Unlocking the Secrets of Gunsmithing: Alaska’s Best Programs and Schools
Are you searching for information on the best Gunsmith schools in Alaska? Search no more. You’re on the right page. This post features reviews on the top best Gunsmith schools in Alaska.
Whether you want to become a professional gunsmith or you simply want to sharpen your skills for better efficiency, you’ll find this post helpful. Gunsmithing schools provide the professional skill and requisite knowledge for firearm or gun enthusiasts. It is the most effective way to become a professional gunsmith.
Most gunsmithing schools in Alaska have well-structured training and formal classes for anyone interested in gunsmithing.
How to Become an Alaska Gunsmith
A high school diploma or equivalent is required to work as a gunsmith in Alaska. Additional education or training, such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in gunsmithing or a related field, may be required by some employers. Hands-on experience with firearms and mechanical equipment is also advantageous.
Alaska Gunsmith Licensing and Certification Requirements
Gunsmiths in Alaska do not need a state license to work, but some employers may require certification from a reputable gunsmithing organization. The National Rifle Association (NRA) has a certification program for gunsmiths, and the American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) also has courses and programs for certification.
Best Gunsmithing Schools in Alaska
If you are looking for the best gunsmithing schools in Alaska, then this is the right place for you. We will be talking about the gunsmithing schools in Anchorage, AK, and the other gunsmithing schools in Alaska.
American Gunsmithing Institute
American Gunsmithing Institute is one of the best online gunsmithing schools. The school offers courses tailored for career gunsmiths who want professional training and hobbyists who just want to work on their guns effectively and safely.
They offer a professional course that you can earn in less than three months. In addition, you get 108 hours of course instruction that covers the basic techniques of gunsmithing and vast info on the design and operation of firearms.
Most importantly, American Gunsmithing Institute’s online coursework is broken down into individual lessons, each taught by an industry expert. In addition, you can pick and choose areas you wish to specialize in, thus making the entire process interesting and worthwhile. You get real value for your money, and you have the liberty to skip courses you don’t wish to specialize in.
Students can decide to pursue individual courses or a complete gunsmith certification program. The professional gunsmith certification at AGI costs between $5,000 to $15,000.
Red Devil AK Gunsmith School
Red Devil AK Gunsmith School is committed to offering an extremely flexible course for all those interested in pursuing gunsmithing either as a hobby or at a professional and career level. They have a perpetual open enrolment; therefore, you can start your program any time of the year and take courses either in Basic or Advanced Gunsmithing.
They are one of the oldest Gunsmithing schools in Alaska and have consistently offered courses covering basic firearm information, gunsmithing, and buying and selling firearms.
These courses come in the form of online classes that you take based on your schedule and convenience.
Red Devil AK Gunsmith School is a unique standout among other Gunsmith colleges in that they focus primarily on class projects and hands-on training where you will be completing projects such as building a rifle lower, and refinishing a stock, rather than merely focusing on the theoretical aspects alone.
Their courses come in three different packages and options. The first package of $1,442 for full payment upfront, the $1,542 package with higher monthly installments, or the $1,642 package with lower monthly installments. Consequently, this makes the tuition reasonably affordable for the quality of instruction and information you’ll get.
The Red Devil AK Gunsmith School is an excellent option for hobbyists and those just starting with gunsmithing and firearms in general.
At the end of the course, you should have a sound understanding of basic gunsmithing techniques and should be able to sit for any state armorers or firearms test for license approval.
Fairbanks, AK Gunsmith School
This gunsmith school offer programs and courses that teach you the fundamentals of gunsmithing and prepare you to start a career as a professional gunsmith.
Fairbanks AK Gunsmith School also offers an online training program for every level of gunsmithing. You can earn a certificate in Firearms technology with eight courses, including Practical Gunsmithing, Welding, Machine Shop, Locksmithing, Enhanced Master Gunsmithing, Master Gunsmithing, Professional Gunsmithing Level I, and Professional Gunsmithing Level II.
By the time you complete a course at the Fairbanks AK Gunsmith School, you will be able to repair any firearm you come across.
Top 7 Gunsmithing Schools in Alaska
School Name | Services | Contact |
---|---|---|
Matanuska Valley Sportsmen | Gun Safety & Marksmanship Instruction Guns & Gunsmiths, Schools Sports Instruction | Phone:(907) 746-4862 Web:http://mvsrange.com/ Location:2000 S Old Glenn Hwy Palmer, AK 99645 |
![]() Birchwood Recreation & Shooting Park | Rifle & Pistol Ranges Gun Safety & Marksmanship Instruction Guns & Gunsmiths Recreation Centers Trapping Equipment & Supplies | Phone:(907) 688-2809 Web:http://www.brspclub.com/ Location:5 Birchwood Spur Rd Chugiak, AK 99567 |
Kotzebue Gun & Pawn | Ammunition Guns & Gunsmiths Sporting Goods | Phone:(907) 442-3300 Web:http://kotzgunammo.netfirms.com/ Location:821 B Lake St Kotzebue, AK 99752 |
Alaska Frontier North | Jewelers Guns & Gunsmiths Pawnbrokers | Phone:(907) 373-2274 Web:http://www.alaskafrontiernorth.com/ Location:475 W Parks Hwy Wasilla, AK 99654 |
Gator Guns Inc | Guns & Gunsmiths Sporting Goods | Phone:(907) 283-7947 Web:https://www.meijer.com/ Location:7952 Kenai Spur Hwy Kenai, AK 99611 |
Alaska Custom Firearms | Guns & Gunsmiths Ammunition | Phone:(907) 349-4867 Web:http://alaskacustomfirearms.com/ Location:8225 Old Seward Hwy Ste C Anchorage, AK 99518 |
![]() Chimo Guns | Guns & Gunsmiths Sporting Goods | Phone:(907) 376-5261 Web:https://www.chimoguns.com/ Location:505 E Herning Ave Wasilla, AK 99654 |
Online Gunsmith Schools for Alaska Residents
For Alaskan gun aficionados, attending a traditional gunsmithing school might not be possible, but there are plenty of convenient online options to choose from. The convenience of being able to do these courses at your own pace at home means you can follow your passion after completing them.
