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

Norma American Professional Hunter 308 Norma Magnum 180Gr Oryx Rifle Ammo 20 Rounds 1439756 1
Norma American Professional Hunter 308 Norma Magnum 180Gr Oryx Rifle Ammo 20 Rounds 1439756 1

Behind the Bullet: The .308 Norma Magnum

Norma’s ballistician Nils Kvale saw the wisdom of having the velocity and horsepower of the .300 H&H Magnum, but in a shorter, more affordable receiver, and used the H&H case to develop his .358 Norma Magnum in 1959 as well as the .308 Norma Magnum one year later. The .308 Norma Magnum closely resembles the wildcat .30-338 cartridge, though the shoulder of the former is located a bit more toward the base than that of the .308 Norma Magnum. Intrigued? Read on about this often unfairly overlooked hunting classic.

New for 2026: Browning Trail Cameras Defender Pro Scout Max HD-DV

The Defender Pro Scout Max HD-DV, from Browning Trail Cameras, promises direct video transmission and streamlined setup without adding complexity.

Is Wildcatting Right for You?

Dennis Bradley explores the potential benefits of going with a wildcat cartridge, using the .375 Raptor as a case study.

New for 2026: The Chiappa M1-22 Bushranger

Chiappa Firearms expands its rimfire lineup with the introduction of the Bushranger M1-22 Semi-Auto, a .22 LR rifle built to bridge familiar sporting ergonomics with modern accessory capability. The Bushranger is intended for recreational shooting, skill development and range use, but could also excel in the hands of any small game or varmint hunter.

Savage Updates 212 and 220 Slug Guns

Savage Arms has upgraded its 212/220 Harvester and Harvester Woodland slug guns. These models now feature the AccuFit V2 stock system, providing shooters with all sorts of customizable options.

Science Behind Mountain Lion Management and Hunting

Across North America, agencies responsible for the conservation and management of native mammals, including large carnivores, employ science-based tools to manage wildlife populations. It’s a delicate balance too often compromised by emotion at the ballot box.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.