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Professional Gunsmithing Level 1

Certified Firearms Design, Function, & Repair Training Course
Teaching Professional Gunsmithing for Over 30+ years – Established 1993 – Thousands of Graduates

Level 1 course overview

Professional gunsmithing Level I Course description

Start Gunsmithing professionally in as little as 90 days by studying and working from home!

Here’s how . . .

Experience the sheer joy of learning real gunsmithing from Master Gunsmiths through this premier, trade school level program, fast and easily, all without ever having to quit your job or leave the comfort of your living room for about one fifth the cost of attending a campus based school. Through the knowledge you will acquire in this course you will be able to completely understand how to repair and customize pistols, revolvers, rifles, shotguns, and rimfires.

This is our promise to you; when you have finished the Professional Gunsmithing Course from AGI, you will be able to pick up any firearm, even one you have never seen before, determine what type of system it uses, and with that knowledge, be able to analyze the problem and make the appropriate repair. We teach you how all the systems work, so the mystery and confusion will be gone. You will actually understand what the problem is and why you are fixing it in a particular way. You will have become a Real Gunsmith

  • Understand how firearms function
  • Be able to repair ANY firearm
  • Build specialized custom firearms
  • Start a career you enjoy

NO OTHER SCHOOL, CAMPUS BASED OR OTHERWISE, OFFERS THIS LEVEL OF INSTRUCTION.

In fact, serious students graduating from campus based gunsmithing schools have been enrolling in our program because “they didn’t teach me that!” Why is that the case? . . . because only AGI teaches you step-by-step how all the major firearm systems work and we are the only gunsmithing school with Master Gunsmith Bob Dunlap as Senior Instructor.

In addition, because the instruction is delivered step-by-step on video, the instruction is consistent and systematic. The entire course is completely indexed, so you can watch any section as many times as you want or need to.

YOU CAN’T FIX IT UNLESS YOU UNDERSTAND HOW IT WORKS!

 

That is why our course is a complete Design, Function, and Repair course. The way we show and describe to you how the firearms mechanisms work totally illuminates the subject.  The fog and mystery are removed. You will now know and possess the how and why of firearm design and function and be able to understand how to make the appropriate repair. No other gunsmithing course provides this teaching method or experience.

BOB DUNLAP HAS THE UNIQUE ABILITY TO MAKE

COMPLEX CONCEPTS EASY TO UNDERSTAND.

This unique teaching style greatly compresses the time it takes to become a professional gunsmith. Bob’s exclusive teaching system uses one section to build on the next. For example in the handgun section, we spend 35 plus hours teaching you how all the various models and systems work. You begin by learning in comprehensive detail about “locked breech single action automatic pistols that use a link system” like the 1911 .45 Auto.

Once you fully understand how those type of mechanisms work, we then focus on teaching you the differences between that and the cam lock system (Browning Hi-Power, Glock, and others) and so on. This provides new information on each model or major variation of firearm, building on a foundation, and saving you time by not repeating every detail where they are the same.

Therefore, we are able to cover many, many, many times the number of guns and systems than any other course ever offered.  In addition we have created cutaway guns to use as teaching aids for many of the models we cover. This provides you with a unique look “inside” the firearm, to clearly understand how everything works together.

This same “building block” teaching method is continued throughout the shotgun, .22 rimfire and centerfire rifles sections of the course. You will also learn many important elements of gunsmithing including; how-to properly headspace a firearm and why, firing pin shape and design, sear, hammer and trigger systems, balancing and adjusting springs, accurizing, barrel replacement and alignment, frame repairs and straightening, timing, feed systems, and so much more.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO BECOME A GUNSMITH AT A FRACTION

OF THE COST OF A CAMPUS BASED GUNSMITHING PROGRAM?

If you are like most of our students, you already have a career and family and can’t afford to go to a campus based school and spend $30,000 or more per year, plus living expenses, lost income, and two to three years of full-time commitment. This could total $50,000 or a lot more!!

Even then, many graduates of other schools have told us they still feel they need our Design, Function, and Repair courses, because they weren’t taught complete Design, Function, and Repair.  They enroll with us to complete their education! They also use our courses as a Master Reference Library on Video, which frequently helps them get out of a bind. In addition, our courses cover many subjects in better and clearer detail than you would receive as a student at a brick and mortar college.

