As a fellow student who is about to graduate - I totally agree with this. I am paying for SDI out of pocket and also have a mini farm so this is perfect for me. Was it worth? 100% - were there times where I thought, man I could just TH-cam this - yes. But there were also times when I got genuine satisfaction from the courses. Which is more than I can say about any college I've attended. I've graduated twice - a bachelors in business and a bachelors in computer science - and I can confidently say that the tuition cost at SDI made me really feel like it was worth it because of the kits and parts they sent. Did the send the best of the best? No, but they sent good parts nonetheless. I hope this helps anyone else teetering on deciding. I would 100% do it again.
Currently enrolled in SDI started May 13th. I am enrolled in The Associate of Science In Firearms Technology program and so far I am loving it, I am a full time dad of 4 & study inbetween my youngest ones naps. So far so good, when all said & done I plan to start my own in house side hustle. Gonna be looking to apprentice or volunteer in my free time if I can find a local individual or shop willing to work with and teach me while I am in school😎
I've got 4 weeks left at SDI. I've been watching your videos to help me with the muzzleloader lab. They've helped a lot so thanks for posting them. Look forward to your video on getting your FFL and distributors.
You covered most of my questions-thanks. I'm a disabled Army vet and to me this is about learning gunsmithing AND a simple job at ft hood repairing firearms. Looking forward to your next video!
I really appreciate your videos about your experience at SDI. My son has done blacksmithing and welding and taken many online workshops about building a business but his heart is in gunsmithing. He learned how to safely use firearms years ago with my dad, his grandpa (Marine Vet) My son just graduated high school and he wants to go to gunsmithing school. The crappy part is we do not have an in person gunsmith school near us and I do not want to go into debt sending him to live on campus somewhere so we are looking into SDI. I've read a lot of reddit forums with ppl trashing SDI and now I'm trying to find positive experiences. Your explanation and personal experience/opinion on SDI has been the most helpful because you seem very informed and you're a mature adult able to explain that you'll get what you give in the gunsmithing program. Just like any education after high school you get what you give into it. There's tons of 4 year universities where most students do every class half ass and focus on partying. I think the online program will be good because my son is focused on his goals. I'm gonna share your video reviews of SDI with my son. I think it will get him excited. Thx again! :)
@@Kat_Just_for_Today I’m really glad you found it helpful. There are a lot of people who trash SDI, even in these comments. Make sure your kid joins the discord after he gets enrolled.
spot on brother, I start my last class next week for my associates. Its been informative and staying on task with life going on was not easy, but for a distance learning it worked for me, especially since the GI Bill took care of it! Congrats!
Thanks for your insight and your personal opinion. I'm on my second round of classes and it's been pretty good so far. I've been shooting for decades and wanted to get more knowledge for personal use so it's been good in that aspect. I agree that some of the discussions and forums are kind of meh but the actual coursework has really helped. I'm retired mil and work full time so it is a little hectic. Hopefully it'll pay off in the end.
100% agree you get what you put in. I could have passed without reading most of my assignments but I read every chapter and also did extra research on my own. I have gotten a lot out of the school. If you put in the time and effort it’s worth it.
Only thing I didn’t learn really is machining which I didn’t expect to online. Pretty much everything else I have been tinkering with at the least. Getting my ffl soon just finished the program last week.
@@zechshippey yea I got my FFL about 2 weeks ago. I agree on the machining. I’m planning to take some machining classes at the local college next spring. They offer an associates in Metal fabrication that covers machining and welding. I think that would be awesome.
I’ve went to American gunsmith Institute and SDI. I would say if you are looking to get your foot in the door with gunsmithing SDI is the way to go they send you a lot of beginner tools and if you’re a veteran it’s the only gunsmithing school your GI bill will pay for after you graduate from SDI I would look into another school or an apprenticeship to get more hands on
I agree with time consuming. I work 70-90 hours a week and taking these classes. There are times that I finish all the assignments last minute and just hope I get them in on time. I started my business about halfway through this course and will admit you will learn more hands on than the course alone can teach you. Wish they had more hands on labs that made you simulate an issue and try to correct the simulated issue. The school is great to give you an understanding of what to do more than teach you how to do everything.
I'm currently in my final 6 months at SDI. I took a different approach and am using SDI as a steppingstone to earn my Bachelors. They partner with Grand Canyon University. GCU, at the time I started my transfer, accepts all of SDI's credits. Combining that with my JST from the Navy and I'll be in the ballpark of 70-80 credits by the time I start at GCU. SDI's definitely worth it if you go about it with the right mindset.
That’s a dang good reason too. And GCU is a great school. I already had my bachelors when I started but I really appreciate you adding this bit of experience to the post!
Thank you for this comment! I'm starting in 2 weeks and I was wondering where I can transfer after SDI. Recently found out I only have a few years left to use my Post 9/11 gi bill (thought I was covered under the Forever Gi Bill lol) so I'm trying to get my Bachelors before it expires. Do you know of any other college(s) that accepts all of SDI credits?
I’m not really hearing any inaccuracies, man, so great job! You focus a lot on military but that’s probably because of your former Army service. I, too, have a family and shit to do and it would be impossible to attend a brick and mortar again in my life but I’m just using FAFSA to finance tuition. You didn’t really touch on that option. Also, you never mention the option to attend part-time as I’m doing so and feel if it wasn’t an option, then I may not be able to manage enrollment at all since I drive 3k miles a week for work. Part-time and FAFSA are what makes this possible for me right now. Otherwise, everything else sounded great! I love it when you’re forgetting classes or whatever and point to the top corner then add the text in your edit. That’s a fun touch.
Thanks for adding another perspective to this. After 20 years of service I do tend to lean back hard into that. I really appreciate you explaining that FAFSA is an option as well!
The most enticing thing about SDI is the amount of tools and equipment you get. A lot of other schools don't give you nearly as much and since I'm using the G.I bill I'm getting everything I need for free. Also it is easier to work as I'm taking the course.
Active duty, retiring in a few years. Currently have a couple classes left to finish the Associates program. I cannot stress enough how much time the labs take. I will say they are enjoyable, but it will definitely take time to complete them each week. When you have a wife and kids and other activities, you have to make a concerted effort to put the time aside for the labs. I do feel like they do a decent job teaching you what you need to know to have the foundation needed to start working on firearms. Plus, having the government pay for 2 guns for me (Muzzleloader and an AR-9) through tuition assistance is actually funny to me considering the government hates gun ownership lol.
