no surprise then that the gunsmithing business is also healthy.
This is not the career that most people would want, but it could be interesting if you have an interest or aptitude for guns.
Continue reading if you want to learn how to become a gunsmith. We’ll show you how to start this exciting career.
Some Background Information
Gunsmithing goes beyond making guns and selling them. Although you’ll need to have some affinity and mechanical skills, gunsmithing requires a lot more. These skills include metalworking, woodworking, math, and science.
This combination of skills allows you to repair, maintain, and make all types of firearms. Because guns are dangerous and can cause serious injury if you don’t know how to use them, you must learn all the skills.
Education Required
For you to become a gunsmith, your high school diploma must be at least. Even if you’re still in high school, you can take courses on machining, woodworking, or drafting. All these classes can help you prepare to take gunsmithing courses later.
After you have finished high school or obtained your GED you can apply to college. The length of your schooling depends on which program you choose. It could take 6 months to 2 Years to complete.
You can always contact the NRA to verify which institutions have been accredited.
An alternative for those working full-time who don’t feel they have enough time to study is to take an online gunsmithing course. This is an extremely popular option as it allows you to get a degree from the comfort of your home.
Note that all gunsmithing programs conduct background checks on all applicants. A clean record is not required to be a gunsmith.
Associate’s degrees are the most prestigious. A bachelor’s degree or more is possible, but you will need to choose another (but related) field of study, such as criminal justice.
Get Your Federal Firearms License (FFL)
If you do not have an FFL, you can apply for one through the U.S. Bureau of Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Even if no guns are in your possession, an FFL is still required. If you work on guns, they will stay with you for extended periods.
Before you can receive your FFL, you will need to meet several strict requirements. These include:
- At least 21 years old
- Gunsmithing can be done in a structure separate from your residence
- Guns must always be kept in a locked safe, even if you’re not using them.
- Keep track of every firearm that you use.
- Take part in an interview with the field agent
Get an Apprenticeship
Once you have finished schooling and received your FFL, you will be eligible to apply for a gunsmithing apprentice. An apprenticeship can be found without the need to obtain a certification or diploma. But, it is important to take the time and learn all the details of the job.
There are several options available to you for getting an apprenticeship. The traditional way is to approach local gunsmiths directly and ask them for an apprentice.
To be eligible for this option, you must be over 16 and legally allowed to own and carry a firearm. If you are still in high school, you must maintain at least a C grade and get permission from your guardians or parents.
It takes approximately 8,000 hours to complete a gunsmithing apprenticeship. The exact amount of time will depend on the type of apprenticeship.
Tools for the Trade
You cannot become a gunsmith if you don’t have the tools to do the job.
Make sure you have all of the gunsmithing tools. These include a set of screwdrivers, wrenches, hammers, punches, files, and files.
These tools will allow you to not only build firearms but also to maintain and repair them. You can rely on high-quality tools to last years, even a lifetime. You should do your research thoroughly before investing in tools that will last a lifetime.
Salaries and Prospective Of A Gunsmith
Gunsmiths are paid an average of $15.00 per hour. The actual salary will depend on where you live as well as whether you work for an employer or are self-employed.
It can be very rewarding and most people in the field are satisfied with their career choices. Even though job growth isn’t great, it can still be rewarding to work as a gunsmith, because you’re doing something you love.
Consider joining a professional group such as NRA. These professional organizations allow you to meet gunsmiths and offer tips and advice on how to advance your career.
Now You Know How to Become a Gunsmith
Don’t you find it exciting and fun to be a gunsmith now that you have learned how to do so?
Gunsmithing can make an incredible addition to your lifestyle, regardless of whether you are interested in it as a hobby.