Trade Schools
Gunsmiths create, repair, and customize firearms and, sometimes, other weapons, depending on the client’s vision.
These professionals conduct simple tasks like disassembling, inspecting, cleaning, repairing, and reassembling a gun, but also perform complicated work like engraving designs in metal and wood, refinishing metal, and designing custom firearms.
The work that gunsmiths do requires extensive skills and knowledge across various areas.
To become a gunsmith, it’s important to enroll in a training program and understand the costs associated with the profession.
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How Much Does It Cost to Complete Gunsmith School?
Gunsmiths can learn and refine their craft through a degree or certificate program, military training, or apprenticeships.
Several schools in the United States offer certificate training programs or associate degrees in gunsmithing, so completing one of these programs is recommended.
Students learn under the guidance of experienced professional gunsmiths, who cover topics like safety, firearms conversion, stock making, and repair.
Skills like working with complicated machine tools, gun bluing, metal finishing, and welding are emphasized throughout the program.
Gunsmith programs are available online, with the school providing all required equipment as part of the tuition.
However, for a more hands-on experience, it’s recommended to take a gunsmithing program at a community college or vocational school.
The cost of a gunsmith training program ranges from $800 to $10,000, depending on the degree type, program duration, the school’s reputation, and the skills learned.
For instance, a six-month program will cost on the lower end, whereas a two-year associate degree will cost $10,000 or more.
Also, an online program costs less than an in-person training program and provides the flexibility needed for busy students.
How Much Does a Gunsmith’s License Cost?
After graduation, a gunsmith can join an established company or operate a business.
Those who choose the latter must hold a Federal Firearms License (FFL), which is issued by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
To apply for the license, gunsmiths must submit the fee and a copy of their fingerprints along with their application.
The ATF will use the fingerprints to run a background check, and a local ATF agent will hold an in-person interview.
FFL-holders must also meet requirements in compliance with the ATF.
For example, if a customer gives the gunsmith a firearm to work on overnight or for several days, the gunsmith must record the firearm in a bound book.
The ATF has several levels of licensure, with different costs, depending on the business.
Gunsmiths fall under Type 01: Dealer in Firearms Other than Destructive Devices.
The license application fee is $200 and requires a three-year renewal fee of $90.
What Are the Additional Costs After Becoming a Gunsmith?
Gunsmiths who open a business after completing a training program will have similar costs as any other business, with a few exceptions.
Gunsmiths who operate their business out of an office or workshop will need to pay rent and utilities, which may cost $800 per month or more, depending on the location.
Other typical business fees include advertising and marketing efforts, which can range from $100 to $1,000 per month.
Gunsmiths are required to hold a liability insurance policy, which can range from a few thousand dollars per month, due to the potential danger of the practice.
The biggest investment for a gunsmith is the tools.
The upfront cost can be in the 10s of thousands, especially for those who require an entire machine shop.
However, a cost-effective option is to rent or lease the equipment.
Is Becoming a Gunsmith a Good Investment?
Becoming a gunsmith can certainly be a worthwhile investment for those who have a passion for firearms and an aptitude for craftsmanship and mechanics, resulting in a stable career path and high job satisfaction.
Becoming a gunsmith is also ideal for those who wish to learn new skills and specialize along a unique career path.
The financial returns of becoming a gunsmith will not make you wealthy, but excellent gunsmiths with a specialized set of skills will earn a comfortable living.
Demand for gunsmiths is growing due to the need for firearm maintenance and ownership, making the career path steady and consistent.
Key Takeaways
Becoming a gunsmith has multiple upfront costs, beginning with an education.
Those who are used to modifying firearms, through military training or those who opt for an apprenticeship, will not need as much schooling to refine their skills, thus reducing costs.
For the budding gunsmith, a training program is recommended and can cost between $800 and $10,000, depending on the type of education.
A gunsmith license, issued by the ATF, adds another $200, with a renewal fee every three years of $90.
Additional business costs can run into the thousands, including advertising and marketing efforts, rent, utilities, and insurance, with the greatest being the cost of tools and equipment.
Overall, gunsmiths will not become wealthy, but will make a good living.
Also, gunsmiths can expect job stability as the desire for firearms increases, and most are passionate about their trade, creating a high level of job satisfaction.
