Getting started with gunsmithing

[CornCob28]

I am very interested in getting started in gunsmithing as a hobby and maybe someday own my own business. I want to eventually have an FFL, maybe own my a shop. For those of you out there who have done this, how did you get started? What courses did you take, did you train with other gunsmiths? What tools should a beginner invest in?

I've had several people suggest take some of the online courses, like for Glock. Also to get into reloading, which hopefully this winter I'll have everything for that and get started. What else is there out there? Any advice is much appreciated 

As far as my knowledge, it is very broad. I have worked a lot with tactical rifles and pistols and I am fairly confident with dis-assembly and reassembly. I've done some amateur restoration on a few old shotguns (stripped and re-blued).

[DDSBYDAY]

   If you get into reloading I can help with that.  There are a lot of informational videos on Youtube also.  I learned my reloading there.  You can also find out how you go about applying for an FFL.

[deadeye]

The term "gunsmith" is a broad term that covers quit a list of activities.  Reloading, cambering, modifying for accuracy, engraving, repairing, restoring, barrels, actions, and the list goes on.  Have you considered what exactly you would like to do?  Maybe it would be best to work with a shop that does this type of work to get the experience you would need to strike out on your own.

[beeker]

I think pine city tech offers classes in gunsmithing. had a buddy go through there ended up working in Arkansas as a smith for a number of years.

[dakids]

Brother went to pine tech. Good school. Brother has built several very nice guns that he has sold. He works as a toolmaker and does the gunsmithing stuff on the side.

[deadeye]

Good point dakids, tool and die experience would be very valuable to a gunsmith.  Many times you will find that you must make the part you need to repair or improve a gun.

[beeker]

do it like the old days.. see if a local gunsmith wouldn't mind some "volunteer" time. see if you like it before you spend any money on it. school can only get you so far, you'll have to find a mentor if you actually want to make a go at it.