How to Become a Gunsmith in Oregon

Join the ranks of Oregon gunsmiths.

A gunsmith is a person who builds, repairs, designs, restores and customizes firearms. Mastering the craft is no easy task. Gunsmiths must be skilled metalworkers, woodworkers, artisans and mechanics all in one. Many specialize in certain areas, and go on to be employed by government agencies, gun manufacturers, sporting goods stores, gun shops or factories. In Oregon many resources exist for you to consider in order to become a gunsmith.

Instructions

1. Gather information on local community colleges and technical colleges that offer gunsmithing programs. Courses typically provide a realistic shop setting, covering everything from firearm repair to intricate customization techniques. Costs vary from school to school, as some programs include certain general education classes. Certification typically takes less than two years, or 64 credit hours. Unfortunately, there are no such programs in Oregon. According to Brownells' list of gunsmith schools, the nearest school that caters to gunsmiths is located in Susanville, Calif.

2. Look into online correspondence courses for gunsmithing if your schedule does not permit you to be a full-time student. Online degrees and career diplomas through distance learning afford students the convenience of being able to maintain a "day job" or childcare duties. Although lacking the hands-on approach, distance learning courses still lead to certification, and put you one step closer to entering the job field. Among the most notable schools that offer online opportunities are Ashworth College and Penn Foster Career School.

3. Obtain an apprenticeship. Apprentices train with accomplished gunsmiths and obtain hands-on experience working in the field. Becoming an informal apprentice is a matter of seeking out local gunsmiths and asking to work alongside them. In Oregon, there are more than 200 businesses from which to choose. Applications for formal apprenticeship programs can be found through The Association of Gunsmiths and Related Trades (TAOGART). Eight thousand man hours are required for apprenticeship completion.

4. Get a license. In order to sell or produce firearms in the United States, you must have a Federal Firearm License (FFL). This is a basic gunsmith requirement. FFL applications can be found online at the website of the U.S. Dept. of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (see Resources).

5. Find a job. With schooling, apprenticeship and the acquisition of a license all behind you, the job field is open to you. Many gunsmiths work for other gunsmiths, government agencies, armories or gun shops before making the leap to owning businesses for themselves. The right job for you depends on your chosen specialty, and these jobs can pay well -- $50,000 to $100,000, depending on location and customer base. Fortunately, gunsmiths have few problems finding work.

Tips & Warnings

• Become familiar with firearm laws specific to Oregon, as these laws vary by location.

References

• Brownells: Links
• Education Portal: Online Gunsmith Courses and Classes Overview
• State of Oregon: Oregon Guns & Gunsmiths
• The Gunsmiths: F.A.Q.

Resources

• The Association of Gunsmiths and Related Trades
• U.S. Dept. of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms: How to Become a Federal Firearms Licensee