Gunsmith Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

Becoming a Certified Gunsmith in St. Louis, Missouri

Exploring a career as a certified gunsmith in St. Louis, Missouri, opens doors to a unique blend of craftsmanship, technical expertise, and regulatory knowledge. Gunsmiths are specialized professionals skilled in firearms repair, customization, and restoration. These experts may focus on areas such as stockmaking, metalwork, engraving, or precision fitting, often serving hunters, collectors, law enforcement, and competitive shooters.

There are several educational pathways to becoming a gunsmith, including certificate programs, associate degrees, and online training. Each path equips students with essential skills in safety, mechanical systems, machining, and compliance with local, state, and federal firearms laws. Understanding the landscape of gunsmithing programs and certification options in St. Louis is the first step toward building a fulfilling career in this respected trade.

About St. Louis

St. Louis is a historic city located along the Mississippi River in eastern Missouri. Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis features vibrant neighborhoods such as Soulard, Central West End, and The Hill. The city has a strong tradition of skilled trades and manufacturing, making it an ideal location for aspiring gunsmiths. St. Louis boasts a rich network of local gun shops, sporting goods stores, and shooting sports organizations, offering a supportive environment for those pursuing careers in firearms repair and customization.

Gunsmithing Training Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

While St. Louis itself does not currently offer a dedicated, accredited gunsmithing degree program, there are several accessible options both online and within driving distance that provide robust training for aspiring gunsmiths.

1. American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) – Online

• Location: Online
• Program Overview: AGI offers comprehensive, self-paced gunsmithing courses led by experienced instructors, including a Professional Gunsmithing course (over 175 hours of instruction), as well as advanced and master-level programs. The curriculum covers firearm design, function, repair, and regulatory compliance, delivered through in-depth video modules.
• Special Features: Flexible study schedule; payment plans available; recognized nationally by industry professionals.
• More Info: AGI Professional Gunsmithing Course

2. Penn Foster Gunsmith Career Diploma – Online

• Location: Online
• Program Overview: Penn Foster’s program is designed for students seeking foundational skills in firearms assembly, repair, and customization. The course includes 38.4 Continuing Education Units and multiple instructional videos, allowing students to progress at their own pace.
• Duration: Can be completed in as little as three months.
• More Info: Penn Foster Gunsmith Career Diploma

3. Trinidad State College – Trinidad, Colorado

• Location: Trinidad, CO (Approximately 850 miles from St. Louis)
• Program Overview: Trinidad State College is nationally recognized for its two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in Gunsmithing. The college offers hands-on instruction in firearm safety, machining, metal finishing, stockmaking, and advanced gunsmithing techniques. It also hosts NRA summer workshops.
• Special Features: On-campus training, internships, and strong industry connections.
• More Info: Trinidad State College Gunsmithing

Note: While in-person programs require travel or relocation, online options like AGI and Penn Foster offer broad accessibility to St. Louis residents, preparing students for entry-level and advanced roles in the industry.

Gunsmithing Employment Opportunities in St. Louis

St. Louis provides a diverse range of employment options for certified gunsmiths, from established gun shops to sporting goods retailers and firearms manufacturers. Here are some notable employers:

1. Mid America Arms

• Location: South St. Louis (8205 Gravois Rd, St. Louis, MO 63123)
• About: One of the region’s leading gun shops, Mid America Arms offers new and used firearms, accessories, and gunsmithing services. The shop employs skilled gunsmiths for repair, customization, and customer service roles.
• Details: Mid America Arms Careers

2. Ultimate Defense Firing Range & Training Center

• Location: St. Peters, MO (Approximately 33 miles northwest of downtown St. Louis)
• About: A full-service shooting range and training facility, Ultimate Defense offers gunsmithing services, firearm rentals, and professional instruction. The center hires gunsmiths for maintenance and instructional positions.
• Details: Ultimate Defense Careers

3. Osage County Guns

• Location: Wright City, MO (About 50 miles west of St. Louis)
• About: Osage County Guns is a large firearms retailer and online dealer, featuring a robust gunsmithing department. They offer employment opportunities for certified gunsmiths in repair, assembly, and quality control.
• Details: Osage County Guns Jobs

These facilities, along with other local gun shops and sporting goods stores, offer entry points for new gunsmiths to gain experience, develop a clientele, and build specialized skills.

Prerequisites for Gunsmithing Programs

Before enrolling in a gunsmithing program or seeking employment, candidates should be aware of the following typical prerequisites:

• Minimum Age: Most programs and employers require students to be at least 18 years old.
• Education: A high school diploma or GED is usually required for admission to certificate or degree programs.
• Background Check: Because gunsmiths work directly with firearms, a background check is standard. Federal law prohibits individuals convicted of felonies or domestic violence misdemeanors from possessing firearms.
• Eligibility to Own Firearms: Students must not be prohibited by federal or state law from owning or handling firearms.
• Additional Requirements: Some schools and employers may require drug screening, proof of residency, or completion of prerequisite coursework in math or shop.

Meeting these prerequisites ensures compliance with both educational standards and federal firearms regulations.

Gunsmithing Certification Options

Certification as a gunsmith is largely voluntary and is not mandated by the State of Missouri. However, proper certification enhances credibility, employability, and legal compliance.

National Certifications

• American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI): AGI offers certificates of completion for its Professional Gunsmithing courses. Their training is recognized across the industry and satisfies many employers’ requirements.

  • AGI Certification Details

• Gunsmithing Club of America (GCA): GCA provides continuing education, specialty certifications, and a professional network for gunsmiths.

  • GCA Membership

• National Rifle Association (NRA) Affiliated Schools: Short-term NRA-certified gunsmithing courses are available at select colleges nationwide, including specialized summer programs.

  • NRA Gunsmithing Schools

Federal Licensing

• Federal Firearms License (FFL): Any gunsmith operating as a business (repair, manufacture, or sales of firearms) must obtain a Federal Firearms License (Type 01 Dealer or Type 07 Manufacturer) from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This involves an application, background check, and compliance with all federal regulations.
  • ATF FFL Overview

State and Local Requirements

• Missouri: No state-level gunsmithing license is required, but business registration with the Missouri Department of Revenue is mandatory.
• City of St. Louis: Business owners must obtain a local business license and comply with zoning regulations before operating a gunsmith shop.
  • St. Louis Business License Info

For more information on the job outlook for gunsmiths, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ page for Precision Instrument and Repair Workers.

Get Started Today

A career in gunsmithing combines technical skill, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety and legal compliance. Whether you choose an online program or plan to travel for in-person training, St. Louis offers a supportive community and diverse employment opportunities for certified gunsmiths. Take the next step by researching the programs listed above, reviewing their admissions requirements, and contacting a school through their official website. Building your skills today can unlock a rewarding future in this respected trade.