Personal Protective Equipment for Gunsmiths

Far be it from me to preach to the choir about safety equipment. You’re a gunsmith, and you pride yourself on professionalism, and that means using the utmost care in getting the job done. But even so, it’s not uncommon to become so immersed in the intricacies of your craft that you overlook the basics. So, indulge me in a brief rundown of some safety essentials to keep in mind.  

Eye Protection 

While you likely already have some wrap-around safety glasses, make sure that the polycarbonate lenses are rated for high impact. For gunsmiths, there is no substitute for an ANSI Z87+ certification when it comes to ensuring the reliability of your eyewear- and more importantly, your safety.

ANSI Z87+ eyewear is available with prescription lenses, and it’s worth looking for the letter X in the certification number so that you’ll have some fogging resistance. Anyone who’s come in to a warm workshop on a cold day, or suddenly found their eyewear fogging up from breath or heat tools, can tell you that fog resistance is always worth it. All those annoying little moments of compromised visibility can really add up!

Ear Protection 

You’re probably no stranger to the high decibel levels that can come from machinery, let alone firearms, so you’re likely already using the highest noise reduction rating you can find for your ear protection. As you may know, you’ll run into both NRR and SNR sound reduction ratings when you’re shopping. The Former (Noise Reduction Rating) is a standard used by the USA, while the latter (Single Number Rating) is a rating widely used in Europe and elsewhere internationally. The two ratings are not interchangeable, so keep that mind when you’re comparing options.
As you likely suspect, affordable options may not deliver on there promises, and the same is true of many others that aren’t already widely used by professionals. That said, whatever fits your workflow, don’t hesitate to double up on your ear protection. Gel or foam ear plugs are great second-line-of defense underneath earmuffs. I personally use both, at the same time, whenever possible. But in the long run, custom molded earplugs may be more comfortable, effective and offer increased longevity.

As someone with tinnitus, please heed my warning: Do not neglect to use ear protection!
For a deeper dive on NRR vs. SNR rating, I recommend checking out this guide from Implecho.

Skin Protection 

You likely have a box of nitrile or latex gloves handy to to deal with solvents and degreasers, but if you don’t have anything more heat resistant than a pair of hardware store leather work gloves, consider something with a kevlar exterior and thermal lining. It will go a long way in protecting you from mishaps when it comes to hot barrels or bluing salts.
Now, I know there are those of you who are shaking your heads at me right now since I’ve yet to mention the sacrifice in dexterity that comes with thick gloves. But don’t shirk the heat protection! Get something with a longer cuff length too. After all, no one plans for burns- heat or chemical.

And speaking of unplanned hazards, if sharp metal filings make their way under your shirt, it can seriously ruin your workday. So, if you’re not regularly wearing an apron, it’s time to start. Even though a spill may only happen once in a blue moon, your apron can keep your clothes (and more importantly, your skin) protected from chemicals and unsecured tools. Plus, it provides you with some much needed pockets. But I digress. You know that already. And I’m sure you also know the importance of keeping your ventilation game in check. But just to make sure it’s the best it can be, let’s run down the basics. 

Respiratory Pro 

There’s a good chance you’ve already got a good, solid respirator mask loaded with gas/vapor blocking cartridges. However, if you’re dealing with bluing salts or coatings like Duracoat, make sure the cartridges you’re using are rated for organic vapors, and lacquer and petroleum based fumes.

When you know you’ll be exposed to metal shavings, make sure your mask is fitted with HEPA-rated filters that can protect you from airborne lead particles that can come from from firearm barrels. Even if your workshop has a ventilation system with a HEPA rated filter, it’s not a replacement for your mask.

Fire Safety 

When you’re dealing with firearms, the fire safety checklist is obviously not a short one. If you don’t have a regular, fire proof storage container for flammable materials, that’s an excellent place to start. Obviously, it’s not something you ever want to be near any kind of ignition source, and keeping your fire extinguisher close at hand is, of course, completely imperative.

Used rags are best off in sealed metal containers, and don’t overlook coatings like Duracoat because they are definitely flammable. Even heat cured coatings like DuraBake are flammable (pre-cure)— which may be surprising for something that’s meant to be heat cured in an oven. So, as tedious as it may feel, check your safety labels when you’re organizing!

A Word of Caution 

Please keep in mind that these recommendations should be considered bear essentials, and that in a 1,000 word article, there’s little room to go into much more. But that doesn’t mean you should stop here. As the old adage goes, expect the best and prepare for the worst. First aid kits and eye wash stations may feel like details, but attention to detail is what makes a great craftsperson. Your workshop already has a great gunsmith, so make sure it has great safety protocols too.

Written by: Lanna Perkins, Educational Writer