Plus, the American Gunsmithing Institute covers many things that are just not taught in gunsmithing schools at all—like how to be successful in the business of gunsmithing. We also teach you real world benchwork short-cuts, tricks, tips, and techniques.

ALL OF THE ADVANTAGES OF A CAMPUS BASED COURSE, BUT FASTER AND WITH THE ABILITY TO REVIEW INFORMATION ANYTIME YOU WANT.

We designed the American Gunsmithing Institute's Professional Gunsmithing Course on video to give you the advantages of a campus based program with none of the disadvantages. In fact, many of our students say our video based course is better because they can “replay” the instructor anytime a difficult project comes in. In fact, researchers say we retain less than 12% of what we learn in a classroom. That’s why we’ve designed our course to be sure every step is clearly demonstrated and rapidly available for your review when needed.

WE WON’T WASTE YOUR TIME . . .

In a classroom setting, you usually only get 20 to 30 minutes of solid instruction per hour, at best, after the teacher is finished taking roll, telling a joke, answering questions, and teaching to the level of the slowest person in the class. This course is solid information. No wasted time. On top of that, you can see the details and close-ups we show you, which are not usually seen in a classroom.

STUDY AT YOUR OWN PACE.

We remove all of those learning barriers. With the American Gunsmithing Institute's courses you move at your own pace with the ability to review at anytime.  There is no time limit to complete the course. And because the entire course is taught on video, note taking is not required, allowing you to focus on the instruction.

The American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) is where you learn real gunsmithing. With a curriculum focused on firearms Design, Function, and Repair training, we ensure you have the necessary foundational knowledge you need to build your pro­fessional gunsmithing business.

How far will you take your new gunsmithing career?  Just turn the page . . .

AGI PROFESSIONAL GUNSMITHING LEVEL ONE COURSE

“When you have finished AGI’s Professional Gunsmithing Course you will be able to pick up ANY firearm, even one you have never seen before, determine what type of system it uses, analyze the problem, and make the appropriate repair.”

Gene Kelly, AGI President and Founder

THE AGI GUNSMITHING COURSE IS EQUAL TO A TWO YEAR TRADE SCHOOL THAT COSTS AS MUCH AS $50,000 PLUS LIVING EXPENSES.  SAVE THOUSANDS BY STUDYING FROM HOME!

The AGI Level One Course consists of 175 hours of Design, Function, and Repair instruction divided into four major sections:  handguns, shotguns, rifles, and rimfires.

The course starts you off with a five hour introduction to the world of gunsmithing learning about; special gunsmithing tools and how to use them, filing and stoning techniques, proper use of hand tools, firearms parts, proper terminology and descriptions, locking systems, action types, feed mechanisms, basic ballistics, cartridges and powders, different types and pressures, cartridge

evolution, primer and bullet types, and so much more.

Now you are prepared to learn the Design, Function, and Repair of pistols, revolvers, rifles, shotguns, and rimfires. Bob’s exclusive teaching system uses one section to build on the next.   This same “building block” teaching method is continued throughout the entire course.

It is our belief that you can’t “fix it” unless you really understand how “it” works. Many so called “gunsmiths” simply throw new parts at a problem until they hope it is fixed. We teach the why and the how.  When you repair a gun, you will know you really fixed it.

COMPLETE TESTING AND CERTIFICATION:

As you complete the introduction to gunsmithing and each of the four sections (pistols and revolvers, shotguns, rifles, and rimfires) you will take a written multi-choice examination to test your knowledge. If you pass you will receive a handsome personalized certificate for that portion of the course. A certificate is given for each section. This certificate is more than a badge of honor. Many companies will allow our graduates access to restricted parts.

Included in the AGI Certified Professional Gunsmithing Level One Course:

  • Introduction to Professional Gunsmithing
  • Handgun - Pistol & Revolver Design, Function, & Repair
  • Shotgun Design, Function, and Repair
  • Rimfire Design, Function, and Repair
  • Rifle Design, Function, and Repair
  • The Money Makers
  • The Complete History of Smith & Wesson
  • Buying and Collecting Used Guns

Without Getting Burned

  • Professional Gun Cleaning Secrets
  • Super Tuning the Factory Rifle
  • Relining and Restoring .22 Barrels
  • Stock Refinishing
  • Building the M1-Garand from a Parts Kit
  • Glass Bedding for Accuracy
  • Gunsmithing FFL starter kit (Federal Firearms License)
  • Digital Schematics Reference Drive - 2000+ pages
  • Drill and Tap Chart

175 hours of Design, Function, and Repair instruction!

