Essential Tools for the Home Gunshop
Essential Tools for the Home Gunshop
It’s always fun to modify your gun, or add new parts. It’s even more fulfilling when you can do it yourself. Currently, there are some gunsmithing classes which offer a wealth of knowledge for those interested in getting an in-depth knowledge and training on how to work on firearms. Programs such as the American Gunsmithing Program and the Iowa Valley Gunsmith Program provide comprehensive training, covering everything from basic firearm mechanics to advanced customization techniques. These programs often include both theoretical instruction and practical, hands-on experience. It’s highly recommended to reach out to your local gunsmith or gun shop for potential apprenticeship or on-the-job opportunities. These hands-on learning experiences can provide invaluable real-world insights and deepen your understanding of the craft. Remember, the journey to becoming a skilled gunsmith is a blend of formal education and practical experience.
You Need to See
You should consult a knowledgeable gunsmith before you get in over your head. However, if you’re going to do some basic gunsmith things, like add a sight, scope, change out your trigger, you will want some basic gunsmith tools. First of all, you should have a quality and bright flashlight or a bore light. You will for sure want one to see down the barrel. You will want to inspect rifling and ensure the gun is clean. They will help you inspect the barrel of the firearm for any rust, pitting, or other issues. One of the next most important tools would be getting a variety of chamber brushes. You will want some brass or copper brushes, so you do not cause unnecessary abrasion on the chamber.
A Little More Punch
If you do not have a brass punch set, you should put that on your list of items to get. Brass being softer than steel, they’re less likely to mar or damage the finish of a firearm. Brass punches are ideal for delicate tasks where precision and care are paramount. They are used for drifting sights, pin removal and installation, and aligning parts. Having a brass punch set will allow you to do some basic gunsmithing on your own.
Specialty Tools
Gunsmithing tool screw drivers are pretty useful specialty tools. They are designed to fit the unique screws used in firearms, reducing the risk of damaging the screw or the gun. Gunsmithing torque wrenches, additionally, ensure that screws are tightened to the correct specifications. Remember you do not want to damage your firearm, so having a brass hammer or a gunsmithing hammer will help prevent scuffing and damage. A gunsmithing hammer is a specialized hammer with different types of heads (like rubber, brass, and steel) to cater to different needs while working on a firearm.
You will also want some needle files. These are used for delicate material removal in hard-to-reach areas. If you have an AR-15, a specialized AR-15 armorer’s wrench, or an AR-15 specific multi-tool will be useful. This is a specialty tool required for certain tasks on an AR-15, like installing or removing a muzzle device or a buffer tube.
These tools mentioned are essential for mounting optics, replacing or upgrading components like triggers, firing pins. These will also help you replacing small, often internal parts, zeroing or replacing/upgrading iron sights, and field-stripping and detail-stripping your gun. If a task is beyond your skill level, it’s best to leave it to a professional gunsmith, and we have some great ones right here in our state!
by Jessica Graham
April 2024
