Two good responses...

Originally Posted by GeorgiaBoy
Go to your local technical school and learn how to use a lathe. You will be miles ahead when and if you decide on a school. Building a rifle is basically facing, boring, and threading. You will learn that in your first class. You will also learn whether or not you have the patience for "precision" work. Few people have it...and of those who do, many find that they cannot maintain the drive for it.

Had a friend with 30 years of mechanical and machine shop experience in a number of fields. Went to interview with a nationally know BR rifle builder. Walked away. Said the level of precision required was "insane".


Originally Posted by 458 Lott
... Learn how to run a small business profitably! ...

This ^^^^^^ ... Sounds easy, but, it ain't ... Keep in mind that running a "profitable hobby" is totally different than running a "business that generates sufficient cash flow and profit to pay the bills"...