LEVEL ONE COURSE Student Tuition:  $5,997 plus s/h

See Enrollment Options
Payment Plans Available

Level 1 course modules

Introduction to Professional Gunsmithing – 5 Hours
You will learn all of the proper firearms nomenclature and parts identification, action types and designs, basic tools, shop set-up, safety, Gunsmithing approach to determining type of repairs required, how to study the Gunsmithing course and more. Includes testing and Certification.
Handgun – Pistol & Revolver Design, Function, and Repair – 35 Hours
Starting with the Classic 1911, .45 Auto pistol, Master Gunsmith Bob Dunlap teaches you Design, Function, and Repair (D, F, & R) of semi-auto pistols using cutaway firearms. Single Action Lock breech automatics to modern cam-lock double action pistols and straight blow-back autos are covered. Single action and Double action revolvers are covered in detail, including Smith & Wesson, Colt and Ruger firearms. Also covers all of the most popular makes and models representing tens of millions of commonly owned handguns. This is the bedrock D, F, & R training that will enable you to repair all of these handguns. Includes testing and Certification. Approximately 35 hours of instruction and demonstration.
Shotgun Design, Function, and Repair - 41 hours
From Single shot, double barrel, over-under, pump, lever action, to semi-auto numerous types of shotguns are covered in detail using cutaway firearms to explain all the internal operations. This is a comprehensive course on Shotgun Design, Function, and Repair. Within the semi-auto portion alone; Long recoil, Short recoil, Gas and Inertia operated shotguns are explained, along with how to diagnose and repair them. Includes testing and Certification. Approximately 41 hours of instruction and demonstration.
Rimfire Design, Function, and Repair - 27 hours
Rimfire firearms have certain design aspects that are unique to them and there are hundreds of variations on the how they operate. Systems taught include: Single Shot, Pump, Lever, Semi-Auto rifles including many exotic designs. Design, Function, and Repair of numerous different makes and models are explained in detail using cutaway firearms. Includes testing and Certification. Approximately 27 hours of instruction and demonstration.
Rifle Design, Function, and Repair - 44 hours
When working with high-pressure rifle cartridges, it is critical to under key concepts such as headspace and loose breech. In this section you will learn Design, Function, and Repair of modern and antique centerfire rifles. Including Falling Block, Rolling Block, Break-action, Lever Action, Pump and Semi-Auto. From 19th Century designs to Modern Sporting Rifles and Military style rifles are covered in detail using cutaway firearms to reveal all of the inner workings. Includes testing and Certification. Approximately 44 hours of instruction and demonstration.
The Money Makers - 4 hours
This course is designed to teach you how to do a number of frequently requested Gunsmithing repairs and other jobs, that you can do to start making money quickly. Approximately 4 hours of step-by-step, How-to instruction and demonstration by Master Gunsmith Bob Dunlap.
The Complete History of Smith & Wesson - 3.5 hours
As a Gunsmith you will want to know the history of firearms. S&W patented the first bored through cylinder and self-contained cartridge the .22 Short rimfire. From there this company has produced tens of millions of revolvers and pistols that Americans rely on every day for sport shooting, hunting and self-defense. AGI received unprecedented access to Roy Jinks, Smith & Wesson Historian. We interview him in Dan Wesson’s recreated office where he explained the company’s history and showed us rare firearms. Approximately 3.5 hours of education.
Buying & Collecting Used Guns Without Getting Burned - 2 hours
