Horseshoeing and gunsmithing – the very names conjure up images from the past, visions of cowboys and outlaws in the Wild West. But the surprising reality of these near-forgotten trades is not simply that they still exist in today’s world, but that skilled practitioners are in high demand, able to set up businesses of their own, and often able to pick and choose their clientele.
The reality of being a farrier – someone who shoes horses – is far different from the image of a grizzled blacksmith shoeing horses in the middle of a desert town. A modern farrier is well equipped, well trained and often able to set up his or her own business. Farriers today work with racehorses, show horses and work horses. People who own farms or riding stables, those who ride professionally or as a hobby – they’re all bound by one thing – the love of horses. A good farrier is essential to the well-being of a horse, and a well-trained farrier knows how to analyze the shape of a horse’s hoof and check for problems. Different horses require different shoes, depending on their routines, and a farrier who knows the right shoe and schedule for each horse is worth his weight in gold.
Gunsmiths today are also a far cry from the way they are often pictured. Guns are increasingly complicated machines, and it requires knowledge and training to help maintain, design and repair guns for sportsmen, the military or the police. Both the military and state, local and federal police forces require gunsmiths to make sure equipment is in working order. But perhaps the real appeal in gunsmithing is working with and for the sportsman – the hunter or gun collector. These sportsmen often have large collections of different types of guns requiring maintenance and, in the case of older, historical guns, careful restoration.
The allure of both gunsmithing and horseshoeing as a trade is multi-faceted. In both, people get to work with something they love, with and for people who share their same passions. And in both careers, there is the very real benefit of being able to set up your own business – being able to choose your own clientele, set your own hours, and do something you really love. Working for yourself isn’t always easy. There is a lot of responsibility, and you have to make sure your business plan is solid and you are able to face the challenges ahead. But for those who decide to go for it, few things are more rewarding than being their own boss and having the satisfaction that comes from running and owning their own business.
