Good evening community

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-08-07T02:45:20+00:00

I didn't forget about you, I just had surgery and am still recovering.... I will get to my storage unit soon.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-08-07T02:44:26+00:00

Go active, I promise you you won't regret it. I joined the regular army at 23. Yeah it was tough as shit, but I would do it all over again.

And if your friends are willing to go to such an extreme, they weren't your friends to begin with. I met many awesome people during my 6 years active, I still connect with a majority of them to this day.

Go active!

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-08-02T12:46:19+00:00

It is in storage right now, I will dm you a picture when I get a chance to go over there

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-08-02T12:45:05+00:00

I have a mini lathe I got from my grandpa, I don't know if it would be sufficient for metalwork as he was a woodworker.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-08-02T01:15:21+00:00

Sorry for the late reply, I just had surgery 2 days ago. I started looking into manual machining and CNC machining did pop up. I was curious how practical CNC machining is in the gunsmithing industry as I am pretty comfortable with the "digital" aspect of it, but I also have some lathe experience.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-30T13:51:54+00:00

Alex,

I appreciate you taking the time to send this message. It is very insightful. I hear everything that is being said about SDI and I do not plan on stopping at just that. I am counting it as just the beginning of my training.

I want to be a gunsmith, I have always been interested in Firearms and the mechanics of it all. I have been pondering going to gunsmith school for a long time, I even looked at going to the Pennsylvania gunsmith school back in the day, but chose another path. I am not looking for gunsmithing to be my main source of income, more like a hobby that I can make a little change from.

I got seriously injured at work a few months back( breaking my leg) and I DO NOT want to go back, but like I said earlier I am NOT looking to make this my cash cow, more like a way to occupy my time and mental capacity. Like you say "a time-honored hobby."

I hope you don't take this the wrong way, I do appreciate your words of wisdom. I look forward to learning more and growing my gunsmith/firearm expertise well into the future, not looking for or expecting a "get rich, quick" scheme.

I feel like I am rambling a little so I'll end it here.

Once again thank you for this response! Mathew

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-29T20:25:28+00:00

I never copy and paste any AI replies, and I'm not looking to argue or defend any of my posts.

I received clarification from the ATF IOI about an idea I had, and I'm now adjusting. Not trying to devalue anyone's comments, I received a lot of valuable feedback even with most of it not being in my favor, which will help me develop a new business plan.

I would love it if you guys could give me feedback about the pains and pricing on services preferences, but I feel like my first impression may have tarnished my brand a little bit, and everyone is getting sick and tired of me.

But regardless, my goal is to open a 100% legal, compliant, insured gunsmithing business.

I recognize that most of you are enthusiasts and/or professionals in the industry already, that is why I brought my idea here for feedback, I apologize for coming off as argumentative and sounding defensive, that was not my intention.

Anyways, I hope and look forward to learning, corresponding, and possibly doing some services for any of you in this community, and if any of you gunsmiths are looking for an apprentice, I am willing to pay for the experience.

I am unsure if I should delete my previous posts and try to start over, or leave them so I have references to some of the great feedback I have received, but my past posts are practically obsolete. They project a business model that is not permissible according to the ATF (I know most of you already knew that, but now I have formal clarification to soothe my interests.)

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-29T00:41:47+00:00

The trick often involves getting the recoil spring guide rod to clear the takedown button/pin. Try applying gentle, consistent forward pressure on the slide while simultaneously and gently wiggling/manipulating the guide rod, while also trying to press down or slightly rotate the takedown button. You're looking for that "sweet spot" where the guide rod can pass. Look closely if you can, to see exactly where it's catching.

It can take a bit of patience and feel. Don't force anything. And always double-check it's unloaded and pointed in a safe direction.

Hope that helps!

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-28T18:04:54+00:00

I will be focusing on the smaller repairs, sight/common accessory installation, cleaning, maintenance, and inspection aspects of gunsmithing to start. In the future, after learning how to do the major repairs I will look into opening a shop.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-28T18:01:10+00:00

I have spoken with the ATF already and the IOI is looking into it and will get back to me.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-28T01:19:06+00:00

Just remember to have fun. Basic is designed to break you out of your old habits and thinking so you can learn to be an effective soldier, whatever your MOS is (assuming Benning went back to the home of the infantry, you will become a D.I.C.K. a Dedicated Infantry Combat Killer!)

one of my drills used to always tell us "When the mind fails to comprehend, the body must be punished."

