Lakes Area Gun Repair and Firearms Training Center

Lakes Area Gun Repair and Firearms Training Center operates as both a full-service gunsmith shop and a certified training facility in Minnesota. They handle firearm repairs and modifications while simultaneously offering comprehensive firearms instruction from basic safety through advanced defensive tactics.

Their certified technician works on pistols (revolvers and semi-autos), rifles, and shotguns. Services include:

• •Gun cleaning and maintenance
• •Revolver and semi-automatic pistol work
• •Rifle actions and triggers
• •Stock and sling modifications
• •Iron sights and scope mounting
• •Laser bore sighting
• •AR assembly (customer-supplied parts)
• •Pistol and rifle accessories
• •Machine work when needed

"I've seen guns dated back to the Wild West that can still be shot today." They assess whether older, inherited firearms are safe to shoot or should remain as wall hangers based on maintenance history and condition.

They're straightforward about limitations: they don't offer rifle rechambering and won't take jobs where parts aren't available or repair costs exceed the firearm's value. They do service duty weapons for peace officers and security personnel, including sights, attachments, and internal work.

Their training is hands-on and tailored to experience level—from absolute beginners to seasoned shooters.

• •Basic Firearms Safety Education covers fundamental handling, holding, aiming, and safety features. Students learn carry methods and ammunition specifications.

• •Minnesota Carry Permit Course runs about 3 hours and covers the legal system, psychological factors affecting performance, reciprocity with other states (Florida and Utah reciprocate with MN permits), and resources like the NRA and USCCA. The MN permit is valid for 5 years and requires being 21 or older.

• •Defensive Pistol/Rifle Course moves beyond static shooting at ranges. Students learn cover and concealment, shooting from obstacles, and real-world decision-making when conditions don't allow for a classic draw-and-fire setup.

All courses emphasize: - Safe handling techniques - How the legal system works (incident response, police interaction, court proceedings) - Breathing and fundamentals to improve marksmanship - Treating firearms as tools, not toys - Laws specific to carry permit holders

They're expanding into custom knife making and 3D printing/vacuum forming for custom targets. Future plans include a design segment where customers can submit ideas for custom products.

• •Email: [email protected]
• •Cell Phone: 218-232-5058
• •Location: Minnesota

"The repair work was flawless, and the training sessions were incredibly informative and empowering." — John Graves, customer testimonial