If you are thinking about becoming a Gunsmith, perhaps you are wondering where your talents will be most useful. Typically, a Gunsmith will choose to open their own business, however, in some instances, an individual may not want to endure the stress of the overhead costs and responsibilities of running a small business. However, if being your own boss appeals to you, then a decent career can be had in gunsmithing.
If you are in training and can work an apprenticeship, naturally your salary will be less than when you are running your own shop. Expected salary figures vary depending on information source. For example, on the lower end, the average pay for gunsmiths is reported at $17.13 an hour, according to PayScale. On the higher end, gunsmiths earned an average of $45,066 annually or $22.00 an hour according to the Economic Research Institute. And in between both figures, metal and plastic machine workers — which is what the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies gunsmiths under — are reported to have earned a 2020 median pay of $38,270 annually, or $18.40 an hour.
If you choose to work for a gun range, sporting goods store or the big box store that sells firearms, you may also appreciate the health insurance benefits that they may provide, however, as a small business owner, you will need to provide your own health benefits. If employed by a privately owned or franchised box store, you salary will depend on their pay scale regulations.
There are other career possibilities where you may apply your certificate and expertise in gunsmithing besides working in a firearms store or owning your own shop. As a machinist, you can apply your knowledge in gunsmithing, when needed. A machinist is responsible for assembling, repairing or maintaining machinery or a product built for a specific purpose. They must know how to precisely cut and shape materials to meet their needs, as also needed in gunsmithing. A certain amount of math skills are involved in this career.
Firearms manufacturing plants are often in need of educated employees in the field of gunsmithing. Of course, each plant offers their own range of pay, benefits and job description. The part of the country in which you live also has an effect on salaries in this type of industry.
With additional training or a degree, you may be interested in becoming an Engineering Technologist. They are tasked with the duties of assisting engineers or scientist in the design of new tools or products. They help to develop the equipment to make the item. You will most likely need a degree in civil, electrical or mechanical engineering to work on projects in this capacity.
If you would like to learn more about this field, please see our list of Online Schools for Gunsmithing Programs that we have compiled for your convenience.