Gunsmith Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Becoming a Certified Gunsmith in Honolulu, Hawaii

Embarking on a career as a certified gunsmith in Honolulu, Hawaii, offers a distinctive set of opportunities and challenges. A gunsmith is a specialized tradesperson who repairs, customizes, modifies, and builds firearms. This profession requires expertise in metalworking, woodworking, mechanics, ballistics, and strict adherence to state and federal firearms regulations. Honolulu’s unique legal landscape means aspiring gunsmiths must be well-versed in Hawaii’s comprehensive firearm laws, federal licensing requirements, and the need for quality, accredited gunsmithing education.

Education paths for gunsmiths typically include completing a formal training program—either online or in-person—followed by hands-on experience. Specializations within the trade range from general firearm repair and restoration to custom gun building, antique firearm restoration, and law enforcement armorer work. Understanding these options is essential for anyone interested in pursuing a reputable and compliant gunsmithing career in Honolulu.

About Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii, is situated on the island of Oahu and serves as the state’s economic and cultural center. Known for its iconic Waikiki Beach, historic Pearl Harbor, and the scenic Diamond Head crater, Honolulu also features a diverse community, vibrant arts scene, and a robust tourism industry. The city’s official website, Honolulu.gov, provides comprehensive resources about local government services, regulations, and events. Neighborhoods such as Downtown, Kaka‘ako, and Manoa offer a blend of urban life and island tradition—a unique setting for those entering the skilled trades.

Gunsmithing Training Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu does not have any in-person gunsmithing schools within city limits. However, several accredited online and mainland-based programs are accessible to Honolulu residents. Here are the top options:

1. American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) – Online

  • Location: Accessible anywhere, including Honolulu
  • Program Highlights: AGI offers comprehensive online gunsmithing courses suitable for beginners through advanced professionals. The Certified Professional Gunsmithing Course includes over 175 hours of video instruction, covering design, function, and repair of various firearms. Advanced programs include up to 574 hours and cover specialty topics.
  • Cost: Ranges from $997 to $14,997, depending on course level.
  • Learn More: AGI Gunsmithing Programs
  • Special Note: Includes FFL starter kit and Gunsmithing Club of America membership for one year.

2. Modern Gun School (MGS) – Online

  • Location: Online, available to Hawaii residents
  • Program Highlights: MGS offers an Advanced Gunsmithing II program with 65 lessons totaling 765 clock hours. The curriculum covers gun safety, workshop setup, firearms history, gun laws, business skills, and hands-on projects such as barrel installation, malfunction diagnosis, and advanced finishing.
  • Program Length: Self-paced, up to 3 years for completion.
  • Learn More: Modern Gun School Gunsmithing

3. Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) – Online

  • Location: Online, DEAC-accredited, accepts Hawaii residents
  • Program Highlights: SDI’s Associate of Science in Firearms Technology (60 credits) and Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing (32 credits) provide a robust education in firearms mechanics, ballistics, laws, and business operations. Programs include hands-on projects with mailed kits.
  • Financial Aid: GI Bill and federal financial aid eligible.
  • Learn More: Sonoran Desert Institute Gunsmithing

In-Person Options (Mainland, Closest to Honolulu)

Because there are no brick-and-mortar gunsmithing schools in Hawaii, the nearest in-person programs are on the mainland:

  • Trinidad State College (Trinidad, Colorado) – About 3,300 miles from Honolulu
  • Colorado School of Trades (Lakewood, Colorado) – About 3,350 miles from Honolulu
  • Lassen Community College (Susanville, California) – About 2,500 miles from Honolulu

These programs all accept students from Hawaii and provide immersive, hands-on training for those willing to relocate.

Gunsmithing Employment Opportunities in Honolulu

While Honolulu’s strict firearms regulations shape the local industry, several businesses and organizations provide employment or partnership opportunities for certified gunsmiths:

1. Young Guns Hawaii

  • Location: 801 Kaheka St, Honolulu, HI 96814 (Ala Moana area)
  • Overview: A major local firearms retailer, offering a wide selection of firearms, accessories, and some gunsmithing services.
  • Employment Info: Contact directly or visit the store for current opportunities.
  • Website: Young Guns Hawaii

2. Hawaii Gun Club

  • Location: 339 Royal Hawaiian Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Waikiki)
  • Overview: A public shooting range offering firearm rentals, safety courses, and occasional gunsmithing services. A potential employer for qualified gunsmiths and firearms instructors.
  • Website: Hawaii Gun Club

3. Honolulu Police Department – Firearms Section

  • Location: 801 S. Beretania St, Honolulu, HI 96813 (Downtown)
  • Overview: While not a commercial employer of gunsmiths, HPD employs armorers and firearms technicians for law enforcement needs. Check the City & County of Honolulu’s job listings for openings.
  • Website: Honolulu Police Department

Note: In addition to these facilities, local sporting goods stores and private security companies may have periodic demand for certified gunsmiths or firearm maintenance professionals. Always verify licensing requirements and employment eligibility due to Hawaii’s strict firearms regulations.

Prerequisites for Gunsmithing Programs

Prospective gunsmithing students in Honolulu should be aware of several common prerequisites for enrolling in gunsmithing programs:

  • Age Requirement: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old; to work with handguns or apply for a Federal Firearms License (FFL), individuals must be at least 21 years old.
  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is typically required.
  • Background Check: Programs involving hands-on firearm work may require a criminal background check, especially for FFL eligibility.
  • Legal Eligibility: Must be legally allowed to possess firearms under federal and Hawaii state law.
  • Additional State Requirements: In Hawaii, all firearm owners and those handling firearms must comply with state registration, permitting, and safety training requirements, including completion of an NRA-certified or equivalent firearms safety course for handguns.

Gunsmithing Certification Options

Becoming a certified gunsmith involves both educational and legal credentials:

  • School-Based Certification: Most professional programs, such as those offered by AGI, SDI, and Modern Gun School, grant certificates or diplomas upon successful completion. These validate your technical training.
  • Professional Organizations: Membership and certification through groups like the NRA Gunsmithing Schools (NRA Official) and the Gunsmithing Club of America can boost your credibility.
  • Federal Firearms License (FFL): Required for anyone engaging in gunsmithing as a business. The most common type is the Type 01 Dealer FFL, which allows for repair, customization, and resale of firearms. Learn more about FFL requirements at the ATF FFL page.
  • State and Local Licensing: Hawaii requires business registration, a county business license, and compliance with all state firearm registration and safety laws. For details, review the Honolulu Police Department Firearms Section and the City & County of Honolulu Business Licensing.

Note: Hawaii does not offer or require state-level gunsmithing certification, but strict adherence to federal, state, and city laws is mandatory.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a gunsmithing career in Honolulu is both challenging and rewarding, offering the chance to develop specialized, in-demand skills in a highly regulated environment. Begin by researching the programs above, gathering your application materials, and ensuring you meet all state and federal prerequisites. Take the first step toward a fulfilling career by contacting a school through their website or information request forms. With the right education and dedication, you can become a valued certified gunsmith serving Hawaii’s unique firearms community.

Explore the job outlook for gunsmiths and similar trades at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.