How long is the program?
Both the certificate and the AAS degree take 2 years or 4 semesters to complete.
May I start at any time during the year?
No, We start a new class every fall, usually near the end of August.
Do I have to take general education classes?
No, only if you want the degree. You may be accepted into, and take Gunsmithing classes without taking or transferring English, Math, Science, etc. but you will not receive the degree upon completion.
What is the cost of tuition?
For Arizona residents: $670/Semester (10 credits) as of Fall 2011.
Western States (WUE) include ($1,080/Semester - 10 credits):
- Alaska
- California
- Colorado
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Montana
- North Dakota
- New Mexico
- Nevada
- Oregon
- South Dakota
- Utah
- Washington
- Wyoming
Remaining States: $3,500 (10 credits, cost does not include lab fees)
After I graduate is it possible to find a job?
Yes, We are frequently asked for names of good gunsmiths.
What will I learn?
- Machine shop, a great deal of Gunsmithing is metalworking, therefore considerable amount of time is spent in the shop learning operations and special techniques relevant to the trade.
- Function, disassembly, assembly, and customizing of rifles, shotguns, and handguns.
- Stock making, starting with a blank, duplicate, inlet, bed, fit, shape, install hardware, finish, and checker a stock for your rifle.
- Fitting barrels on rifles and handguns, consisting of threading, chambering, crowning, and custom contours.
- How to correctly and accurately install metallic, and optic sights.
- Metal refinishing, including black oxide, phosphate, slow rust, and nitre bluing.
- Internal and external ballistics. (8) Engraving, this is an optional class.
What are the daily hours of the Gunsmithing lab?
The doors open at 9:00am and close at 5:00pm. Monday thru Friday.
How many hours are required daily to satisfy the Gunsmithing requirements?
You are required to be present approx. 6 hours daily.
What can I expect to pay for tools?
This depends on your preferences and how many you already possess. If you have no tools, approximately $3000.00 should cover it.