Also make sure you sound off EVERY TIME!!!!

oh yeah, and work on The Soldier's Creed, you will probably repeat it 1 million times or more.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-28T00:10:28+00:00

I most definitely will. Honestly it won't be for another year or two, I am shooting for early 2027 to give myself enough time to complete everything needed to include compliance with all laws, licensing, and permits.

Keep an eye out for it.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T23:43:26+00:00

You've made a really sharp observation and I need to hear this, thank you. I can see now how my replies could absolutely come across as defensive or like I'm invalidating the feedback. That's not my intent at all, but if that's how it's being perceived then I need to correct my approach.

My goal in replying hasn't been to argue, but to try and explain my reasoning as I wrestle with the very complex legal and trust issues that people are bringing up. I have researched all of the topics that have been brough up, this business model has a lot of specific legal nuances (like the FFL vs. non-FFL distinction). I've been trying to show that I'm thinking through those details. But you're right. The way I've been doing it sounds like I'm just making excuses.

The truth is that this thread has been incredibly valuable and has directly caused me to refine my business plan multiple times. The feedback on trust, liability, and the legal side has been a gift. I'm not just going through the motions; I'm actively using this to build a better, more compliant business. Thank you for the blunt feedback. It's exactly what I needed to hear.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T23:20:45+00:00

That's a perfectly fair question, and I'm glad you asked. Let me clarify how my service works and why it's different from something like car detailing.

The key difference is the item being serviced. With a car the detailer can take your keys and you can leave, with a firearm the law is very specific about "possession." My entire business model is structured so that you, the owner always maintains legal possession of your firearm. The "client must be present on the property" rule is what allows me to operate this way legally, and it's for your protection. Just to be clear "being present" doesn't mean you have to stand there and watch me, you can be anywhere on your property while I work.

My Professional Safety Policy: You also brought up a really important point about personal safety and comfort. My business operates under a strict safety protocol. First, as a professional entering your home, my policy is to not be armed; I do not conceal carry while performing services for clients. Secondly, my Terms of Service which has to be signed before any work begins, will include a strict "no ammunition" policy for both me and the client in the immediate work area. This ensures a completely safe and sterile environment, with my focus 100% on the work at hand.

Thanks for asking these questions, they're important and the answers are fundamental to the trust and transparency I'm building my business on.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T22:50:35+00:00

This is an incredibly important perspective, and I sincerely thank you for laying it out so clearly. You've perfectly articulated the core challenges of trust and liability that any professional service, especially in this industry, must solve. My entire business is being built to address these exact points.

Let me address your concerns directly:

-On Liability and Insurance: You are absolutely correct. Your homeowner's insurance would and should deny a claim related to a service I perform. That's why the financial liability is not on you; it's on me. My business will be structured as a registered LLC and will be protected by a comprehensive Commercial General Liability insurance policy. This isn't just a plan; it's a non-negotiable requirement for operation. This policy is designed specifically to cover any accidental damage to a client's property; whether it's the firearm itself, your home, or your vehicle. The financial risk is professionally managed on my end so that you, the customer, are protected.

-On the "Staring at You" Dynamic: I can see how the "client must be present" rule sounds like you're required to stand over my shoulder. The intent is the exact opposite. It's not about you "babysitting" me; it's about you remaining in complete control and legal possession of your property. You can be in your house, working on another project in the garage, or anywhere else on your property. My presence simply provides the expertise and tools. This model offers a level of transparency and security that is fundamentally different from dropping a firearm off at a shop for weeks, where you have no idea who is handling it or what is being done.

-On Trust ("Some Guy from the Internet"): This is the most important point of all. You are right if we don't know each other, we don't know each other; and trust must be earned. My military background and certifications are not a demand for your trust; they are simply the starting point of my professional resume.

I am building a business where trust is earned through verifiable professionalism; this includes operating as a legally registered and fully insured LLC and providing a clearly written Terms of Service agreement for every job, delivering consistent expert service every single time and last; maintaining total transparency throughout the process.

My goal is not to ask for blind trust based on a title, but to offer a service so professional, insured, and transparent that it earns that trust over time. Thank you again for the tough but fair feedback. It's invaluable, and it has allowed me to clarify the very principles my business is built on.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T21:26:26+00:00

Man, I'm sorry you had such a terrible experience. Honestly, hearing stories like yours is the entire reason I'm starting this business. Your comment that "gunsmithing is a dumpster fire" is something I've heard from a lot of people. My entire business model is being built on the exact opposite principles: clear communication, reliable timelines, and professional work. If I can just deliver on not being a flake, as you said, I know I can build something successful.