Master Gunsmith Darrell Holland shares with you his experience gleaned over 40 years of buying and selling firearms. How to determine a winner from a lemon and what to look for as the tell-tale signs that will help you avoid trouble or getting burned on a purchase. Approximately 2 hours of instruction.
Professional Gun Cleaning Secrets - 2 hours
Master Gunsmith Gene Shuey will explain how to properly clean; Pistols and Revolvers, Shotguns and Rifles along with providing you with an explanation of the various cleaning products and tools available. Approximately 2 hours of instruction.
Super Tuning the Factory Rifle - 3.5 hours
Master Gunsmith and acclaimed Custom Rifle Builder Darrell Holland will show you the steps you need to take to “Super Tune” a factory rifle to get more performance out of the firearm. This includes; bedding the action, lapping the action, tightening headspace, and numerous tips on squeezing more out of a standard production bolt-action rifle. Approximately 3.5 hours of instruction and demonstrations.
Relining and Restoring .22 Barrels - 2 hours
With older firearms that had corrosive ammunition fired through them or suffered neglect and ended up with a rough or corroded bore, the one way to restore it to proper shooting condition and accuracy is to “Reline” the barrel. This process used the original barrel, therefore retaining all of the original markings and finish. The barrel is bored oversize and a barrel liner is installed. This process has restored countless rimfire rifles and pistols along with other pistol caliber firearms. Master Gunsmith Ken Brooks teaches you this process step-by-step. Approximately 2 hours of instruction and demonstration.
Gunsmithing FFL (Federal Firearms License) starter kit
This Kit contains all the information and materials that you need to know and use to get your FFL (Federal Firearms License). Includes starter kit, forms, tags and more. Sent by mail after you enroll.
Digital Firearms Schematics Reference Drive - 2,000+ pages
The Digital Firearms Schematics Reference Drive contains over 2000 pages of firearms schematics and parts information in a convenient digital drive. Sent by mail after you enroll.
Drill and Tap Chart
This chart shows you the appropriate hole sizes and tap sizes for Gunsmithing work.
Stock Refinishing - 2 hours
Learn to restore and refinish gun stocks. Master Gunsmith Gene Shuey teaches you how to remove old finishes, repair cracks and dents in the wood, preserve the checkering and apply modern finishes to the stock. He also shows you the proper techniques for sanding and polishing which results in a beautiful looking stock. Approximately 2 hours of instruction and demonstration.
Building the M1-Garand from a Parts Kit - 2 hours
The classic M1 Garand from WWII is simply an iconic firearm. Hundreds of thousands have been acquired by American Shooters. Numerous part sets and receivers have also become available over the years, and many of these guns need to be totally rebuilt. This course, instructed by Master Armorer John Bush, will teach you to build or rebuild these rifles from parts. Approximately 2 hours of instruction and demonstration.
Glass Bedding for Accuracy - 2 hours
Custom Rifle Builder and Master Gunsmith Darrell Holland shows you the process from start to finish of how to properly bed a rifle using modern bedding compounds. Everything you need to know step-by-step to be able to offer this service to your customers. Approximately 2 hours of instruction and demonstration.
1 Year Silver Plus Membership in the Gunsmithing Club of America
Exclusive access to the GCA Gunsmithing membership website with Forums, ongoing training, Monthly GunTech Video Magazine, and access to an archive of hundreds of additional firearms disassembly and reassembly courses along with live monthly webcast meetings.

