Episode 24

What It Takes to Become a Gunsmith in 2025 (ft. SDI)

Published on: 16th July, 2025

Join us for a deep-dive conversation with Jarred from Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) on the State of the Second podcast! From the future of gunsmithing to the importance of hands-on training, Jarred shares what it takes to succeed in the firearms industry today. We talk shop about AR platforms, and why trade education is more vital than ever.

Whether you're curious about SDI, want to get into gunsmithing, or just love hearing real talk about firearms and freedom-this episode has something for you.

Register for GOALS 2025, August 9th & 10th: https://events.goa.org/goals/

-----------------------

Thanks to AAC Ammo & Palmetto State Armory for sponsoring our guest gear!

Special thanks to our sponsor for supporting this season!

Patriot Mobile – Get 1 month free with code “GOA” at checkout on their website!

All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

Show artwork for State of the Second

About the Podcast

State of the Second
The State of The Second, an interview style podcast focusing on the impact that legislation and activism is having on the firearms industry, and the second amendment community.
"State of the Second isn’t your typical 2A podcast—it’s a backstage pass into the firearms industry.

Hosted by Kailey Nieman and John Fahrner, we sit down with the real people behind the brands, builds, and big ideas shaping the gun world. From shop owners to social media legends, each episode dives into how they got started, what keeps them going, and what it really takes to make it in the firearms industry, plus the battles they face along the way. If you’ve ever wondered how to break into the industry or what it’s like behind the scenes, this is your front-row seat."