Gunsmith Programs in North Las Vegas, Nevada
Becoming a Certified Gunsmith in North Las Vegas, Nevada
Considering a career as a certified gunsmith in North Las Vegas, Nevada means entering a rewarding field that blends craftsmanship, technology, and a deep understanding of firearms. Gunsmiths are skilled professionals who repair, modify, design, and build firearms, ensuring safety, reliability, and custom performance. Specializations within gunsmithing can include firearm repair and restoration, custom modifications, refinishing, engraving, and building new firearms from scratch.
Educational paths vary, ranging from hands-on certificate programs and associate degrees to online training and apprenticeships. This guide outlines the steps to become a certified gunsmith in North Las Vegas, explores local and regional education options, reviews employment opportunities, and details the regulatory requirements essential for launching a successful gunsmithing career in Nevada.
About North Las Vegas
North Las Vegas, located within Clark County, is a dynamic city in southern Nevada known for its proximity to the Las Vegas Strip, Nellis Air Force Base, and the expanding industrial corridor. The city offers a unique blend of residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, and manufacturing districts. For more information about the city and its resources, visit the City of North Las Vegas official website. This location provides access to a broad customer base and a growing firearms community, making it an attractive place for aspiring gunsmiths.
Gunsmithing Training Programs in North Las Vegas, Nevada
Currently, there are no gunsmithing schools located directly within North Las Vegas. However, prospective students have access to several reputable programs within Nevada and nearby states, as well as highly regarded online options. The following schools provide the closest and most accessible training for North Las Vegas residents:
Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) – Online
- Sonoran Desert Institute Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing Certificate
- SDI offers a 32-credit online Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing. This flexible program covers firearms mechanics, ballistics, legal compliance, and hands-on applications. Students can complete coursework from anywhere in North Las Vegas and benefit from the program’s federal student aid and military benefit eligibility.
Lassen Community College – Susanville, California (Approx. 500 miles from North Las Vegas)
- Lassen College Gunsmithing Program
- Lassen College is the oldest continuously operating gunsmithing school in the U.S. The program offers an Associate in Science Degree in Firearms Repair and certificates in Gunsmith Machinist and Metal Finisher. Students receive hands-on training in machining, metal finishing, firearm repair, and business practices.
American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) – Online
- American Gunsmithing Institute
- AGI provides comprehensive online gunsmithing courses ranging from introductory to advanced levels. The curriculum includes over 175 hours of video instruction, covering repair, customization, and business aspects. Students enjoy flexible pacing and access to industry experts, making AGI a top choice for remote learners in North Las Vegas.
If in-person, traditional programs are preferred, the closest campus-based options are in California and neighboring states. The Sonoran Desert Institute and AGI, with their online formats, are especially convenient for those based in North Las Vegas.
Gunsmithing Employment Opportunities in North Las Vegas
North Las Vegas and the greater Las Vegas area offer a range of employment opportunities for certified gunsmiths. Here are some notable employers and businesses:
Bass Pro Shops – Las Vegas
- Bass Pro Shops, Las Vegas
- Located in the Silverton neighborhood, this major sporting goods retailer frequently hires gunsmiths, firearm sales associates, and technicians for its firearm services department.
The Range 702
- The Range 702
- Situated near the Spring Valley area, The Range 702 is one of Nevada’s largest indoor shooting facilities. They offer gunsmithing services and periodically seek skilled professionals for maintenance and custom work.
Discount Firearms + Ammo
- Discount Firearms + Ammo
- Located in central Las Vegas, this full-service gun shop provides repair, customization, and sales. Gunsmiths here work on a wide variety of firearms and accessories.
Other potential employers include local gun stores, pawn shops with firearm services, and law enforcement agencies. Many gunsmiths also establish independent businesses after obtaining the necessary licenses and experience.
Prerequisites for Gunsmithing Programs
Admission requirements for gunsmithing programs typically include:
- Minimum Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old (some schools and licensing processes require 21).
- Education: High school diploma or GED is usually required.
- Background Check: For programs involving hands-on firearm work, a background check may be necessary.
- Legal Eligibility: Students must be legally eligible to possess and work with firearms under federal and Nevada law.
- Federal Firearms License (FFL): Those planning to operate as a gunsmith or open a business must meet federal requirements for an FFL, which include being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, at least 21 years old, and able to pass a federal background check.
Some programs may have additional requirements, such as completion of specific courses in math or machining, or submission of references and an application essay.
Gunsmithing Certification Options
While Nevada does not require a state-specific gunsmithing license, professional certification enhances credibility and career prospects. Key certification options include:
Federal Firearms License (FFL)
- Required for anyone engaging in the business of repairing or modifying firearms.
- Application is made through the ATF Federal Firearms Licensing Center.
- Applicants must be at least 21, pass a background check, and comply with federal, state, and local business regulations.
American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) Certification
- AGI offers several levels of certification, from basic Armorer’s Courses to Master Gunsmith credentials. These validate technical skill and knowledge, and are recognized by employers nationwide.
Professional Gunsmithing Association (PGA) and TAOGART
- These organizations offer additional certification and apprenticeship programs for hands-on skill development and industry networking.
NRA Short-Term Gunsmithing Courses
- The NRA recognizes select schools for specialized training, which can supplement formal education.
Gunsmiths intending to manufacture firearms or engage in certain activities may require additional ATF licensing and must comply with all local business licensing and zoning regulations in North Las Vegas and Clark County. For more on federal requirements, see the ATF FFL Application Process.
Get Started Today
Launching a career as a certified gunsmith in North Las Vegas, Nevada is a multi-step process that begins with education and continues with federal, state, and local compliance. With strong demand for skilled gunsmiths and a robust firearms industry in Nevada, now is an excellent time to pursue this career. Contact a reputable gunsmithing school today to learn more about program details, admissions, and the path to certification. The right training and credentials can open doors to rewarding opportunities in firearm repair, customization, and business ownership.
For more information on salary and job outlook, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Precision Instrument and Repair Workers, which includes gunsmiths.