Most Affordable Online Gunsmith Trade School Programs for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Gunsmithing is a skilled trade that’s growing quietly but steadily. More than 4,500 people in the U.S. already work as gunsmiths—and there’s still room for more. However, many people never take the first step because they think they can’t afford it or are unsure of where to start. Others wait too long and miss their chance to turn a passion into a profession.

If you want to train as a gunsmith without spending years in school or piling up debt, now’s the time to act. In this guide, you’ll learn which programs are worth your time and money, what you’ll need to get started, and how to make sure the school you choose will help you build a real career. Our team of career experts put this together to give you a clear, no-fluff path to reaching your goal.

What are the benefits of an online gunsmith trade school program?

Graduates can work in custom gun shops, firearm manufacturing, law enforcement support, or open their own repair business.
Online gunsmith programs often include digital simulations and at-home builds that help students gain confidence before working on real firearms.
Many entry-level gunsmiths earn around $37,000, but experienced specialists can earn $55,000 or more depending on location and niche skills.

What can I expect from an online gunsmith program?

You can expect an online gunsmith program to cover both the theory and basic hands-on skills of repairing, customizing, and maintaining firearms. Most programs focus on real-world training that prepares you for entry-level jobs or apprenticeships.

Typical courses include firearm design, gun safety, ballistics, metalwork, machining, and stock refinishing. You may also take classes in federal firearms laws, customer service, and shop management. Some programs offer extra electives in welding or engraving. While the training is online, many programs include toolkits or require you to purchase your own tools, allowing you to complete hands-on assignments at home.

Online gunsmith programs don’t usually lead to a degree. Instead, you’ll earn a certificate or diploma. Most programs require between 20 and 35 credit hours to graduate, depending on the level of detail in the training. Some schools count by clock hours instead of credits, but the structure is similar.

Each credit hour usually costs between $100 and $250. That makes these programs much cheaper than traditional colleges. You’ll often pay by course or by term, and many schools offer payment plans to keep it manageable.

Where can I work with an online gunsmith program?

Graduates of online gunsmith programs can work in several hands-on, skilled roles. Most jobs involve customizing, repairing, or building firearms in settings where precision and safety matter.

You might work as a gunsmith in a local gun shop, sporting goods store, or private firearms business. Some graduates go on to work in larger firearm manufacturing plants, defense contractors, or machining shops that make custom parts.

Jobs often focus on assembly, modification, safety inspections, or working with customers to meet their specific needs.

Standard job titles include:

Gunsmith
Firearms assembler
CNC machine operator (specialized in firearm parts)
Quality control inspector
Custom firearms technician

The BLS reports that the largest employers for metal and plastic machine workers, who share many skills with gunsmiths, include:

Fabricated metal product manufacturing (25%)
Plastics and rubber products manufacturing (16%)
Transportation equipment manufacturing (13%)
Primary metal manufacturing (12%)
Machinery manufacturing (11%)

These industries often seek workers who know how to shape, file, and finish metal parts—skills typically taught in online gunsmith programs. If you build a solid portfolio or continue learning, you could even open your own shop or pursue a career in firearms design and restoration.

How much can I make with an online gunsmith program?

According to 2025 data from Zippia, the average annual salary for gunsmiths in the U.S. is $44,684. That breaks down to roughly $21 per hour, depending on your location and level of experience.

Starting out, many new gunsmiths earn between $30,000 and $38,000 per year, especially if they’re working in small shops or entry-level roles. But as you gain hands-on experience, build a portfolio, or specialize in custom work, your pay can rise. Some skilled gunsmiths working in high-demand areas or custom firearm businesses make over $60,000 a year.

Other factors that affect your pay include:

Your location (rural vs. urban)
Whether you work for a shop or own your own business
The type of firearms you service (basic repairs vs. custom builds)
Additional certifications or machining skills

Graduates of online gunsmith programs often begin in technician roles, but those who continue learning and practicing can advance quickly. Adding skills like welding, CNC machining, or engraving can make you more valuable to employers or help you attract more customers if you freelance or open a business.

