Firearms Finishing, CTS

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This certificate program is oriented toward metal finishing and work with gunstocks. This certificate will prepare the student for an entry-level position in the firearms industry or provide a building block toward owning a business as a gunsmith. The program contains both lecture and significant hands-on training designed to instill an understanding of metal finishing and stock finishing techniques. Practical application of knowledge in a safe and professional manner is stressed. Emphasis is placed upon the completion of several gunsmith projects using a combination of both hand and machine tools. The student will acquire the basic knowledge to get started customizing guns. Students who complete the program leave with a collection of specialty tools for the repair or customization of firearms. Upon completion of this program, students will:

Demonstrate proficiency in bluing metal parts by producing finished projects;
Demonstrate how to properly prepare gun parts and apply selected finish to industry standard;
Demonstrate the ability to inlet a barreled action to a semi-inlet stock blank;
Use appropriate procedures to weld assigned projects;
Demonstrate the techniques required to repair damaged checkering;
Bed a synthetic stock blank to a barreled action;
Demonstrate how to properly fit a 1911 pistol for reliable function;
Demonstrate how to make custom sights and scope mounts and correctly install them; and
Demonstrate the basics of running a milling machine: facing, slotting, slitting, boring, fly-cutting.

Required Courses

Fall Semester

FT 200 - Introduction to Stock Inletting and Bedding Credit(s): 3 *
FT 201 - Gun Bluing Credit(s): 3 *
FT 202 - Advanced Metal Finishing Credit(s): 3 *
MCH 134 - Introduction to Mills Credit(s): 4

First Semester Total: 13

Spring Semester

FT 203 - Advanced Firearms Modification Credit(s): 3 *
FT 204 - Pistolsmithing Credit(s): 3 *
FT 205 - Checkering Credit(s): 3 *
FT 206 - Synthetic Stocks Credit(s): 3 *
WLDG 136 - GMAW/GTAW Welding and Certification Credit(s): 4 *

Second Semester Total: 16

Total Credits: 29

*Indicates prerequisites and/or corequisites needed. Check course description.

Admission Guildelines

Prior to acceptance into the program, applicants must submit to and pass a background check to prove their eligibility to own and possess firearms.
Application deadline is July 1.

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 prerequisite 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. See details on program information website.

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 FVCC Student Support Center.

Student Support Center Advisor
Will Richards
OT 204
(406) 756-4862
wrichards@fvcc.edu