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This certificate will introduce the novice gunsmith to the hand tools, blueprint reading skills, schematic understanding, basic machine tool operations and the nomenclature used in Gunsmithing. Emphasis is placed on safety in the shop environment and the completion of Gunsmithing related projects from blueprints using hand and machine tools. Upon completion, students should be able to read and work from blueprints and schematics using hand and basic machine tool setups. During the hands-on shop class, the student will also be working on a final project that will be completed in the second semester of the certificate program.

Students enrolling in this program will be required to undergo a criminal background check before enrolling.

Advisement Information

• This program is offered in day and evening formats.

• Students must complete the Introduction to Gunsmithing certificate before eligible to sign up for the Advanced Gunsmithing certificate program.

• A SLED background check is required before taking the first GSM prefix course, GSM 101. A concealed weapon permit (CWP) can be used in lieu of the background check if it is up to date and for the state of South Carolina.

• Students are not required to take the placement test to enter this program if they have a high school diploma or GED.  However, a placement test is required to prove ability to benefit for Pell funding if a student is a high school non-graduate.

• Students will gain skills to build a black powder musket or pistol.

• Students should expect to purchase various types of gunsmith and machine shop tooling. Approximate cost would be $300, but this will be up to the student and not a requirement.

• Safety glasses are required in the shop areas.

• Students should expect to spend $300-400 for the materials used to build their shop project. Each student will build a personal black powder pistol, rifle or shotgun.

• Students who enter during the fall semester will sign up for the classes listed in the catalog for the fall. Students who enter during the spring semester will enroll in the classes listed in the catalog for the spring.

• Gunsmithing students are encouraged to take the Machine Tool courses offered during the summer term if possible.

• The gunsmithing student may be eligible to receive an Associate Degree in Occupational Technology with a major in General Technology if that student:

          Completes both certificates in Gunsmithing
          Completes 12 hrs. of Machine Tool courses
          Completes the required 15 hrs. of General Education courses

• Note to enrollment advisors: please have the student meet with the Gunsmithing Department Head as soon as possible.