Looking to start Smithing

[77F150Screwball]

I'm a certifiable gun nut, with a gift for mechanical skills, and a thorough dislike for most of the gunsmiths in my area. They have a tendency to half-ass things, and I feel that I can do a much better job for more reasonable prices. To put things in perspective: mounting a scope on a Ruger M77 with factory rings recently cost me $65, and when I got the rifle back, the scope was sitting on the rifle at a 35+ degree angle off horizontal, and the "bore sighting" that was done could not even put a round on a standard sized sheet of notebook paper at 100yds. On top of that, this insult took over two weeks to be completed. Granted, the smith did a good job of truing and lapping the rings, but the rest of the job sucked. :barf: Needless to say, he hasn't touched one of my babies since.

I would like to start off simple, mounting scopes, changing sights, and post-hunting season cleaning service. Depending on the results of this venture, I would possibly expand my services accordingly.

Thoughts? Suggestions? Any tool sets that you would recommend? Tool sets you'd avoid?

 

[James K]

This issue has been addressed many, many times. I suggest you do a search on gunsmith or gunsmithing and read some of the previous posts. The consensus is that you can do simple jobs on your own guns without getting into the business, but if you choose to set up as a gunsmith, you are much better off to learn the trade in a school and go into business the right way. How about a license? Insurance? Place of business? Compliance with local laws? Bookkeeping? Tools? Etc., etc.

P.S. If you were ticked off at your doctor, would you borrow thousands to go to college and medical school and start a practice just to get even?

Jim

 

[Harry Bonar]

a gunsmith

Sir:
Listen to Jim"
Most all gunsmiths die poor even the best of them.
But if your desire is that great go for it but keep what Jim says in mind.
Harry B.