List of the Most Affordable Online Gunsmith Trade School Programs for 2025
How long does it take to complete an online gunsmith trade school program?
How does an online gunsmith trade school program compare to an on-campus program?
What is the average cost of an online gunsmith trade school program?
What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online gunsmith trade school program?
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online gunsmith trade school program?
Is the program accredited and does it prepare me for licensing?
Is an online gunsmith education a solid long-term investment?
What certifications should I pursue after completing an online gunsmith trade school program?
What courses are typically in an online gunsmith trade school program?
What types of specializations are available in an online gunsmith trade school program?
How to choose the best online gunsmith trade school program?
What career paths are available for graduates of an online gunsmith trade school program?
What is the job market for graduates with an online gunsmith trade school program?
Other Things You Should Know About Online Gunsmith Trade School Programs

How do we rank schools?

Financing a degree is a significant decision, so we built our rankings to help students choose with confidence. We utilize trusted data from reputable sources, including the IPEDS database, Peterson’s, the College Scorecard, and the National Center for Education Statistics.

These tools give us the facts we need to fairly review and rank the best online gunsmithing programs. You can learn more about our full methodology on our Research.com page.

List of the Most Affordable Online Gunsmith Trade School Programs for 2025

MGS Trade School

MGS Trade School delivers a self-paced, hands-on curriculum you can follow from your own bench. You’ll watch printed and online lessons, complete seven practical projects, and learn everything from safety to custom finishes. Ideal whether you’re aiming for a hobby or a business venture.

Required Credits to Graduate: Equivalent 765 clock hours (Advanced)
Cost: Basic $1,759; Advanced $2,192 (one-time)
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Secondary Schools

Penn Foster Career School

Penn Foster’s six-course diploma combines 38.4 CEUs and 19 exams with over 50 how-to videos. You’ll learn everything from disassembly to engraving at your pace in just 3–6 months. The program strikes a balance between theory and practice in a budget-friendly package.

Required Credits to Graduate: 38.4 CEUs
Cost: $1,139 total
Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC); Middle States Association CSS

American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI)

AGI offers a self-paced, video-based course taught by expert gunsmiths. With 175 hours of instruction covering design, function, repair, and customization across all major firearms, you’ll gain enough knowledge to confidently diagnose and service rifles, pistols, and shotguns.

Required Credits to Graduate: ~175 instructional hours
Cost: $5,997 + shipping
Accreditation: A+ Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating (non-academic accreditation)

Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI)

SDI offers a 32-credit Gunsmithing Certificate with two 16-week semesters. You’ll study repair, machining, ballistics, finishing, and even build a firearm. SDI also offers AS degree options that cover more advanced technical and business topics.

Required Credits to Graduate: 32
Cost: $12,920 total
Accreditation: DEAC

Stratford Career Institute

Stratford’s Gunsmith Course is a flexible distance learning program designed for both beginners and advanced students. The curriculum covers pistols, rifles, and revolvers, along with practical tips on workspace setup, accuracy testing, and starting a gunsmithing business. Students can learn at their own pace and access the first module with a low initial payment.

Required Credits to Graduate: Not credit-based
Cost: $1,049 total
Accreditation: Not accredited

How long does it take to complete an online gunsmith trade school program?

Most online gunsmith trade school programs take anywhere from 3 months to 2 years to complete, depending on the depth of training. Short-term certificate or diploma programs often take between 3 to 12 months, especially if they’re self-paced. These programs typically focus on core skills, including firearm safety, assembly and disassembly, and basic repair. For example, some students finish fast-track options in as little as 3 to 6 months if they study regularly.

More advanced online gunsmith programs, which include business training or custom work techniques, can take up to 18 to 24 months to complete. These often include hands-on projects that students complete from their own workbench, along with video instruction, assessments, and instructor feedback.

