• Custom builder/designers build guns for professional shooters. This work involves building guns to customer specification from raw materials and parts. This is probably the most highly skilled gunsmithing specialization, and requires education in machining as well as high proficiency in other areas of gunsmithing. 
• Finishers apply chemical processing to the metal parts of the gun to create corrosion resistant steel. The outcome of this process is the mottled "tempering colors" of the gun, which is valued for aesthetic purposes. 
• Stockmakers use saws, chisels, gouges, rasps, and files to carve gun stocks from different woods, and fits stocks to the metal parts of the gun. Oftentimes, the stockmaker also works as the checkerer, who uses checkering tools to create the diamond pattern commonly seen on wooden parts of a gun meant for gripping. 
• Gun engravers use hand-held tools, die-sinker's chisels, or pneumatically driven engraving systems to etch designs into the metal surfaces of a gun. This is done for artistic reasons.
• Pistolsmiths work on pistols and revolvers. Typically, pistolsmiths are proficient in all specialized areas, and are also called upon to make poorly made handguns more functional. 

• Certificate: 1 week to 1 year to complete
• Associate Degree: 2 years to complete
• Trade School Diploma: 1.5 years to complete

The purpose of gunsmithing programs is to prepare students for entry-level positions in the trade. Trade schools offer classes in gunsmithing operations and business practices. This degree will not have the typical general college courses such as math, writing, or English, and similarly omits the electives commonly required when earning an associate degree. Diploma programs do not require the courses traditionally mandated in a liberal arts degree program. Courses in gunsmithing are taught within a practical setting. As a result, students receive hands-on experience with real firearms, tools, and materials from these programs. The student will have to purchase some materials for in-class use, but many tools purchased in furtherance of the degree will be useful in the gunsmith's future workplace. There may also be laboratory fees. Some tools and materials the gunsmith student may need include a composite rifle stock, custom barrels, sanding belts, a semi-automatic pistol, specific screwdriver set (Brownell's), and wood chisels.

The licensing requirements for those who wish to work professionally with firearms are extensive. You will likely need a Federal Firearms License (FFL) from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). This process involves completing a lengthy application form, which covers military service, immigration status, and criminal history, paying a fee, furnishing fingerprints, and a background check. In addition to the FFL, the ATF requires gunsmiths to have a dealer's license if the gunsmith plans on modifying firearms. If the gunsmith plans on manufacturing or selling firearms, the FFL free increases according to the danger associated with the firearms being manufactured or sold. In addition to the rules of the ATF, states have specific conditions for gunsmiths. For more information, contact your state police department, state department of licensing, state department of justice, or local law enforcement agency.

Gunsmithing has a long history in the world and in the United States. Therefore, many students who are seeking degrees in gunsmithing begin their course of study with a class that explores the history of the profession, including how guns were made by hand and how the Industrial Revolution changed the gunsmithing process. Gunsmithing students usually have knowledge of the different types of guns available to consumers before they begin studying, but a class that introduces students to different types of guns will probably be required anyway.

The majority of a gunsmithing student's classes will be practical in nature and will serve to introduce them to the field. For example, they will take a course in gun manufacturing, learning how different parts of a gun to fit together. Such a course will probably include practical training. Similarly, a class that teaches students how to fix guns will probably also include a practical training component. Some gunsmithing courses will offer students a chance to take a business course that deals with the production and sale of guns. Students will learn financial and legal aspects of gun sales.

In most cases, yes, students of gunsmithing will be required to complete some on-site training. Students who are studying gunsmithing need to develop practical, hands-on, manufacturing skills, which usually requires that students spend some time in a classroom. Still, there are some gunsmithing degree programs online that take place entirely online.

There are some programs available that lead to degrees in industrial engineering. Though not as specific a degree as gunsmithing, graduates of such a degree program can lead to similar gunsmithing careers. Industrial engineering students will study a variety of engineering particulars. Industrial design careers can also be similar to gunsmithing careers. Those who are specifically interested in designing guns can benefit from the wide array of skills they will develop in such a program. Finally, a degree in business can be beneficial for those who are interested in gunsmithing, as they will ultimately have to operate within a financially driven industry.