Hi recon, I have one more class, the 1911 and then im done with my associates. You are spot on about the labs! The hardest once for me was the checkering class. That one lab made me realize that checkering is NOT for me lol! WTG on almost being finished!
@@richardmartin6299 oof. I got that one and the AR-9 build coming up this month. The Black Powder rifle build doing all the inletting made me wanna rip my own face off. Weirdly I think I’ll enjoy checkering though. Congrats to you on almost being done as well!
If you are still in the military, and you are interested in these types of classes, find out the MOS for your branch and do that first. THEN go to SDI with that knowledge (that you got for no money).
I switched my MOS’s 4 times, and none of those switches were easy. You can probably get armors school if your in a line unit but even that’s probably difficult. I don’t disagree. However. If you can, go for it.
I really like your perspective. I ended up leaving before the certificate program was finished. I like you have a family and can't go to a brick and mortar. I decided to stop attending because what I had left wasn't beneficial to what I was doing. I was successful with all my assignments and grades. I had a lot of great interactions with other students but with what was left and what I needed, it was not effective. I also just got my FFL and all my stuff. Crazy stuff. Good luck!
@tradesmanfirearms No I am going to operate on what I know and I have a mentor not to far away that is willing to take on work I can't and help me learn what I don't know. I am going to a machinist course soon too.
I just watched this video and I'd like to first thank you for your time and sharing your experience with SDI. I'm a retiree that served 8 years in the Marine Corps and another 30 years working with DON in communications for weapons testing and I've always had firearms and loving shooting and working on them. I have a disability rating that the VA will help with tuition for retraining and want to become a gunsmith. Do I have to take other school courses besides the firearms training to get certified by SDI? I also want to take courses in machining and tool and die making at a junior college to help with this for a future in my own business. Do you have any recommendations I should follow to achieve my goals?
Thank you for the information brother i am going to do the same thing after i graduate the certificate in gunsmithing course im going to do the associate of science in firearms technology.
I am a current SDI student myself and I am almost done with the degree. I am taking 2 classes right now and only have the checkering class to complete. I am just coming across your videos and finding them and this video 110% accurate. I went through the same challenges and learning. I am retired from the Army, and still have a full-time job, I took 2 classes at a time and sometimes a third with a lab would come in and really challenge you.
@@tradesmanfirearms The same as you, get a business going, licensed, a side hustle for now. I am working with a gunsmith and trained machinist to learn to cut and chamber barrels. Going to start on some replacement barrels for my own rifles first.
Lol that's hilarious.. 14:11 did they get kicked out for that shit? Doesn't it say like no cheating or you will get kicked out and lose the money you already spent? On a serious note: Im considering on joining SDI; using two pell grants and a loan and then just use my tax refund to pay off the loan. Then, take another pell grant or two and go to local college for Industrial Welding. I'm supposed to get my offer letter this upcoming week. I see alot of people bashing this college and its really got me on the fence. Mostly alot of Vets who used their GI bill and regretting it.
I don’t understand why it gets so much hate. I highly suggest you join the students discord. I liked it on the how to make friends video. I don’t know if that person got kicked out. I will say there are good and bad instructors everywhere. You plan makes sense to me, I like that you are looking at industrial welding at the local college.
im in my last month of the associates program, and I have been going part time, and now its almost done! Come to find out after advanced ballistics they are sending me a 1911:) I have learned alot and Im glad I did it
Doing the certificate program right now...NOT worth it so far. 97% Essays and discussion boards and reading magazine articles. so far none of it has been gunsmithing related
@@dirtroadrenegade588 yea it’s a mixed bag for sure. Important to remember this is a College not a trade school so there is a lot of academic focus vs a trades school which is more hands on.
After looking around on the internet a couple days it seems like the general consensus is to start with becoming a Gunsmith's Apprentice, but I'm honestly not sure where to start looking for an apprenticeship for gunsmithing. Any advice?
I’ve built 5 Ar’s now and a few handguns. I’m about to start classes in June after I finish my MBA. What’s the biggest thing yall took away from your degrees? Did you file for FFL afterward?
Majority of people who do SDI say its not worth it. If you go look at what they "teach" its no where near worth the amount. You are no where near experienced enough to be a "gunsmith" or even an armorer after doing SDI. Please don't work on anyone's guns until after you have more experience.
@@mageman483 I’ll second the fact that additional experience is necessary. SDI is only the first step on a long road to competent gunsmith work. I personally recommend an apprenticeship or working with a gunsmith who you find competent and knowledgeable. A machinist course would be great too.
I have a dumb beginner question, I have never, nope, never done a video of myself. SDI gives no guidance, yet requires video assignments. What is the easiest/best way to get this done? What are you using now? I really appreciate the pro introduction!
There's some free software called OBS you can use on your PC to record anything from your computer's camera OR record your screen. All it requires is to add your video feed, your screen and your audio and you can record using that. It may require some editing software as well but I usually use that to cut out and outtakes I usually get good grades on it. Either that or just use a camera in a place you can talk in front of.
Thank you for the video, I've been doing some research on this school for a while now and was thinking about doing the associates and then possibly getting a degree for CNC machining. I do have two questions for any gunsmiths who do read this: 1) Is VR&E able to be utilized for SDI, 2) if anyone utilizes CNC machining in their own shops, what were the pros vs cons of it?
Yes on the VR&E and it depends on the CNC machining, what are you planning to do? Make uppers and lowers? Con’s it’s expensive machinery. Pro’s the ability to make parts without relying on someone else.
I am a huge fan of real avid. I recommend all their tools. I wish they would sponsor me because I would save a ton of money! I bought everything before I found out they provided a SDI discount.
great video, thanks for the info, what do you think about the video that Desk Pop channel uploaded basically saying that SDI is a scam? video title is called "We Need to Talk About Sonoran Desert Institute"
@@fate2022 I saw it. I have a hard time listening to anyone who didn’t even finish a single course and then provided all his information second hand. Plus his video was weird, just two dudes standing in the desert with sunglasses on bragging about the fact they turned down money? He reached out to me in these comments prior to posting that video but we never got a chance to connect.
@tradesmanfirearms I can agree with that 100% , I'll be honest they do sound a bit biased, but I have also noticed there are many other similar videos.
