What Is It Known For?
for-profit collegeThe Pennsylvania Gunsmith School, founded in 1949, is a private, for-profit institution located in Avalon, near Pittsburgh. For over 70 years, it has trained hundreds of students in gunsmithing and related fields, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. With an annual enrollment of around 52 students, the school maintains a focused, hands-on learning environment.
Known for its practical approach, the school prepares students for careers in the growing firearms industry. Its curriculum covers both classic and contemporary firearm technologies, equipping graduates with the skills needed to succeed in this specialized field. By combining innovation with time-tested methods, the school offers a well-rounded education for aspiring gunsmiths.
Degrees & Certifications
The Pennsylvania Gunsmith School offers its flagship Master Gunsmithing Program®, a comprehensive 16-month course designed to provide in-depth training in firearm repair, customization, and design.
Class Schedules
Due to the hands-on nature of gunsmithing, the school does not offer online or hybrid courses. Instead, instruction is centered around lab-based learning, where students work directly with firearms under expert guidance. Classes are held during standard daytime hours, with no evening or weekend options available. While externships are not part of the curriculum, the program’s immersive lab environment provides enough real-world experience.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. The Pennsylvania Gunsmith School is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
Acceptance Rate
The Pennsylvania Gunsmith School has a 100% acceptance rate, making it an accessible option for anyone passionate about pursuing a career in gunsmithing.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
For the 2024-25 school year, tuition for the Master Gunsmithing Program® is $8,736 per semester, with a total of $34,944 for the full 16-month course.
To learn about additional expenses such as tools, supplies, or living costs, use the school’s net price calculator or contact the admissions office for detailed financial information.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Gunsmithing
Campus Locations
Avalon 812 Ohio River Blvd Avalon, PA 15202
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, the Pennsylvania Gunsmith School (PGS) in Avalon, PA, has a consistently positive reputation for providing focused, high-quality, and hands-on vocational training. The vast majority of the feedback is highly favorable, centered on the skills gained and the quality of the instructors.
Overall Score: 4.2/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional and Knowledgeable Instructors: The most frequent praise is directed at the competent and knowledgeable instructors. Reviewers describe them as “wonderful, and helpful,” who actively “lead and engage you to find answers” rather than holding your hand. This suggests a rigorous, self-directed learning environment guided by experts.
Comprehensive, Hands-On Curriculum: Students praise the wide range of instruction, which covers the entire spectrum of the trade: metalworking, metal finishing, woodworking, machine shop skills, tool making, and gun repairs and assembly. The curriculum is noted as “quick paced and challenging,” and highly effective in preparing graduates for the field.
Immediate Career Readiness: Multiple reviews indicate a high degree of confidence and skill acquisition. One graduate was “pleased with the level of knowledge the school provided,” and another, a successful local guide, “highly recommended” the school. Official school data corroborates this, reporting a 77% placement rate in the field or a related field.
Supportive Environment & VA Approval: The school is VA funding approved, making it accessible to veterans (who make up a significant portion of the student body). One review mentions that the intimidating projects of upper-semester students served as a powerful motivator to keep progressing.
Common Criticisms
Pacing/Duration Concerns (Minor): One positive review from a graduate suggested they could “easily see an additional month or so added to the course” due to the vast range of material covered in the 16-month program, indicating the pace is very fast and packed.
Lack of Detail (Minor): One short, isolated review simply stated, “I’ve had better.” This is a non-specific criticism and does not appear to represent a broader trend of dissatisfaction.
Cost of Program: While not explicitly mentioned in the submitted Google reviews, external information indicates the program has a high sticker price. The total program cost (tuition plus tools/supplies) is estimated at over $41,000 for the 16-month course, which may be a significant financial barrier compared to online or community college alternatives.
No Online/Flexible Options: The school is exclusively in-person with no online or hybrid options, focusing entirely on hands-on, lab-based learning due to the technical nature of the trade. This rigidity in scheduling may be a challenge for those with full-time jobs or family obligations.
Momentum
The majority of the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, spanning from a year ago to ten years ago, demonstrating a sustained quality of education. The most recent reviews (within the last year) continue to highlight the excellent course of instruction and the competent and knowledgeable instructors. The high praise remains focused on the core academic offering—the rigorous, hands-on master gunsmithing program—indicating a consistent and positive momentum.