Selecting a Gunsmith

[BarryLee]

Ok, I suppose this is just one of those word of mouth kinds of things, but I need assistance in finding a good gunsmith. I know a lot of local shops that have Gunsmiths on site, but I’ve heard more complaints than compliments. Currently I am just considering having some night sites installed on a GLOCK, but would like to find someone that might be able to handle more advanced jobs in the future.

So, is there any type of association or certification to look for?
How about a WEB site that lists reputable folks?
Can anyone recommend a good shop in Metro Atlanta?

 

[Skans]

Go to a good gun range where they hold pistol competitions - then ask around and see who the competitors use for a gunsmith (if they don't have one on site.) This will do for just about any ordinary gun, including most 1911's.

With the following exceptions: Pythons (and other Colt revolvers) go back to the factory. High end O/U shotguns - well, if you have one, then you know people who know gunsmiths that work on them.

 

[ljnowell]

As far as a gunsmith, the best thing you can do is spend some time at local ranges/gun shops and ask around. Dont listen to the first recomendation you get, talk to lots of people, eventually you will find someone who can show you some of the work that person did on thier own firearm.

With you glock sights, do a little looking on the net and you will find that they arent hard to change. I changed my own on my G21, and it was pretty darned easy.

 

[Rifleman1776]

Sometimes you have to learn to do things yourself.
After some bad experiences I decided I couldn't do worse.
I'm no gunsmith by any stretch but rarely have to hire one anymore.
Good luck. You may end up like the man with a lantern looking for an honest man.

 

[4EVERM-14]

A lot of people have a specialty that they prefer to work on or have a good reputation with. Specialists usually have parts, fixtures and jigs on hand. No need to wait for something to be ordered. They may also know of upgrades not normally known by general purpose smiths. As the other posters have said check with SHOOTERS to help identify the excellent smiths from the good ones.

 

[MLeake]

Not quite in Metro Atlanta, but just outside the 285 loop...

GA Firing Line near the Marietta - Kennesaw line had a good smith on site; he's a former jeweler, too, so he is very good with cutting tools and with working on small parts.

Can't think of his name, unfortunately, but he has a shop in the back of the store.

I moved a year ago, so I don't know if he is still there.