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Gunsmith Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Gunsmith information

See Colorado salary details

$15

$25

$33

How much do gunsmith jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for gunsmith in Colorado is $25.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $31.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 also depends on their craftsmanship, reputation, and the demand for firearm repairs and customization.

Is there a high demand for gunsmiths?

Gunsmiths are in moderate demand, with employment opportunities often tied to firearm sales, hunting seasons, and firearm customization. Skilled gunsmiths with certifications and experience in repair, restoration, and customization are more likely to find steady work, especially in regions with active shooting sports and firearm enthusiasts.

What are the most commonly searched types of Gunsmith jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Gunsmith jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Gunsmith jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Gunsmith job openings:

Infographic showing various Gunsmith job openings in Colorado as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,568 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

General Maintenance Worker (GSE/Small Arms)

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

Akima, LLC
Specialty Trade Contractors • 5 - 10K employees

$16.75 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Akima rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

AFO is looking for a General Maintenance Technician to work in Colorado Springs, CO. Apply today!
This position serves as a multi-disciplined General Maintenance Technician responsible for field- and sustainment-level maintenance, inspection, and repair of Small Arms Weapons Systems, Night Vision Devices (NVDs), Tactical Communications Electronics, as well as providing operational assistance and maintenance support as a Ground Support Helper.
In the weapons domain, the position requires the equivalent of a formal one- to two-year accredited gunsmithing course or prior service as a gunsmith technician / 91F Small Arms/Towed Artillery Repairer. The incumbent possesses an expert understanding of internal, external, and terminal ballistics with zero supervision.
The technician maintains, repairs, troubleshoots, and installs various electronic systems, including transmitting/receiving equipment (radio, telecommunications, navigational aids), computing terminals, and measuring/controlling devices. They apply technical knowledge of electronics principles, schematics, and manufacturer manuals to diagnose malfunctions and restore systems to optimal operational status.
In the Ground Support role, the technician functions as a Ground Support Helper, assisting senior mechanics and technicians with scheduled maintenance, servicing, staging, marshaling, and basic troubleshooting of ground support equipment (GSE), power generation units, and material handling assets.
The technician works under immediate supervision for complex electronic tasks, receiving technical guidance as required from senior electronics technicians or supervisors.
Responsibilities
  • Serves as the primary Journeyman repairer for all small arms, including pistols, rifles, shotguns, carbines, grenade launchers, submachine guns, mortars, cannons, howitzers, and associated mounts, tripods, and tactical accessories.
  • Performs initial acceptance inspections, complete disassembly, and thorough inspections using visual gauges and specialized testing. Replaces worn, broken, or obsolete parts per technical manuals, manufacturer specifications, and Department of the Army (DA) Modification Work Orders (MWOs).
  • Conducts specialized borescope and pullover inspections on M1A2, M109A6, and other heavy cannon equipment, meticulously documenting findings on DA Form 2408-4.
  • Diagnoses and isolates electronic malfunctions using Test, Measurement, and Diagnostic Equipment (TMDE) such as multimeters, signal generators, semiconductor testers, voltmeters, and oscilloscopes.
  • Replace defective electronic components/wiring; adjusts mechanical and electronic assemblies using soldering/desoldering stations, hand tools, and alignment jigs. Calibrates control systems to exact technical tolerances.
  • Assists with preventive maintenance checks and services (PMCS), fluid servicing, battery maintenance, staging, and operational support on ground support equipment (GSE), mobile power carts, generators, and auxiliary ground units.
  • Maintains physical vault security, chain-of-custody documentation, and strict inventory control for weapons, ammunition, sensitive items, and repair parts per military regulations.
  • Maintains detailed, accurate maintenance logs, work orders, inspection sheets, calibration records, and man-hour expenditures.
  • Performs other assigned duties, providing continuous operational support to the Ground Support Equipment section during downtimes and surge requirements.

Qualifications
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Must have a security clearance or able to obtain one (Preference will be given to those with an active clearance).
  • Education: High School graduate or equivalent.
  • Formal military or civilian training in small arms repair specific to 45/91F series.
  • Experience: Two years administrative experience with some knowledge of military operations and schedules.
  • Must have good oral and written communication skills.
  • Must also possess a working knowledge of office tools/programs.

Job ID
2026-25673
Work Type
On-Site
Pay Range
23.63
Health & Welfare
5.09
Benefits
SCA - The company offers a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) and a range of other voluntary benefits. Vacation, holiday and sick Leave offered will be as defined under the DOL's Wage Determination.
Company Description
Work Where it Matters
Akima Facilities Operations (AFO), an Akima company, is not just another federal facilities contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska.
At AFO, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States.
For our shareholders, AFO provides support and employment opportunities and contributes to the survival of a culture that has thrived above the Arctic Circle for more than 10,000 years.
For our government customers, AFO sustains mission readiness and ensures quality of life by maintaining high value assets and operations at peak performance and successfully manages these operations through accurately forecasting, managing, and aggressively controlling costs.
As an AFO employee, you will be surrounded by a challenging, yet supportive work environment that is committed to innovation and diversity, two of our most important values. You will also have access to our comprehensive benefits and competitive pay in addition to growth opportunities and excellent retirement options.

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About Akima

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As an Alaska Native Corporation headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, Akima is dedicated to delivering superior outcomes for our customers’ missions while simultaneously creating a long-lived asset for our Iñupiat shareholders. Akima maintains a portfolio of small businesses, 8(a) companies, and operating companies that deliver simplified and accelerated access to the products and services agencies need to ensure mission success.

Industry

Specialty trade contractors

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

1995

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