Have you ever wondered what makes a good firearm truly exceptional? For many gun enthusiasts, the answer lies in custom work—precision tuning and fine craftsmanship that transform a standard weapon into a personalized masterpiece. Clarks Custom Guns has earned a reputation for doing just that.
Understanding how Clarks Custom Guns elevates ordinary firearms is key for anyone seeking reliability, performance, or something uniquely theirs. In this article, we’ll break down the process, share insider tips, and guide you through their renowned custom work.
How Does Clark Custom Guns Work? An In-Depth Look
Clark Custom Guns is a well-known name among firearm enthusiasts, especially those seeking high-performance custom firearms. Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a collector, or someone searching for a reliable upgrade to your firearm, Clark Custom Guns offers a blend of craftsmanship, innovation, and tradition. This article breaks down how Clark Custom Guns operates, what sets them apart, and how you can make the most of their custom gun services.
What Is Clark Custom Guns?
Clark Custom Guns is a renowned custom firearms shop based in Princeton, Louisiana, established in 1950. Known for their precision work, particularly on 1911 pistols and Ruger 10/22 rifles, Clark Custom Guns has become a staple for shooters demanding high-quality customized firearms. The company’s team combines traditional gunsmithing methods with modern techniques, providing accuracy, reliability, and superior aesthetics.
How Does the Clark Custom Guns Process Work?
Ordering or customizing a firearm through Clark Custom Guns follows a clear and customer-focused process. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Consultation and Initial Inquiry
- You can contact Clark Custom Guns via phone, email, or by visiting their shop in Princeton, Louisiana.
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you through your options, answer any questions, and help clarify your goals, whether it’s upgrading a current gun or ordering a brand-new custom firearm.
2. Choosing Your Customization
Clark Custom Guns offers a wide variety of customization options:
- Trigger Jobs: Improve the feel, crispness, and pull weight of your trigger.
- Barrel Upgrades: Match-grade barrels for enhanced accuracy.
- Sight Installations: Fiber optic, night sights, or custom scope mounts.
- Slide and Frame Modifications: For better fit, function, and aesthetics.
- Reliability Packages: Ensuring your firearm feeds and functions flawlessly.
- Cosmetic Enhancements: Engraving, custom finishes, checkering, and more.
3. Sending in Your Firearm (If Applicable)
If you are customizing an existing gun, here’s what you typically do:
- Ensure the Firearm Is Safe: Unload and double-check your firearm before shipment.
- Contact Clark Custom Guns: Confirm shipping instructions and what paperwork is required.
- Pack Securely: Use a sturdy box and proper padding.
- Ship with an FFL: Federal law requires shipping through a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in some cases—Clark will clarify this for you.
4. Building or Modifying Your Firearm
Once your order or firearm arrives at Clark Custom Guns:
- Evaluation: Gunsmiths will evaluate the firearm for overall condition, compatibility, and potential issues.
- Customization Work: Highly skilled professionals carry out the requested modifications or build your firearm from the ground up.
- Quality Control: All finished guns undergo rigorous testing for function, safety, and accuracy.
5. Approval and Shipping Back
- When complete, you will be notified, often with details about the upgrades performed.
- The firearm is shipped back to you or your designated FFL, depending on legal requirements.
Popular Firearms and Services Offered
Clark Custom Guns has developed a reputation for excellence in several firearm categories and services.
Custom 1911 Pistols
- Target and Competition Models: Known for incredibly tight tolerances and smooth triggers—favorites among bullseye and competition shooters.
- Defensive Carry Options: Custom 1911s with reliability and carry-friendly features.
Ruger 10/22 Modifications
- Barrel and Trigger Jobs: Turn the popular 10/22 into a match-grade target rifle.
- Custom Stocks and Accessories: For comfort and performance.
Smith & Wesson Revolver Enhancements
- Action Jobs: Smoother trigger, better lockup, and optimized performance for competitive shooting.
Shotgun and AR Platform Upgrades
- Custom fitting, barrel work, and sight options for shotguns and AR rifles.