For those considering parallel career development, pursuing an accelerated online bachelor's degree in supply chain management can complement technical gunsmithing skills with knowledge in inventory control and logistics—useful for those aiming to open or manage firearm-related businesses.

Some programs also allow up to three years for completion, giving students more flexibility if they’re working full-time or need a slower pace. These timelines are ideal for those who want to build a strong foundation without rushing through technical skills.

How does an online gunsmith trade school program compare to an on-campus program?

Online gunsmith trade school programs offer more flexibility than on-campus options. Still, each format has unique benefits depending on your needs. Many students begin with online gunsmith programs to develop practical skills and then explore related fields, such as firearms repair, custom manufacturing, or even criminology careers, where firearm knowledge can be a valuable asset.

Here’s how the two formats compare:

Flexibility: Online programs are typically self-paced, allowing you to study at a time that suits your schedule. On-campus programs follow a set class schedule, which can be more challenging for students with jobs or family responsibilities.
Hands-On Learning: Both formats include hands-on projects, but online students complete them from home using kits mailed to them or their own tools. In-person classes provide direct access to shared equipment and offer real-time assistance from instructors.
Cost and Travel: Online programs often cost less and save money on travel or housing. On-campus options may include lab fees or commuting expenses.
Instructor Access: Online programs offer help through email, video calls, or discussion forums. On-campus programs allow for face-to-face interactions, which some students prefer.
Peer Networking: In-person classes create more chances to connect with classmates. However, many online gunsmith programs include community forums where students share progress and advice.

What is the average cost of an online gunsmith trade school program?

The average cost of an online gunsmith trade school program ranges from approximately $1,100 to $13,000, depending on the depth of training and the required credentials. Most programs are offered as certificates or diplomas, and you can often pay in full or through a monthly plan. Here’s a quick look at the range:

Low-cost options ($1,100–$2,500): Schools such as Penn Foster and MGS Trade School offer basic or advanced gunsmithing certificates within this price range. These programs include printed materials, video lessons, and some hands-on kits.
Mid-range options ($5,000–$7,000): The American Gunsmithing Institute charges around $5,997 for its professional-level course. These include extensive video instruction and training on firearm design and repair.
Higher-end programs ($12,000+): Sonoran Desert Institute’s 32-credit certificate in firearms technology costs about $12,920. It’s more comprehensive and may appeal to students planning to open a shop or transition into the firearms industry full-time.

While gunsmithing programs are highly focused, the skills, such as attention to detail, a forensic-level understanding of firearm mechanics, and familiarity with legal compliance, can also connect to broader career paths. For example, students asking, “How do I start a career in crime analysis?” might find that gunsmithing knowledge can support roles in evidence handling, firearm forensics, or investigative support jobs.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online gunsmith trade school program?

Students enrolling in online gunsmith trade school programs can access several financial aid options, including military benefits, workforce grants, and private scholarships. While traditional federal aid (like Pell Grants) may not always apply, many students still find support through other sources. Here are some of the most valuable options:

Military and Veterans Benefits: Schools like Sonoran Desert Institute accept GI Bill® and VA education benefits. These can cover tuition, materials, and sometimes housing if you qualify. Check with the VA and your school’s veteran services team to apply.
Workforce Development Programs: Some states offer Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding for trade-based training. This can cover all or part of your tuition. Visit your state’s workforce or employment office to see if your program is eligible.
Monthly Payment Plans: Trade schools like MGS and Penn Foster often offer interest-free monthly installment plans. This spreads out the cost, making tuition more manageable without the need for loans.
Scholarships and Employer Reimbursement: Although limited, some industry-specific gunsmithing scholarships are available through organizations such as the American Custom Gunmakers Guild. If you’re employed, ask about tuition reimbursement—especially if you work in security, law enforcement, or the sporting goods industry.

The chart below lists the total number of firearms manufactured by type, as published by the ATF in 2024.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online gunsmith trade school program?