Compare Gunsmithing Course Levels

There are 4 levels of Certified Professional Gunsmithing courses available. Click The Button Below To Compare Course Contents

AGI Certified Gunsmithing Courses Comparison Chart:

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LEVEL ONE

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175 Hours Of Detailed Instructions!

LEVEL TWO

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255 Hours Of Detailed Instructions!

THE MASTER

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363 Hours Of Detailed Instructions!

ADVANCED MASTER

Learn More
574+ Hours Of Detailed Instructions!
Introduction to Professional Gunsmithing – 5 Hours
Handgun – Pistol & Revolver Design, Function, and Repair – 35 Hours
Shotgun Design, Function, and Repair - 41 hours
Rimfire Design, Function, and Repair - 27 hours
Rifle Design, Function, and Repair - 44 hours
The Money Makers - 4 hours
The Complete History of Smith & Wesson - 3.5 hours
Buying & Collecting Used Guns Without Getting Burned - 2 hours
Professional Gun Cleaning Secrets - 2 hours
Super Tuning the Factory Rifle - 3.5 hours
Relining and Restoring .22 Barrels - 2 hours
Gunsmithing FFL (Federal Firearms License) starter kit
Digital Firearms Schematics Reference Drive - 2,000+ pages
Drill and Tap Chart
Stock Refinishing - 2 hours
Building the M1-Garand from a Parts Kit - 2 hours
Glass Bedding for Accuracy - 2 hours
1 Year Silver Plus Membership in the Gunsmithing Club of America
AGI Certified Cowboy Action Armorer’s Course - 12 hours
Hands-On Vouchers - In the Classroom Training With an AGI Instructor
AGI Certified Machine Shop Course: Lathe, Mill, General - 30 hours
A Day at the Bench with Master Gunsmith Bob Dunlap – 4 Hours
Professional Metal Finishing & Hot Caustic Bluing - 4 hours
Advanced Trigger Jobs and Systems - 8 hours
Building the Custom Mauser Rifle - 8 hours
Classic Slow Rust and Nitre Bluing - 3.5 hours
Pillar Bedding for Accuracy - 2 hours
Selecting, Understanding, & Buying Rifle & Pistol Scopes - 2 hours
The Art of Making Flat Springs - 1 hour
How to Make Coil Springs - 1 hour
How to Case Harden Metal Parts - 1 hour
How to Heat Treat Carbon Steels - 1 hour
Heat Treat Temperature Guide for Carbon Steel
Custom Barreling Bolt Action Rifles - 2 hours
Business Success System Package - 18 hours
AGI Certified 1911 Pistolsmith Customizing Course - 27 hours
AGI Certified AR-15/M4 Riflesmith Customizing Course - 12 hours
AGI Certified Glocksmith Customizing Course - 17 hours
Bob Dunlap’s Gunsmithing History and Philosophy - 6 hours
AGI Certified Advanced Welding Course - 22 hours
Building the G3 from a Parts Kit - 1.5 hours
How to Rebarrel and Blueprint Military Bolt Action Rifles - 5 hours
Exclusive Gunsmithing Flat Rate Manual - How to Price Your Work
Marketing Manual - How To Market Your Business
Handgun Advanced Training Expansion Module - 36 Hours
Shotgun Advanced Training Expansion Module - 36 Hours
Rimfire Advanced Training Expansion Module - 15 Hours
Pivot Barrel, SS, O/U, SxS, Double Barrel Shotguns - 24 Hours
Complete Library of Armorer's Courses - 68 Titles - 100+ Hours
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LEVEL ONE

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LEVEL TWO

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THE MASTER

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ADVANCED MASTER

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Level 1 Enrollment Options

Paid In Full (DVD)

This course contains 175 hours of complete Design, Function, and Repair Gunsmithing training on DVD. For full details on course contents view the detailed course description dropdowns above.

For complete tuition details click the Enroll Now button and view the course enrollment agreement.

TOTAL TUITION: $5,997 plus shipping and handling
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12 Month Payment Plan (DVD)

This course contains 175 hours of complete Design, Function, and Repair Gunsmithing training on DVD. With the 12 month payment plan the course is divided into 12 monthly shipments which are sent out after each payment.

For full details on course contents view the detailed course description dropdowns above. For complete tuition details click the Enroll Now button and view the course enrollment agreement.

TOTAL TUITION: $6,537 (12 monthly payments of $554.75 including shipping and handling)
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Paid In Full (Online)

This course contains the same 175 hours of complete Design, Function, and Repair Gunsmithing training as the DVD-based program but is delivered through the AGI Online Student Portal.

The online program tuition includes two (2) years of online course access, additional access may be purchased for $197 per year thereafter.

For full details on course contents view the detailed course description dropdowns above. For complete tuition details click the Enroll Now button and view the course enrollment agreement.

TOTAL TUITION: $3,997
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$197 Per Month Payment Plan (25 Months Online)

This course contains the same 175 hours of complete Design, Function, and Repair Gunsmithing training as the DVD-based program but is delivered through the AGI Online Student Portal.

The online program tuition includes twenty-five (25) months of online course access with each month’s module of course content unlocked monthly after tuition payment, additional access may be purchased for $197 per year thereafter.

For full details on course contents view the detailed course description dropdowns above. For complete tuition details click the Enroll Now button and view the course enrollment agreement.

TOTAL TUITION: $4,925 (25 Monthly Payments of $197)
Enroll Now

What Our Students Have To Say

AGI has been a great experience so far. Proud to say my knowledge of firearms has expanded tremendously.