To become a skilled online gunsmith in Alaska, you need access to a computer with an internet connection, as well as the necessary software and supplies. Courses in these online gunsmithing programs cover a wide variety of topics, including gun maintenance, firearm customization, and gun safety.
We have compiled a list of some of the best online gunsmithing schools in Alaska if you are considering enrolling in a program but feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of possibilities:
Penn Foster Career School – The Penn Foster Vocational School is one such institution that offers a thorough online gunsmithing program that covers important ground including the design, repair, and modification of firearms.
Ashworth College – Ashworth University also offers an online gunsmithing degree with a wide selection of courses covering topics including gun repair, personalization, and ballistics.
Sonoran Desert Institute – The Sonoran Desert Institute’s online associate’s degree in gunsmithing is designed to provide students a thorough grounding in the craft, with a curriculum that covers topics like weapons repair, metalworking, and gun safety in a way that instills a sense of competence and confidence.
Gunsmithing School Cost
Gunsmithing school costs in Alaska vary depending on several factors like the certification, type of program, course duration, and whether it is onsite or online. Some gunsmithing schools offer different gunsmith-related courses and diploma courses from which you can choose.
A typical full gunsmithing certification in Alaska ranges from $10000 to $250000. International students even pay higher fees. An average online gunsmithing school costs between $5000 to $10000.
Gunsmiths in Demand in Alaska
Before venturing into any career, trade, or profession, it is not a bad idea to seek to examine its profitability. Therefore, if you’re planning to pursue a career in gunsmithing, it’s normal to wonder about the gunsmith demand in Alaska.
Generally, there is a high demand for gunsmiths across all regions of the United States. Therefore, it is safer to say gunsmiths are in high demand in Alaska. The training, expertise, and experience you acquire in gunsmithing schools qualify you for various gunsmithing and firearms roles in both private and public establishments.
Firearms companies and manufacturers are always looking for skilled people who can design, repair, and analyze malfunctions in firearms.
The Legislation of Firearms in Alaska
Alaska has very accommodating/friendly gun laws and few regulations regarding the use, sale, and possession of firearms compared to other states in the US. it was the first state in the US to adopt carry laws, where no license is required to carry a handgun secretly or openly. However, permits are still issued to residents for reciprocity with other states.
Consequently, Alaska prohibits any form of carrying in schools, courts, domestic violence shelters, and correctional institutions.
Limitations on Certain Types of Firearms
Alaska has various limitations on specific types of firearms while having generally loose gun regulations. For instance, it is forbidden to own a sawed-off shotgun or rifle in Alaska, as well as a gun with a silencer or muffler.
Read here for more info on the firearms and weapons laws in Alaska.
Alaska’s Gunsmithing Laws
Gunsmithing is a term used to describe any task that involves repairing, modifying, or personalizing firearms in Alaska.
Although not requiring a state license to practice in Alaska, gunsmiths may need a federal firearms license (FFL) if they engage in specific activities, such as purchasing or selling firearms. Gunsmiths with an FFL can also assemble and fix weapons for clients.
Limitations on Gunsmithing in Alaska
Alaska has few laws that restrict the trade of gunsmithing. Nonetheless, to sell and transfer firearms, gunsmiths must abide by both federal and state rules.
Penalties for Breaking Alaska’s Gunsmithing Laws
Penalties for breaking Alaska’s gunsmithing rules might vary based on how serious the offense was. Penalties may include fines, incarceration, and the loss of the gunsmith’s qualification or license.
FAQs
How long does it take to become a professional gunsmith?
Generally, it can take two years or less to complete a gunsmith certificate course. However, it takes years of consistent practice for gunsmiths to attain the highest peak of their careers.
How much does a professional gunsmith earn?
According to PayScale.com, gunsmiths in the US earn an average of $14 per hour. Although gunsmithing is not a particularly lucrative career, most people choose it because they are passionate about the work.
How can I find a job as a gunsmith?
As a new gunsmithing graduate, you can apply for jobs working for firearm companies, gun manufacturers, or working under independent gunsmiths. Websites like Gunsmiths.com host job boards for gunsmiths. Attending career fairs and conferences can be a good way to learn about new opportunities in your area.
Final Thought
Are you passionate about guns and firearms? There is no better time to transform that hobby into a thriving career than now. Gunsmithing is a promising career path with high potential earnings. All you need is well-structured training to master the requisite skills.
Gunsmithing schools offer the best platform for learning and mastering these skills. You could kickstart your journey by enrolling in the best gunsmith school in Alaska.