Brandon Hill’s Journey Through SDI’s Online Gunsmithing Program

Turning a Passion for Firearms into a Business

For Brandon Hill, firearms weren’t just a hobby. They were an obsession. As the owner of 617 Tactical and SYG Armory in North Phoenix, Brandon has built a reputation for lightweight precision AR manufacturing, boutique custom builds, and expert machining. But before he was running a growing firearms business, he was looking for a way to refine his skills and take his knowledge to the next level.

Want to hear more straight from Brandon?
Check out his full interview on our YouTube channel. In it, he shares insights on building his businesses and how SDI helped shape his journey. Watch the full video here.

Finding the Right Path with SDI

Like many professionals balancing multiple responsibilities, Brandon was already working full-time as a software engineer while simultaneously growing his firearms business. The idea of going back to school seemed nearly impossible until he discovered Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) while attending a gun show at the Ben Avery Expo.

“The online format just made sense,” Brandon explained. “I could work full-time, run my business, and still take classes at my own pace.”

SDI’s flexible approach allowed Brandon to learn without disrupting his busy schedule, making it the perfect fit for someone juggling work, business, and family life.

SDI’s flexible approach made it easy to balance his schedule. Learn more about SDI’s Certificate in Firearms Technology – Gunsmithing and Associate of Science in Firearms Technology Degree.

Applying Technical Knowledge to Business Success

Brandon has always been a numbers guy, and SDI’s coursework fed right into that. While he expected to gain technical gunsmithing knowledge, one of the most surprising benefits was what he learned about the business side of the firearms industry.

“As much as I hated the business course, it was probably one of the most valuable,” Brandon admitted. “It really helped me shape where I wanted to take my business after graduating.”

Beyond business fundamentals, courses on ballistics and precision machining proved invaluable to 617 Tactical’s lightweight AR builds and precision optic cuts. Understanding interior and exterior ballistics allowed Brandon to refine his designs for greater accuracy and performance.

The Flexibility to Balance Work, School, and Family

With so many responsibilities on his plate, Brandon found SDI’s online gunsmithing program to be structured in a way that worked with his lifestyle.

“You can do your 9-to-5, come home, make dinner, put the kids to bed, and still knock out coursework in smaller segments,” he said. “It wasn’t always easy, but it was doable.”

That flexibility meant he could immediately start applying new skills to his business, rather than waiting until after graduation to put them to use.

Taking 617 Tactical and SYG Armory to the Next Level

Since completing his education at SDI, Brandon has expanded 617 Tactical and SYG Armory, taking on more projects and preparing for a new location. While SDI does not guarantee job placement, advancement, or continued employment, Brandon credits the program with helping him refine his expertise and shape his company’s direction. 

“The skills I learned at SDI didn’t just make me better at what I do. They helped me define where I wanted my business to go,” he said.

Students preparing for a similar path should also review FFL licensing guidelines from the ATF to understand the legal and compliance requirements involved in firearm modification and business ownership.

Advice for Future SDI Students

Brandon’s advice for anyone considering SDI’s online gunsmithing programs is simple: Just go for it.

“If you’re thinking about it, find a way to make it work. The flexibility is there, and the knowledge you gain is absolutely worth it,” he said. “Even the courses you don’t think you’ll need might end up being the most helpful.”

With a thriving business, a second location on the way, and a deep understanding of firearms technology, Brandon is proof that combining passion with education can open doors to endless opportunities.

Want to refine your skills and turn your passion for firearms into something more?
Learn more about SDI’s online gunsmithing programs at SDI.edu.