WEEK ONE
June 2-6 Introduction to Gunsmithing:
This course will cover operational theory, disassembly and assembly, proper use of hand tools and precision measuring instruments, and an introduction to basic bench work of the gunsmithing trade. Consideration will be given to minor gun repair and the installation of firearm accessories. A brief study of Federal Firearm Law and record keeping will be included.
Dave Nolan, Instructor $300
June 2-6 Basic Machine Shop:
This class offers instruction and hands-on experience in machine tool operation. Students will gain experience with the metalworking lathe, and milling machine in the manufacture of parts and tools. Enrollment is limited to 15 students.
Keith Gipson, Instructor $300
June 2-6 Hand Cut Engraving:
This course will cover basic concepts and skills related to hammer and chisel engraving techniques. The following topics will be covered: history of engraving, pattern theory, designing patterns, transfer methods, and cutting techniques.
Mike Pierson, Instructor $300
WEEK TWO
June 9-13 Advanced Machine Shop:
This course will provide further instruction and practice on machine tool operation. The students will be instructed in rifle barrel re-barreling techniques as well as some advanced machine shop operations. Projects will vary according to individual interests. Enrollment is limited to 15 students. PREREQUISITE: Basic machine shop or consent of instructor. Keith Gipson, Instructor $300
June 9-13 Sporterizing Military Bolt Actions:
Course topic include bolt handle alterations, low safety modifications, drilling and tapping for scope mounts, trigger installations, magazine and feeding problems and other modifications. Dave Nolan, Instructor $300
June 9-13 Stock Refinishing:
This course will aid the occasional gun mechanic or professional shop alike. Will include instruction on stripping old finish, making minor repairs, freshening up oil soaked stocks and what to use when applying the new finish. Note: This class will stress refinishing old stocks. Not applying finish on new stocks. With resources and experience from America’s premier gunsmith supply house.
Dave Bennetts of Brownells, Instructor $300
WEEK THREE
June 16-20 Bullet Making - Precision Reloading:
For those who wish to take the next step up from standard reloading practices, Speedy Gonzalez will take you into the realm of precision reloading and custom die making. The class will consist of advanced reloading theory and applications, lesson on the “expanding up” principals of bullet swaging, the proper use of “neck turning” equipment and case preparation and machining custom precision resizing & bullet seating dies as well as seating depth gages and flash hole reamers.
Speedy Gonzalez, Instructor $300
June 16-20 Stockmaking, Week One:
This two week course is designed to introduce the participant to custom stockmaking. Different types of gunstock woods, layout, inletting, shaping and finishing will be covered. Hands on experience is emphasized. Expect to see a lot of walnut chips on the floor.
Chuck Grace, Instructor $300 or $600 for two weeks.
WEEK FOUR
June 23-27 Action Blueprinting & Riflesmithing:
Share in the secrets of what it takes to build a rifle capable of competing at “world class” levels and apply those techniques to the modern hunting, varmint, or competition rifles. The class delves deep into some of the fine details that make the difference between occasional accuracy and “consistent” deliverable accuracy and how to maintain it. This class will cover Action Blueprinting secrets, Principals of Benchrest Barrel fitting and crowning. Precision scope mounting methods, bedding techniques, and mathematical formulas to insure repeatability at the machine. Plus Q&A sessions on accuracy related subjects. Bring your own actions and barrels to work on.
Speedy Gonzalez, Instructor $300
June 23-27 Stockmaking (2nd week) Chuck Grace
This is the second week of the stockmaking class described previously.
Chuck Grace, Instructor $300 or $600 for two weeks.
June 23-27 Air-Power Engraving:
This one week course will teach basic engraving for gun and non-gun work. Participants will learn the art of engraving using the latest air powered equipment and techniques from a certified professional engraver of FEGA ( firearms engravers guild of America) Note: This class will stress use of power engraving tools. All tools and materials supplied.
Rex Pedersen, Instructor $730
June 23-27 Custom Riflesmithing
A Single Shot Seminar:
This is an advanced course in BEST QUALITY custom metalsmithing of single shot rifles. Prerequisites: Experience in gunsmithing and machining, especially lathe operation. Emphasis on Martini Cadet and Winchester 1885. The bulk of the time will be in lecture with some shop time in the evenings if possible. Bring your actions and barrels, but do not expect to complete a rifle in five short days.
Bob Snapp, Instructor $300
WEEK FIVE
June 30-July 4 Welding for Gunsmiths:
This course will introduce the student to various welding practices through hands-on instruction. Topics include: basic safety, oxyacetylene, cutting and brazing techniques, Gas Metal Arc Welding (MIG), Gas Tungsten Welding (TIG), fabrication and repair of small metal fixtures and parts relating to the gunsmith industry will be included.