Jayden Drake
Pecan Gap, TX

My journey first stared with the Master Armorer Course which led to Level 1 Gunsmith Course. While studying Level 1 I followed the lessons to apply for my FFL and started a gunsmithing business. So far I have successfully utilized the material in the courses to repair all firearms brought into my business.

Rich Bryant
Cosby, TN

Hello, my name is Mike, I have had the opportunity to look at materials from a few different gunsmithing courses and the AGI course is by far the best that I have experienced with the professional gunsmiths doing the videos. The classrooms the in-depth gunsmithing of certain firearms is just amazing and this is by far the best course to get to become a professional gunsmith. I have enjoyed very much. The candor of some of the instructors in the course. It does make everything enjoyable. It helps you learn because you take away the certain things and the experiences of those instructors and you can apply them yourself and it has just been a wonderful experience taking the professional gunsmithing course with AGI.

Michael Happel
Floyds Knobs, IN

This is a fantastic program! I purchased a program about a year ago. I had a few issues in life happening and was unable to go through it. I now plan to start up again. What is nice about this program is that you can do it on YOUR time!

Daniel Iverson
Westby, WI

AGI has an incredible curriculum to follow and I’ve taken advantage of their knowledge transfer Courses as part of my gunsmith training. It’s not the big items and issues they cover but, the small hidden issue that are covered is what makes AGI second to none!!!

Daniel Pauley
Fairplay, CO

What a great school! The comprehensiveness of the curriculum is amazing. You don’t just learn Design, Function and repair of enormous amounts of firearm systems, you get the whole kit and kaboodle regarding the business end of it. The instruction and coaching from the gunsmithing gurus in the business is absolutely invaluable! The AGI folks are very creative in presenting ideas on how to make money while your FFL is in process, or if you are limited in space or equipment, the collaborative nature of Gene Kelly and his program gives you a huge advantage to starting a successful business. I have gotten my FFL and have been able to gain good paying with which I am capable while learning in the program. I have also been able to off shoot a ski and snowboard tuning and repair business. The concepts I have learned through the fine folks at AGI have given me the skills, have motivated and enabled me to make this happen! Aaron Dailey – Aaron’s Adventuresmith, LLC

Aaron Dailey
White Rock, NM

Received my Master Gunsmith certification in about a year on my own time. The videos are very straightforward and to the point, with enough humor and real life commentary to maintain your interest. I am confident that I will have the skills necessary to complete the majority of repairs that come my way. AGI delivered on their promise and I would recommend their courses to anyone interested in the firearm repair/manufacturing industry. Thank you AGI!

Royce Philpott
Belgrade, MT

I completed the Master Gunsmith course a few months ago and opened my “retirement” shop.
I thought I knew something about guns after competing in rifle and pistol matches for over 30 years, Law Enforcement Officer over 25 years, and fixing my own guns. That was farther from the truth. The information and combined knowledge presented by all of the instructors “blew me away” is an understatement! When I opened my shop, I had the knowledge, confidence, training, and understanding given by AGI to be able to tackle that first scope mounting up to doing a complete restoration of a customer’s “grand-daddy’s shotgun”. Knowing I also have the GCA disassembly/assembly videos and Ken’s “Over the Shoulder” videos, helps if I need a refresher on something I almost forgot, (like putting the cocking lever spring OVER the sear spring) on a Stevens Model 311.
I now have Insurance agents request I become a Certified Appraiser, so I just enrolled in that course. They are going to start holding orders for me BEFORE I’ve even received the course!
My wife is now getting annoyed at me because I’m “always working out in the shop, and now you’re going to do Appraisals”. Guns have always been a passion of mine, and AGI is letting me live a dream of tinkering with guns, AND GETTING PAID FOR IT! So much for retirement…
I wish I had done this years ago!
Any time I’ve had to call AGI with questions about testing, signing on to an area, enrolling, etc., Marcus and Chris have always been extremely helpful and friendly to talk with.
Thank you AGI/GCA, for giving me the skills to do what I love doing.