Most online gunsmith trade school programs have minimal prerequisites, making them accessible to beginners, hobbyists, and career changers alike. While requirements may vary slightly by school, here’s what students usually need before enrolling:

High School Diploma or GED: Most programs—like those at Sonoran Desert Institute or Penn Foster—ask for proof of high school completion. Some non-degree programs, such as those at MGS Trade School, may offer more flexibility. Students pursuing a dual-track education—for example, pairing gunsmithing with the fastest graduate certificate in supply chain management and logistics online—may need to meet additional prerequisites for the graduate-level coursework.
Minimum Age Requirement: Students usually need to be at least 18 years old due to the nature of working with firearms and handling related legal topics.
Basic English Reading and Writing Skills: Courses are taught in English and include technical manuals and safety procedures. Being able to read and write clearly is essential for learning and passing exams.
Access to Tools and a Safe Workspace: While many programs include hands-on kits, you’ll still need a bench or safe work area at home to complete practical assignments. Some schools offer suggestions for setting up your space safely and legally.
Compliance with State and Federal Laws: You may need to pass a background check or confirm that you’re legally allowed to work with firearms in your state. Programs won’t ship certain materials to restricted areas.

Is the program accredited and does it prepare me for licensing?

Choosing an accredited program is essential for ensuring that the training meets industry standards and prepares you for any necessary licensing requirements. Accredited programs are evaluated against rigorous benchmarks, providing assurance to employers and professional agencies. Some programs also include guidance on meeting state-specific licensing criteria and the Federal Firearms License (FFL) process when applicable. In addition, recognized credentials can serve as a stepping stone to further education, such as exploring what kind of degree can I get in 6 months, which may broaden your professional opportunities.

Is an online gunsmith education a solid long-term investment?

Evaluating the long-term benefits of an online gunsmith program involves analyzing initial costs, potential salary growth, and opportunities for further specialization. Many professionals find that acquiring specialized technical skills can lead to greater marketability and faster career progression. Additionally, complementing technical training with broader business or management education—such as a cheap accelerated bachelor's degree online—can provide a competitive edge for those planning to open their own shop or expand into related fields. Assessing the overall return on investment requires a careful review of program costs, available financial aid, and the realistic career trajectory within the evolving firearms industry.

What certifications should I pursue after completing an online gunsmith trade school program?

In addition to your trade school certification, pursuing industry-recognized credentials can enhance your career prospects. Specialized certifications can validate advanced technical skills and reinforce safety and regulatory competence in the firearms industry. For instance, targeted programs and exams help demonstrate proficiency in cutting-edge repair techniques and emerging technologies, giving employers additional confidence in your expertise. Investigating external training opportunities, such as certifications for jobs that pay well, can provide a competitive edge and support long-term professional growth.

What courses are typically in an online gunsmith trade school program?

Most online gunsmith trade school programs offer a combination of technical repair courses, firearm safety training, and business topics to help students prepare for a career in the field or even run their own shop. While exact course titles vary, here are the core areas you’ll usually find:

Firearm Safety and Handling: Every program starts with safety. Students learn how to safely inspect, handle, and store all types of firearms. This course often includes federal and state laws, which are essential knowledge for any professional working with guns.
Firearms Repair and Maintenance: These courses teach how to disassemble, clean, reassemble, and troubleshoot firearms. Some programs cover over 70 different guns, including pistols, revolvers, shotguns, and rifles.
Customizing and Modifying Firearms: Gunsmiths often learn how to adjust sights, alter stocks, and apply finishes to firearms. Techniques such as bluing, jeweling, and checkering are commonly used in advanced modules.
Metalwork and Machining Basics: Understanding how to work with metal—cutting, drilling, and shaping—is part of many advanced courses. These skills are helpful for barrel fitting, trigger work, and part replacement.
Business and Shop Management: Some programs include basic management or entrepreneurship courses. These teach how to price services, run a storefront, keep records, and market to clients. If you’re already thinking of combining your technical skills with business knowledge, you might explore options like the cheapest online bachelor’s in management to build a broader foundation for shop ownership.