Vern Paulson, Instructor $300
June 30-July 4 Checkering:
Course includes pattern design and lay out, scribing, pattern transfer, checkering techniques, and finishing. Also instruction on the use of the latest hand and power tools is provided.
Chuck Grace, Instructor $300
June 30-July 4 Taming a Wildcat:
The process of designing and testing a wildcat cartridge will be covered in detail. Tool design, simple tools for experimenting and testing new cartridge design. Specialized tooling and reloading dies will be constructed in class. Each student will design a cartridge, fabricate tools, form & trim dies, and form brass for their cartridge in class. If time permits, we will test the wildcats.
Fred Zeglan, Instructor $300
June 30-July 4 Service Rifles:
This class will take a look at the three main U.S. service rifles of modern times. The M1, M1A and the AR 15. Repair, maintenance, and accuracy modifications will be discussed and demonstrated. Bring your own rifles to work on.
Harold Thomason, Instructor $300
WEEK SIX
July 7-11 Action Blueprinting & Riflesmithing:
Share in the secrets of what it takes to build a rifle capable of competing at “world class” levels and apply those techniques to the modern hunting, varmint, or competition rifles. The class delves deep into some of the fine details that make the difference between occasional accuracy and “consistent” deliverable accuracy and how to maintain it. This class will cover Action Blueprinting secrets, Principals of Benchrest Barrel fitting and crowning. Precision scope mounting methods, bedding techniques, and mathematical formulas to insure repeatability at the machine. Plus Q&A sessions on accuracy related subjects. Bring your own actions and barrels to work on.
Speedy Gonzalez, Instructor $300
July 7-11 Double Guns: Week One
This course will cover work on high grade double guns, including regulating triggers, repairing locks and restoring guns to safe condition. Resetting sprung ribs and tightening loose actions will also be discussed. Students will bring their own guns to work on. Enrollment limited to 12 students. Prerequisite: Machine shop or consent of instructor.
Dennis Potter, Instructor $300 (or $600 for two weeks)
July 7-11 Gun Repair:
This course provides practical hands-on study of common gun malfunctions and repair procedures; including disassembly, assembly, parts fitting, and function testing of firearms. Students should bring their own firearms to work on.
Keith Gipson, Instructor $300
WEEK SEVEN
July 14-18 1911 Handguns:
The 1911 is the “Army” .45 caliber, semi-automatic pistol developed by John Browning. This class will address the general fit and function of the 1911. More advanced techniques will also be covered such as slide tightening, fitting oversized bushings, new barrels and sights.
Paul Malochleb, Instructor $300
July 14-18 Bluing:
This course includes instruction and hands on training in metal preparation, hot bluing, nitre bluing, Parkerizing and spray on finishes. Students should supply their own firearms or parts to work on.
Dave Bennetts and the Brownells staff $300
July 14-18 Double Guns: Week two
This will be the continuation of the shotgun course of the previous week.
Dennis Potter, Instructor $300 (or $600 for two weeks)
July 14-18 Tools & Fixtures:
This one week machine shop course covers the making of various specialized tools and fixtures used in the gun shop. Projects will vary depending on the requirements of the individual student and the types of firearms they wish to work on. Enrollment limited to 15 students. Prerequisite: Basis Machine shop.
Keith Gipson, Instructor $300
WEEK EIGHT
July 21-25 Double Action Revolvers:
This course will cover nomenclature, cycling, tuning, assembly-disassembly as well as common malfunctions of popular double action handguns. Fitting of after-market barrels, compensators, sights and other accessories will be demonstrated. Students must bring their own handguns to work on.
Paul Malochleb, Instructor $300
July 21-25 NRA Lab & Independent Study:
This is a continuation of last year’s Alumni class. If you have a special project that doesn’t really fit any of our scheduled classes or if our schedule does not match yours, an independent study segment may be the answer. The independent Study option provides an opportunity to custom design your own gunsmithing class to fit your schedule. There are, of course, some restrictions. So if you are interested, please contact us and we will do our best tom accommodate your project and schedule.
Dave Nolan, Instructor $300
July 21-25 Custom Rifle Barrel with Integral Features:
The student will produce a custom barrel with integral rear sight, sling swivel base and front sight ramp, using basic machine shop tooling. It is recommended the student purchase a barrel in advance, with the integral lumps pre-turned on the barrel. This will allow the student to finish the course with a completed project. Barrels available with registration.
Clayton Nelson, Instructor $300
|
