Gunsmith Programs in Fontana, California

Becoming a Certified Gunsmith in Fontana, California

Considering a career as a certified gunsmith in Fontana, California opens the door to a specialized trade blending craftsmanship, mechanical skill, and legal knowledge. Gunsmiths are trained professionals who repair, modify, design, and customize firearms. Their expertise ranges from basic maintenance and safety checks to intricate custom builds and historical restorations. Becoming a certified gunsmith involves formal education, hands-on training, and compliance with both state and federal regulations. This guide outlines the steps to certification, explores local and regional gunsmithing training options, and highlights employment opportunities in and around Fontana.

About Fontana, California

Fontana is a dynamic city situated in San Bernardino County, Southern California. Known for its rich industrial history and proximity to the San Bernardino Mountains, Fontana offers easy access to major transportation corridors and a variety of cultural and recreational landmarks. Residents and visitors enjoy sites such as the Auto Club Speedway and the Mary Vagle Nature Center. For more information about the city, including community resources and local governance, visit the official City of Fontana website.

Gunsmithing Training Programs in Fontana, California

While Fontana itself does not currently offer dedicated gunsmithing programs, aspiring gunsmiths can access several respected options within California and neighboring states. Here are the closest programs available to Fontana residents:

Lassen Community College (Susanville, CA – approx. 540 miles north)

Lassen Community College Gunsmithing Program is the oldest continuously operating gunsmithing school in the United States and the only NRA-affiliated program in California. Students can pursue an Associate in Science Degree in Firearms Repair or certificates in Gunsmith Machinist/Metal Finisher and Firearm Repair. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on training in firearms repair, machining, metal finishing, stockmaking, and compliance with firearms laws. The program is renowned for its industry partnerships and summer specialty courses.

American Gunsmithing Institute (Online, headquartered in Napa, CA)

American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) offers online, self-paced gunsmithing courses suitable for students across California. AGI’s Professional Gunsmithing Course covers over 175 hours of video instruction, supplemented by digital schematics, certification, and business resources. The flexible format is designed for both beginners and experienced firearms enthusiasts, with advanced certifications available.

Colorado School of Trades (Lakewood, CO – approx. 850 miles from Fontana)

Colorado School of Trades provides an immersive, project-based gunsmithing program in a 20,000-square-foot facility. Students receive hands-on training in a range of firearms systems, machining, and custom work. The program can be completed in 14 months and boasts a high graduate employment rate in gunsmithing and related fields.

> Note: While these programs are not in Fontana, many students from Southern California pursue gunsmithing education at these institutions due to their strong reputations and comprehensive curricula.

Gunsmithing Employment Opportunities in Fontana

Fontana and the greater Inland Empire region support a range of firearms-related businesses where certified gunsmiths may find employment or apprenticeship opportunities. While there are currently no dedicated gunsmithing shops within Fontana city limits, several nearby facilities may offer relevant roles:

  • Turner’s Outdoorsman – Rancho Cucamonga: Located in the neighboring city of Rancho Cucamonga, this large sporting goods retailer sells firearms, accessories, and offers gunsmithing services. Turner’s Outdoorsman is known for its knowledgeable staff and industry partnerships. Check their Careers page for employment opportunities.
  • Bass Pro Shops – Rancho Cucamonga: This major retailer features a firearms department and regularly hires specialists with gunsmithing backgrounds. Located in the Victoria Gardens area, it serves as a regional hub for hunters and firearm enthusiasts. Visit their Careers page for openings.
  • Field Time Sports and Guns – Anaheim, CA: Approximately 40 miles from Fontana, this facility offers a retail store, indoor shooting range, and gunsmithing services. It provides employment opportunities for certified gunsmiths and firearm technicians.

For those interested in starting their own gunsmithing business, compliance with local regulations in Fontana and San Bernardino County is essential. The city’s Business Licensing Division and the county’s Clerk of the Board provide guidance on permits and requirements.

Prerequisites for Gunsmithing Programs

Enrolling in a gunsmithing program typically requires the following:

  • Minimum Age: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old; some advanced certifications and firearm platform builds may require students to be 21.
  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is generally required.
  • Background Check: State and federal law mandate that students and employees in firearms-related fields pass a criminal background check. In California, this is processed through the Department of Justice’s Certificate of Eligibility program.
  • Legal Eligibility: Students must legally be able to own and handle firearms, which includes being free of felony convictions or other disqualifying factors.
  • Additional Requirements: Some programs may require fingerprinting, proof of residency, or prior mechanical experience.

Review the specific admissions criteria for each program, as requirements may vary.

Gunsmithing Certification Options

Gunsmithing certification is typically offered through reputable educational institutions and national organizations. Key certification paths include:

  • School-Based Certification: Completion of a recognized gunsmithing program (such as those at Lassen Community College, AGI, or Colorado School of Trades) provides a diploma or certificate widely accepted in the industry.
  • National Organizations:
  • Federal Firearms License (FFL): Operating as a professional gunsmith, especially if repairing or selling firearms for others, requires a Federal Firearms License (Type 01 for dealers/gunsmiths, Type 07 for manufacturers) issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Learn more about the FFL process on the ATF website.
  • California Requirements: In addition to federal licensing, California requires listing on the Centralized List of Exempted FFLs and a valid Certificate of Eligibility for anyone handling firearms in a professional setting.
  • Specialized Training: Law enforcement armorer certifications and manufacturer-specific training (e.g., Glock, Colt) are available for those seeking advanced roles.

For information on career outlook and salary expectations, review the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook for Metal and Plastic Machine Workers, a closely related field, as the BLS does not maintain a separate category for gunsmiths.

Get Started Today

A career as a certified gunsmith blends technical skill, attention to detail, and a passion for firearms craftsmanship. Fontana residents have access to respected regional and online training programs, as well as diverse employment options throughout Southern California. If you are ready to begin your journey, review the prerequisites, research program offerings, and reach out to a school today using their online contact forms. Taking the first step now can lead to a rewarding profession in this specialized trade.