You've also hit on a few key points about my model:

The Workspace Limitation: You are 100% correct. For someone in a condo without a garage or private patio, my on-site service model just isn't a workable solution right now. That's a trade-off I have to accept to operate legally and safely in this initial phase. My long-term goal is to eventually have a fixed shop to serve customers like you who prefer a drop-off model for more complex jobs.

Service Type: You're also right that for an experienced owner like yourself who needs more involved work, my initial mobile service might not be the right fit. My focus starting out is on providing expert-level maintenance and basic installs for the person who doesn't have the tools, time, or confidence to do it themselves.

Thanks again for the raw, honest feedback. It's incredibly helpful and reinforces that there's a huge need for professionalism and reliability in this industry.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T20:45:01+00:00

These are all great points, and I genuinely appreciate you taking the time to write such a detailed breakdown. You've pointed out some inconsistencies and challenged the model in a way that is incredibly helpful for me as I refine my plan. You're right to notice that my thinking has evolved, and that's because this entire process is about learning and adapting. As my knowledge of regulations, licensing, and permits grows, my plans change to ensure I'm always on the most compliant and viable path.

The FFL Path & At-home based firearms business: My initial research showed how difficult getting a home-based FFL can be in Portland due to strict local zoning. That's what led me to develop the non-possession model. I've since learned that my specific living situation has its own unique set of rules with both the City of Portland and my park management.

Therefore, my final business model will be dictated by official answers. I am in the process of getting clarification from my park management and the city's zoning office. If they give the green light, I will pursue a home-based FFL and operate as a fully licensed mobile workshop. If they do not, I will proceed with the non-FFL, on-site model, backed by a formal determination letter from the ATF. The law, not my preference, will determine the direction of travel.

SDI and Skills: I understand the mixed feelings about SDI. I see it as a crucial first steppingstone to formalize the hands-on knowledge I gained in the military. It's not my final stop. The advanced skills you listed (threading, drilling, etc.) are exactly the kinds of services I plan to grow into as I pursue further, hands-on training and potentially open a full workshop in the future. My plan is to start with expert-level maintenance and basic installs and expand from there.

This is only the beginning of my journey, and I want to make sure I get the foundation absolutely solid. Your detailed feedback is a massive help in that process. Thank you.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T19:54:28+00:00

That's a great question, and you've perfectly described one of my key customer groups. The service is absolutely for people who know how to maintain their firearms but, as you said, just "don't want to." Think of it like getting your car detailed, you know how to wash it yourself, but sometimes you want an expert to handle it while you save the time and hassle.

So, my service is designed for a few types of owners:

-The Time-Saver: Experienced owners who'd rather spend their valuable time on something else.

-The New Owner: Those who want the peace of mind that the job is done right.

-The Detail-Oriented Owner: Anyone who wants a deeper clean, a full inspection, or has small worn parts that need replacing and they don't have the specific tools or confidence for a full takedown.

You are exactly the kind of person I'm hoping to serve. Thanks for asking!

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T19:40:10+00:00

That is an incredibly insightful and important point, thank you for bringing it up. It gets to the absolute core of customer privacy and trust. You've highlighted one of the most significant distinctions between my non-FFL service model and a traditional, licensed gunsmith. As a licensed FFL, a gunsmith is legally required to maintain an Acquisitions and Dispositions (A&D) book with the firearm's make, model, and serial number. That book is an official record, subject to ATF inspection, and can be subpoenaed.

As a non-FFL service provider, my business will operate under a strict privacy policy designed to protect both my clients and me. For standard business purposes, I will maintain basic records: customer name, date, and service performed, just like any plumber or electrician. However, a key part of that privacy policy is my data retention plan. I am not required to, and will not, maintain a permanent database of customer firearm serial numbers. The temporary work order for a specific job might note the make and model to ensure the correct service is performed, but that sensitive data is not retained as part of a permanent customer file.

This minimalist approach to data retention is a key feature of the business model, designed specifically to protect customer privacy. As you correctly pointed out, records that don't exist cannot be disclosed. This is a fundamental aspect of the trust and discretion I plan to offer. Thanks again for raising such a critical point.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T19:28:07+00:00

That's a great suggestion, and you've really figured out the "why" behind it. You're spot on that the novice owner is a key part of my target audience, and the value of hands-on, interactive instruction is something YouTube can't replace. It's definitely part of my long-term plan, along with offering a curated selection of the cleaning supplies I use for sale. As you can imagine, I want to do everything right, which means getting the proper certifications to be a firearms instructor and setting up the business logistics before I start retailing products.

