So you’ve become comfortable with your guns and have decided you are going to work on them? Well good on you! I strongly encourage all shooters and gun owners to work on their own guns. It’ll save you money, you’ll learn more, and you can rest assured you gun has been properly service. With that said, you’re going to need some gunsmithing tools to get you going and I’m going to give you the essentials.
Table of Contents
- Importance of Gunsmithing Tools
- Overview of Key Gunsmithing Tasks
- Screwdrivers
- Hex/Allen Key Wrench Set
- Punches
- Brass Hammer
- Threadlocker
- Final Thoughts
Importance of Gunsmithing Tools
Imagine trying to build a house without the necessary tools—a hammer, saw, or nails. It would be a futile endeavor. Similarly, gunsmithing without the right tools is a daunting and potentially dangerous task. Gunsmithing tools are not just accessories; they are the very foundation upon which you can craft, repair, and maintain firearms with precision, safety, and efficiency.
Whether you’re disassembling a pistol for a deep cleaning, fitting a custom barrel to your rifle, or adjusting the trigger pull on a shotgun, having the right tools can mean the difference between success and frustration. These tools are the hands of a gunsmith, enabling them to breathe life into firearms, ensuring they function flawlessly, and even enhancing their performance.
Overview of Key Gunsmithing Tasks
To appreciate the significance of gunsmithing tools, it’s crucial to understand the diverse tasks that a gunsmith undertakes. Gunsmiths are responsible for a wide range of activities, including:
- Firearm Assembly and Disassembly: This includes taking firearms apart for maintenance, repairs, or customization, as well as putting them back together correctly.
- Barrel Work: Gunsmiths may replace, re-chamber, or re-crown barrels to improve accuracy and performance.
- Stock Work: Customizing or repairing firearm stocks, whether for aesthetics or ergonomics, is a common task.
- Trigger Work: Adjusting trigger pulls, improving trigger feel, and ensuring proper sear engagement are essential for firearm safety and accuracy.
- Sight Installation: Mounting and aligning sights, scopes, or optics is vital for accurate shooting.
- Headspacing and Chambering: Ensuring proper headspace is crucial for safety and functionality.
- Recoil Pad Installation: Adding or replacing recoil pads on stocks to reduce felt recoil.
- Machining and Fabrication: Gunsmiths may need to machine custom parts or fabricate components to fit specific firearm needs.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Proper cleaning and maintenance are fundamental to firearm longevity and reliability.
As you can see, the world of gunsmithing is multifaceted and demands precision and skill. The right gunsmithing tools are the means by which these tasks are accomplished successfully, making them indispensable to anyone who is serious about working on firearms.
Screwdrivers
This is the most fundamental gunsmithing tool! Your best bet is to get a nice multi-purpose one with various heads. I keep a dedicated gunsmithing set in my gunsmith tool box.
Hex/Allen Key Wrench Set
On any gun you’ll find either hex or allen key patterns on the screws so I highly recommend you pick up a set of these.
Punches
Punches are essential to get out the pins that hold pretty much every type of gun together. I strongly recommend you get brass punches as brass won’t mar up your gun.
Brass Hammer
To put those punches to work you’re going to need a hammer and like the punches you should use a brass hammer. Most of the gunsmithing hammers will have interchangeable heads which is nice depending on what you are working on.
Threadlocker
Due to the nature of guns and the amount of stress that is placed on them during the course of fire, some screws will start to pop out. You can retighten things but I recommend getting some threadlocker and utilizing it to keep the screws in. Make sure you pay attention to what you are buying, as there are different versions which are less permanent than others.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a hobbyist or aspiring to become a professional gunsmith, the tools you choose and how you use them will play a pivotal role in your journey. Embrace the craft, invest in quality, and keep your passion for firearms alive. With dedication and the right tools in hand, you’re poised for a fulfilling and successful future in gunsmithing.
Enjoy working on your guns!