@@MrProfchaos71 perhaps you should go re watch. Look around the 1 minute mark. He attended from September to December. th-cam.com/video/JE6aZfjSOPA/w-d-xo.htmlsi=Co98KUkj2r-99IXU
That depends. If you are going on to a bachelor’s afterward? Do you already have college? For me I didn’t have to take the core classes to get the associates. No math English science etc. It was a no brainer at that point. You get to do the muzzle loader if you do the degree. That’s a tough one. Maybe start with the certificate and swap to the degree if you want later. Lots of people do that.
To anyone saying you don’t get to touch firearms at all. Yes this is true but I got a BA in Criminal justice and not once did I arrest someone, or over see and pass judgement on a court case. It’s an academic school with a lot of ready. It’s a new program so it’s probably going to be shit until there is experience in building better curriculum.
Getting enrolled now! I appreciate your videos. I am a disabled Army vet and live in Montana as well. I work at Hi Country so if you are ever in the area stop and get some jerky!
Hey brother i have a great question does SDI help you get an FFL license say im currently in the certificate in gunsmithing course and im going to get in to the associates of science in firearms technology degree to.
There are classes that detail the process of getting an FFL and starting a business. They were helpful, I pretty had mine completed before I started those classes, it woulda been nice having the information before I started.
As a fellow student, yes you do. Basic classes you will need to demonstrate gun safety and then work on a detail “cleaning” which essentially you take the gun completely apart.
@@pyrowolf681 Okay. I appreciate you answering me. I don't own a gun, but I also found a school near me where I can go take classes for gunsmithing so hopefully that plays out well. I honestly think this would be bad for me in general because I have no space for anything they send lol. Good luck tho, I wish you the best, friend.
@@ninshu412 thank you. An issue I have that probably would be a deal breaker for you is they send you SOME of the stuff you need. Doing wood work they don’t even provide information like what drill bits and sizes you need. Which is quite stressful when you don’t have the luxury of owning every piece of equipment you can find.
@@tradesmanfirearms I'm still waiting for FAFSA to get back to me. I didn't realize I had an account and I'm going through the account recovery process. I'll definitely make sure to let you know how it goes tho.
100% true. Depending on which course you take for your final culmination class you could end up with an AR 15, AR 10, AR 9, Shotgun, or 1911. You’ll also get a muzzleloader, and a bunch of tools. Feel free to go through my videos, those are my assignments. You’ll see what you end up with.
@@tradesmanfirearms I'm definitely thinking of doing this program. What course do I take to build a gun. There's a gunsmithing job in My area and I want to build guns
@@DrewOsmium both the certificate as well as the degree program offer the firearm building courses. But you can’t take them independently. There are other courses available after you finish either program that offer other classes as well.
To get the degree you have to take a math class unless like me you already have another degree. I didn’t have to take any math classes but perhaps someone else in the comments can provide more info.
I have a buddy who runs a gun shop in Gardiner MT. He graduated from SDI a year ago and he said that a large portion of his business is made up of mounting optics and accurizing rifles. Granted we live in Montana and hunting is big here. I thought the process was interesting but I’m not positive it’s always necessary. I did learn that I had been drastically over tightening my scopes my whole life. Over all it was one of the classes I found more helpful than others. It makes me laugh when people complain about the quality of the scope. The class was designed to teach you how, not get you kitted up with the latest and greatest. I do wish they would just use Vortex Crossfires but I’m not in charge of their shipping department.
I'm very interested about this SDI thing, living in Georgia area, can I make my own guns inside the school; I mean use the tools of the school, I suppose they have tools right?
The school isn’t so much about making guns from scratch as much as it is about diagnosing and repairing firearms. Not to say that manufacturing isn’t a subject you’ll talk about. The tools you receive are geared more toward repair.
@ajsworldruledbycats2329 hey brother. I wanted to expand on tradesmanfirearms comment. You are going to receive a really nice education with the associates degree course. (I'm a student returning from another course). You'll learn how to write a paper as well as how to do research and cite your work. You're going to cover topics such as metallurgy, environmental science, American politics, psychology, etc. All of these are going to be geared towards firearms and firearms science and technology. Hope this helps
I looked into this and unfortunately I don’t have thousands and thousands of dollars to spend. Most of my money pays rent and there’s very little left for food. But going to school for guns seemed like a cool idea. Just a dream I guess.
The neat thing is you don't NEED a degree to get into gunsmithing, if it's something you really want to do find a gun store/gun smith near you and ask for a weekend apprenticeship, paid or unpaid, you can still work your regular job
I'm 17 and about to graduate highschool in a few months. I wanted to do gunsmithing when I turned 18 and after I graduated. Is it worth it? How much is it per classes? I am located on California and don't plan on moving out til I'm roughly 20 or 21 so I can save some money and figure my life out. Is it worth it? Or should I go to a generic smiting school. I love auto mechanics, but guns have always had my interest since I went to the shooting range at about 10 yrs old and a gentleman let me shoot his ar-15.
For your situation I would recommend seeking a brick and mortar school. Or got to technical school for machining. The school is good for what it is, but you should be looking elsewhere based on what you’ve told me.
For sdi can you get a grant as a civillian or no? I have zero military background but i know some firearms and would love to get into gunsmithing, been looking at sdi for 2 weeks now trying to gather what i can about it
@@gagereid7742 I don’t work for or have any affiliation with the school itself. I know people use Pell and fafsa but I would contact the school. Fill out the application information and ask the person who calls to talk to you.
@@gagereid7742 Talk to the financial aid representative for more information. Because the school qualifies for Title IV funding (Pell, Loans) there will be the usual assortment of aid available. There are probably fewer grants/scholarships from the school but you could search through reputable sources online. Friend of mine attended and loved it but he paid for his through military benefits, as I imagine many that attend do. Using the 9/11 funds and getting BAH is a sweet deal for them.
● I'm mostly a PISTOL Guy, and I wanna be a GUNSMITH. But I can't afford to attend SDI..I wanna Work with Firearms. I'd like to, somehow make a living at it. I wanna make Firearms a PRIORITY to Me. I'm Wondering, what can I do to make that happen ?
