Firearms Technologies, AAS

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This program provides a solid foundation in theory, design, function, and finishing of firearms. The finishing aspect is oriented toward metal finishing and work with gunstocks. This program prepares the student for an entry-level position in the firearms industry and provides a foundation for owning a business as a gunsmith. The program contains both lecture and significant hands-on training designed to instill an understanding of the design and function of today’s firearms as well as an understanding of metal finishing and stock finishing techniques. Practical application of knowledge in a safe manner is stressed. Emphasis is placed on the completion of several projects using a combination of hand and machine tools. Students acquire the basic knowledge to begin customizing guns.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to

Use precision measuring tools such as micrometers, calipers, indicators, and various specialized gauges;
Operate manual lathe and mill machines to perform gunsmithing services or custom work;
Diagnose and correct a variety of firearms malfunctions, thus restoring the firearm to a safe and useable condition;
Explain the operation of various firearms systems;
Articulate firearms accuracy and the many variables that affect it;
Demonstrate proficiency in bluing metal parts by producing finished projects;
Demonstrate how to inlet a barreled action to a semi-inlet stock blank;
Demonstrate the techniques required to repair damaged checkering;
Bed a synthetic stock blank to a barreled action; and
Demonstrate how to make custom sights and scope mounts and correctly install them.

Required Courses

First Year

Fall Semester

FT 100 - Introduction to Firearms Credit(s): 1 * ¹
FT 111 - Firearms Theory I Credit(s): 3 *
FT 120 - Bench Metal Techniques Credit(s): 3 *²
FT 201 - Gun Bluing Credit(s): 3 *²
M 114 - Extended Technical Mathematics Credit(s): 3 * ^R
MCH 132 - Introduction to Engine Lathes Credit(s): 4 *

First Semester Total: 17

Spring Semester

COMX 115C - Introduction to Interpersonal Communication Credit(s): 3 ^R
FT 112 - Firearms Theory II Credit(s): 3 *
FT 125 - Machine Tools for the Gunsmith Credit(s): 4 *
FT 205 - Checkering Credit(s): 3 *²
MCH 134 - Introduction to Mills Credit(s): 4

Second Semester Total: 17

Second Year

Fall Semester

FT 131 - Firearms Repair I Credit(s): 3 *
FT 140 - Precision Rifle Building Credit(s): 3 *
FT 200 - Introduction to Stock Inletting and Bedding Credit(s): 3 *
FT 202 - Advanced Metal Finishing Credit(s): 3 *
WRIT 104W - Workplace Communications Credit(s): 3 * ^R ²

First Semester Total: 15

Spring Semester

FT 132 - Firearms Repair II Credit(s): 3 *
FT 203 - Advanced Firearms Modification Credit(s): 3 *
FT 204 - Pistolsmithing Credit(s): 3 *
FT 206 - Synthetic Stocks Credit(s): 3 *²
WLDG 140 - Introduction to Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) Credit(s): 2 *

Second Semester Total: 14

Total Credits: 63

¹ FT 100 is mandatory and will be held the first three days of the semester.

² BMGT 205 and WRIT 101 are pre-approved substitutions.

^R Indicates Related Instruction requirement.

*Indicates prerequisite and/or corequisite needed. Check course description.

Recommended Course Offerings:

Students receiving financial aid or veteran’s benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before registering for recommended courses.

MCH 125 - Introduction to CNC Lathe Operations Credit(s): 3 *
MCH 127 - Introduction to CNC Mill Operations Credit(s): 3 *
MCH 222 - Advanced CNC Mill Operations Credit(s): 3 *
MCH 224 - Advanced CNC Lathe Operations Credit(s): 3 *

Admission Guidelines

Prior to acceptance into the program, applicants must
- be 18 years of age prior to beginning the program;
- submit to and pass a background check to prove their eligibility to own and possess firearms;
- complete the Firearms Technologies application and pay a $67 non-refundable application fee; and
- complete the FVCC Math Placement
- Proof of 55 (Level 1) or higher in Intro/Beginning Algebra on the FVCC Math Placement or an official copy of a transcript proving “C” or better in M065, its equivalent, or higher math course.
- *Students who cannot come to the FVCC campus to take the Pearson MyMathTest math placement can either access this remotely, with a test proctor, or use high school math placement alternatives. (Contact the OT Advisor at 406-756-4862 for more information.)

**Please note, once your application has been reviewed, you can expect to be contacted by FVCC Firearms instructors to set up an interview. All applicants are interviewed before final acceptance into the program.

Program Information

Loaded firearms are not permitted on campus.
Students are expected to know and adhere to all firearms safety protocols as provided in required course FT 100 .
Working knowledge of blueprint reading and precision measuring is recommended prior to enrolling.

Additional Costs

Students are expected to provide firearms and tools.

Opportunities after Graduation

Firearms technology employment opportunities following graduation vary from self-employment to working for established firearms manufacturers. The growth of the firearms industry indicates an increase in the need for people skilled in the operation, modification, repair and manufacture of firearms. Employment opportunities may be enhanced by combining training in firearms technology with advanced machining training.

Advising Information:

For more information about this program, contact the advisor.

Academic Advisor
Gabe Dillon
OT 131
(406) 756-3893
gdillon@fvcc.edu