The beginner’s guide to gunsmithing

If you’ve ever wanted to try getting into gunsmithing and want to know what you need or need to know before you start, I have good news for you. In this beginner’s guide to gunsmithing, we’re going to talk about gunsmithing and what you need to know before starting so you can be prepared for what you may run into. 

It’s important to note that some firearms, even some that function the same, can require different tools. A good example is Knights Armament and some components on their upper receivers. With that in mind, do note that we won’t be able to break down into specifics. The gunsmithing side of firearms is vast, and we do not have enough space for all of the info. But we will try. I’ve worked alongside a long-time friend named Caleb, who graduated from Sonoran Desert Institute and works at Noisefighters and Ape Defense. He spent time machining upper and lower receivers as well.

Take consideration of the firearm that you’ll be working on. Is it a rifle? A pistol? Maybe you’re mounting a scope? You get the gist. The reason I say this is due to the different tools that are needed when working with firearms. 

While most tools are universal, like a punch or Allen key set that can be used for various things, you don’t need an armorer’s wrench on a pistol. Not only can buying one for the wrong reason prove costly, but it’s hard to find a good one these days. 

Not to mention that some manufacturer’s AR-15s don’t work with some wrenches, so you need to make sure you have the right one so you don’t go stripping anything and putting your four-thousand dollar rifle out of commission. 

I’ve been there. 

Some tools that will come in handy no matter what platform you’re working on. These are your basic tools to be able to get you through most situations, just not too intricate. 

You’re not changing barrels, but these will come in handy when you get around to those intricate jobs as well. 

The first thing you’re going to need is a good vice. 

Assuming that you already have a workbench, a vise is usually the next investment for keeping both your hands at the ready and not having to worry about the firearm not staying where you need it. 

And with that vice, you should also find some soft jaws for holding onto sensitive items like barrels and things that make the gun go boom. You can buy a pair of hard jaws to ensure you don’t mar the finish. 

Then, you’re going to need a good screwdriver set.

I got the Wheeler set on Amazon that comes with two-size drivers and multiple bits that will work in smaller and larger screws. And then, I got an Allen key set with shorter and longer keys for hard-to-reach places. 

Just make sure your screws are hollow ground so they fit into the slot with no slop. 

I learned my lesson after not having a set and trying to take the pistol grip off of my rifle. It wasn’t a good day. Luckily, there was a Harbor Freight down the street, so I went with that and ordered the set afterward. 

You don’t always have to spend a lot of money on tools. Some, yes, others, no. Punches and hammers are two items that you will want to pay more for due to how easy cheaper ones can shatter.

You’ll want a selection of different pliers, like vice grips and needle-nosed pliers, to hold down the parts you’re working on. Don’t skimp out on these parts, either. You don’t want them breaking on you while you’re holding it down. 

One other tool you will need is a headlamp of some sort. Preferably something with more flood than throw. The inside of a firearm can be pretty dark, and working in the dark can lead to some issues later on down the line. 

These are the basics. You can already start doing small things with these tools alone. 

Unless you know exactly what you plan on doing, such as simply upgrading rifles or machining or doing cerakote, then it’s going to be hard to nail down exactly what you need in terms of tools. 

As well as the firearms you’re working on. 

For AR-15s, you will need an armorer’s wrenches and more than one, depending on how many AR-15s you plan on working on. Armorer’s wrenches are a hard one to crack. Not one is the best, and you usually need a few of them. 

Headspace gauges are one piece every armorer should have, just in case you want to check the tolerances of a rifle. It will tell you a lot.. Trust me.  

The list of tools is plentiful. It’s important to know which route you plan on taking to get the right tools. 

More importantly, make sure you have your safety goggles and stuff. I had a detent pin fly and smack me in the eye one time, and I vowed to never make that mistake again. So, do yourself a favor and don’t go without eye protection. 

Getting into gunsmithing is very fun. But like every other hobby, there are a few boxes you have to check off. One, you gotta know what you’re doing so you don’t destroy your or someone else’s firearm. Two, you have to spend money on equipment. 

And three, you have to deal with all of your friends asking you to upgrade their rifles. Or ask for your opinion on new parts. 

That’s actually the fun part. 

As for tools, I would say to buy as many quality pieces as possible so you don’t have to worry about replacing them all the time. This is a basic list. Once you know what area you will specialize in, start working in that direction. 

Be good and take care.