How to Become a Gunsmith

Co-authored by Scott Thompson

Last Updated: February 24, 2025 Approved

Preparing to Become a Gunsmith

|

Education and Training

|

Launching a Career as a Gunsmith

|

Video

|

Expert Q&A

|

Tips

Gunsmiths are skilled metal and woodworkers trained to build and repair guns. Some gunsmiths make a living using their skills, while others take up gunsmithing as a hobby. This article contains information on the craft of gunsmithing, the educational requirements for becoming a gunsmith, and the practical application of a gunsmithing diploma.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Preparing to Become a Gunsmith

1
Have an aptitude for learning technical skills. Guns must be designed and built to exacting specifications in order to function safely and properly. Gunsmiths must be proficient in working with wood, metal, and other shop materials to create an intricate piece of equipment.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- Math skills are important for gunsmiths, since they must measure and cut wood and metal.
- Gunsmiths have excellent wood and metalworking skills. They know how to use shop equipment such as lathes, drill presses, precision measuring instruments, files and chisels, and other tools of the trade.
- Gunsmiths have mechanical expertise. They understand the way the individual moving parts in a gun work together, and are able to identify the problem when a gun isn't working correctly.
2
Be interested in the history and production of guns. Gunsmiths understand that they are building on gunsmithing knowledge that has evolved over several hundred years.^{[2]
X
Research source} They're familiar with old and new gun models, manufacturers, and accessories.
- Gunsmiths are often collectors or hobbyists who have the desire to craft guns on their own.
- Many gunsmiths are members of organizations like the National Rifle Association, or attend conferences, trade shows and other events to congregate with other gunsmiths and learn more information about guns.^{[3]
  X
  Research source}
Advertisement
3
Be serious about gun safety.^{[4]
X
Research source} Licensed gunsmiths know the importance of handling guns according to standard gun safety rules and the laws in their region.
- Gun safety extends to the crafting of the gun itself, since a faulty gun could be unsafe for the user.
Advertisement

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Education and Training

Take industrial arts courses in high school such as machining, drafting and woodworking. These types of classes will form the basic skill set you need. If you've been out of high school for several years, take classes at a local community college to brush up on your skills.
2
Apply to a gunsmithing program at a college or trade school. Most of these programs take between six months and two years. A list of accredited schools can be found on the on the NRA website.^{[5]
X
Research source}
- Gunsmithing programs teach mechanical and tooling skills, the different functions and designs of various firearms, diagnosing and repairing guns, safety procedures, and in some cases chemistry and ballistics.
- Consider enrolling in an online gunsmithing program, a popular alternative in recent years.
- Gunsmithing programs always conduct background checks on their prospective students; those who don't pass are not admitted into the program.
3
Find an apprenticeship. As an alternative or in addition to receiving a certification or diploma in gunsmithing, seek out a local gunsmith or apply through The Association of Gunsmiths and Related Trades (TAOGART) for apprenticeship status.^{[6]
X
Research source}
- In order to apply through TAOGART you must be 16 or older. All applicants must be able to legally own and possess a firearm in compliance to federal and state laws.
- If you are still in high school you must graduate and maintain at least a "C" average. You must have permission from your legal guardians and school officials (such as a principal or counselor).
- A gunsmithing apprenticeship consists of on-site training and classroom instruction that totals about 8,000 hours. This time can vary depending on the type of firearm apprenticeship you undertake.
4
Obtain a Federal Firearms License (FFL). This license differs from other firearms licenses in that it allows you to maintain possession of another person's firearm for more than a day, as you would do if you were repairing it.^{[7]
X
Trustworthy Source

U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms
U.S. federal law enforcement agency dealing with crimes related to firearms and alcohol and tobacco products

Go to source}
- In order to receive an FFL you must be over 21 years of age meet a number of strict gun safety requirements. A field agent will be dispatched to inspect your gunsmithing facilities and conduct an interview with you before the license is granted.
- Apply for an FFL through the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Check your local area for other licensing requirements.
Advertisement

