For many gun owners, the experience of dropping off a firearm for service at a professional gunsmith shop can be met with a degree of impatience or frustration when faced with a longer-than-expected turnaround time. However, it's important to recognize the various factors and challenges that gunsmiths encounter on a daily basis, which can significantly impact the time it takes to complete a job. Here's a closer look at the other side of the counter and the realities of gunsmithing.
1. Specialties, Complexity, and Skill Set:
Not every gunsmith will do everything. Each job requires a unique set of skills, and some tasks are more complex than others. Gunsmiths work on every firearm as if it were their own, which demands a meticulous and thorough approach to each job.
2. Research Time and Interjected Time:
Gunsmiths often encounter the need for extensive research to find specifications, parts availability, and obscure procedures. Additionally, interjected time is common, as law enforcement and military service weapons often take priority. This is an industry standard of professionalism that is essential for supporting public safety.
3. Paperwork, Regulations, and Sub-Letting:
The bureaucratic burden of paperwork and regulations, particularly in states like Illinois, can significantly impact the time it takes to complete a job. Additionally, some tasks may need to be sub-let to other shops due to legal standards or capacity limitations, which can introduce delays.
4. Returns and Over-Loaded Seasons:
Returns are rare but are always taken seriously, with professional shops standing by their work and their word 100%. Furthermore, over-loaded seasons, such as the influx of firearms during hunting season, can lead to increased backlogs and longer turnaround times.
5. DIY Gunsmiths:
Gunsmiths often encounter firearms that have been tampered with by DIY enthusiasts. Fixing these issues can be time-consuming and challenging, particularly when accidents have occurred due to improper modifications.
In conclusion, the realities of gunsmithing are multifaceted and demanding. Gunsmiths are dedicated professionals who take great pride in their work and are committed to delivering the highest quality service. Understanding the challenges they face can help gun owners appreciate the complexities involved in gunsmithing and the importance of patience and understanding when waiting for their firearms to be serviced.