About Us

About FRED'S FIREARM SERVICE, L.L.C

FRED’S FIREARM SERVICE, L.L.C is a licensed federal and Maryland state-regulated firearm dealer and gunsmith offering a wide range of services, including sales, service, restoration, and historical evaluations for all types of firearms. The company specializes in Surplus Military Arms from pivotal historical periods such as WWI, WWII, Korea, and Vietnam.  

With over 50 years of industry experience, the proprietor, Fred W.J. Kirchner, has developed numerous reliable sources for obsolete and hard-to-find parts and accessories for both surplus military, sporting, and competition firearms. 

About Founder
Fred W.J. Kirchner

Fred began his career as an armorer and historian in the early 1960s, operating from a small basement range in a Greenwich Village National Guard Armory in New York City, a space once used by John Garand himself. Over the years, Fred has become known for offering accurate evaluations and guidance regarding the millions of surplus firearms available at this time. Shooters nationwide would visit him, seeking the benefit of his expertise about their firearms.

As an apprentice to an immigrant Oberndorf Master Inspector, Fred’s skills were honed through years of experience in traditional gunsmithing techniques. His expertise spans a variety of areas, including: 

  • Metallurgy 
  • Welding 
  • Machine Shop Practices 
  • Mechanical and Chemical Technologies 
  • Intricate Hardwood Fitting and Finishing 

A Diverse Background in Firearm Competitions

Guns arsenal collection, close-up of guns and their grips

Fred’s passion for firearms extends beyond gunsmithing. He has participated in various shooting competitions throughout his career, including: 

  • CMP/DCM-Based High-Power Rifle Marksmanship (M1 Garand & M1D) 
  • NRA Hunter’s Pistol Big Bore 100-Meter Silhouette (Standard Production Grade Open Sight Desert Eagle MkVII, .44 Mag) 
  • USPSA and IDPA Practical/Tactical Shooting Competitions (Production Grade, Open Sight Glock 31, .357 SIG)

Fred was previously affiliated with the NYPD. He used to be notorious to enjoy a good round of clay” etc.  pigeon shooting with a Rabbit Ear Coach Gun in his spare time. 

Our Philosophy: Safety First, Then Fun

At FRED'S FIREARM SERVICE, L.L.C, safety is always the top priority, followed by ensuring the enjoyment of firearm ownership. Fred firmly believes that old firearms, especially surplus military arms, have unique stories to tell. These firearms often reveal extensive and limited use tales, sometimes showing signs of neglect from being hidden away in damp, forgotten places. Fred's approach to each firearm is similar to a doctor's check-up. He carefully listens to the "story" of the firearm, identifying the specimen, taking historical notes, and evaluating its condition with a focus on safety and integrity. While old firearms might appear worn, many are still in serviceable condition. Utilizing simple restoration techniques, Fred can help extend their operational life. Fred's primary goal is to ensure the safety of the firearm's user, as firearms, like many of us, don't always know when to quit as they age. Whether intended for display, collection, restoration, or reliable use, Fred's services ensure that each firearm is safe and ready for its next chapter.

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about Us

FRED’S FIREARM SERVICE, L.L.C offers exceptional gunsmith services in Delmarva Peninsula, Delaware and beyond. Whether you need an evaluation, restoration, or parts for a rare firearm, Fred is committed to preserving the history, appearance, and integrity of every firearm on which he works.