Well I just got a new job as a diemaker apprentice. Not gunsmithing, but I'm sure it won't hurt my metal workingskills either! Just hope I can cut it for my 90 day probation period. Can't wait to start even though I'm a little nervous. Just wanted to share my good news with people who appreciate metal work.

The guy who is teaching me to make knifes is an old tool and die maker, he can make anything. I envy you and wish you luck.

I've got 40 years as an information technology engineer. I envy those with excellent metal working skills. Learn well and be proud of your skills.

Ditto, Good luck in your new venture.

Don

first you have to learn metal working, then after you get good at it, you can become a gunsmitty. Good luck, & remember that all machining isn't CNC, and that there are lots of hand machines around. They are the backbone of the average smitty.

You're on the right track. Learn as much about tig welding, materials and heat treating as well as machining as you can. It's a very big field and if you want to be a good smith you need all this background.