Ready to turn your passion for firearms into a professional career? Discover how to become a licensed gunsmith in Tennessee! This blog covers training requirements, licensing processes, and business opportunities across the Volunteer State. Whether you're starting fresh or expanding your skills, learn how to join this specialized trade while navigating federal and state regulations.

Key Points

• Gunsmiths are federally regulated professionals who repair, maintain, and customize firearms while ensuring compliance with all regulations.
• Gunsmiths in Tennessee should complete an accredited gunsmithing program (6-24 months), obtain an FFL, pass a background check, and obtain business licensing.
• Gunsmith classes cost $8,000-$20,000, with additional licensing fees of $1,500-$3,000.
• Tennessee gunsmiths earn an average of $45,820 annually ($22.03 per hour), with experienced professionals and shop owners earning $65,000+!

Responsibilities of a Gunsmith

Gunsmiths perform a wide range of tasks, including:

• Repairing and replacing gun parts
• Cleaning and maintaining firearms
• Customizing guns to meet specific needs or preferences
• Testing firearms for accuracy and functionality
• Modifying existing firearms to improve performance
• Refinishing gun stocks and metal parts
• Assembling firearms from scratch

Where does a Gunsmith work?

Gunsmiths can work in various settings, including:

• Gun stores: Gunsmiths may be employed by gun stores to provide repair and customization services to customers.
• Firearms manufacturers: Some gunsmiths work for firearms manufacturers, where they help assemble and test firearms.
• Self-employment: Many gunsmiths choose to open their own shops and offer their services to the public.

How to Become a Gunsmith in Tennessee?

To become a Gunsmith in Tennessee, one must first complete formal gunsmithing education, which typically involves a 2-year associate's degree program. Next, obtain the necessary certifications, such as a gunsmith license, to legally operate as a gunsmith. Once certified, individuals can search for job opportunities in the firearms industry, where they can earn a competitive salary.

Requirements to Become a Gunsmith in Tennessee

To become a gunsmith in Tennessee, you will need to meet certain requirements. These requirements include:

• Education: While formal education is not a legal requirement, it is highly recommended to pursue a gunsmithing program to gain the necessary knowledge and skills. These programs can be found at vocational schools or community colleges.
• Legal requirements: Gunsmiths must comply with all federal and state laws regarding firearms. This includes obtaining the necessary licenses and permits to legally work on firearms.

Finding Gunsmith Classes in Tennessee

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a gunsmith in Tennessee, Dreambound can help you find the right classes near you. Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs. By visiting Dreambound's website, you can search for gunsmithing classes in Tennessee and explore the different options available.

Dreambound simplifies the process of finding the right program by providing comprehensive information about each course, including tuition fees, program duration, and course curriculum. With Dreambound, you can make an informed decision and kickstart your journey towards becoming a gunsmith in Tennessee.

Remember to always comply with legal requirements and regulations when working with firearms, and prioritize safety in all aspects of your work.

Gunsmithing is a specialized skill that involves the repair, maintenance, and customization of firearms. It is a profession that requires a deep understanding of firearms and their inner workings. If you have a passion for firearms and enjoy working with your hands, becoming a gunsmith might be the perfect career path for you. In this blog post, we will discuss how to get certified as a gunsmith, how to find a job in the field, and the various career paths and opportunities available to gunsmiths.

How long does it take to become a Gunsmith?

The length of time it takes to become a certified gunsmith can vary depending on the training program you choose. Generally, gunsmith programs can range from a few months to two years. The duration of the program will depend on factors such as the depth of the curriculum, the number of hands-on training hours, and whether the program is part-time or full-time.

While some shorter programs may focus on specific aspects of being a gunsmith, such as firearm repair or customization, longer programs typically offer a more comprehensive education that covers a wider range of topics. These longer programs may also include an apprenticeship component, allowing students to gain real-world experience under the guidance of experienced gunsmiths.

Exploring a Career in Gunsmith Outside Tennessee

If you're aiming to pursue a career as a Gunsmith but find yourself in a different state, remember, your goal is still within reach. You can explore opportunities to start your career as a Gunsmith in places like Georgia, Minnesota, North Carolina, Washington, or Wyoming. If these locations don't work for you, Dreambound simplifies the journey to becoming a Gunsmith no matter where you live. By enabling you to find and compare Gunsmith classes with a search by zip code, Dreambound empowers you to move forward confidently towards a rewarding career in trade, construction, and industry, regardless of your current location.

How do I get my Gunsmith Certification?

Getting a gunsmith certification is an important step towards becoming a professional gunsmith. While certification is not always required to work as a gunsmith, it can greatly improve your chances of finding employment and can also help you establish credibility in the industry.