@@tradesmanfirearms exactly I’ve had friends that said they didn’t like SDI or anything. That’s exactly what I told them they were also the guys that served with me and only did the bare minimum. So a very true statement I’ve had a lot fun doing it. Don’t get me wrong there are times where I wanna beat my head against a wall but 90% it’s been awesome. I’m just doing it for something to do and get educated and have fun at something I enjoy.
Waste your gi bill on something else. I took certificate and the instructors are lenient on grading but you’ll get hard ones. You pretty much TH-cam everything and research everything on off sites
Vr&e is a rename of a VA program that used to be called vocational rehab or vocrehab. Helps veterans get trained in some useful in civilian life. Some of our training doesn't really work in most cases outside. Thanks for the vid. Looking to take classes soon and yes they are adding a lot more stuff from what I saw online last year. 👍🏽@@tradesmanfirearms
I don’t understand the benefit of the certificate of you plan on getting the associates? Maybe someone else could explain. I got the associates and wouldn’t go back to get the certificate?
@@tradesmanfirearms if you already finished the associates then going back for the certification is too much work. Not to mention you would have to shell out more money. Starting with the certification and rolling over into the associates when completed is turned into a singular course. You get both for the price of the associates. I will say it’s more about seeming more impressive getting both a cert and a degree but I’m a completionist. But it only works the one way or so I was told.
@@Viking300 there are no courses in the certificate that aren’t included in the associates. In other words if you get the associates you already have the certificate?
I was told that if you go for the associates you don’t get to receive the certification but if you start with the certification then take the additional classes to get the associates then you get both and only pay for the associates price. So I get a two for one. Getting the certification if you’re end goal is the associates may seem odd but since it doesn’t cost any more money. I am just looking at it as an extra to pad my resume.
Yes it's called going to a trade school and learning how to run things like a lathe and a cnc machine. If you truly genuinely want to become a gunsmith go to a trade school and learn how to run a CNC machine. That opens the door to not just gunsmithing, but other fields. And if you still want to become a gunsmith then you can become someone's apprentice. Gunsmithing is a hands on job field. Not some GI scam that shows you free TH-cam videos and manuals you can find on the internet.
@@generalgreevus8773 I own and run a lathe and have a decent cnc machine for building cars. I also work a full time job so being someone’s puppet isn’t ideally realistic for me right now.
There’s no argument that “Hands on” training isn’t better for learning Gunsmithing, however not only is that not always an option for everyone, SDI does it’s best (in my opinion) to include hands on labs with most of it’s courses. I would say SDI is a great starting place but is not a substitute for hands on learning.
In the realm of the theoretical yes i would go and get real hands on training but there are very few gun shops in my area, and only one has any gunsmiths at all, and they currently don't need any help. Which is why im trying to get into gunsmithing lol. It seems unattainable right now.
Meh, everyone’s entitled to their opinions. As I stated before, it’s good at what it is, and it’s no substitute for hands on field training in an actual shop. I don’t regret attending, but it’s not for everyone.
I’ve built 5 Ar’s now and a few handguns. I’m about to start classes in June after I finish my MBA. What’s the biggest thing yall took away from your degrees? Did you file for FFL afterward?
I filed during the final part of the course. Uhhhh I would say I learned about platforms I wasn’t already familiar with. Like you I was familiar with most modern firearms but not so much with older stuff.
As a fellow student who is about to graduate - I totally agree with this. I am paying for SDI out of pocket and also have a mini farm so this is perfect for me. Was it worth? 100% - were there times where I thought, man I could just TH-cam this - yes. But there were also times when I got genuine satisfaction from the courses. Which is more than I can say about any college I've attended. I've graduated twice - a bachelors in business and a bachelors in computer science - and I can confidently say that the tuition cost at SDI made me really feel like it was worth it because of the kits and parts they sent. Did the send the best of the best? No, but they sent good parts nonetheless. I hope this helps anyone else teetering on deciding. I would 100% do it again.
Thanks for that input and perspective man! I love that you are able to provide it from someone who is coming out of pocket.
Is it all online or do you have to go to Las Vegas and go to a campus? I've been interested
How much did it cost for either the degree or the certificate?
Thanks for this. Just enrolled today
Currently enrolled in SDI started May 13th. I am enrolled in The Associate of Science In Firearms Technology program and so far I am loving it, I am a full time dad of 4 & study inbetween my youngest ones naps. So far so good, when all said & done I plan to start my own in house side hustle. Gonna be looking to apprentice or volunteer in my free time if I can find a local individual or shop willing to work with and teach me while I am in school😎
I've got 4 weeks left at SDI. I've been watching your videos to help me with the muzzleloader lab. They've helped a lot so thanks for posting them. Look forward to your video on getting your FFL and distributors.
Thanks a lot. I will try to get started on those soon. I am currently working on a rifle bedding video.
Great explanation. I appreciate you took the time to explain on detail your experience. Thanks.
No problem!
You covered most of my questions-thanks. I'm a disabled Army vet and to me this is about learning gunsmithing AND a simple job at ft hood repairing firearms. Looking forward to your next video!
Awesome! I’m 100% P&T myself. I’m glad it helped. It felt rambly to me lol!
I really appreciate your videos about your experience at SDI. My son has done blacksmithing and welding and taken many online workshops about building a business but his heart is in gunsmithing. He learned how to safely use firearms years ago with my dad, his grandpa (Marine Vet) My son just graduated high school and he wants to go to gunsmithing school. The crappy part is we do not have an in person gunsmith school near us and I do not want to go into debt sending him to live on campus somewhere so we are looking into SDI. I've read a lot of reddit forums with ppl trashing SDI and now I'm trying to find positive experiences. Your explanation and personal experience/opinion on SDI has been the most helpful because you seem very informed and you're a mature adult able to explain that you'll get what you give in the gunsmithing program. Just like any education after high school you get what you give into it. There's tons of 4 year universities where most students do every class half ass and focus on partying. I think the online program will be good because my son is focused on his goals. I'm gonna share your video reviews of SDI with my son. I think it will get him excited. Thx again! :)
@@Kat_Just_for_Today I’m really glad you found it helpful. There are a lot of people who trash SDI, even in these comments. Make sure your kid joins the discord after he gets enrolled.
spot on brother, I start my last class next week for my associates. Its been informative and staying on task with life going on was not easy, but for a distance learning it worked for me, especially since the GI Bill took care of it! Congrats!
