Gunsmith Programs in Los Angeles, California

Becoming a Certified Gunsmith in Los Angeles, California

Are you considering a career as a certified gunsmith in Los Angeles, California? Gunsmiths are skilled professionals who design, build, repair, and modify firearms, combining expertise in metalworking, woodworking, and ballistics. In a dynamic city like Los Angeles, the pathway to becoming a gunsmith involves navigating a layered regulatory environment, selecting the right educational program, and understanding certification and licensing requirements. This guide outlines the steps necessary to pursue gunsmith certification, explores local and regional training options, and provides practical information about employment opportunities in Los Angeles.

About Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is the largest city in California and the second-largest in the United States. Known for its diverse neighborhoods such as Hollywood, Downtown LA, and Koreatown, Los Angeles is a hub for entertainment, technology, and trade. The city’s official portal, lacity.gov, offers resources about local ordinances and business regulations relevant to aspiring gunsmiths. With its rich history and blend of urban and suburban communities, Los Angeles provides a unique environment for pursuing a technical career like gunsmithing.

Gunsmithing Training Programs in Los Angeles, California

Aspiring gunsmiths in Los Angeles should be aware that, currently, there are no accredited gunsmithing degree or certificate programs within the city limits. However, several reputable programs are available within California and the greater region. Here are the most accessible training options for Los Angeles residents:

1. Lassen Community College (Susanville, CA)

Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 500 miles north
Program: Associate in Science in Gunsmithing
Overview: Lassen Community College offers one of California’s only comprehensive gunsmithing degree programs, featuring coursework in firearms repair, custom gunsmithing, machining, and stockmaking. The program combines hands-on training with theoretical instruction, preparing graduates for entry-level gunsmith positions or self-employment.
Website: Lassen College Gunsmithing

2. San Diego City College (San Diego, CA)

Distance from Los Angeles: About 120 miles south
Program: Certificate in Gunsmithing
Overview: San Diego City College provides a focused, year-long certificate program emphasizing modern firearms systems, repair, and safety. Students benefit from a combination of classroom learning and practical shop experience.
Website: San Diego City College

3. American Gunsmithing Institute (Online/Hybrid)

Location: Accessible statewide
Program: Professional Gunsmithing Certificate (online/hybrid)
Overview: The American Gunsmithing Institute offers flexible, self-paced online courses in firearms repair, customization, and advanced gunsmithing skills. This program is ideal for students seeking to balance work and study or those unable to relocate.
Website: American Gunsmithing Institute

Note: While in-person programs provide valuable hands-on experience, online and hybrid options can be a practical alternative for those in Los Angeles.

Gunsmithing Employment Opportunities in Los Angeles

Los Angeles features a variety of employment settings for certified gunsmiths, from retail shops to custom manufacturers. Here are some of the city’s most recognized firearms-related employers:

1. Martin B. Retting, Inc. (Culver City)

Overview: Established in 1958, Martin B. Retting is one of Southern California’s oldest and largest firearms retailers, offering a wide range of new and used firearms, repairs, and gunsmithing services.
Website: Martin B. Retting
Location: Culver City (Westside)
Opportunities: Periodic openings for gunsmiths, sales associates, and firearms technicians.

2. Gun World (Burbank)

Overview: Gun World is a full-service gun shop specializing in firearm sales, gunsmithing, and safety training.
Website: Gun World
Location: Burbank (San Fernando Valley)
Opportunities: Employment for certified gunsmiths and support staff.

3. Turner’s Outdoorsman (Multiple Locations)

Overview: Turner’s is a leading regional chain of sporting goods stores specializing in firearms, ammunition, and accessories. The company regularly recruits for gunsmiths and firearms service professionals.
Website: Turner’s Outdoorsman Careers
Locations: Pasadena, Reseda, Torrance, and other greater LA neighborhoods

Tip: Many local gun shops partner with independent gunsmiths for specialized services, providing opportunities for self-employed professionals.

Prerequisites for Gunsmithing Programs

To enroll in a gunsmithing program in California, applicants typically must meet the following requirements:

Minimum Age: 18 years (some programs or employers may require 21)
Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent
Background Check: Required for hands-on firearms training and for employment in the industry
Legal Eligibility: Must be legally permitted to possess and work with firearms under federal and state law
Additional Requirements: Some schools may require completion of specific math or technical courses

Before applying, verify the most current prerequisites with your chosen program or institution.

Gunsmithing Certification Options

National Certification

American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI): Offers recognized gunsmithing certificates and continuing education in firearms repair and customization (AGI Certification).
NRA Gunsmithing Certifications: The NRA provides workshops and certificates through select schools (NRA Gunsmithing).

Federal Requirements: Federal Firearms License (FFL)

FFL Type 01: Required for gunsmiths who engage in firearm repair, modification, or sales.
FFL Type 07: Required if you plan to manufacture firearms.
How to Apply: The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) handles applications (ATF FFL Application).
Compliance: Applicants must pass background checks, submit fingerprints, and comply with all record-keeping requirements (ATF FFL Info).

State and Local Requirements

California DOJ Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Required for all employees and owners handling firearms (CA DOJ COE Info).
State Centralized List: Dealers and gunsmiths must be listed with the CA DOJ.
Seller’s Permit: Issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA).
LA City Police Permit: Required for any firearms-related business (LA Police Permits).
Business Tax Registration Certificate (BTRC): Issued by Los Angeles Office of Finance (LA Office of Finance).

Important: In California, state licensing is mandatory even if you possess a federal FFL.

Get Started Today

A career as a certified gunsmith in Los Angeles requires a blend of technical skill, regulatory knowledge, and a commitment to responsible firearms handling. By pursuing the right education, obtaining necessary certifications, and understanding the requirements at the city, county, state, and federal levels, you can position yourself for success in this specialized field. Take the next step by contacting one of the recommended training programs, reviewing local regulations, and exploring employment options. Begin your journey toward a rewarding gunsmithing career in Los Angeles today.

For more information on national job outlook and career trends for gunsmiths, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ page for Metal and Plastic Machine Workers.