How to Become a Gunsmith / Firearms Technician
Interested in firearms design, repair, or restoration? Gunsmithing combines mechanical precision, metalworking, and craftsmanship into one specialized career. This guide breaks down how to get trained, licensed, and certified to work as a professional gunsmith or firearms technician.
If you’re mechanically inclined, patient, and passionate about craftsmanship, gunsmithing offers a hands-on career with deep history and steady demand.
What Does a Gunsmith Do?
Gunsmiths design, build, repair, and modify firearms for safety, performance, and appearance. They often specialize in:
- Diagnosing and repairing mechanical malfunctions
- Assembling or customizing rifles, pistols, and shotguns
- Refinishing, engraving, or restoring antique firearms
- Installing scopes, triggers, and custom parts
- Testing firearms for accuracy and safety
Every gunsmith must blend engineering precision with artisan-level craftsmanship.
How to Become a Gunsmith (6 Steps)
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Earn a high school diploma or GED
Strong foundations in math, metalwork, and mechanical drawing are helpful. -
Enroll in a gunsmithing trade school or online program
Learn firearm safety, machining, metallurgy, ballistics, and stock refinishing.
Gunsmithing Training Programs
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Complete hands-on training or apprenticeship
Apply your knowledge in real-world settings under experienced gunsmiths. -
Obtain necessary licenses
To handle or modify firearms commercially, you’ll need a Federal Firearms License (FFL) from the ATF. -
Get certified (optional but valuable)
Programs like the NRA Gunsmithing School Certification or American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) Master Gunsmith Program enhance credibility. -
Start your career or open your own shop
Many gunsmiths work for gun shops, firearm manufacturers, or start independent repair businesses.
Skills That Make Great Gunsmiths
- Precision and attention to detail
- Mechanical and machining knowledge
- Patience and problem-solving
- Understanding of firearm safety laws
- Metalworking, woodcraft, and engraving skills
The best gunsmiths combine the mind of an engineer with the hands of a craftsman.
Gunsmith / Firearms Technician Salary & Job Outlook
Based on BLS occupation: Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other (49-9099)
Data Year: 2024 • U.S.
Mean Pay (2024)
Wage Percentiles
Employment Outlook
Employment: 221,200 → 226,500 jobs by 2034 (2.4%)
21,500 projected openings each year
Additional Details
- Share of U.S. Employment
- 0.1%
- Employment per 1,000 Jobs
- 1.19
- Employment RSE
- 1.7%
- Projected Annual Openings
- 21,500
Pros & Cons of the Gunsmithing Trade
Pros:
- Blend of art, mechanics, and precision
- Strong niche demand with specialized clientele
- Opportunities for custom and collectible firearm work
- Potential to run your own licensed shop
Cons:
- Requires federal licensing and compliance
- Niche industry with limited entry points
- Tools and equipment can be costly
Start Your Gunsmithing Career
If you’re passionate about mechanics and craftsmanship, gunsmithing offers a fulfilling path where technical skill meets tradition.
Find a gunsmithing school near you and begin your training to become a licensed firearms technician.
Gunsmith Salary by State
Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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