Thanks for your insight and your personal opinion. I'm on my second round of classes and it's been pretty good so far. I've been shooting for decades and wanted to get more knowledge for personal use so it's been good in that aspect. I agree that some of the discussions and forums are kind of meh but the actual coursework has really helped. I'm retired mil and work full time so it is a little hectic. Hopefully it'll pay off in the end.
Thanks for the insight yourself! Feel free to reach out during your classes if you hit any hard spots!
100% agree you get what you put in. I could have passed without reading most of my assignments but I read every chapter and also did extra research on my own. I have gotten a lot out of the school. If you put in the time and effort it’s worth it.
It cracks me up when people say “I learned nothing.” I’m like… “Did you try to learn anything?”
Only thing I didn’t learn really is machining which I didn’t expect to online. Pretty much everything else I have been tinkering with at the least. Getting my ffl soon just finished the program last week.
@@zechshippey yea I got my FFL about 2 weeks ago. I agree on the machining. I’m planning to take some machining classes at the local college next spring. They offer an associates in Metal fabrication that covers machining and welding. I think that would be awesome.
I’ve went to American gunsmith Institute and SDI. I would say if you are looking to get your foot in the door with gunsmithing SDI is the way to go they send you a lot of beginner tools and if you’re a veteran it’s the only gunsmithing school your GI bill will pay for after you graduate from SDI I would look into another school or an apprenticeship to get more hands on
I’m looking to attend AGI’s appraisal school next. What’s your opinion of AGI in general?
I agree with time consuming. I work 70-90 hours a week and taking these classes. There are times that I finish all the assignments last minute and just hope I get them in on time. I started my business about halfway through this course and will admit you will learn more hands on than the course alone can teach you. Wish they had more hands on labs that made you simulate an issue and try to correct the simulated issue. The school is great to give you an understanding of what to do more than teach you how to do everything.
I'm currently in my final 6 months at SDI. I took a different approach and am using SDI as a steppingstone to earn my Bachelors. They partner with Grand Canyon University. GCU, at the time I started my transfer, accepts all of SDI's credits. Combining that with my JST from the Navy and I'll be in the ballpark of 70-80 credits by the time I start at GCU. SDI's definitely worth it if you go about it with the right mindset.
That’s a dang good reason too. And GCU is a great school. I already had my bachelors when I started but I really appreciate you adding this bit of experience to the post!
Thank you for this comment! I'm starting in 2 weeks and I was wondering where I can transfer after SDI. Recently found out I only have a few years left to use my Post 9/11 gi bill (thought I was covered under the Forever Gi Bill lol) so I'm trying to get my Bachelors before it expires. Do you know of any other college(s) that accepts all of SDI credits?
@@jaycee509 if you google SDI educational partnerships it should come up with their website’s list that will accept the most credits for transfer.
I’m not really hearing any inaccuracies, man, so great job! You focus a lot on military but that’s probably because of your former Army service. I, too, have a family and shit to do and it would be impossible to attend a brick and mortar again in my life but I’m just using FAFSA to finance tuition. You didn’t really touch on that option. Also, you never mention the option to attend part-time as I’m doing so and feel if it wasn’t an option, then I may not be able to manage enrollment at all since I drive 3k miles a week for work. Part-time and FAFSA are what makes this possible for me right now. Otherwise, everything else sounded great! I love it when you’re forgetting classes or whatever and point to the top corner then add the text in your edit. That’s a fun touch.
Thanks for adding another perspective to this. After 20 years of service I do tend to lean back hard into that. I really appreciate you explaining that FAFSA is an option as well!
That is understandable! Thank you for your time in service.
The most enticing thing about SDI is the amount of tools and equipment you get. A lot of other schools don't give you nearly as much and since I'm using the G.I bill I'm getting everything I need for free. Also it is easier to work as I'm taking the course.
I thought the same thing when I started but pretty quickly upgraded all the tools using the BAH money.
Not free brother. You signed your life to a contract for the time. 👍🏽
Active duty, retiring in a few years. Currently have a couple classes left to finish the Associates program. I cannot stress enough how much time the labs take. I will say they are enjoyable, but it will definitely take time to complete them each week. When you have a wife and kids and other activities, you have to make a concerted effort to put the time aside for the labs. I do feel like they do a decent job teaching you what you need to know to have the foundation needed to start working on firearms. Plus, having the government pay for 2 guns for me (Muzzleloader and an AR-9) through tuition assistance is actually funny to me considering the government hates gun ownership lol.
I completely agree
Great plan
Hi recon, I have one more class, the 1911 and then im done with my associates. You are spot on about the labs! The hardest once for me was the checkering class. That one lab made me realize that checkering is NOT for me lol! WTG on almost being finished!
@@richardmartin6299 oof. I got that one and the AR-9 build coming up this month. The Black Powder rifle build doing all the inletting made me wanna rip my own face off. Weirdly I think I’ll enjoy checkering though. Congrats to you on almost being done as well!
@ReconGaming14 how well do they work around being Active Duty? I've been thinking of enrolling but I am Infantry, so we go to the field quite a bit.
If you are still in the military, and you are interested in these types of classes, find out the MOS for your branch and do that first. THEN go to SDI with that knowledge (that you got for no money).
I switched my MOS’s 4 times, and none of those switches were easy. You can probably get armors school if your in a line unit but even that’s probably difficult. I don’t disagree. However. If you can, go for it.
Where else would you recommend for gunsmithing?
I really like your perspective. I ended up leaving before the certificate program was finished. I like you have a family and can't go to a brick and mortar. I decided to stop attending because what I had left wasn't beneficial to what I was doing. I was successful with all my assignments and grades. I had a lot of great interactions with other students but with what was left and what I needed, it was not effective. I also just got my FFL and all my stuff. Crazy stuff. Good luck!
Any plans to finish up in the future?
@tradesmanfirearms No I am going to operate on what I know and I have a mentor not to far away that is willing to take on work I can't and help me learn what I don't know. I am going to a machinist course soon too.
@@scruffyarms nice, I have plans for a machining curriculum next year.
I just watched this video and I'd like to first thank you for your time and sharing your experience with SDI. I'm a retiree that served 8 years in the Marine Corps and another 30 years working with DON in communications for weapons testing and I've always had firearms and loving shooting and working on them. I have a disability rating that the VA will help with tuition for retraining and want to become a gunsmith. Do I have to take other school courses besides the firearms training to get certified by SDI? I also want to take courses in machining and tool and die making at a junior college to help with this for a future in my own business. Do you have any recommendations I should follow to achieve my goals?
