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Imagine the precision of a finely tuned firearm, where every component operates in perfect harmony—a powerful blend of artistry and engineering. At the American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI), we believe true gunsmithing mastery goes beyond simple fixes. It’s about deeply understanding a firearm’s internal mechanics and mastering the craft through our unique D, F, & R system: Design, Function, and Repair. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, AGI equips you with the skills to excel in firearm repair and custom gunsmithing.
The Essence of D, F, & R: Your Path to Gunsmithing Excellence
The D, F, & R system is the cornerstone of AGI’s philosophy, breaking down the art of gunsmithing into three essential pillars:
- Design: Picture a firearm as a blueprint—like an architect planning a building. Every part is intentionally crafted for peak performance and is a balanced system where each part interacts with all the others..
- Function: This is the firearm in action, a precise sequence of firing, ejecting, and reloading—like a well-choreographed dance where every step matters.
- Repair: When the rhythm breaks, repair is about pinpointing the misstep and breakdown of the system(s) and restoring the firearm to its intended glory and smooth operation, much like fixing a dancer’s stumble.
Our video-based training, rooted in AGI Master Gunsmithing Instructor Bob Dunlap’s methods, uses cutaway firearms to reveal the inner workings of guns. This hands-on approach lets you visualize each phase of the firing cycle, making even the fastest actions clear and actionable. It’s a game-changer for anyone serious about gunsmithing.
Diagnosing Firearm Failures: Precision Meets Insight
Consider a semi-automatic pistol jamming mid-cycle—failing to feed, fire, or eject. At AGI, we teach you to diagnose with precision, not guesswork. Start with the firearm’s design, mentally stepping through its function: Is the feeding system misaligned? Is the slide sticking? Has the extractor worn broken or out of specification? By understanding these elements, you’ll identify the exact point of failure and then make the repair to restore reliability with confidence.
This methodical approach sets AGI apart and is what makes AGI the industry leader in gunsmithing education.
Custom Gunsmithing: Build with Purpose and Precision
The D, F, & R system isn’t just for repairs—it’s your foundation for custom gunsmithing. In a world where personalization reigns, crafting a tactical rig or long-range rifle demands more than creativity. We add a “C” for Customizing, ensuring every modification respects the firearm’s original design and function. Without this knowledge, even small tweaks—like adjusting a trigger pull—can compromise safety or performance.
At AGI, we teach you to build custom firearms that are as reliable as they are unique. Explore our customization courses to elevate your craft.
Why AGI Leads in Gunsmithing Education
No other school matches AGI’s depth in teaching Design, Function, and Repair. Our programs, built on Bob Dunlap’s legacy, combine expert video instruction with cutaway firearms to foster critical thinking. You won’t just fix guns—you’ll master foundational firearms systems, tackling even unfamiliar models with ease.
With over 10,000 graduates and a 98% satisfaction rate, AGI stands as the gold standard. Hear what our students have to say and why this isn’t just training—it’s a transformation into a skilled craftsman preserving an American tradition.
AGI Certified Gunsmithing Courses: Find Your Perfect Fit
Our courses cater to every level, reinforcing the D, F, & R methodology with practical, self-paced learning:
| Course Level | Hours of Instruction | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Level One | 175 Hours | Ideal for beginners—master the core firearms systems and subsystems used in guns with clear fundamentals covered in detail. |
| Level Two | 255 Hours | Includes Everything in Level 1 Plus: Advanced D, F, & R skills with real-world demonstrations. Including customizing and Machining Skills. |
| The Master | 363 Hours | Includes Everything in Levels 1 and 2 Plus: Customizing of Rifles, 1911 and Glock Pistols, and other firearms. Plus Welding training and Business Success training. Take an even deeper dive into firearm systems using cutaway models for expert understanding. |
| Advanced Master | 574+ Hours | Includes Everything in Levels 1 and 2 Plus: Even more examples and comprehensive training on more firearms systems, including customization, and a complete Armorer’s Library for true mastery. |
Discover the course that aligns with your goals on our AGI Courses page.
Your Journey to Gunsmithing Mastery Starts Here
Ready to turn your passion into precision? With AGI’s D, F, & R system, you’ll move beyond trial-and-error to become a gunsmith who truly understands firearms. Guided by experts like Gene Kelly and the legacy of Bob Dunlap, AGI is your stepping stone to a rewarding career.
Call 1-800-797-0867 today to speak with a Student Advisor and enroll. Don’t wait—start building skills that set you apart in the gunsmithing world.
Be a D, F, & R Gunsmith. Be REAL.
Gene Kelly
Gunsmith & President
American Gunsmithing Institute
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About the Author
Gene Kelly, Founder and President of the American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI), is a distinguished gunsmith with over 40 years of experience. As a licensed Class 2 Manufacturer and recognized firearms expert, he has dedicated his career to preserving and teaching the gunsmithing arts. Gene is also an international consultant on security-related issues and mentors gunsmiths and Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealers on maximizing their business potential. His passion for education and commitment to excellence have positioned AGI as a leader in gunsmithing training
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the D, F, & R system?
A: It’s AGI’s core philosophy—Design (the blueprint and systems), Function (the operation), and Repair (fixing failures). It’s a comprehensive approach to mastering gunsmithing.
Q: Who is Bob Dunlap?
A: A Grand Master Gunsmithing Instructor and creator of the D, F, & R method. His decades of experience teaching at Lassen College and real-world experience running a complete full-service Gunsmithing shop and Manufacturer Warranty Center shape AGI’s world-class curriculum.
Q: How does AGI differ from other schools?
A: We use video instruction and cutaway firearms to teach critical thinking and how to understand the firearms’ systems —not just how to make basic repairs—preparing you for any firearm challenge.
Q: Can beginners enroll?
A: Yes! Our courses welcome all levels, from hobbyists to future pros, with self-paced learning tailored to your needs.
Q: How long does it take to complete a course?
A: It’s flexible—most students finish in 6-12 months, depending on their pace and course level.
Enhance Your Learning Experience
Join the thousands who’ve turned their love for firearms into a career. Our video-based, self-paced courses build the confidence to analyze, diagnose, and repair guns like a pro. Ready to get started on your road to becoming a professional gunsmith? Enroll Now!
Why Choose AGI?
By blending expert instruction with a methodical approach, AGI stands as a leader in gunsmithing education. Our D, F, & R system unlocks the art of firearm repair and customization, backed by decades of proven success. Take the first step toward mastery today—and join a legacy of skilled craftsmen.
