About a year ago, Granby resident and firearms instructor James Norman had an idea — to open his own brick and mortar gunsmithing business in Grand County. This April, he hosted a soft opening for Smoke’s Way Firearms Training & Gunsmith.

Local gun owners can now stop in the shop located on Agate Avenue in Granby for cleaning, repairing and customization of a variety of firearms.

Norman will continue in his teaching path that he’s offered locally for the past couple years. Residents of all levels can receive training tailored to them for introductory level safety.

“We also cater to match shooters in most disciplines, like precision long range shooting and multi-gun style completions,” Norman told Sky-Hi News.

He uses an AutoCAD software to create 3D designs for customizing guns. Options include adding etching, barrel threading and more. Then he uses an MR-1 milling machine to cut and shape the metal. He also uses a lathe machine for smithing gun barrels. 

Service coins are another item Norman creates. He uses AutoCAD to design these, too. Then, he cuts the metal into coins that customers can keep or use for a future discount off a Smoke’s Way services.

Norman, a self-taught gunsmith, has completed his online master gunsmith certification. According to his fiancée, Jennifer Coffin, he invested his personal savings and effort into building out the shop and purchasing the needed equipment.

From military service to quiet Granby

Norman is a decorated combat veteran.

In his time of military service from 2009 to 2022, he deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan. He’s also served as a senior instructor at the field artillery schoolhouse. He’s taken this role as a teacher to civilian life.

“During his military service, he was deeply involved in supporting sexual assault and domestic violence victims and was a strong advocate for mental health resources and reform within the military,” Coffin said. “He continues to champion these causes.”

The couple are now proud Granby community members, since moving to Colorado via Seattle.

Coffin added that after leaving the service in 2022, Norman “dedicated his time in Seattle to helping develop a veteran’s program at a shelter for unhoused men.”

In addition to helping Norman run Smoke’s Way, Coffin is also a member of Tame Wellness, a mental health nonprofit focused on sober activities and community connections.

To learn more about the new gunsmithing shop and firearm instruction, visit the Smoke’s Way Facebook page.