Is gunsmithing a good career?

Is Gunsmithing a Good Career?

Gunsmithing has been a respected trade for centuries, with skilled craftspeople working on firearms for military, law enforcement, and civilian use. Whether you’re a firearms enthusiast or simply looking for a new career path, considering gunsmithing as an occupation can be a viable choice. In this article, we’ll explore the positives and negatives of a gunsmithing career to determine if it’s a good fit for you.

What is a Gunsmith?

A gunsmith is an individual who specializes in building, repairing, and maintaining firearms. They have advanced knowledge of firearms mechanics, materials, and craftsmanship to ensure that each firearm functionally and safely performs. Gunsmiths can be employed by gun shops, manufacturers, or work privately as independent contractors.

Pros of a Gunsmithing Career:

• Job Security: Gun ownership is a constitutional right, and the demand for well-maintained firearms has remained consistent over the years. As a result, gunsmiths have ensured job security.
• Variety: Each project presents a unique challenge and requires attention to detail, customization, and problem-solving.
• Creative Freedom: Gunsmiths have artistic license to design and assemble firearms, allowing them to express their creativity and tailor firearms to specific users.

Cons of a Gunsmithing Career:

• Physical Demands: Gunsmithing work can be physically demanding due to the need to repeatedly lift, bend, and stand for extended periods. Prolonged use of hand tools and constant exposure to noise and pollutants can also take a toll on the body.
• Safety Concerns: Gunsmiths handle extremely hazardous materials and operate large machinery, which requires extensive training and attention to proper safety protocols.
• High-Stress Environment: Gunsmiths work on precision instruments, which carry high stakes. Errors, misfires, or recalls can result in financial damage, legal issues, and reputational harm.

Job Requirements and Education

To become a gunsmith, you’ll need the following:

• On-the-Job Training: Most gunsmiths enter the profession through apprenticeship or on-the-job training under the guidance of a seasoned gunsmith.
• Formal Education: Many gunsmiths attended vocational schools, technical programs, or colleges that specialized in firearms technology. Post-secondary education can range from a few months to four years.
• CNC Machining Skills: Knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided machining (CAM), and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) is beneficial and in-demand.
• Licensing and Certification: Professional certifications, such as firearms repair and maintenance (CRM) or certified gunsmith (CG), can strengthen job prospects and credibility. State-specific licenses or certificates may also be required depending on the jurisdiction.

Job Opportunities

Gunsmiths can find employment:

• Gun Shops/Range: Many gun shop owners and range operators choose to employ gunsmiths to maintain and customize customers’ firearms.
• Manufacturers: Firearms industries employ gunsmiths directly for production, quality assurance, and research and development.
• Law Enforcement: Gunsmiths help maintain and repair police armories, providing crucial weapons maintenance and customization services for law enforcement agencies.
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• Private Contractors: A growing number of gun owners opt for private contractors offering gunsmithing services due to the increasing popularity of customized firearms.

Employment Statistics

• As of 2020, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) cites the median annual salary of gunsmiths as $44,420: [1]

• Median annual salaries for gunsmiths vary by location. Urban areas tend to report higher salaries, while rural or smaller towns may have slightly lower median salaries: Table 1

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  {	class="wikitable"	+ Employment Rates and Salaries by US Region
  – style="background-color:black; color:white;	Region	Median Annual Salary	*Employment Rate
  –
  Nationwide	$44,420	1,370
  –
  NE	$43,100	140
  –
  SE	$41,900	240
  –
  Midwest	$41,500	200
  –
  SW	$40,400	150
  }

• Job Growth Projected: The BLS predicts a 7-8% growth rate (faster than average) for gunsmiths due to increased demand for bespoke firearms and the rise in recreational shooting: [1]

Conclusion: Is Gunsmithing a Good Career?

Gunsmithing provides a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship, technical skills, and creative freedom. While not without its challenges, an excellent understanding of firearms principles, attention to detail, and dedication to the art can lead to a gratifying and rewarding career path. With a projected demand for gunsmiths reaching 7-8%, job security and potential advancement opportunities are promising. Should you consider gunsmithing as a career? It pays to weigh the pros against the cons and decide where your skills and passion fall.

References:
[1] Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.). Gunsmiths. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/trades-and-industrials/gunsmithing.htm

Table legend:

• Column 1: Regional label (Nationwide, Northeaster, Southeasterner, Midwestern, Southerner)
• Column 2: Average annual salary for gunsmiths in each region (£ in thousands)
• Column 3: Percent of gunsmiths’ employment rate in each respective region