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Launching a Career as a Gunsmith

1
Consider specializing in a certain type of gunsmithing. Some gunsmiths have found success by focusing on one of the following areas:
- Custom gun designing and building.
- Stockmaking, which involves building the gun stock using wood.
- Gun engraving, which adds aesthetic value to guns with decorative or patterned engravings in the wood or metal.
- Pistolsmithing, which is practiced by people who custom design and build only pistols. Other gunsmiths focus primarily on rifles or shotguns.
Operating one's own business can be difficult and risky, so some gunsmiths prefer to work for someone else. Gunsmiths are employed at sporting goods and firearms stores, firearms manufacturers, and armories.^{[8]
X
Research source}
This can provide you with recognition and support. These associations also have scholarships for students going into the gunsmithing profession.

Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question

How do I become a sniper?

Scott Thompson
Firearms Instructor
Scott Thompson is a Firearms Instructor based in Stapleton, Alabama. He is the Owner and Lead Instructor at Gulf Firearms Instruction, a Premier Firearms Training Academy that has been teaching citizens and law enforcement personnel for more than 31 years. He holds multiple teaching certifications as an NRA Training Counselor; he is certified to train instructors in NRA Basic Handgun, Basic Rifle, Personal Protection in the Home, and NRA CCW. He is certified to teach Law Enforcement in pistol, revolver, shotgun, urban rifle, and sniper skills. Before instructing at Gulf Firearms, he was a Police Officer for 25 years, and he is a Retired SWAT Officer.

Scott Thompson

Firearms Instructor

Expert Answer

To become a sniper, start by gaining experience in law enforcement, as most agencies require a minimum of three years on the job before considering candidates for specialized roles like SWAT teams. Excelling in various aspects of law enforcement, particularly on SWAT teams, is crucial before transitioning to sniper roles. Focus on developing strong attention to detail and physical fitness, as well as effective communication skills. Communication is paramount, as snipers must convey precise information about their observations to command posts. Scouting and providing detailed descriptions of the situation often take precedence over actual shooting. Mastering the art of stealth is essential for a sniper's safety, as remaining unseen is crucial. Once proficiency in these areas is achieved, training in marksmanship becomes relatively straightforward. While shooting skills are important, understanding mathematical calculations for scope adjustments and distance estimation is also necessary. Regular practice at the shooting range is beneficial, but the intricacies of marksmanship are generally the least challenging aspect of sniper training. Contrary to popular belief, pulling the trigger is just one part of the role; the majority of a sniper's work involves patience, observation, communication, and strategic positioning.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
Question

Can I legally repair guns in the state of Ohio without a license?

Community Answer

Yes, so long as the gun does not qualify as a "dangerous ordinance" (military-grade equipment, short barrel shotgun or sawed-off shotgun). If you plan to do suppressor installations or work with military-grade equipment, you will need a license. You will also need an NFA license.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 8
Question

What university should I go to in order to become a gunsmith?

Community Answer

It is usually a better idea to begin in an apprenticeship first in order to build up your basic craftsmanship and knowledge. Once you have completed an apprenticeship, investigate technical colleges and universities in your area that offer the credentials you are looking for. Not all universities offer gunsmithing courses, so do your research!

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 7 Helpful 12

See more answers

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Video

Tips

You may attend gun safety classes through most local police departments and hunting stores. Getting familiarized with guns and proper safety procedures before going to school can be beneficial.

Thanks
Helpful 47 Not Helpful 7

You Might Also Like

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

Trustworthy Source

Go to source

[8]

How to Become a Gunsmith

Steps

Preparing to Become a Gunsmith

Education and Training

Launching a Career as a Gunsmith

Expert Q&A

Video

Tips

You Might Also Like

References

About this article

Reader Success Stories

Did this article help you?

You Might Also Like