Brownells
About Brownells
Brownells has been the world's leading supplier of gunsmithing tools and firearms parts since 1939, when founder Bob Brownell started the company in Montezuma, Iowa.
What began as Bob's gunsmithing hobby evolved into a business when he realized many essential tools couldn't be purchased anywhere, leading him to buy extras to sell to fellow gunsmiths facing similar supply difficulties.
The company published its first catalog in 1947 with the motto "The First and Only Complete Gunsmiths' Supply House in the World," professionalizing the gunsmithing trade.
Over 85 years, Brownells has significantly impacted gunsmithing education and practice through influential publications like the "Encyclopedia of Modern Firearms" and "Gunsmith Kinks" book series.
Today, the family-owned company remains headquartered in Iowa under CEO Pete Brownell (Bob's grandson), continuing their commitment to supplying over 90,000 gun parts, tools, and supplies to professionals and enthusiasts worldwide.
Popular Brownells Features
Guaranteed Forever Policy
- Customers can return most products at any time if they don't need, want, or like them, demonstrating unmatched confidence in product quality.
Comprehensive Product Selection
- Over 90,000 gun parts, tools, and supplies available in one location, featuring both common and hard-to-find items for any project.
Expert Technical Support
- Knowledgeable "GunTechs" provide professional technical advice and support to help customers choose the right tools and parts.
Educational Resources
- Trigger Times video library, articles, and gun schematics provide valuable learning content for gunsmiths and enthusiasts.
Professional-Grade Quality
- Rigorous product selection focuses on professional-grade quality with extensive testing and recommendations by firearms professionals.
Industry Expertise
- Regulatory compliance expertise and partnerships with trusted industry brands ensure customers receive reliable, compliant products.
Best-Selling Brownells Products
Brownells Gunsmith Vise
- Known as "The Last Vise You'll Ever Need," this professional-grade vise is essential for serious gunsmithing work.
Comprehensive Gunsmith Tool Kits
- Complete tool sets provide everything needed for professional gunsmithing, from basic maintenance to complex modifications.
Precision Screwdrivers and Punches
- Professional-quality precision tools designed specifically for firearms work, ensuring proper fit and preventing damage.
Gun Cleaning Kits and Solvents
- Complete cleaning solutions and maintenance products keep firearms operating reliably and extend their service life.
Factory Replacement Parts
- Genuine factory parts from 15+ leading manufacturers ensure proper fit and function for repairs and modifications.
BRN Line Complete Firearms
- Brownells' own line of complete firearms combines their expertise with quality manufacturing for discerning customers.
Optics and Mounting Systems
- Professional-grade optics and precision mounting hardware provide reliable accuracy enhancement for any firearm.
Popular Uses for Brownells
Professional Gunsmithing
- Professional gunsmiths and armorers rely on Brownells for the specialized tools and parts needed for commercial firearms work.
Law Enforcement Support
- Law enforcement agencies utilize Brownells' Patrol Rifle Program for duty rifle configuration, maintenance, and equipment needs.
Competitive Shooting Preparation
- Competitive shooters depend on Brownells for precision parts and tools needed to optimize their firearms for peak performance.
Custom Firearm Building
- DIY gun builders and hobbyists use Brownells' comprehensive selection to create custom firearms tailored to their specific needs.
Firearm Maintenance and Repair
- Gun owners rely on Brownells for cleaning supplies, replacement parts, and tools needed to maintain their firearms properly.
Brownells FAQs
QUESTION: What is Brownells' return policy on gunsmithing tools and parts?
ANSWER: Brownells offers a "Guaranteed. Forever." policy where customers can return most products at any time if they don't need, want, or like them.
QUESTION: Do I need an FFL to order Brownells gunsmithing tools?
ANSWER: Most Brownells tools and accessories don't require an FFL, but items like firearm receivers, frames, and certain factory parts do require FFL transfer.
QUESTION: Does Brownells offer technical support for gunsmithing projects?
ANSWER: Yes, Brownells provides expert technical advice and support through their knowledgeable "GunTechs" who can help with tool selection and project guidance.
QUESTION: What makes Brownells gunsmith tools different from regular tools?
ANSWER: Brownells tools are specifically designed for firearms work with proper fit, materials, and precision to prevent damage to valuable firearms.
QUESTION: Does Brownells offer special pricing for law enforcement and military?
ANSWER: Yes, Brownells provides special pricing through their Law Enforcement Patrol Rifle Program and offers military and veteran discount programs.
QUESTION: How long has Brownells been in the gunsmithing supply business?
ANSWER: Brownells has been supplying gunsmithing tools and firearms parts since 1939, making them the longest-established supplier in the industry.
QUESTION: What educational resources does Brownells provide for gunsmiths?
ANSWER: Brownells offers the Trigger Times video library, technical articles, gun schematics, and has published influential works like the "Gunsmith Kinks" series.
QUESTION: Can I order Brownells products in bulk quantities?
ANSWER: Yes, Brownells offers large quantity discounts on limited items and has a quote department specifically for bulk orders.