What types of specializations are available in an online gunsmith trade school program?

Online gunsmith trade school programs often offer optional focus areas, allowing students to specialize in a specific part of the firearms industry. By choosing the right specialization, you can tailor your training to match your career goals, whether you’re opening a shop, working with antique weapons, or supporting crime-solving efforts. Here are some of the most common specializations:

Custom Firearms Fabrication: This track focuses on design and performance enhancement. You’ll learn how to personalize guns through engraving, custom stocks, trigger jobs, and finishing techniques.
Firearm Restoration and Collectible Repair: This specialization focuses on restoring and repairing older or historic firearms. Students study gun history and craftsmanship techniques for preserving value and structure, ideal for those working with antiques or collectors.
Ballistics and Firearm Function Testing: Some programs emphasize performance testing and accuracy improvement. Students learn how to test ammunition loads, measure velocity, and adjust for recoil—skills also useful in ballistics labs.
Law Enforcement Firearms Support: This path focuses on maintaining and modifying firearms used by law enforcement or the military. It’s a good option for students interested in public safety or technical support roles in law enforcement.
Firearm Sales and Business Operations: For students interested in running a gun shop, this specialization includes firearm retail knowledge, FFL (Federal Firearms License) regulations, and client management skills.

These specializations don’t just lead to careers in gunsmithing. They can also be applied to roles in public safety or forensic investigation. For example, a student focused on firearm function testing might go on to work with law enforcement labs. That’s where the difference between criminal justice and forensic science comes into play—gunsmiths may work with officers (criminal justice) or lab analysts (forensic science), depending on their path.

How to choose the best online gunsmith trade school program?

To choose the best online gunsmith trade school program, look for flexible learning, hands-on training, and strong student support. Choosing the right program can save you time and money while helping you build fundamental skills. Online gunsmith programs vary widely, so take time to compare each one carefully based on what matters most to you.

Here’s what to consider:

Accreditation and Licensing: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized agency, such as the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) or the Middle States Commission on Secondary Schools. Accreditation ensures that the program meets specific quality standards and can also impact your eligibility for financial aid.
Course Content and Specializations: Review the course list carefully. A good program will offer a balance of technical skills, such as firearm repair, ballistics, and customization, and practical business topics, including pricing services and managing a gunsmithing shop.
Hands-On Training: Online gunsmith programs should include real-world practice. Look for schools that ship parts kits or assign hands-on projects you can complete from your home workbench. Without this, your skills may fall behind.
Student Support and Instructor Access: Select a school that provides effective methods for asking questions and receiving feedback. Programs that incorporate instructor Q&As, student forums, or video feedback tend to yield better learning outcomes.
Tuition Costs and Payment Options: Compare prices, but also look at what’s included. Some lower-cost programs may not offer full video libraries, instructor access, or materials. Others include tools, certifications, and support that make the higher cost more worthwhile.
Graduate Outcomes and Reputation: Research reviews from past students. Find out where graduates are working or whether they’ve started their own gunsmithing business. This gives you a sense of how strong the training is.

The chart below illustrates the trend in Type 1 (dealer) and Type 7 (manufacturer of firearms) licenses from 2019 to 2023, as published by the ATF.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online gunsmith trade school program?

