Gunsmith Programs in Knoxville, Tennessee

Becoming a Certified Gunsmith in Knoxville, Tennessee

The gunsmithing profession blends technical skill, craftsmanship, and a passion for firearms into a rewarding career. In Knoxville, Tennessee, individuals interested in becoming a certified gunsmith have several educational and career pathways available. Gunsmiths are specialized technicians who repair, modify, design, and customize firearms. Their work can range from basic cleaning and repairs to intricate custom builds and historical restorations. With the rising interest in both recreational shooting and firearm safety, the demand for professional gunsmiths remains steady.

There are multiple routes to becoming a gunsmith, including formal training at community colleges, online certification programs, and apprenticeships. Many professionals choose to specialize in areas such as custom rifle building, shotgun fitting, or firearm engraving. Achieving certification not only validates a gunsmith’s skills but also opens doors to employment opportunities and business ownership.

This guide covers everything you need to know about becoming a certified gunsmith in Knoxville, Tennessee—covering local educational options, employment prospects, prerequisites, certification details, and steps to get started.

About Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville is a thriving city in East Tennessee, set along the Tennessee River and bordered by the Great Smoky Mountains. As the home of the University of Tennessee and a gateway to outdoor recreation, Knoxville blends urban amenities with Southern hospitality. The city features neighborhoods like Downtown, Bearden, and Fountain City, each offering their own character and community.

Knoxville’s central location in the region makes it an ideal hub for those interested in trades and skilled crafts, including gunsmithing. For more about the city, visit the official Knoxville website.

Gunsmithing Training Programs in Knoxville, Tennessee

Currently, there are no full-time, in-person gunsmithing degree or certificate programs located directly in Knoxville. However, aspiring gunsmiths in the Knoxville area have access to several reputable programs within driving distance, as well as flexible online options.

1. Montgomery Community College – Troy, North Carolina (Approx. 4.5 hours from Knoxville)

Program: Gunsmithing AAS Degree and Certificates
Description: Montgomery Community College offers the nation’s largest college-based gunsmithing program. Students can pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree or various certificates focused on firearm repair, metalworking, custom gun building, and advanced machining. The curriculum covers every aspect of the trade, and the college’s impressive facilities include two machine shops and a substantial firearms library. Over 70% of student time is spent in hands-on labs.
Distance from Knoxville: Approximately 4.5 hours (260 miles).

2. Modern Gun School (Online)

Program: Advanced Gunsmithing Program
Description: Modern Gun School provides a fully online, accredited program designed for self-paced learning. The curriculum includes 65 lessons totaling 765 clock hours, with hands-on projects mailed to students. Topics cover firearm safety, repair, business fundamentals, and modifications. The school is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), making it a respected choice for distance learners.
Location: Online (accessible from Knoxville).

3. American Gunsmithing Institute (Online)

Program: Certified Professional Gunsmithing Courses
Description: AGI offers video-based, self-paced courses ranging from foundational gunsmithing to advanced master-level training. The curriculum includes over 175 hours of video instruction, covering pistols, shotguns, rifles, and specialized firearm systems. Students can work at their own pace, and the program is designed for those who want flexibility while pursuing certification.
Location: Online (accessible from Knoxville).

While there are currently no campus-based gunsmithing programs in Knoxville itself, these reputable options offer comprehensive training for aspiring professionals in the region.

Gunsmithing Employment Opportunities in Knoxville

Knoxville’s firearms industry includes a mix of gun shops, sporting goods retailers, and custom gunsmithing businesses. Here are several local employers and facilities where certified gunsmiths may find opportunities:

Coal Creek Armory (West Knoxville)

Website: Coal Creek Armory
Description: Coal Creek Armory is a well-established gun shop and indoor range in West Knoxville. The facility offers retail firearm sales, gunsmithing services, and firearms training courses. They employ skilled gunsmiths for repairs, modifications, and custom work.
Location: West Knoxville

Frontier Firearms (Kingston, near Knoxville)

Website: Frontier Firearms
Description: Located about 30 minutes west of Knoxville, Frontier Firearms features a large showroom, indoor range, and comprehensive gunsmithing services. The business frequently offers employment opportunities for certified gunsmiths and firearm technicians.
Location: Kingston, TN (near Knoxville)

Academy Sports + Outdoors (Multiple Locations)

Website: Academy Sports + Outdoors
Description: With locations in the Knoxville area, Academy Sports is a major retailer of firearms and sporting goods. While their primary focus is retail, some locations employ gunsmiths for assembly, maintenance, and minor repairs.
Location: Various (including Knoxville)

These facilities represent just a portion of the local gun industry. Additional opportunities may be found at independent gun shops, shooting ranges, and firearms manufacturers in the region.

Prerequisites for Gunsmithing Programs

Before enrolling in a gunsmithing program or pursuing certification, applicants should be aware of the following standard prerequisites:

Minimum Age: Typically 18 years old, though 21 is preferred by some employers and required for certain FFL activities.
Education: High school diploma or GED is usually required.
Background Check: Applicants must be legally eligible to handle firearms. This generally means passing a criminal background check and not being prohibited under federal or state law.
Legal Eligibility: U.S. citizenship or legal residency is typically required, especially for FFL licensing.
Other Requirements: Some programs may require letters of recommendation, a personal statement, or prior experience with firearms.

It is essential to check with each specific school or program for their detailed admissions criteria.

Gunsmithing Certification Options

Gunsmithing certification validates a professional’s technical skills and knowledge. While Tennessee does not require state licensing for gunsmiths, most employers and customers prefer certified professionals. Here are the main certification options:

Federal Firearms License (FFL): Any gunsmith who engages in the business of repairing or modifying firearms must obtain a Type 01 FFL from the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives). The application involves a background check, business premises inspection, and associated fees.
Professional Certifications: Organizations such as the American Gunsmithing Institute and Modern Gun School provide certification upon completion of their programs.
NRA Gunsmithing Schools: The NRA sponsors affiliated programs that offer certificates of completion for specialized courses.
Industry Memberships: Professional societies like the American Custom Gunmakers Guild and Gunsmithing Club of America offer networking and continuing education for certified gunsmiths.
Federal Requirements: Gunsmiths performing certain activities, such as manufacturing, must comply with additional federal regulations, including possible SOT (Special Occupational Tax) registration.

Obtaining an FFL is a critical legal step for any gunsmith working independently or running a business. For more on the occupation’s job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Metal and Plastic Workers (Gunsmiths fall under this category).

Get Started Today

Gunsmithing is a rewarding trade that combines technical expertise, problem-solving, and a respect for firearms history and safety. Knoxville residents have access to top-quality training programs—both online and within reasonable travel distance—along with a network of local employers and organizations. If you are ready to start your journey toward becoming a certified gunsmith, reach out to a school or training provider today. Completing your education and certification is the first step to joining a respected profession with a proud tradition and strong demand. Take the initiative, explore your options, and begin building your future in gunsmithing.