Course Description
This course introduces students to the mechanical systems and operational principles of modern firearms, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Students will gain hands-on experience in proper procedures for the safe assembly and disassembly of various firearm types, as well as an in-depth understanding of action types, including blowback, gas-operated, recoil-operated, and manual systems. The course emphasizes safety, technical proficiency, and mechanical comprehension, preparing students for careers in gunsmithing, armory, law enforcement, and Forensic Science.
Course Objectives
- Course Introduction & Firearm Safety Review
- Firearm Classification: Handguns, Long guns, other
- Operating Systems Overview: Blowback, Recoil, Gas, Manual
- Handgun Mechanisms (Single/Double Action)
- Disassembly & Reassembly: Semi-Auto Pistols (Glock, M1911)
- Disassembly & Reassembly: Revolvers
- Rifle Operating Systems: AR-15, AK-47, Bolt Action
- Disassembly & Reassembly: AR-15 Platform
- Disassembly & Reassembly: AK Platform
- Shotgun Mechanisms: Pump, Semi-Auto, Break-Action
- Disassembly & Reassembly: Pump and Semi-Auto Shotguns
- Troubleshooting Malfunctions and Wear Diagnosis
- Final Practical & Written Assessments
Jimmy Palma
BS, AFTE-FA
Course Logistics
Duration: 5 days
Hours: 40
Tuition: $1,000.00
Course Expectations
- Each student is expected to be present, on time, and to participate in each assignment.
- Class will run from 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.
- Strict adherence to safety protocols is mandatory at all times.
- Attend and participate in all class sessions and labs.
- Complete assigned readings and preparation before lab work.
- Maintain a clean and organized work area in the lab.
- Wear proper attire and safety gear (eye protection, gloves).
- Respect all lab equipment and firearms as property of the institution.
Should be Able to Perform
At the completion of this course, the students should be able to:
- Identify and explain the major firearm operating systems and how they function.
- Demonstrate proper safety protocols in handling, disassembling, and assembling firearms.
- Disassemble and reassemble common firearm platforms, including pistols, revolvers, rifles, and shotguns.
- Diagnose common mechanical issues related to firearm operation and cycling.
- Understand the differences and applications of various firing mechanisms and actions.
- Apply basic maintenance and inspection procedures for firearm functionality.
Recommended Reading
- Heard, B.J., “Handbook of Firearms and Ballistics”, 2nd ed., 2008, pp. 101-103.
- Trumble, C., “Methods of Obtaining Automatic Fire in Weapons”, pp 2-48.