Gunsmith apprentice

[Twin]

I want to work with a local gun smith and learn how to do work on guns and do custom work. Is there anyone in the middle TN area, or do you know of anyone who would be willing to teach?

[TrickyNicky]

I looked into this last year and found that for the most part it's tough to get in as an apprentice unless you already know somewhat what your doing and have your own tools. I talked to a few smiths and it IIRC the consensus was basically "if you want to be a gunsmith start buying tools and cheap broken guns. " if you have enough time and money the Colorado School of Trades has an excellent program, as does one of the big trade schools in one of the Carolinas.


The impression I got was that for a good smith to bring someone on and train them is asking a whole lot. You'll slow down their work flow and possibly their work quality should they let you work on a customers gun. They need to at least feel comfortable enough with your skills to not have to worry about you messing up.


Are you looking to do this as a trade or hobby? If the answer is trade, you need to get formal education somewhere anyway if you want to be able to market your self to customers and employers.

[DaveTN]

Are you a machinist already? If not look into Tennessee Vo-techs machining program.