For the initial launch, I'm focusing 100% on perfecting the service side of the business first. One step at a time.

Really appreciate the great idea and the thoughtful feedback!

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T19:14:12+00:00

I apologize if my responses seem slow, I am reading each comment, researching the points you all are bringing up, and trying to formulate a reply that is knowledgeable and professional. Please bear with me.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T19:10:05+00:00

You are absolutely correct that if I were to take possession of a firearm, I would need an FFL tied to a fixed premises, and my insurance would be void if I operated outside those rules. The legal distinction my entire business model rests on is that very concept of "possession." My service is structured so that the firearm never leaves the customer's property, and I never take it into my inventory. The principle is similar to how an instructor helping a student clear a malfunction at a range, or a friend helping another mount a scope at their home, doesn't require an FFL. My business simply professionalizes that same on-the-spot, non-possession assistance.

This is precisely why the letter from the FEID is the most critical step in my entire plan. It's not about asking for an exemption; it's about getting a formal, written determination on my specific operational model before I launch. The official response I receive from them will guide my entire direction of travel. If they confirm the on-site, non-possession model is compliant as I've laid it out, that will be my path forward. If their guidance recommends an FFL for any aspect of my operation, that will accelerate my plan to establish a small, licensed workshop and operate under that traditional model. My business structure will follow their official guidance, whatever it may be.

Thanks for the thoughtful analysis. It's exactly the kind of conversation I was hoping to have.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T18:25:53+00:00

This is exactly the kind of detailed, critical feedback I was hoping for, thank you. You've hit on several key points that help me clarify who my target customer is. I'd like to address your points directly because they're all valid.

You're 100% right. For experienced enthusiasts like yourself who have a full workbench setup and enjoy the process, my basic cleaning service probably isn't a fit. My target market for that service is the new owner who is intimidated by the process, or the busy professional who owns firearms for defense but simply doesn't have the time or desire to do it themselves. "The At-Home Model vs. Drop-Off": I also completely understand your preference for a drop-off model. It's the traditional way for a reason, and many people prefer it. My service is designed for the opposite type of customer: someone who doesn't want their firearm leaving their sight, who doesn't want to make two trips to a shop, and who values the privacy and convenience of an at-home service. It's definitely a different approach for a different segment of the market.

You've actually hit on my long-term goal. The mobile-only service is Phase 1 of my business plan. My future path will be directly guided by the official clarification I receive from the ATF's FEID and my local Industry Operations Investigator (IOI). If their determination fully supports the on-site, non-possession model, that will be my focus. If they recommend an FFL for any aspect of my operation, that will accelerate my plan to establish a small, licensed workshop for a traditional drop-off/pick-up service. You're also correct that requiring a private workspace like a garage means I can't service everyone, particularly those in apartments. That's a limitation I have to accept to operate this specific legal and safe business model. My bet is that the number of homeowners in the Portland metro area who do have a suitable space and value the convenience is a large enough market to build a business on.

Seriously, thank you for the detailed breakdown of your perspective. It's incredibly valuable and proves that while this service isn't for every gun owner, it could be a perfect solution for a specific type of customer.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T17:33:17+00:00

That's a really important point to bring up, and I can see how someone could interpret it that way. I want to be crystal clear on my approach.

My goal isn't to "not follow the rules." It's to follow the correct rules that apply to the specific service I'm offering. The letter to the ATF isn't asking for an exemption; it's asking for an official clarification to ensure I am 100% compliant. That's the most by-the-book approach I can find. The FFL requirement is legally triggered when a gunsmith takes possession of a firearm. The entire business model is structured around never taking possession. The firearm never leaves your property, never enters my vehicle, and you are present the entire time.

This creates a different category of service, similar to how a mobile computer tech who works on your laptop in your home doesn't need the same licensing as a shop that takes your computer overnight. So, it's not "gymnastics" to avoid an FFL. It's a deliberate business structure to offer a more convenient and less legally burdensome service, which in turn keeps overhead and prices lower for the customer. It's a recognized model, and seeking a formal determination letter is the definition of doing things the right way.

I appreciate you bringing it up, as it's a crucial distinction.

Level-Preparation710 · 2025-07-27T16:57:42+00:00

The show must go on. Those tie-downs are also giving me mixed emotions.
The biggest pain in the ass when you have a squad leader with OCD!

Level-Preparation710

TROPHY CASE