The Sonoran Desert Institute, established in 1921, is the oldest gunsmithing school in the United States. It offers step-by-step lessons and an assortment of tools. A gun cleaning kit, brass gunsmithing hammer and checkering kit are among the tools that arrive with your kit. The course contains eight modules and can be completed in 48 weeks. A diploma is awarded when all modules are completed. The tuition of $1,318, as of February 2011, includes course materials, lab kits and tools. The institute also offers a no-interest payment plan.
Penn Foster provides students with the books, lessons and supplemental materials they need to get started as a gunsmith. Its step-by-step program includes industry charts and six instruction sets to complete. It offers home study students access to student services and an online library. Penn Foster also instructs students on how to get a federal gunsmith license. Penn Foster's program can be completed in as little as five months. The gunsmith program costs $798, as of February 2011, and payment plans are available.
Foley Belsaw includes illustrated course materials and four instructional videos. The courses are broken down into eight skill packs. Students receive a screwdriver set and gunsmith hammer with their materials. A variety of materials are also included to start your own business, including business cards. A discount is applied to the tuition if paid in full. The course costs $805 on one of the school payment plans or $699 if paid in full, as of February 2011.
Ashworth College offers all textbooks needed, study materials and academic support to gunsmith students. The course takes at least six months to complete. All exams are open book and taken online. An accredited diploma in gunsmthing is awarded at the completion of the course. The materials are broken down into 19 lessons, and beginner tools are included, as well as career guides and help in starting your business. The program costs $819, as of February 2011, and interest-free payment plans are available.