How Does a Gunsmith Spend a Workday?

A Gunsmith's Main Duty

A gunsmith builds and repairs guns. Much of a gunsmith's workday is spent handling firearms and ensuring their proper function. Machine processes such as grinding, planing and milling are other common tasks. Gunsmiths work for firearms factories, government armories and retail gun shops.

Other Daily Duties

Daily duties may include:

Maintaining customer records in accordance to ATF standards
Testing firearms to ensure proper performance
Drawing up blueprints for new firearm models
Purchasing firearms in retail stores
Providing advice to customers

Gunmith Specializations

While many gunsmiths provide a broad range of service, others specialize in certain areas, including:

Checkering: Creating ornate patterns and designs in the wood grips of guns
Engraving: Adding text or engraved designs to the gunmetal
Finishing: Treating gunmetal for corrosion resistance
Historical restoration: Repairing historical weaponry
Stock-making: Crafting stocks out of wood and fits them to a gun's metal components