Thank you for the information brother i am going to do the same thing after i graduate the certificate in gunsmithing course im going to do the associate of science in firearms technology.
How’s this journey going so far?
Another good thing to cover is the credit card processors for FFL vs other businesses
I’ll make sure to add that in with the FFL videos thanks!
You have done more teaching than any of my instructors at SDI
Thanks! That’s a hell of a compliment!
I am a current SDI student myself and I am almost done with the degree. I am taking 2 classes right now and only have the checkering class to complete. I am just coming across your videos and finding them and this video 110% accurate. I went through the same challenges and learning. I am retired from the Army, and still have a full-time job, I took 2 classes at a time and sometimes a third with a lab would come in and really challenge you.
Thanks man! Good luck after graduation. What’s your plan after you finish?
@@tradesmanfirearms The same as you, get a business going, licensed, a side hustle for now. I am working with a gunsmith and trained machinist to learn to cut and chamber barrels. Going to start on some replacement barrels for my own rifles first.
Lol that's hilarious.. 14:11 did they get kicked out for that shit? Doesn't it say like no cheating or you will get kicked out and lose the money you already spent? On a serious note: Im considering on joining SDI; using two pell grants and a loan and then just use my tax refund to pay off the loan. Then, take another pell grant or two and go to local college for Industrial Welding. I'm supposed to get my offer letter this upcoming week. I see alot of people bashing this college and its really got me on the fence. Mostly alot of Vets who used their GI bill and regretting it.
I don’t understand why it gets so much hate. I highly suggest you join the students discord. I liked it on the how to make friends video. I don’t know if that person got kicked out. I will say there are good and bad instructors everywhere. You plan makes sense to me, I like that you are looking at industrial welding at the local college.
im in my last month of the associates program, and I have been going part time, and now its almost done! Come to find out after advanced ballistics they are sending me a 1911:) I have learned alot and Im glad I did it
@@richardmartin6299 did you also get the ar build or did you choose the 1911
Doing the certificate program right now...NOT worth it so far. 97% Essays and discussion boards and reading magazine articles. so far none of it has been gunsmithing related
@@dirtroadrenegade588 yea it’s a mixed bag for sure. Important to remember this is a College not a trade school so there is a lot of academic focus vs a trades school which is more hands on.
I’m in the same program right now. Just finishing up week 4 and we are yet to touch a firearm.
hey man; i’d love to talk with you about this.
how do we connect?
You can send me an email. Talon.Jayne@tradesmanfirearms.com or you can ask your questions here so others can benefit from the answers as well.
@@tradesmanfirearms I think youtube deleted my comment…
Really?! Ask again. Thats weird.
After looking around on the internet a couple days it seems like the general consensus is to start with becoming a Gunsmith's Apprentice, but I'm honestly not sure where to start looking for an apprenticeship for gunsmithing. Any advice?
I’ve built 5 Ar’s now and a few handguns. I’m about to start classes in June after I finish my MBA. What’s the biggest thing yall took away from your degrees? Did you file for FFL afterward?
Majority of people who do SDI say its not worth it. If you go look at what they "teach" its no where near worth the amount. You are no where near experienced enough to be a "gunsmith" or even an armorer after doing SDI. Please don't work on anyone's guns until after you have more experience.
@@mageman483 I’ll second the fact that additional experience is necessary. SDI is only the first step on a long road to competent gunsmith work. I personally recommend an apprenticeship or working with a gunsmith who you find competent and knowledgeable. A machinist course would be great too.
I have a dumb beginner question, I have never, nope, never done a video of myself. SDI gives no guidance, yet requires video assignments. What is the easiest/best way to get this done? What are you using now? I really appreciate the pro introduction!
There's some free software called OBS you can use on your PC to record anything from your computer's camera OR record your screen. All it requires is to add your video feed, your screen and your audio and you can record using that. It may require some editing software as well but I usually use that to cut out and outtakes I usually get good grades on it. Either that or just use a camera in a place you can talk in front of.
Thank you for sharing your experience
Thank you for the video, I've been doing some research on this school for a while now and was thinking about doing the associates and then possibly getting a degree for CNC machining. I do have two questions for any gunsmiths who do read this: 1) Is VR&E able to be utilized for SDI, 2) if anyone utilizes CNC machining in their own shops, what were the pros vs cons of it?
Yes on the VR&E and it depends on the CNC machining, what are you planning to do? Make uppers and lowers? Con’s it’s expensive machinery. Pro’s the ability to make parts without relying on someone else.
Great video TJ!
Thanks, any pointers?
Using Real Avid Vice? The vice and the master tool kit are the best. Your opinion?
I am a huge fan of real avid. I recommend all their tools. I wish they would sponsor me because I would save a ton of money! I bought everything before I found out they provided a SDI discount.
great video, thanks for the info, what do you think about the video that Desk Pop channel uploaded basically saying that SDI is a scam? video title is called "We Need to Talk About Sonoran Desert Institute"
@@fate2022 I saw it. I have a hard time listening to anyone who didn’t even finish a single course and then provided all his information second hand. Plus his video was weird, just two dudes standing in the desert with sunglasses on bragging about the fact they turned down money? He reached out to me in these comments prior to posting that video but we never got a chance to connect.
@tradesmanfirearms I can agree with that 100% , I'll be honest they do sound a bit biased, but I have also noticed there are many other similar videos.
@@tradesmanfirearmswtf are you talking about? One of the guys took the course and got the certificate.
@@MrProfchaos71 perhaps you should go re watch. Look around the 1 minute mark. He attended from September to December. th-cam.com/video/JE6aZfjSOPA/w-d-xo.htmlsi=Co98KUkj2r-99IXU
@@tradesmanfirearms They did the right thing turning down SDI. It may not be a scam but its pretty much fraud.
What’s your opinion on doing the associates vs the certificate
That depends. If you are going on to a bachelor’s afterward? Do you already have college? For me I didn’t have to take the core classes to get the associates. No math English science etc. It was a no brainer at that point. You get to do the muzzle loader if you do the degree. That’s a tough one. Maybe start with the certificate and swap to the degree if you want later. Lots of people do that.
I’m a Army veteran and I really like SDI I’m half way done. So far so good
It goes by fast. I can’t wait to be finished by I have plans for future training as well.
