Nighthawk Custom: the dos and don'ts of gunsmithing

Shooting Industry, Nov, 2007 by Amy Brown

Whether prompted by customer requests for firearm modification or repair, or just looking to expand their store's customer service and revenue, many retailers are looking to gunsmithing as a viable addition to the products and services they offer.

However, when altering a firearm's basic design, it is important to know what is being done--and who is doing the work. Whether contracting out gunsmithing services or hiring a professional in-house, you need to make the most of your investment. By following some basic rules, you can ensure your decision to include gunsmithing doesn't literally "blow up" in your face!

First and foremost, research is a must. Gunsmithing is as much art as it is science, and an altered firearm should not be treated with the same confidence as one from the factory, unless you know its history.

"What you see is not necessarily what you get," said Ron Phillips, a pistolsmith with more than 25 years of experience, who is co-owner of Nighthawk Custom, makers of quality customized M1911s. "There are many ways that an inexperienced or poor gunsmith can ruin a pistol. It's as much a safety issue as anything else--every 1911 is an individual."

For example, the seemingly simple design of the easy-to-shoot M1911 may lead to the misconception that it is equally easy to alter. That's a mistake that could cost you in dollars, lost customer confidence or worse.

Whether you're hiring a gunsmith to handle a single type of firearm or for general firearm service, checking to ensure they have professional certification is a smart move. While many gunsmiths got their start by tinkering, the artisans at Nighthawk Custom believe there is no substitute for professional training.

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"Creativity is an important part of gunsmithing, but customer satisfaction is always the goal," said Mark Stone, another owner of Nighthawk Custom. "You'll get guys who go in to mess with the trigger job and end up really causing problems, leaving your store to foot the bill."

Professional apprenticeships allow a gunsmith's skills to develop under the watchful eye of a seasoned expert, while never placing the firearm or a customer's safety at risk.

"Gun store owners shouldn't just look to ex-military," Stone said. "Professionally certified armorers often have the right combination of professional skills and experience that make for good gunsmithing."