There are a lot of options for receiving some training that would be beneficial to you. My first piece of advice is that if you are interested in attending classes somewhere, schedule a visit at every school that you are considering. This goes for both machining or gunsmithing courses (I heartily recommend both). Look at the facilities and focus of the school. Every school is going to have a slightly different approach and ideas about what is important. Talk to instructors and students to get an idea of what the school is all about. BTW, 41 Mag.... you are invited for a visit to MCC too. The differences in the facility at MCC are pretty amazing since I was a student in 96/97. We expanded again last year, and now have 2 complete machine shops that are about 2000 SF each!
If you have a job and obligations that can't be put on hold while you attend a Gunsmithing school for 2 years, look into schools that have night courses, weekend classes, or gun-specific short-term classes available. I generally do not recommend online or video courses. While some of these options do deliver good information, it is tough to replace having an experienced person looking over your shoulder. These courses are generally end up being just as expensive as a seated program.
Short-term (usually 1 week) courses are a fantastic option for someone who wants to gain knowledge, but can't put life on hold. They represent a tremendous value financially too. This would also allow you to dip your toe in the water to determine if this is the path that you want to take.
I always recommend to students on a wait list for our program try to get some machining training under their belt. This gives them a huge advantage over students who do not have this experience when starting our program.
Mark Dye