A gunsmith is a person who builds or repairs firearms, primarily guns. A high school education is usually necessary to become a gunsmith, and basic skills in math and science will be necessary to be successful in the trade. Once you graduate from high school, you will need to take part in a training program in order to become a gunsmith. A vocational school or community college is likely to offer such training courses, though they can be found in other settings as well.
The training program that will help you become a gunsmith will cover a variety of topics, from ballistics to firearm designs. Various power tools and other hand tools will be used by a gunsmith on a regular basis, so the training program will cover the processes by which these tools can be used properly and safely. Unfortunately, the schools that offer such programs are often hard to come by, and you may need to travel to get to a school that will help you become a gunsmith. Some online programs do exist that will train you to become a gunsmith, but you will need to do some research to find a reputable program that will give you the certification you need.
Another way to become a gunsmith is to find a professional gunsmith who is willing to offer you an apprenticeship. This means you will learn the trade while on the job; you will assist the gunsmith in the manufacturing or repairing process so you can learn the techniques and skills necessary to be successful at the job. Be prepared to take a low wage and work hard at the job during your apprenticeship, as the job may not be very lucrative in general. Once you become a full-time gunsmith, the pay may improve depending on who you end up working for.
Once you complete all education and certification courses, you will need to find a job within the field. This can be difficult at first, which means you may have to work at another job while you work part-time as a gunsmith. Check in with sporting goods stores for jobs as a gunsmith, as well as shooting ranges, arms stores, or other retail establishments that sell firearms. You can also try to apply for a position with a firearms manufacturer, though such manufacturers may not exist in your region. If you are willing to relocate, you may have a better chance of finding such a position.
