Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Gun Assembler

🎯 Role Definition

A Gun Assembler is a highly skilled technician who plays a crucial role in the firearms manufacturing process. This position is the bridge between precision-machined components and a reliable, finished product. More than just putting parts together, this role demands an unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and a deep understanding of firearm mechanics. The Gun Assembler is ultimately responsible for ensuring that every firearm that leaves their station functions flawlessly and meets the stringent standards set by the company, the industry, and federal regulations. This is a hands-on role for a craftsperson who takes immense pride in their work and understands its importance.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Manufacturing Associate
Machinist Apprentice
Quality Control Inspector

Advancement To:

Senior Gun Assembler / Assembly Team Lead
Quality Assurance Specialist
Production Supervisor / Cell Leader
Gunsmith or Armorer

Lateral Moves:

Firearms Test Technician
CNC Machine Operator (Firearms)
Product Development Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform intricate assembly of various firearm models, including rifles, pistols, and shotguns, from individual components to a fully functional product.
Precisely fit and install critical parts such as barrels, receivers, trigger assemblies, stocks, and sights according to detailed engineering blueprints and work instructions.
Utilize a wide array of hand tools, power tools, jigs, and fixtures with a high degree of proficiency and care to manipulate and secure components.
Conduct meticulous deburring, polishing, and finishing of metal and polymer components to ensure smooth mechanical operation and aesthetic quality.
Execute sub-assembly builds, preparing modules like bolt carrier groups, slide assemblies, or trigger mechanisms for final integration into the firearm.
Verify critical dimensions and tolerances at multiple stages of the assembly process using precision measuring instruments like calipers, micrometers, and go/no-go gauges.
Perform comprehensive functional checks and safety inspections on all assembled firearms to guarantee they meet strict company and industry safety standards.
Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve assembly and mechanical issues, making necessary adjustments or replacing faulty components to ensure product integrity.
Collaborate closely with Quality Control inspectors to identify and rectify any defects or deviations from specifications found during the assembly process.
Maintain an accurate and detailed log of assembly activities, including part serial numbers, build data, and any non-conformance issues for traceability and compliance.
Adhere strictly to all company safety policies and federal regulations, including those set forth by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Operate specialized machinery, such as hydraulic or pneumatic presses, for tasks like seating pins, installing barrel extensions, or press-fitting components.
Prepare firearms for finishing processes, such as Cerakoting or anodizing, by ensuring proper masking, cleaning, and surface preparation.
Conduct initial test-firing procedures in a controlled and safe environment to confirm proper cycling, ejection, and overall firearm performance.
Read and interpret complex technical documents, including assembly drawings, bills of materials, and standard operating procedures (SOPs), to ensure correct build sequence.
Apply lubricants, thread-locking compounds, and other chemical agents appropriately to ensure the long-term reliability and performance of the firearm.
Package finished firearms and accessories according to specific customer or product-line requirements, ensuring all included items are present and secured.

Secondary Functions

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace, adhering to 5S principles to prevent accidents and damage to sensitive components.
Assist engineering and design teams in the assembly of prototypes and pre-production models, providing valuable feedback for design and manufacturability improvements.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives by suggesting process enhancements to improve efficiency, quality, and safety within the assembly line.
Manage and account for all parts and components assigned to your workstation to prevent loss and maintain accurate inventory levels.
Assist with periodic inventory counts and reconciliation of the assembly parts stock.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

In-depth knowledge of firearm mechanics and function across various platforms (e.g., AR-15, bolt-action, semi-auto pistols).
High proficiency in using hand tools (torque wrenches, punches, files, stones) and power tools (drills, drivers).
The ability to read and interpret technical blueprints, engineering drawings, and complex work instructions.
Skill in using precision measurement tools, including digital calipers, micrometers, and various headspace or function-specific gauges.
Experience with part finishing techniques, including deburring, lapping, and polishing.
Foundational understanding of ATF regulations regarding firearms manufacturing, serialization, and handling.
Experience operating arbor presses, hydraulic presses, and other assembly-specific machinery.

Soft Skills

Exceptional attention to detail and a methodical approach to complex tasks.
Strong manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
Excellent problem-solving and diagnostic skills to identify and correct mechanical issues.
An unwavering commitment to safety protocols and quality standards.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team and communicate clearly with colleagues and supervisors.
Strong work ethic and the ability to work independently to meet production goals and deadlines.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

Certificate from a recognized Gunsmithing program or school.
Associate's Degree in a related technical field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Gunsmithing
Machining Technology
Mechanical Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of experience in mechanical assembly, preferably in a regulated manufacturing environment.

Preferred: Direct experience in firearms assembly or as a professional armorer/gunsmith is highly desirable. Experience working in an ISO 9001 or similarly certified manufacturing facility is a plus.