Noticed you replying to everyone. Hoping to get an answer for this question. Do you need a lathe a mill to take this course?
Not at all.
To anyone saying you don’t get to touch firearms at all. Yes this is true but I got a BA in Criminal justice and not once did I arrest someone, or over see and pass judgement on a court case. It’s an academic school with a lot of ready. It’s a new program so it’s probably going to be shit until there is experience in building better curriculum.
@@beardedguy7321 I literally snorted reading the comment about not getting to do criminal justice stuff lol. Great analogy. Haha
6:15 "or hotel if youre airforce" is crazy😂😂
Hahaha
My brother in law is AF so I have to slide in jabs when I can.
Getting enrolled now! I appreciate your videos. I am a disabled Army vet and live in Montana as well. I work at Hi Country so if you are ever in the area stop and get some jerky!
Hey brother have you done the modern sporting rifle class and if you did does SDI help you build a gun.
I did not. But yes SDI does assist in the building.
Thank you for making this video 😊😊
You bet!
Hey brother i have a great question does SDI help you get an FFL license say im currently in the certificate in gunsmithing course and im going to get in to the associates of science in firearms technology degree to.
There are classes that detail the process of getting an FFL and starting a business. They were helpful, I pretty had mine completed before I started those classes, it woulda been nice having the information before I started.
@@tradesmanfirearms thank you brother.
what camera and editing software do you recommend I start class Monday?
Bro every single one of my videos was filmed on my iPhone. I edit every video using an Ap called Luma Fusion.
I think if my channel grows I’ll upgrade, but as you can tell, the phone works fine.
Keep an eye out. I’m gonna do an entire video on filming and editing your video assignments.
Stupid question. So, you need to own a gun to do the gunsmithing classes? Just asking because I don't own one.
As a fellow student, yes you do. Basic classes you will need to demonstrate gun safety and then work on a detail “cleaning” which essentially you take the gun completely apart.
@@pyrowolf681 Okay. I appreciate you answering me. I don't own a gun, but I also found a school near me where I can go take classes for gunsmithing so hopefully that plays out well. I honestly think this would be bad for me in general because I have no space for anything they send lol. Good luck tho, I wish you the best, friend.
@@ninshu412 thank you. An issue I have that probably would be a deal breaker for you is they send you SOME of the stuff you need. Doing wood work they don’t even provide information like what drill bits and sizes you need. Which is quite stressful when you don’t have the luxury of owning every piece of equipment you can find.
It’s never a stupid question, I’m glad these others answered. Even something cheap will work to start the course. How did that other school turn out?
@@tradesmanfirearms I'm still waiting for FAFSA to get back to me. I didn't realize I had an account and I'm going through the account recovery process. I'll definitely make sure to let you know how it goes tho.
Congratulations on the FFL
I am both excited and nervous!
@@tradesmanfirearms go with fastbound and 4473 cloud. Makes the process easier and less paperwork.
So someone told me that one of these online gunsmithing courses send firearms parts to build but I don't know if it's true
100% true. Depending on which course you take for your final culmination class you could end up with an AR 15, AR 10, AR 9, Shotgun, or 1911. You’ll also get a muzzleloader, and a bunch of tools. Feel free to go through my videos, those are my assignments. You’ll see what you end up with.
@@tradesmanfirearms I'm definitely thinking of doing this program. What course do I take to build a gun. There's a gunsmithing job in My area and I want to build guns
@@DrewOsmium both the certificate as well as the degree program offer the firearm building courses. But you can’t take them independently. There are other courses available after you finish either program that offer other classes as well.
it is true, they sent me a shenandoa kentucky flintlock to build which wasn't easy but shes a beaut!
What kind of math is required?
To get the degree you have to take a math class unless like me you already have another degree. I didn’t have to take any math classes but perhaps someone else in the comments can provide more info.
SDI really should change it from an associates in gunsmithing to an armorers degree.
That’s not inaccurate
Gunsmithing is more widely recognized
Hey brother I have a question what did you think about sights optics and accuracy course that is what I'm in now.
I have a buddy who runs a gun shop in Gardiner MT. He graduated from SDI a year ago and he said that a large portion of his business is made up of mounting optics and accurizing rifles. Granted we live in Montana and hunting is big here. I thought the process was interesting but I’m not positive it’s always necessary. I did learn that I had been drastically over tightening my scopes my whole life. Over all it was one of the classes I found more helpful than others. It makes me laugh when people complain about the quality of the scope. The class was designed to teach you how, not get you kitted up with the latest and greatest. I do wish they would just use Vortex Crossfires but I’m not in charge of their shipping department.
@@tradesmanfirearms thank you brother I appreciate it.
I'm very interested about this SDI thing, living in Georgia area, can I make my own guns inside the school; I mean use the tools of the school, I suppose they have tools right?
The school isn’t so much about making guns from scratch as much as it is about diagnosing and repairing firearms. Not to say that manufacturing isn’t a subject you’ll talk about. The tools you receive are geared more toward repair.
@@tradesmanfirearms thank you
@ajsworldruledbycats2329 hey brother. I wanted to expand on tradesmanfirearms comment.
You are going to receive a really nice education with the associates degree course. (I'm a student returning from another course). You'll learn how to write a paper as well as how to do research and cite your work. You're going to cover topics such as metallurgy, environmental science, American politics, psychology, etc. All of these are going to be geared towards firearms and firearms science and technology. Hope this helps
I work at a armory😎
That would make it easier.
I looked into this and unfortunately I don’t have thousands and thousands of dollars to spend. Most of my money pays rent and there’s very little left for food. But going to school for guns seemed like a cool idea. Just a dream I guess.
The neat thing is you don't NEED a degree to get into gunsmithing, if it's something you really want to do find a gun store/gun smith near you and ask for a weekend apprenticeship, paid or unpaid, you can still work your regular job
FAFSA go look that up it's how you pay for college and sdi accepts it
Should I pursue a degree in business then go to pursue SDI?
They teach about business
I'm 17 and about to graduate highschool in a few months. I wanted to do gunsmithing when I turned 18 and after I graduated. Is it worth it? How much is it per classes? I am located on California and don't plan on moving out til I'm roughly 20 or 21 so I can save some money and figure my life out. Is it worth it? Or should I go to a generic smiting school. I love auto mechanics, but guns have always had my interest since I went to the shooting range at about 10 yrs old and a gentleman let me shoot his ar-15.
