Gunsmith Programs in Chandler, Arizona

Becoming a Certified Gunsmith in Chandler, Arizona

Exploring a career as a certified gunsmith in Chandler, Arizona, opens the door to a specialized trade that combines mechanical skill, precision metalwork, and in-depth knowledge of firearms and their legal regulations. Gunsmiths play a vital role in firearm maintenance, repair, customization, and safety assurance for individuals, sports enthusiasts, law enforcement agencies, and collectors alike.

This guide details the educational pathways, local training options, employment opportunities, certification processes, and regulatory requirements for becoming a gunsmith in Chandler, Arizona. Whether you are aiming for employment in an established shop, starting your own business, or seeking to specialize in areas such as custom builds or restoration, understanding the process and requirements is key to a successful career in this skilled trade.

About Chandler, Arizona

Chandler is a dynamic city located in Maricopa County, southeast of Phoenix. Known for its robust technology sector, family-friendly neighborhoods, and thriving downtown, Chandler offers a blend of suburban comfort and urban amenities. The city is home to attractions such as the Chandler Center for the Arts, Tumbleweed Park, and a growing network of small businesses and skilled trades. For more information about the city, visit the official City of Chandler website.

Gunsmithing Training Programs in Chandler, Arizona

While Chandler does not currently host dedicated gunsmithing schools within city limits, prospective gunsmiths have access to several reputable programs in Arizona and nearby states. Below are the top options, including their distance from Chandler:

1. Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) – Online, Based in Arizona

  • Location: Online, administrative offices in Tempe, AZ (adjacent to Chandler)
  • Program: Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing
  • Overview: SDI offers a flexible, accredited online program focused on firearms mechanics, ballistics, machining, maintenance, and legal compliance. The program is designed for self-paced learning, making it ideal for working adults or those balancing other commitments. Students complete projects and interact with instructors and peers in a structured online environment. Programs are eligible for GI Bill benefits and federal student aid (for those who qualify).
  • Learn more: SDI Gunsmithing Certificate Program

2. Yavapai College – Gunsmithing Program (Prescott, AZ)

  • Distance from Chandler: Approximately 120 miles (about 2 hours by car)
  • Location: 1100 E. Sheldon St., Prescott, AZ 86301
  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Gunsmithing; Gunsmithing Certificates
  • Overview: Yavapai College’s program is one of the most established in the nation, offering a comprehensive curriculum with over 2,500 hours of hands-on laboratory time. Students build and repair a variety of firearms, receive business training, and can specialize through advanced certifications. The college’s reputation, experienced faculty, and specialized facilities make it a strong choice for those seeking in-depth, hands-on experience.
  • Learn more: Yavapai College Gunsmithing

3. American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) – Online

  • Location: Online (accessible from Chandler)
  • Program: Professional Gunsmithing Courses (Certificate and Advanced Levels)
  • Overview: AGI provides self-paced video-based courses covering design, function, repair, and customization of various firearms. Students can progress at their own speed, making this option suitable for those who require flexibility. AGI also offers advanced courses, business training materials, and recognized certifications.
  • Learn more: American Gunsmithing Institute Professional Courses

Additional Regional Options

If you are willing to consider out-of-state options, Trinidad State College in Colorado and Lassen Community College in California offer well-respected, hands-on gunsmithing programs. These require relocation or travel but are recognized leaders in the field.

Gunsmithing Employment Opportunities in Chandler, Arizona

Chandler and the greater Phoenix area host several businesses and facilities where gunsmiths may find employment or networking opportunities:

1. AZ Firearms

  • Location: Avondale, AZ (West Valley, approx. 40 miles from Chandler)
  • Type: Full-service gun shop and firearms retailer
  • Overview: AZ Firearms offers retail sales, gunsmithing services, and custom work. As one of the larger shops in the Phoenix area, they occasionally seek skilled gunsmiths and technicians.
  • Website: AZ Firearms Careers

2. Sportsman’s Warehouse – Mesa

  • Location: 1750 S Greenfield Rd, Mesa, AZ 85206 (East Valley, about 10 miles from Chandler)
  • Type: Major sporting goods retailer with firearms department
  • Overview: Sportsman’s Warehouse employs firearms specialists and gunsmiths to provide repair, maintenance, and customization services.
  • Website: Sportsman’s Warehouse Careers

3. Coyote Creek Armory

  • Location: 600 N Alma School Rd, Chandler, AZ 85224 (Central Chandler)
  • Type: Local firearms shop and custom gunsmithing provider
  • Overview: This local business offers gunsmithing, custom builds, and firearm transfers. Opportunities may exist for skilled gunsmiths, particularly those with customer service and repair experience.
  • Website: Coyote Creek Armory

Additional employment opportunities may be found with law enforcement armories, firearm manufacturers, or by establishing an independent gunsmithing business in accordance with Chandler’s business registration and zoning regulations.

Prerequisites for Gunsmithing Programs

Before enrolling in a gunsmithing program, applicants should be aware of the following standard prerequisites:

  • Minimum Age: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old.
  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is typically required. Some associate degree programs may require placement tests or specific coursework.
  • Background Check: For programs involving direct access to firearms, a criminal background check may be required. Felony convictions or certain misdemeanor offenses may disqualify applicants.
  • Legal Eligibility: Students must not be prohibited possessors under federal or Arizona law (e.g., not convicted felons, not subject to restraining orders involving firearms).
  • Other Requirements: Some programs, especially those with hands-on components, may require proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency.

It is also important to comply with any federal and state laws regarding firearm possession and handling.

Gunsmithing Certification Options

Certification in gunsmithing is not mandated by the State of Arizona, but there are recognized credentials that enhance employability and professional credibility:

  • National Certification: Organizations such as the American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) and the Professional Gunsmithing Association (PGA) offer professional certifications upon completion of their courses.
  • NRA Gunsmithing Schools: The NRA partners with select colleges to offer short-term, specialized courses, providing certificates of completion recognized across the industry.
  • Federal Firearms License (FFL): Anyone who performs gunsmithing as a business (repair, modification, or manufacture of firearms) must obtain a Federal Firearms License (FFL) from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The most common for gunsmiths is the Type 01 Dealer in Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices license. This process involves an application, background check, and compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
  • Manufacturer’s License: For those intending to build or manufacture firearms, a Type 07 FFL is required.

There is no state-level gunsmithing license in Arizona, but compliance with all federal laws and city business registration requirements is necessary.

Get Started Today

If you are ready to begin your journey toward becoming a certified gunsmith in Chandler, Arizona, now is the time to explore your educational options and contact the schools that best fit your goals. Whether you prefer a hands-on, in-person program or the flexibility of online study, there are accredited pathways to help you build a rewarding career in this respected skilled trade. Take the next step by reaching out to a program advisor, gathering information on admissions and prerequisites, and planning your path to certification and professional success.

For more information on the job outlook for gunsmiths and related occupations, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.