Gunsmiths repair, modify, and customize firearms or guns. They take directions from customers and can customize firearms according to customer directions and blueprint orders. They also specialize in cleaning firearms and getting them into proper working order. There are no formal secondary training requirements to become a gunsmith. However, those wanting to become a gunsmith must generally participate in an internship. These internships can be tricky to become part of as there are few gunsmiths in the United States. The apprenticeships can require over 6,000 hours. Some community colleges are also beginning to offer classes in gunsmith technology that include hands on training and classroom time. It is good for those going into Gunsmithing to love firearms and have an understanding of mechanical items. They also need excellent hand and eye coordination.
Employment Information Regarding Gunsmithing
The United States Department of Labor Statistics does not keep information regarding Gunsmithing. The field is predominantly male with over 98 percent of gunsmiths being male. Most gunsmiths own their own firearm repair businesses or work directly for the makers of guns and other firearms. Some of the large sporting goods store chains that sell a large number of firearms are also employing gunsmiths to do customization of firearms and firearm repairs from their different store locations. The gunsmithing profession may have some excellent job growth as many gunsmiths have over 20 years of experience and will eventually retire and new skilled workers in the trade will need to fill their positions.
Great Wage Opportunities in Gunsmithing
According to the website Payscale.com the average annual salaries for gunsmith's in the United States in 2010 was from around $25,000 to $48,400 annually. Hourly wages for gunsmiths were anywhere from $11.00 to $15.00 per hour with overtimes wages averaging from $15.00 to $22.00 per hour.
Colleges are Offering Good Programs in Gunsmithing
Colleges have come to recognize that gunsmithing is a valuable trade. Community colleges are beginning to offer some good programs in gunsmithing technology and science. These community college programs generally award graduates either an associate's degree (2 years of study) or a certification. These certifications can take anywhere from 1 to 3 years to obtain depending on how quickly students take courses. Those wanting to become a gunsmith must also be able to obtain and maintain the proper firearms' licenses for whatever state they work and operate their gunsmithing business in.
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