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

Ledehunter With Dog
Ledehunter With Dog

Public Opportunity on Private Land: Walk-in Access Programs

State game managers have come up with an array of walk-in access programs for private lands. These state-led initiatives partner with willing landowners to open thousands—sometimes millions—of acres of land to the public at little or no extra cost. Read on for some of the best options in the country.

Early Spring Turkey Tactics that Work

A hunter strokes the paddle on a box call emitting a loud yelp into the predawn air. The thunderous reply has blood boiling at both ends of this dance. What now? Read on for some early spring turkey tactics that work.

New for 2026: Imperial Whitetail Sorghum Select

Hunters and land managers looking to add additional feeding opportunities now have a new option: Imperial Whitetail brand Sorghum Select from the Whitetail Institute. This blend combines two premium hybrid sorghum varieties to deliver a high-yielding, palatable, nutritious grain crop.

Hunting Adventure: Pursuing the Prince of the Plains

A veteran of many safaris finally hunts the game atop his wish list. Follow along with Scott Haugen as he stalks sable through South Africa.

New for 2026: Armageddon Gear Turkey Chest Rig

Always scrambling to find the right call in one of a thousand pockets? The Armageddon Gear Turkey Chest Rig eliminates that problem by putting everything front and center, exactly where it should be.

First Look: Mossberg Special Edition 590 Bliksem

Mossberg has released its 590 Bliksem, a Special Edition pump-action firearm created in collaboration with Christian Craighead and his brand, Ministry of Defence (MOD). 

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.