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Gunsmith Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Gunsmith information

See California salary details

$14

$24

$31

How much do gunsmith jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for gunsmith in California is $24.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $29.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Gunsmiths typically do not earn $4,000 a week without extensive experience or a high level of skill. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree include certain sales roles, specialized trades like commercial pilot or real estate broker, and entrepreneurial ventures such as starting a business or freelance work in skilled trades. Success in these fields often depends on experience, reputation, and performance rather than formal education.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Gunsmiths typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized surgeons, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, certifications, or ownership of a business. Most gunsmiths earn a moderate income, with top professionals possibly earning six figures with extensive experience or a large client base.

What is a gunsmith?

A gunsmith is a skilled tradesperson who designs, builds, repairs, modifies, and maintains firearms. Their work involves tasks such as cleaning, inspecting, and restoring guns, as well as fabricating or fitting custom parts. Gunsmiths use specialized tools and machinery to ensure firearms function safely and accurately. They may work in gun shops, for manufacturers, or be self-employed, and are knowledgeable about firearm laws and safe handling practices.

What Is a Gunsmith?

A Gunsmith builds, repairs, and maintains various types of firearms. As a Gunsmith, your responsibilities and duties include assembling and calibrating firearms, maintaining and repairing them, and following safety protocols. You may also customize a client’s pieces by engraving or modifying the weapon. Gunsmiths must comply with applicable federal and state laws.

What is the difference between Gunsmith vs Armorer?

AspectGunsmithArmorer
CredentialsOften requires gunsmithing certifications or technical trainingMay require similar certifications, especially for military or law enforcement armorers
Work EnvironmentCustom workshops, firearm manufacturing or repair shopsMilitary, law enforcement facilities, or specialized repair shops
Industry UsageFirearm repair, customization, and restorationMaintaining, repairing, and assembling firearms for organizations

Gunsmiths and armorers both work with firearms, but gunsmiths focus on customizing, repairing, and restoring firearms for civilian clients, while armorers primarily maintain and repair firearms for military or law enforcement agencies. Although their skills overlap, their work environments and client bases differ significantly.

How hard is it to become a gunsmith?

Becoming a gunsmith typically requires technical training through vocational schools, apprenticeships, or on-the-job experience, along with knowledge of firearm mechanics and safety standards. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and strong mechanical skills are essential for success in the field.

What are some common challenges a gunsmith may face when working with vintage or antique firearms?

Gunsmiths often encounter unique challenges when repairing or restoring vintage or antique firearms, such as sourcing rare or obsolete parts and ensuring historical accuracy. These projects may require custom fabrication and a deep understanding of older manufacturing techniques. Attention to detail is critical, as even minor mistakes can affect the firearm's value or functionality. Patience and strong research skills are essential for overcoming these challenges while upholding safety and quality standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Gunsmith, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Gunsmith, you need a solid understanding of firearm mechanics, ballistics, metalworking, and woodworking, often supported by formal training or certification in gunsmithing. Experience with specialized tools such as lathes, milling machines, and diagnostic equipment, as well as knowledge of safety and compliance regulations, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and strong customer service abilities help distinguish top professionals in the field. These competencies ensure that firearms are safely repaired, customized, and maintained to the highest standards for clients and regulatory requirements.

Do gunsmiths make money?

Gunsmiths can earn varying incomes depending on experience, location, and whether they work independently or for a company. On average, they earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, with skilled professionals or those running their own shops potentially earning more. Income may also be influenced by certifications, specialized skills, and the demand for firearm repairs and customization.
What are the most commonly searched types of Gunsmith jobs in California? The most popular types of Gunsmith jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Gunsmith jobs in California? For Gunsmith jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Gunsmith jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Gunsmith jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Gunsmith jobs? Cities in California with the most Gunsmith job openings:
Infographic showing various Gunsmith job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,277 per year, or $24.2 per hour.
Gunsmith II (Fort Hunter Liggett, CA)

Gunsmith II (Fort Hunter Liggett, CA)

PD Systems LLC

Jolon, CA • On-site

$34.69/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Gunsmith II
Location: Ft. Hunter Liggett, CA
Pay Rate: $34.69
In addition to performing all functions of Level I Gunsmith, the Level II Gunsmith usually requires attendance at factory Armorer's courses of small arms in the arms room inventory, performs major repairs on foreign and domestic standard and non-standard small arms weapons, can build either custom pistols or rifles with little or no supervision, possesses excellent knowledge of gun-smith tools and procedures, and possesses moderate knowledge of firearms operating principles and ballistics. This worker has a thorough understanding of firearm operation principles, has a moderate knowledge of internal/external ballistic theories, can fabricate special jigs, fixtures and other special tooling with some supervision, can read and understand blueprint drawings, and can work from those drawings under direct supervision. The Gunsmith II can perform as primary instructor on most standard and non-standard small arms weapon systems. This position may require computer literacy.
PD Systems is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind.
Employment decisions at PD Systems are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

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About Pd Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

Year founded

2007