Graduates of online gunsmith trade school programs can work as gunsmiths, firearm restorers, custom designers, or even instructors at technical schools. Here are the most common career paths:

Professional Gunsmith: Many graduates work at gun shops, sporting goods stores, or firearms manufacturing companies. Daily work includes inspecting, repairing, and customizing guns. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) states that anyone who earns money from customizing, repairing, or refinishing firearms is required to hold a federal firearms license (FFL). So, if you plan to do this as a business, you must apply through the ATF.
Custom Firearms Builder or Designer: Some skilled gunsmiths open their own custom shops to design one-of-a-kind firearms. This path requires creativity, strong machining skills, and knowledge of firearm safety and mechanics. You’ll also need an FFL to operate legally.
Restoration and Antique Firearms Specialist: This role specializes in restoring antique or damaged firearms for collectors and museums. It often requires special skills in metalworking, woodworking, and historical research.
Firearm Safety Instructor or Trade School Teacher: Experienced gunsmiths can transition into teaching. Some become safety instructors or teach entry-level gunsmithing classes. If you’re interested in training the next generation, earning a teaching degree online can open doors to technical colleges and vocational schools.
Firearm Parts and Accessories Business Owner: Some graduates focus on building or selling gun parts, scopes, or modification kits. Running a firearms business also requires an FFL, depending on what you sell and how you conduct your operations.

What is the job market for graduates with an online gunsmith trade school program?

While the BLS projects a 6% decline in jobs for metal and plastic machine workers from 2023 to 2033, the outlook isn’t all negative. Many gunsmiths fall into this category due to their work with machining equipment. But despite this dip, the BLS still expects about 91,800 job openings per year across this sector. These openings come from retirements, career changes, and business growth.

Some students who begin in gunsmithing also branch out into adjacent trades—such as those found in the cheapest online automotive mechanic programs—to diversify their skill sets and expand job options in technical repair fields.

Meanwhile, the firearms industry continues to grow. According to a 2025 report from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), nearly 151,000 people are directly employed in the firearms, ammunition, and hunting equipment industry in the U.S. This includes manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Additionally, the industry supports an estimated 232,000 jobs in related services, including shipping, raw materials, and marketing.

Some graduates even explore roles in logistics or product distribution—areas where skills from the cheapest freight broker online training can complement a background in gunsmithing, especially for those considering business ownership or supply chain roles within the industry.

For online gunsmith program graduates, this means opportunities in:

Gun shops and repair businesses
Manufacturing and assembly lines
Custom firearms services
Supply and accessory businesses
Firearms retail and wholesale operations

While the job market may shift for specific machine work, the broader firearms industry still offers many places where skilled gunsmiths can thrive. These programs help students tap into that demand with specialized, practical skills.

Other Things You Should Know About Online Gunsmith Trade School Programs

What are the cons of being a gunsmith?

Some downsides include inconsistent demand, strict federal regulations, and the need for expensive tools. Gunsmiths also require an FFL if they professionally customize or repair firearms. Online gunsmith programs help prepare you for these realities, but success often depends on self-marketing and steady clients.

Is gunsmith a good trade?

Yes, if you enjoy precision work and firearms. It can lead to stable self-employment or jobs in the firearm industry. Online gunsmith programs allow you to train affordably and flexibly, making it a practical trade to learn from home.

What is the difference between a gunsmith and an armorer?

Gunsmiths build, modify, and repair firearms, often fabricating parts. Armorers clean, inspect, and maintain issued firearms, primarily for law enforcement or military use. Online gunsmith programs focus more on customization and repairs, key differences that help guide your career path.

What tools do I need for online gunsmith school?

Expect to invest in screwdrivers, punches, a bench vise, safety glasses, and files. Some online gunsmith programs ship kits for hands-on work, while others recommend tools as your skills grow. A stable workspace is also essential.

References:

Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). (2024). Firearms Commerce in the United States: Statistical Update 2024. ATF.
Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). (n.d.). Federal Firearms Licenses. Mission Areas. ATF.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (2025). Metal and Plastic Machine Workers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. BLS.
California Community Colleges Centers of Excellence for Labor Market Research (COE). (2022). Gunsmithing in the North/Far North. Labor Market Analysis. COE.
National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF). (2025). Firearm and Ammunition Industry: Economic Impact. NSSF.
Zippia. (2025a). Gunsmith demographics and statistics in the US. Zippia.
Zippia. (2025b). Gunsmith skills for your resume and career. Zippia.