I am a full time gunsmith that has been working in the industry for 8 years. I own all of my equipment (mill, lathe, hand tools, specialty tools) It is expensive, but you not only can write it off on your taxes, you will also always have a way to make money. I do not specialize on one platform. I have found that it limits my money making. I would suggest that if you are not mechanical, go to a top school( Lakewood, CO or Trinidad, CO) these are the top 2 in the US. You are looking at 2 yrs, and once you graduate, you will be able to get work as an apprentise/assistant gunsmith. You will be looking at a starting pay of approximately $12-15hr. Good gunsmiths that work for a shop can make $18-30hr plus commission (5-15%) If you have the money to open your own shop, you need to find out what the other shops around you are charging for services. Feel free to contact me if you need any other info.
JIM