For your situation I would recommend seeking a brick and mortar school. Or got to technical school for machining. The school is good for what it is, but you should be looking elsewhere based on what you’ve told me.
@@tradesmanfirearms thank you very much! I'll keep an eye out for one.
For sdi can you get a grant as a civillian or no? I have zero military background but i know some firearms and would love to get into gunsmithing, been looking at sdi for 2 weeks now trying to gather what i can about it
Totally! Lots of civilians attend SDI! The student of the year last year was a civilian.
@@tradesmanfirearms do they accept grants and if so what kind?
@@gagereid7742 I don’t work for or have any affiliation with the school itself. I know people use Pell and fafsa but I would contact the school. Fill out the application information and ask the person who calls to talk to you.
@@gagereid7742 Talk to the financial aid representative for more information. Because the school qualifies for Title IV funding (Pell, Loans) there will be the usual assortment of aid available. There are probably fewer grants/scholarships from the school but you could search through reputable sources online. Friend of mine attended and loved it but he paid for his through military benefits, as I imagine many that attend do. Using the 9/11 funds and getting BAH is a sweet deal for them.
● I'm mostly a PISTOL Guy, and I wanna be a GUNSMITH. But I can't afford to attend SDI..I wanna Work with Firearms. I'd like to, somehow make a living at it. I wanna make Firearms a PRIORITY to Me. I'm Wondering, what can I do to make that happen ?
Man then I’d go with a cheaper and more affordable gunsmithing class online
@user-wo9zp1ug7n I'll check it out. Thank's.👍
You only get what put in
I have heard this statement from everyone who actually puts in effort.
@@tradesmanfirearms exactly I’ve had friends that said they didn’t like SDI or anything. That’s exactly what I told them they were also the guys that served with me and only did the bare minimum. So a very true statement I’ve had a lot fun doing it. Don’t get me wrong there are times where I wanna beat my head against a wall but 90% it’s been awesome. I’m just doing it for something to do and get educated and have fun at something I enjoy.
What brick and mortar schools do we have here in Colorado?
schooloftrades.edu
Trinidad is one of the top schools in the states, located in Colorado.
I’m on my week break now
Those break weeks go by too fast!
Waste your gi bill on something else. I took certificate and the instructors are lenient on grading but you’ll get hard ones. You pretty much TH-cam everything and research everything on off sites
No arguments that people who probably shouldn’t graduate do, but that doesn’t change the fact you get out of it whatever you put into it.
Anyone use VR&E? For this?
What’s that? I know there’s a ton of vets doing it. I can ask around.
Vr&e is a rename of a VA program that used to be called vocational rehab or vocrehab. Helps veterans get trained in some useful in civilian life. Some of our training doesn't really work in most cases outside. Thanks for the vid. Looking to take classes soon and yes they are adding a lot more stuff from what I saw online last year. 👍🏽@@tradesmanfirearms
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I’m about to start and I was kind of nudged to start with the certificate and finish with the associates so you get both for one price.
I don’t understand the benefit of the certificate of you plan on getting the associates? Maybe someone else could explain. I got the associates and wouldn’t go back to get the certificate?
@@tradesmanfirearms if you already finished the associates then going back for the certification is too much work. Not to mention you would have to shell out more money. Starting with the certification and rolling over into the associates when completed is turned into a singular course. You get both for the price of the associates. I will say it’s more about seeming more impressive getting both a cert and a degree but I’m a completionist. But it only works the one way or so I was told.
@@Viking300 there are no courses in the certificate that aren’t included in the associates. In other words if you get the associates you already have the certificate?
I was told that if you go for the associates you don’t get to receive the certification but if you start with the certification then take the additional classes to get the associates then you get both and only pay for the associates price. So I get a two for one. Getting the certification if you’re end goal is the associates may seem odd but since it doesn’t cost any more money. I am just looking at it as an extra to pad my resume.
You did not get a 2-for-1 deal. No way they won't take your money @Viking300
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What’s better SDI or AGI
Only info I can help with is SDI is accredited and can apply for financial aid. AGI is not accredited and have to pay out of pocket.
Yes it's called going to a trade school and learning how to run things like a lathe and a cnc machine. If you truly genuinely want to become a gunsmith go to a trade school and learn how to run a CNC machine. That opens the door to not just gunsmithing, but other fields. And if you still want to become a gunsmith then you can become someone's apprentice. Gunsmithing is a hands on job field. Not some GI scam that shows you free TH-cam videos and manuals you can find on the internet.
@@generalgreevus8773 I own and run a lathe and have a decent cnc machine for building cars. I also work a full time job so being someone’s puppet isn’t ideally realistic for me right now.
@@TugBoatTuffy Then SDI will not offer you anything you don't already know. I won't tell you how to spend your money, but 22k is a lot of money
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Im using my gi bill 3 free firearms and 7000$ in my pocket from bah sound good to me
@@seantbr2019 pretty hard to argue with lol!
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Oh god.. don't show them the discord... Hahaha
Hahahahahaha.
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Just get real handson training. Online gunsmith school....lol....
There’s no argument that “Hands on” training isn’t better for learning Gunsmithing, however not only is that not always an option for everyone, SDI does it’s best (in my opinion) to include hands on labs with most of it’s courses. I would say SDI is a great starting place but is not a substitute for hands on learning.
In the realm of the theoretical yes i would go and get real hands on training but there are very few gun shops in my area, and only one has any gunsmiths at all, and they currently don't need any help. Which is why im trying to get into gunsmithing lol. It seems unattainable right now.
Sdi is trash
Meh, everyone’s entitled to their opinions. As I stated before, it’s good at what it is, and it’s no substitute for hands on field training in an actual shop. I don’t regret attending, but it’s not for everyone.
@@AFullNelson thanks. I appreciate that.
So basically, if you live in the barracks, go down range and find yourself a wife so you can get into a house w/ a shop and attend SDI.
Roger that!
I’ve built 5 Ar’s now and a few handguns. I’m about to start classes in June after I finish my MBA. What’s the biggest thing yall took away from your degrees? Did you file for FFL afterward?
I filed during the final part of the course. Uhhhh I would say I learned about platforms I wasn’t already familiar with. Like you I was familiar with most modern firearms but not so much with older stuff.
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