Probably a total de-rail of this thread, but hoping that you do know there is no standardized training, apprenticeship or certification for a "gunsmith" in Canada? Apparently, can almost buy a "licence" and announce to the world that you are a "gunsmith". But skill and know-how is developed, a reputation is developed, and "cream" rises to the top. From reading, a military armourer has a humungous supply network backing him up for a specific and finite number of arms, written standardized procedures to follow for each make and model he is authorized to "fix", and keeps that stuff working to spec. A "gunsmith" may or may not even have a purchasing assistant, let alone a supply chain, for every possible make, model and age of arm that might come through his door. A gunsmith makes what he needs, if necessary. So, a gunsmith is a welder, a machinist, an old-time blacksmith, an excellent wood worker, and often a tool and die maker.
I apprenticed for 48 months, during which I attended 32 weeks at "Tech" and became a Journeyman Electrician - it happens that I have a Red Seal on my certificate. Despite looking for years, there is just no equivalent to that to become a "gunsmith". I spent my working days in Saskatchewan, and had to maintain a "Saskatchewan Electrical Licence", in order to work at that trade in that province, after attaining my Journeyman's. I believe there is a similar "licence" for a gunsmith but I do not know who issues that or if it is required in all provinces or not. So, the Post #19 has a lot of merit, but seems to rely an awful lot on a profession that has not been held to very high standards?? I do not mean to dis that trade at all - just the "odds" of running into a "wanna-be" seem fairly high, versus the guys that are really good and knowledgeable at what they do.
