Bookshelf: Gunsmithing Modern Firearms

by
posted on August 14, 2019
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
gunsmithingmodernfirearms-towsley_lead.jpg

Renowned for his literary contributions to the firearm industry, including authoring countless articles for American Hunter magazine, and with nearly four decades of firearm experience under his belt, Bryce M. Towsley knows a thing or two about making good guns even better. A gun-guy through and through, there’s perhaps no gun-writer alive today with as much experience and enthusiasm from which to learn the art of gunsmithing.

Towsley’s second book on the topic of gunsmithing, Gunsmithing Modern Firearms, is broken down into two parts, “Primary Projects” and “Advanced Projects.” The former covers everything from simple AR-15 builds to the application of protective coatings on firearms. The advanced section focuses on machining and the building of firearms from scratch, rather than piecing one together from pre-made parts.

Towsley includes almost 1,000 color images, complete with captions, to provide further details regarding each project.

Regardless of your skill level, if you enjoy tinkering with your firearms, this “gun guy’s guide to making good guns even better” is one of the best reference resources available. Pick up a copy and try your hand at one of the most fun yet educational aspects of firearm ownership.

• MSRP: $24.99
• Pages: 289
• Availability: Hardcover; brycetowsley.com

Latest

H2hlead Photo 7X57 V 308 Win
H2hlead Photo 7X57 V 308 Win

Head to Head: 7x57mm Mauser vs. .308 Winchester

The 7x57mm Mauser and the .308 Winchester are two of the most versatile and popular cartridges to make the jump from military to field use. Which makes the more sensible choice for the big game hunter? Follow along as Phil Massaro takes a dive into this pair of classics.

New for 2026: Winchester Long Beard Tungsten

Winchester Ammunition has added Long Beard Tungsten to its turkey hunting lineup of shotshells in 2026.

RMEF Grants $400,000 to Support WAFWA Wildlife Movement Projects

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) recently awarded a $400,000 grant to the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (WAFWA) to fund three state-led projects aimed at conserving, restoring and enhancing big game seasonal habitat and migration corridors in Nevada, Washington and Wyoming.

Suppressor Etiquette: Is It Rude Not to Use One When You Can?

If you legally can use a suppressor, is it becoming rude not to? A recent hunt in New Zealand, where suppressors are almost required equipment, got Brad Fenson thinking about the question. Follow along for the pros and cons of cans, as well as a discussion of the changing cultural norms surrounding their use.

First Look: Winchester American Lever Range Ammunition

The Winchester legacy continues with American Lever Range ammunition, designed and optimized for its namesake platform.

Savings Worth Strutting Over

Several major ammo companies are running big savings for turkey hunters this season. Read on to find out how you can take advantage.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.