Gunsmith Programs in Nashville, Tennessee

Becoming a Certified Gunsmith in Nashville, Tennessee

Exploring a career as a certified gunsmith in Nashville, Tennessee, offers a compelling blend of craftsmanship, technical expertise, and hands-on problem-solving. A gunsmith is a skilled tradesperson specializing in the repair, modification, design, and assembly of firearms. The journey to certification involves a combination of formal education, hands-on training, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Whether you are interested in firearm customization, historical restoration, or general repair, the gunsmithing field provides several pathways to develop your skills and build a rewarding career.

Gunsmithing education paths range from associate degree programs at community colleges, comprehensive online courses, to apprenticeships with experienced professionals. Specializations within the field include pistolsmithing (handgun work), stockmaking (woodwork and fitting), engraving, and custom rifle or shotgun building. This guide explores the steps to becoming a certified gunsmith in Nashville, Tennessee, and details the local educational opportunities, employment settings, and certification requirements.

About Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee is the state capital and a hub for music, culture, and commerce. Located in Davidson County along the Cumberland River, Nashville is renowned for its live music scene, including the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. The city’s diverse neighborhoods—such as East Nashville, The Gulch, and Green Hills—offer a mix of urban and suburban living. With its central location in Tennessee, Nashville provides access to a range of educational and employment opportunities for those pursuing a career in gunsmithing.

Gunsmithing Training Programs in Nashville, Tennessee

Currently, there are no gunsmithing degree or diploma programs offered directly within Nashville city limits. However, aspiring gunsmiths in Nashville have access to several respected programs within a reasonable distance and online. Here are the top options:

1. Montgomery Community College – Troy, North Carolina

  • Distance from Nashville: Approximately 425 miles (about 7 hours by car)
  • Program: Gunsmithing Degree and Diploma Programs
  • Overview: Montgomery Community College offers one of the most comprehensive gunsmithing programs in the U.S., including associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. The curriculum covers firearm repair, custom work, machining, metal finishing, and stock making. Over 70% of class time is hands-on in the lab.

2. Lassen Community College – Susanville, California

  • Distance from Nashville: Approximately 2,200 miles (primarily an option for online or relocation)
  • Program: Gunsmithing Program
  • Overview: Lassen offers the nation’s oldest gunsmithing program, including an Associate in Science Degree and specialized certificates. Coursework covers firearm function, repair, metalwork, and stock fabrication. The program is recognized for its depth and historical reputation.

3. American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) – Online

  • Program: Professional Gunsmithing Certification Programs
  • Overview: AGI provides comprehensive online gunsmithing courses, including Professional, Master, and Advanced Master levels. Training includes over 175 hours of video instruction, FFL starter kit, and business resources. The flexible, self-paced format is ideal for those in Nashville seeking remote learning options.

4. Modern Gun School (MGS) – Online

  • Program: Advanced Gunsmithing II Program
  • Overview: MGS offers self-paced online training including firearms repair, builds, and customization. The program features 765 clock hours and platform-specific projects (pistol, rifle, shotgun, or muzzleloader builds).

While Nashville does not host a campus-based gunsmithing school, these regional and online programs provide accessible, accredited options for those pursuing certification and hands-on experience.

Gunsmithing Employment Opportunities in Nashville

Nashville boasts a robust market for firearms sales, repair, and customization. Major employers and facilities in the Nashville area include:

1. Royal Range USA (West Nashville)

  • Website: Royal Range USA Careers
  • Overview: Royal Range offers a large indoor shooting range, retail firearm sales, gunsmithing services, and training courses. Located in West Nashville, it is one of the city’s premier destinations for firearm enthusiasts and regularly seeks qualified gunsmiths for service and repair roles.

2. Nashville Gun & Knife (South Nashville)

  • Website: Nashville Gun & Knife
  • Overview: This long-standing shop offers firearm sales, gunsmithing, and customization. It services the greater Nashville community and provides employment opportunities for certified gunsmiths in sales and repair.

3. Franklin Gun Shop (Franklin, south of Nashville)

  • Website: Franklin Gun Shop
  • Overview: Located just south of Nashville, Franklin Gun Shop features a full-service gunsmithing department along with retail sales. It is a well-known employer for trained gunsmiths and specialists.

In addition to these, smaller custom shops and sporting goods retailers across neighborhoods such as East Nashville and Madison may offer employment for entry-level and experienced gunsmiths.

Prerequisites for Gunsmithing Programs

Before enrolling in a gunsmithing program, prospective students should be aware of the following typical prerequisites:

  • Minimum Age: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old; some advanced or platform-specific courses may require a minimum age of 21.
  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is typically required.
  • Background Check: Because gunsmiths work with firearms, students may need to pass a background check, especially for hands-on components or FFL-related training.
  • Legal Eligibility: Federal and Tennessee state law prohibit certain individuals (e.g., those with felony convictions) from handling firearms.
  • Other Requirements: Some programs may require basic mechanical aptitude or prior coursework in machining or metalwork.

Meeting these prerequisites ensures compliance with both educational and legal standards in Tennessee.

Gunsmithing Certification Options

Gunsmithing certification is not mandated by Tennessee state law but is highly recommended for professional credibility and employability. Certification is typically offered through respected national organizations and schools:

Federal Firearms License (FFL):
Any gunsmith working on customer firearms for compensation must obtain a Federal Firearms License from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The most common license is the Type 01 FFL (Dealer in Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices), which covers gunsmithing activities. For details and application steps, visit the ATF FFL page.

State and Local Permits:
While Tennessee does not require additional state licensure for gunsmiths, business licensing and zoning compliance in Nashville are required. Always verify local ordinances before setting up shop.

For additional information on job outlook and career data, consult the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Gunsmiths and Metal and Plastic Machine Workers page.

Get Started Today

A career as a certified gunsmith in Nashville, Tennessee, begins with the right education and a commitment to craftsmanship and safety. Explore your options with nearby schools and reputable online programs, and take the first steps toward acquiring your Federal Firearms License and building your reputation. Whether your interests lie in repair, customization, or firearm design, Nashville offers a supportive community and strong demand for skilled gunsmiths. Reach out to a school today to learn more about enrollment and program requirements, and start your journey toward a rewarding trade.