Are you interested in turning your hobby into your profession? Men and women of all ages are often interested in gunsmithing as a hobby. With today’s technology, it can be fun and exciting to test your skills at hitting that bull’s eye. Gunsmithing has been a favorite past-time of many since the beginning era of our forefather’s and their need to hunt for food and use firearms for protection. However, at present, your love for gunsmithing can turn into a profitable career, if you’d like!
The responsibilities of a Gunsmith can vary, depending on your interests, however, the basics involve the routine maintenance of the firearm, in addition to, repairing them as needed. Gunsmiths are often in charge of being involved with the complete process, from the design of a firearm to preparing it for retail purchase.
In addition, a Gunsmith must be well-versed on certain manufacturer’s makes and models to properly repair or restore a particular type of piece. If you prefer, you may choose to specialize in certain brand names only, such as, Smith & Wesson, Colt, Winchester or Beretta, among others. Do you have an interest in antiques? Restoring firearms to their original form and finish may be your calling.
Other responsibilities may include modifying a firearm for competitive purposes or if you are the artistic type, decorative engraving is sometimes requested or required for embellishment.
In the event that the proper parts can not be obtained, you will need to customize the needed part for the repair. To do repairs or modifications, you will use machinery or tools specific to gun repair. You will need to have an extensive knowledge about how guns operate, as well as, the important safety rules to follow precisely. An expert understanding in the correct ammunition to use goes without saying, of course.
As a Gunsmith, you must be a licensed professional, according to the standards of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF). You must also adhere to the laws and regulations pertaining to firearms in your own state, county and city. You will need to be at least 18 years old and be able to pass a criminal background check with flying colors to work in the field of gunsmithing.
Additional skills will be needed to be a successful Gunsmith. You must pay attention to detail, all with a steady hand, always. You must also have a general knowledge of woodworking, along with metallurgy, which involves the technology used in metal production and purification. Soldering, welding, grinding, filing and polishing of firearms are all necessary skills to know as a Gunsmith. Physical strength and easy hand/finger dexterity is a must, as well as, strong mechanical skills, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Excellent customer service is a must in the field of gunsmithing. Gun owners appreciate someone who can listen carefully to their needs and requests regarding their firearms and who are skilled enough to carefully handle their issues with courtesy and in a timely and professional manner. As some guns are handed down from generation to generation, you must handle each one with ease and careful consideration.
Would you like to be your own boss? Occasionally, Gunsmiths work from their own shop, however, if you would rather forego the overhead of business ownership, there are many box stores and sporting goods stores that have a firearms sales department. Gun ranges are also in need of experienced firearm handlers and repair technicians. Job opportunities in firearm factories are also available in certain areas.
If you are interested in this career field, please check out our list of the best Online Schools for Gunsmithing Programs.