There are several ways to obtain a gunsmith certification. One option is to attend a gunsmithing school or program. These programs typically offer hands-on training and cover a wide range of topics, including firearm design, repair techniques, and metalworking. Some well-known gunsmithing schools include the Colorado School of Trades, the Pennsylvania Gunsmith School, and the Trinidad State Junior College.

Another option is to complete an apprenticeship under an experienced gunsmith. This is a more traditional route to becoming a gunsmith and can provide valuable hands-on experience. Apprenticeships can vary in length and requirements but typically involve working under the guidance of a master gunsmith and learning on the job.

Once you have completed your training or apprenticeship, you can then pursue a gunsmith certification. There are several organizations that offer certification programs for gunsmiths, including the National Rifle Association (NRA) and the American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI). These programs typically involve passing written and practical exams to demonstrate your knowledge and skills as a gunsmith.

How Do I Get a Job as a Gunsmith?

After obtaining your gunsmith certification, the next step is to find a job in the field. There are several ways to go about this, and it's important to be proactive in your job search.

One option is to apply to gun shops or firearms manufacturers. These businesses often employ gunsmiths to repair and maintain firearms for their customers. It can be helpful to have some experience in customer service, as gunsmiths often interact with customers who need their firearms repaired or customized.

Networking can also be a valuable tool in finding a job as a gunsmith. Attend industry events, join gun clubs or shooting ranges, and connect with other gunsmiths in your area. Building relationships with others in the industry can lead to job opportunities and referrals.

Another option is to start your own gunsmithing business. This can be a challenging path, as it requires not only gunsmithing skills but also business acumen. However, for those who are willing to put in the work, owning your own gunsmithing business can be rewarding and allow for more flexibility and control over your work.

Career Paths and Opportunities After Becoming a Gunsmith

Becoming a gunsmith opens up a range of career paths and opportunities. Here are just a few examples:

1. Gun Shop Gunsmith: Many gunsmiths work in gun shops, where they repair, maintain, and customize firearms for customers. This can be a great way to gain experience and build a reputation within the industry.

2. Firearms Manufacturer: Some gunsmiths find employment with firearms manufacturers. In this role, they may be involved in the production and assembly of firearms, as well as quality control and repair work.

3. Self-Employment: As mentioned earlier, some gunsmiths choose to start their own businesses. This allows for more control over your work and the ability to set your own hours and rates.

4. Law Enforcement/Military: Gunsmiths with specialized skills and knowledge may find employment with law enforcement agencies or the military. In these roles, they may be responsible for maintaining and customizing firearms used by officers or soldiers.

5. Instruction/Education: Experienced gunsmiths may choose to share their knowledge and skills by becoming instructors or educators. This can involve teaching at gunsmithing schools, offering workshops or classes, or creating instructional content online.

These are just a few examples of the diverse career paths available to gunsmiths. The field of gunsmithing is constantly evolving, and new opportunities may continue to emerge as technology and techniques advance.

How Much does a Gunsmith Make?

The salary of a gunsmith can vary depending on a variety of factors, including experience, location, and the industry in which they work. On average, gunsmiths can expect to make between $45,000 and $60,000 per year. However, it's important to note that this is just an average, and salaries can vary significantly.

Starting salaries for gunsmiths can range from $20,000 to $30,000 per year. As gunsmiths gain experience and develop their skills, they can expect their salaries to increase. Gunsmiths who have been in the industry for many years and have established a reputation for their work can earn salaries upwards of $80,000 per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What degree do you need for a gunsmith?

No specific degree is required to become a gunsmith, but formal training is essential! Options include a vocational certificates, associate degrees in gunsmithing, or apprenticeships under licensed gunsmiths.

How hard is it to get an FFL in Tennessee?

Obtaining an FFL in Tennessee takes 2-3 months and requires a clean criminal record, $200 initial fee, proof of business premises, local zoning approval, and passing ATF inspection.

What is the difference between a gunsmith and an armorer?

Gunsmiths are skilled craftsmen who can repair, modify, and custom-build firearm while armorers focus specifically on maintenance and basic repairs of standard firearms, usually specializing in specific manufacturers or models.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a gunsmith can be a rewarding career choice for those with a passion for firearms and a desire to work with their hands. Whether you choose to attend a gunsmithing school, complete an apprenticeship, or pursue another path, obtaining a gunsmith certification is an important step towards entering the field. Once certified, there are a variety of job opportunities available, including working in gun shops, firearms manufacturing, self-employment, and more. The field of gunsmithing offers a wide range of career paths and opportunities for those who are dedicated and willing to put in the work.

If you're considering a career shift or curious about different professional paths, Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:

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