In-Stock Custom Guns
- Clark Custom Guns also sells completed custom firearms directly, offering both new builds and pre-owned models.
Benefits of Choosing Clark Custom Guns
Here are some clear reasons why you might consider working with Clark’s gunsmiths:
- Experience: Over 70 years of gunsmithing expertise.
- Reputation: Trusted by champion shooters and firearm collectors nationally.
- Personalization: Every build or modification is tailored to your preferences.
- Quality Assurance: Each firearm goes through a strict quality control process.
- Customer Service: Knowledgeable staff ready to help before, during, and after your purchase.
Challenges and Considerations
While Clark Custom Guns offers numerous benefits, you should keep a few factors in mind:
- Lead Times: Due to high demand and meticulous work, wait times can be several weeks (or months for some projects).
- Cost: Hand-crafted customization is an investment, often costing more than off-the-shelf firearms or simple “drop-in” parts.
- Legal Considerations: Shipping firearms requires compliance with federal and state gun laws. Work only with licensed FFLs where required.
- Communication: Clear communication with the shop ensures your expectations match the final results.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
If you’re considering a project with Clark Custom Guns, follow these helpful guidelines:
1. Be Clear About Your Goals
- Know what you want from your firearm (competition, self-defense, collecting).
- Describe any specific features or performance improvements you expect.
2. Plan for Lead Time
- Custom work takes time. Plan ahead, especially if you want your gun for an event or season.
- Ask about current wait times when placing your order.
3. Secure and Legal Shipping
- Use appropriate packaging and follow all legal requirements for firearm shipping.
- Always ship through an FFL if needed.
4. Budget Wisely
- Discuss pricing upfront and understand the costs of each service.
- Factor in shipping, taxes, and potential FFL transfer fees.
5. Maintenance and Follow-Up
- Ask about care and maintenance recommendations for your upgraded firearm.
- Retain documentation on the work done—useful for resale value and warranty.
Cost and Shipping Tips
Investing in Clark Custom Guns’ services can be more expensive than buying a factory firearm, but the value lies in the craftsmanship and performance.
- Custom Upgrades: Expect costs to vary widely—from several hundred dollars (for simple trigger jobs) to several thousand (for full custom builds).
- Shipping: Both your shipment to Clark Custom Guns and return may incur costs, including FFL transfer fees where applicable.
- Insurance: Insure your firearm during shipping for its replacement value.
Money-Saving Tips:
– If buying a completed in-stock Clark Custom firearm, you might save on customization labor fees.
– Combine several upgrades in one shipment to reduce separate shipping or transfer charges.
Concluding Summary
Clark Custom Guns is a hallmark of American gunsmithing, offering tailored solutions for shooters demanding the best from their firearms. Whether you seek a competition-ready pistol, an upgraded rimfire rifle, or just want your favorite hunting gun to perform better, their expertise and tradition shine through every project. Careful planning, communication, and patience will help you maximize the value and enjoyment of your Clark custom experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to get a custom gun from Clark Custom Guns?
Build and modification times can range from several weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of your order and their workload. It’s best to ask for an estimated lead time when you place your order.
2. Do I have to send my gun to Clark Custom Guns, or can I buy a completed custom firearm?
You can do either. Clark Custom Guns specializes in both modifying your existing firearms and selling fully finished custom models from their shop.
3. What types of firearms does Clark Custom Guns work on?
While they are especially renowned for 1911 pistols and Ruger 10/22 rifles, Clark Custom Guns offers services for a variety of handguns, rifles, shotguns, and AR platform firearms.
4. How do I safely and legally ship my firearm to Clark Custom Guns?
Contact Clark Custom Guns for specific instructions. Generally, you should use a licensed FFL for shipment, ensure your firearm is unloaded and packed securely, and include any required paperwork.
5. Are Clark Custom Guns’ modifications covered by warranty?
Clark Custom Guns stands by their workmanship. Details regarding warranties or post-service support can be discussed with their staff when ordering.
Considering the combination of tradition, skilled craftsmanship, and customer care, Clark Custom Guns is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their firearm’s performance and value.