Allan Cameron
Battle Born Gunsmithing

Allan Cameron
Purvis, MS

This is without a doubt the most intense course I have ever taken. The classes are very well put together and Robert Bob Dunlap is the master instructor. The student advisors are there with you every step of the way. My hats off to everyone at AGI for helping me to start to fulfill a dream. I am looking forward to opening my own gunsmithing shop here in Carlsbad, New Mexico.

John Smith
Carlsbad, New Mexico

I love AGI training videos and professional courses. The instructors are awesome and the material is very informative. Thanks a ton!

Kurt Blackburn
Blanding, UT
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WHAT OUR STUDENTS HAVE TO SAY

“Good Thing he had a Plan ‘B’ !”

How gunsmithing helped my finances

JR Pannell

All AGI Courses ARE taught by MAster GUNSMITHS

AGI Instructors are all professional gunsmiths & experts in their fields with over 500 years of combined experience in gunsmithing.
Instructor Image

Gene Kelly

Founder & President | Gunsmithing Instructor

Gene Kelly, Founder and President of the American Gunsmithing Institute, studied under and worked directly for Master Gunsmith Bob Dunlap and is a graduate of Lassen College Gunsmithing School. Gene has been Gunsmithing for over forty years, is a recognized and often quoted expert on firearms and is a licensed Class 2 Manufacturer. In addition, Mr. Kelly is an international consultant on security related issues and coaches Gunsmiths and FFL dealers on how to maximize their income.

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Robert “Bob” Dunlap

Master Gunsmith | Senior Gunsmithing Instructor Emeritus

Bob Dunlap, Master Gunsmith and Senior Instructor Emeritus, spent over thirty years teaching Gunsmithing at Lassen College Gunsmithing School while concurrently operating a full service Gunsmithing Shop with up to 6 full time Gunsmiths working for him. His Gunsmithing business was a warranty station for many of the largest firearms manufacturers including; Colt, Browning, Remington and more than a dozen others. Bob is credited with creating the Design, Function and Repair system of Gunsmithing training.

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Darrel Holland

Master Gunsmith | Gunsmithing and Machining Instructor

Darrell Holland is a Master Gunsmith and renowned rifle builder for long range shooting and hunting. In addition to teaching the complete Machine Shop course, Darrell has taught many of AGI’s rifle building and accuracy enhancement courses. Darrell has traveled the world as a hunter and shooting instructor and has created a shooting school in Montana specifically designed for training individuals on how to make the perfect shot when hunting for that once in a lifetime trophy.  Darrell has also designed dozens of products for hunting and Gunsmithing and holds numerous patents.

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Gene Shuey

Master Gunsmith | Gunsmithing Instructor

Gene Shuey is a Master Gunsmith who not only studied under storied Masters including Armon Swensen, but was an original member of the “Thunder Slap” and “Practical Shooting Federation” the predecessor to IPSC. Jeff Cooper was a lifelong friend and associate of Mr. Shuey. Mr. Shuey builds beautiful custom 1911 pistols and Glocks that are truly “Functional Art.” He is also a Master of old school finishes and firearm restoration. He instructs the AGI Certified 1911 Pistolsmith and AGI Certified Glocksmith Courses as well as multiple other courses. In his younger days Gene Shuey won the Mr. America body building contest and served as a U.S. Marine.

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Ken Brooks

Master Gunsmith | Senior Gunsmithing Instructor

Ken Brooks is a Master Gunsmith, a graduate of Lassen College Gunsmithing School were he was mentored by Master Gunsmith Bob Dunlap, an then later worked with him as a fellow instructor. Ken also worked in Bob’s Gunsmithing Shop for over 20 years where he eventually took over the business known as Pacific International Service Company. Ken has instructed numerous courses including Armorer’s Courses, and other Gunsmithing courses such as AGI’s Advanced Course on Extractors and Ejectors.

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John Bush

Master Armorer | Gunsmithing Instructor

John Bush is a Master Armorer and renowned expert on U.S. and Foreign Military firearms. His vast knowledge is an incredible resource and he has taught AGI courses on Building AKS rifles from a parts kits, rebuilding the M1 Garand, along with Armorer Courses and a Gunsmithing Club of America favorite video segment “In the War Room”.  He is one of the few people we know of who can have a box of miscellaneous firearm parts dumped in front of him and he can identify what the part is, what firearm it is from, and what country or factory made them!