The prospect of working on your own guns, or DIY gunsmithing, has a lot of appeal. Not only does it save time and money, but it could reduce the length of time your firearm is down. Of course, that time could lengthen substantially if something goes wrong while doing your own gunsmithing. Is DIY gunsmithing a good idea? Or is gunsmith work best left to the pros? I’m here to tell you why the answer tends to be yes, no, and maybe.
What is DIY Gunsmithing?
When talking about do-it-yourself gunsmith work, I’m not referring to swapping out a drop-in barrel, cleaning your gun, or putting a grip sleeve on your Glock. In this context, DIY gunsmithing refers to work on your firearms that involves actual tools, modifications, and the removal or replacement of tiny or specialized components. When performing your own gunsmithing, the process may be as simple as getting out your magnetized gunsmith screwdriver bit set or it might involve files — possibly even the dreaded Dremel. DIY gunsmithing isn’t about drop-in parts.
Should I do my own Gunsmith Work?
Should you do your own gunsmith work? The answer is that it depends. Situations and skill levels vary. Sometimes it’s fine to do your own gunsmithing. Sometimes it’s a terrible idea (unless you’re willing to potentially sacrifice your gun’s functionality and/or safety). How do you know the difference? I’m glad you asked.
Certain tasks are minor enough that the average person can handle them without any prior training. For example, drop-in cassette triggers like ones made by Timney Triggers and Trigger Tech can typically be installed by anyone. That process does involve the removal of several parts and could compromise the function of your safety if done wrong. However, those are easy problems to correct and can be tested without live fire. Even better, makers of drop-in triggers offer all kinds of printed guides, PDFs, and videos explaining the process. Instances where you might need to file or Dremel out your bolt-action to fit a drop-in trigger are the exception. In those cases, I recommend you don’t permanently alter your gun unless you know exactly what you’re doing.
Other jobs require a lot more knowledge. This includes almost everything to do with tinkering with the internal components of a revolver, bedding barrels, and even building pistols from 80 percent frames. Some tasks may appear straightforward at first. Unfortunately, you may not realize you’re in over your head until it’s too late. Before tackling a gunsmith job you’re unfamiliar with or haven’t done on your own before, it’s smart to take the time to go over the steps. Don’t dive in without first looking at what exactly the job entails. Be willing to step back and get a gunsmith if it’s clearly beyond your abilities.
Should Only a Gunsmith Work on Guns?
No, gunsmiths don’t have to be the ones to exclusively work on your firearms. Not only can you learn to make most repairs and modifications yourself, you should. It’s a fantastic way to become familiar with how your gun works. You’re more likely to be capable of fixing something in the field when you’ve already done your own work. This skillset comes in handy during high round count classes or hunts.
Some instances where a gunsmith is required is when the work that needs to be done is either beyond your current skillset or a specialty job. Never let your ego stop you from going to a good gunsmith when one is needed (and there are always going to be cases when they’re needed).
Can I Learn to be a Gunsmith?
You can take classes to learn gunsmithing skills. Keep in mind there are a lot of different platforms out there and you need skills specific to every one of them. Some are easier to learn than others. For example, Glocks don’t have that many moving parts and are pretty straightforward while revolvers have more intricate and numerous working parts. There are even differences between various revolver types. Don’t expect to learn it all in one class or one day, because it doesn’t work that way.
Due to the differences in platforms and the varying intricacy of repair work, it’s a good plan to start simple. A basic gunsmith (or armorer’s) class for Glocks is a good place to start and then move on to 1911s and revolvers. For long guns, the AR platform tends to be easier to work on than bolt-actions or lever-actions. Not all gunsmith courses and classes are created equally, so it’s well worth taking the time and effort to find out which classes are worth taking.
What Tools Should I have for DIY Gunsmithing?
It’s a good idea to stop and consider the tools on hand before jumping into any gunsmith-related task. While it’s true that you can accomplish things with a pair of channel locks and a Dremel, it’s far from ideal (and you’re a lot more likely to run into problems or damage your gun). There are specific tools that make a good starting point for smart do-it-yourself gunsmithing:
- Vise
- Vise block specific to the model/platform you’re working on
- Magnetized gunsmith screwdriver set/bits
- Allen key/hex set
- Brass, steel, and plastic punches
- Two-sided, non-marring hammer
- Rubber gun mat, preferably with raised edges
- Toolbox
- Small parts or tool tray with divided sections for screws, springs, and other small parts
- Manuals for specific models of firearms
There are quite a few tools and pieces of equipment you’ll want and need for a bigger gunsmith journey, but these things will get you started. If you’re looking at this list wondering why you need gunsmith specific screwdrivers and bits, it’s because firearms often have very specific sizes of screws. When using an incorrectly sized bit, it’s easy to scratch and damage the finish on your gun. This is especially true of revolvers. Don’t try to force an oversized — or undersized — screwdriver or Allen key to work on your gun. If you want to work on your own guns, invest in a good gunsmithing screwdriver set.
The bottom line is that whether it’s a good idea to practice do-it-yourself gunsmithing really depends on your own skills and experience. It’s important to be willing to admit you don’t know something, just as it’s important to take the time to add these gunsmithing skills to your personal toolbox. Doing your own gunsmith work is rewarding — not to mention useful — so why not get on board with learning more?
