5 Ways to Support Veteran Gunsmiths
You don’t have to be a veteran to be a great gunsmith, but it definitely helps. Veterans have a proven track record of hard work and dedication, and they have an oftentimes unrivaled professional familiarity and expertise with firearms that is not commonly found in civilian professions. If you’ve spent any amount of time with gunsmiths at shows, competitions, at the range, or even just as a client, you’re likely well aware that a lot of military professions transition into gunsmithing careers- and you don’t have to wait until Veterans Day to show your support! Here are five ways you can support veteran gunsmiths.
Use The Database
Most of us don’t need any convincing when it comes to entrusting our firearms to a professional gunsmith. But some people, understandably, have reservations about letting their investments leave their possession for any amount of time. If you know someone who’s afraid to let an heirloom (or otherwise expensive) firearm leave the house, going to a veteran gunsmith might provide some much-needed peace of mind. After all, the government entrusted these professionals with their firearms- many of which are beyond what many civilians have access to- and that access helped them gain some of the expertise they need to look after your investment.
If you’re not using veteranownedbusinesses.com, allow me to introduce you to a great resource. You can narrow your search down to your city or county and find a veteran gunsmith near you. And, it might be nice to know that you can find a lot more than gunsmiths there. You can find firearms dealers, tactical gear sales, and you can (of course) find non-firearm-related businesses as well.
Click Repost
Gunsmiths face some pretty unique challenges when it comes to getting the word out about the services they offer. Facebook, Bluesky, YouTube, TikTok, and even terrestrial radio stations prohibit ads for firearms and firearm maintenance. That means that gunsmiths depend on their followers to repost their content in order to get some much-needed exposure. So, if you’d like to support a veteran gunsmith, you’re just a click away.
Remember that gunsmiths are only able to provide their services if they have a clientele to support them. So, if you like the work and want to see more of it show up in your feed, one click could help shine a little light on their talents. And if you’re a gunsmith yourself, they may just return the favor.
FFL Transfers
For those of you to whom this applies: If you’re buying or selling a firearm and need an FFL transfer, keep in mind that your local gunsmith is likely able to do that FFL transfer- even if they’re not working with a gun store. Fees are usually well below $100, and if you’ve got to pay a fee anyway, it may as well go to a veteran gunsmith you want to support. Just make sure you check with your gunsmith of choice to ensure that you follow procedure, and be ready with your Firearms Transfer Record Form.
Don’t Skimp on the Accessories
I know what you’re probably thinking: Accessories? Seriously? Why should I think twice about all the little things a gunsmith sells? Well, when you consider that the markup on accessories can range anywhere from 25% to double the wholesale cost, accessory sales can make or break a business. So, the next time you’re shopping at a big box store online for your next holster or wrap, keep your veteran gunsmith of choice in mind.
As you likely know, veterans have sacrificed a lot to serve the country. They’ve often gone through numerous relocations in their career, spent time away from their families and loved ones, and they’ve placed their own well-being in jeopardy. So, it bears repeating: If you’re going to buy accessories, spend your money in support of the professionals you value.
Table Swag
The last time you went to a gun show, I’m sure more than just a few shiny objects attracted you to vendor tables. But, let’s be honest, that’s not likely the only thing that drew your attention. Some tables may have artisan beef jerky, baked goods, pickles, or wrapped candies that may help break the ice with vendors or patrons you might not have otherwise spoken with that day. I don’t know about you, but I find it hard to pass by lonely baked goods. I like to call my acquisitions “rescue pastries,” but I digress.
If you have a local veteran gunsmith who’s getting ready for a show, don’t hesitate to ask if they need any table swag to attract business. Just make sure you’re not in violation of any agreement that vendors may have with a concession stand. Pre-packaged foods are definitely the best donation, and you can even get a picture of the table to serve a little advertising plug for your local veteran online. Then, your Veterans Day karma will be covered.
Written by: Lanna Perkins, Educational Writer
