Gunsmith Programs in Orlando, Florida

Becoming a Certified Gunsmith in Orlando, Florida

Considering a career as a certified gunsmith in Orlando, Florida opens the door to a specialized field blending craftsmanship, technical knowledge, and a deep respect for firearms safety and history. Gunsmiths are professionals trained to repair, modify, design, and build firearms. They play a vital role in ensuring that firearms function safely and efficiently, whether for hunting, sport shooting, law enforcement, or personal defense.

There are several educational pathways to becoming a certified gunsmith, including vocational training, college certificate or degree programs, apprenticeships, and self-paced online courses. Some gunsmiths specialize in custom firearm builds, competitive shooting modifications, antique firearm restoration, or work as armorers for law enforcement agencies. Understanding the certification process and local training options is essential for anyone wishing to pursue gunsmithing in Orlando, Florida.

About Orlando, Florida

Orlando, Florida, is a dynamic city located in Central Florida, known for its world-famous theme parks, vibrant neighborhoods, and its role as a hub for tourism, business, and innovation. Home to landmarks such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, Orlando also offers thriving suburban communities and a growing population. The city’s official website, City of Orlando, provides resources for residents and businesses considering new ventures in the area. Whether you’re located in Downtown Orlando, Lake Nona, Winter Park, or College Park, the city’s diverse neighborhoods are supportive environments for trades and skilled professions like gunsmithing.

Gunsmithing Training Programs in Orlando, Florida

While Orlando itself does not currently host a dedicated, campus-based gunsmithing school, several high-quality options are available locally and within a reasonable traveling distance. For Orlando residents, pursuing gunsmithing education often means combining online learning with hands-on workshops or traveling to nearby states for short-term intensive programs.

1. American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) – Online Programs

  • American Gunsmithing Institute
  • AGI offers comprehensive online gunsmithing courses with more than 175 hours of video-based instruction, including Certified Professional Gunsmithing Courses. These programs provide foundational knowledge and practical skills, covering firearm repair, customization, and safe handling. AGI’s courses can be completed from anywhere, making them ideal for Orlando residents who need flexibility. Training costs range from $997 to $14,997, with payment plans available. The program typically takes six months to a year to complete at a self-paced rate.

2. Montgomery Community College (Troy, North Carolina) – 475 miles from Orlando

  • Montgomery Community College Gunsmithing
  • Located in Troy, NC, Montgomery Community College is recognized as an NRA-affiliated school and offers both degree and certificate programs in gunsmithing. The college provides hands-on training in modern facilities, with coursework ranging from basic firearm repair to advanced custom builds. Many Orlando students attend short-term summer courses or intensive workshops here.

3. Trinidad State College (Trinidad, Colorado) – 1,600 miles from Orlando

  • Trinidad State College Gunsmithing
  • Trinidad State is home to one of the nation’s most respected gunsmithing programs, offering a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree as well as NRA summer courses. For those seeking comprehensive hands-on training and networking with master gunsmiths, Trinidad’s programs set a national standard. While not local, these programs are attended by students from across the country, including Florida.

In addition to these formal programs, local Orlando gun shops and shooting ranges may offer informal apprenticeships or part-time training opportunities. Combining online coursework with periodic travel for hands-on classes is a common path for many aspiring gunsmiths in Central Florida.

Gunsmithing Employment Opportunities in Orlando

Orlando’s thriving firearms community supports several reputable gun shops, shooting ranges, and related businesses that offer employment opportunities for certified gunsmiths.

Shooters World Orlando

  • Shooters World Orlando Careers
  • Located in the West Colonial neighborhood, Shooters World is Florida’s largest indoor shooting range, featuring 58 shooting lanes, a retail store, and a gunsmithing service department. They regularly seek skilled gunsmiths and firearms technicians to join their team. Shooters World offers a professional environment, advanced facilities, and opportunities for career advancement.

The Orlando Gun Club

  • Orlando Gun Club Employment
  • Based in the John Young neighborhood, Orlando Gun Club is a premier indoor shooting range and training facility. They employ gunsmiths for firearm repair, maintenance, and customer support roles. The club’s focus on safety and customer education makes it an excellent workplace for those with professional training.

East Orange Shooting Sports

  • East Orange Shooting Sports
  • Located in the Azalea Park area, this full-service gun shop and range offers on-site gunsmithing and employs certified professionals for both part-time and full-time positions. East Orange Shooting Sports is known for its welcoming environment and commitment to quality service.

These facilities not only provide employment but also serve as networking hubs for local gunsmiths, offering additional opportunities for hands-on experience and professional growth.

Prerequisites for Gunsmithing Programs

Before enrolling in a gunsmithing program, candidates should be aware of typical prerequisites:

  • Minimum Age: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old. Some may require a minimum age of 21, especially if handling handguns or applying for an FFL.
  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is generally required.
  • Background Check: Because gunsmithing involves working with firearms, prospective students and employees must typically pass a criminal background check.
  • Legal Eligibility: Federal and state laws prohibit individuals convicted of felonies or certain misdemeanors from possessing or working with firearms.
  • Other Requirements: Some programs may require basic mechanical aptitude or previous experience with firearms, though this is not universal.

It is important to review the specific requirements of each school or program before applying.

Gunsmithing Certification Options

Certification for gunsmiths is typically achieved through completion of recognized training programs and, in many cases, through earning a Federal Firearms License (FFL). Here are the key certification pathways:

  • Program Certificate: Upon successful completion of a gunsmithing program, such as those offered by the American Gunsmithing Institute, Montgomery Community College, or Trinidad State College, students receive a certificate or degree that demonstrates their technical competence.
  • National Certification: Organizations such as the American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) and the Professional Gunsmithing Association (PGA) offer additional certification options, providing industry-recognized credentials for gunsmiths nationwide.
  • Federal Firearms License (FFL): To work as a professional gunsmith, especially if offering services to the public or operating a business, individuals must obtain an FFL through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The FFL process includes background checks, fingerprinting, and compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Details on the FFL process are available through the ATF and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
  • Specialized Certifications: Some gunsmiths pursue additional training in armorer courses for specific firearm brands or models, often through manufacturer-sponsored programs.

Gunsmiths must also comply with all federal and state regulations, including proper record-keeping, safe firearm handling, and ongoing education to stay current in this evolving field.

Get Started Today

A career as a certified gunsmith in Orlando, Florida is both rewarding and in demand. Whether your goal is to work in a high-volume gun shop, specialize in custom firearm builds, or open your own gunsmithing business, Orlando offers a supportive community and access to high-quality training options both locally and online.

Begin by exploring the educational pathways that align with your career goals, making sure to review the prerequisites and certification requirements. Contact a school or training program today to learn more about enrollment, curriculum, and start dates. With the right training and a commitment to craftsmanship, you can build a successful future in gunsmithing right here in Central Florida.

For more details about the gunsmithing career outlook, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Metal and Plastic Machine Workers, which provides up-to-date information relevant to the field.