Pennsylvania Gunsmith School®
Master Gunsmithing Program®
Embark on a Journey to Mastery in Gunsmithing
Welcome to the Master Gunsmithing Program® at Pennsylvania Gunsmith School®, where tradition meets innovation in gunsmithing education. Our program, developed and refined over 75 years with inputs from practicing gunsmiths and industry employers, is designed to equip you with the skills for a successful career in gunsmithing. With 2,496 clock hours of intensive, hands-on training, you’ll progress from basic gun repair to advanced custom work, ensuring comprehensive mastery of the craft. If you’ve ever wondered how to become a professional gunsmith, a great place to start is Pennsylvania Gunsmith School’s gunsmithing program.
Experience the Master Gunsmithing Program Difference
This program stands apart from traditional college experiences in its approach to education. There’s no requirement for unrelated general education courses. Every class, every project, and every lesson is specifically tailored to gunsmithing. This focused approach means that your time and effort are invested solely in acquiring the skills and knowledge that directly contribute to your success as a gunsmith.
Our program is divided into four semesters, each building upon the previous one. What you can learn includes but isn’t limited to:
- Semester 1: Introduction to basic gunsmithing skills, including hand-tooling, firearm function and design, and various finishing techniques.
- Semester 2: Basic and advanced skills in wood checkering. Additionally, introduction to metal engraving and custom stock making.
- Semester 3: Advanced techniques in welding, lathe and milling operations, custom barrel fitting, and sight installation.
- Semester 4: Integrating skills with business practices, employability skills, custom firearm builds, and a review of Federal Firearms Laws and Regulations.
Each stage of the program introduces new techniques and challenges, from firearm repair and restoration to custom modifications and design. The curriculum is dynamic, adapting to the latest trends and technologies in the field, ensuring your education is current and relevant.
While the focus is on practical skills, the program also covers essential theoretical knowledge that underpins gunsmithing. This includes understanding firearm mechanics, the history of gunsmithing, and the principles of design and aesthetics. You’ll gain insights into the business aspects of gunsmithing too, preparing you for all facets of your future career.
From Our Graduates
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I learned everything I needed to kickstart myself in a great career anywhere I wanted to go in the country. If you’re interested in building, repairing or refinishing guns, I’d highly recommend the Master Gunsmithing Program®. Between top of the line instructors and the in-depth hands-on learning style, PGS was the perfect place for me to learn. Having graduated and obtained a job in the field, I’m proud to have attended PGS.
Braeden H., 2022 Graduate
After getting out of the service, enrolling in PGS was simply a solid decision. The Master Gunsmithing Program® is packed full of skills and knowledge to be had by anyone wishing to hone their Gunsmithing abilities. The vast amount of bench time helped me solidify concepts and precesses learned in the classroom. I couldn’t be more pleased, and my Gunsmith business is thriving.
Bob M., 2019 Graduate -
PGS was one of the best experiences for me and here I am 5 years later still going back to the work books because the information is so valuable.
Tyler W., 2017 GraduateWell, it’s official. I graduated from the Pennsylvania Gunsmith School® in Pittsburgh. If your child – or grandchild – isn’t a college kind of kid, get out to PGS for a tour to see if Gunsmithing is something they’re interested in. The program is awesome and the instructors are top notch. This is an awesome trade to learn and there are plenty of opprtunities out there!
James M., 2019 Graduate
A Program for Everyone – Beginners to Advanced
Whether you’re a novice or have some experience, our program is tailored to elevate your skills. We provide all necessary tools and supplies, specially chosen for their quality and relevance to our curriculum, ensuring you’re well-equipped for every stage of learning. However, those that do have prior experience can take their expertise to a higher level with our specialized training.
Use Professional Tools and Equipment
Our school store offers pre-assembled tool kits and supplies for each semester. You’ll work on projects using firearms from your collection or those of peers, providing diverse, real-world experience. In the final semester, you’ll design and build custom firearms, choosing your materials and styles to create a unique portfolio piece.
Most of the required tools, books, and supplies necessary to complete the educational objectives of each gunsmith course are available for purchase in the store. Optional tools and related equipment are available as well. Due to discounted pricing, the store is only open to PGS Students and is not open to the general public.
Your Path to a Rewarding Career
The Master Gunsmithing Program® at Pennsylvania Gunsmith School is not just about learning a trade; it’s about preparing for a dynamic and fulfilling career. With our rigorous curriculum, quality tools and supplies, and hands-on approach, you’re set to become a skilled, knowledgeable gunsmith.
The skills you obtain as part of our gunsmithing program can provide a variety of opportunities. Maybe you can work in a sporting goods store in the firearms department, or you can even use your skills for woodworking or welding. While we cannot guarantee employment, career preparation is a crucial part of our curriculum. Our experienced team of instructors can help with job searches, resume preparation, and interview coordination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Gunsmithing Program
Our four semester program is designed to be completed in as little as 16 months.
No, prior experience in firearms or machining is not necessary to enroll in our program. The program is structured to accommodate both novices and those with some experience, elevating their skills to a professional level.
You can expect to learn a wide range of gunsmithing skills, including firearm disassembly and reassembly, custom stock making, welding, soldering, brazing, lathe and milling operations, barrel fitting, sight installation, business practices, and much more.
Yes, not only is it recommended, but at minimum a virtual tour is required prior to enrollment. Live, personalized tours are scheduled Monday through Friday at either 10:00 AM or 1:30 PM U.S. Eastern Time. Please email [email protected] to schedule a visit.
Yes, our school store offers pre-assembled tool kits and supplies necessary for each semester. For bluing and repair projects, students work on firearms from their personal collection or those of their family and friends.
Our Career Services Director, Maria Bergman, assists students and graduates with job searches, including resume and cover letter preparation, job leads, and interview coordination. We also provide help in preparing for interviews at trade shows and other events. However, we do not guarantee employment.
In the final semester, students design and build custom firearms, starting with an action, a barrel blank, and a stock blank. This project allows students to showcase their individual style and craftsmanship.
Yes, financial aid is available to those who qualify. For information on tuition costs, financial aid options, and scholarships, please contact our admissions office directly. We are committed to helping students find the best ways to finance their education.
Yes! The Pennsylvania Gunsmith School® is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, ACCSC. We are also a member of the Mid-Atlantic Association of Career Schools (MAACS), which advocates for career schools in state and federal governing bodies, and the Better Business Bureau. We have even been named as the School of Distinction for the 2022-23 school year by the ACCSC.
Ready to Start Your Gunsmithing Journey?
Embarking on your journey to becoming a master gunsmith starts with understanding our admissions requirements. At Pennsylvania Gunsmith School, we ensure that our students are well-prepared to embark on this rigorous and rewarding path. Here’s what you need to know about the admissions process:
- Age and Education: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
- Application Submission: Complete and submit the application form, additional documents, and a $75 application fee
- Veterans: Submit DD-214 (member version -4)
- Required School Visit: Potential students are required to take a virtual tour of the school. You can schedule this tour by emailing [email protected]
Our admissions team is dedicated to making the application process as smooth as possible. We encourage all prospective students to reach out with any questions or for guidance throughout the admissions process.
*If you are an international student, there are additional steps you are required to take for enrollment.
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