This A.A.S. degree in General Technology with a concentration in Gunsmithing provides additional training for students desiring to either own their own business or gain employment with a major firearm manufacturer. Students desiring to start their own business can receive additional education and training by enrolling in the Entrepreneur program. Those students who would like to work for a major manufacturer can enroll in the Machine Tool or Welding program. In any of the degree programs, students receive an additional 12 hours of focused material along with the 5 general education courses and courses within the Gunsmithing curriculum. In the Introduction to Gunsmithing section students receive training in basic hand tools, blueprint reading, precision instrument usage/reading, stock refinishing, metal treatment, cycle of operations of the 8 major action types, welding, lathe and mill theory practical application and the building of a bolt action firearm. In the Advanced Gunsmithing section students carve, inlet, shape and finish a wooden and synthetic stock for the firearm they built in the first section along with checkering. Additionally, students will work in a gunsmith shop environment where they will diagnose, repair and complete cost analysis for all the firearms they are assigned. Additional courses include: Ballistics, Sights, Triggers, Military Conversions, Safety and Business.

Criminal Record Checks for Gunsmithing Students

Criminal Record Check: Students in specific Gunsmithing programs are required to have a criminal background check and be eligible to receive a concealed weapon permit. These are conducted by an outside agency at the student’s expense. Pending criminal charges or convictions may make the student ineligible for enrollment, participation in courses or taking the examinations.

Requirements

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Note: The Gunsmithing General Technology Degree is only available to students who have completed both certificates (Intro to Gunsmithing and Advanced Gunsmithing)

NOTE: Students MUST complete GSM courses in order outlined below. Course progress follows the Introduction to Gunsmithing and Advanced Gunsmithing Certificates. Please contact Program Coordinator for assistance if needed.

Fall Start

¹ Approved Electives may be chosen from select Machine Tool Technology, Welding, or Business Administration courses. See Program Requirements for course options.

Spring Start

¹ Approved Electives may be chosen from select Machine Tool Technology, Welding, or Business Administration courses. See Program Requirements for course options.

Summer Start

¹ Approved Electives may be chosen from select Machine Tool Technology, Welding, or Business Administration courses. See Program Requirements for course options.

Application and Advising

If you are ready to start your education, there are a few simple steps involved in enrolling at Piedmont Technical College.

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Advising Information

The following information provides a guide for advisors who are helping students enroll in this program.

Program Notes

A clear SLED background check is required before taking the first GSM prefix course, GSM 101. Pending criminal charges or convictions may make the applicant ineligible for enrollment or participation in the gunsmithing program. The gunsmithing program will coordinate this check with incoming students. A current concealed weapon permit (CWP) from any state can be used in lieu of the background check.  (Please contact Program Director if you have a CWP from another state.)

The General Technology, Gunsmithing A.A.S. program incorporates the required courses for the Introduction to Gunsmithing Certificate and Advanced Gunsmithing Certificate as well as a secondary specialty in Machine Tool Technology, Welding, or Business Administration. It is strongly recommended that students complete Introduction to Gunsmithing and Advanced Gunsmithing Certificate programs first, before continuing into the Gen Tech, Gunsmithing associate degree program, as GSM courses must be taken in the order that follows the certificate programs (see Graduation Plan for outline). For more information or guidance, please contact the Program Coordinator.

Gunsmithing programs are not approved for international students.

Students must attend the Gunsmithing Orientation. Students must read and sign the Gunsmithing Programs policy on Safety and Security during orientation.

Students must have all the tools, supplies, books and class notes prior to orientation. Students may use their own tools and equipment or purchase these items from the school.  NOTE: Students who do not have all the required items will be withdrawn from the Gunsmithing program, and may re-register for classes in a future semester.

Safety glasses are required in the shop areas at all times for all students. Students with prescription lenses must have shatter-proof lenses with side shields.

Program Purpose Statement

Gunsmithing students may complete the Associate in Applied Science, General Technology to upgrade certificates into broader occupational degrees. The General Technology major allows students to select coursework for becoming a multi-skilled technician. The required core consists of a primary and secondary technical specialty.

Student Program Learning Outcomes

For more information, review the learning outcomes for the corresponding certificates. 

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