Earl Lindsey, at right, who owns Tombstone Cylinders Gunsmithing, checks out a firearm with his son Aaron at their shop. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Earl Lindsey has applied many years of experience to open Tombstone Cylinders Gunsmithing.

At the new, locally owned business, Lindsey most frequently completes heavy cleaning jobs for guns, trigger work and stock refinishing.

Tombstone Cylinders Gunsmithing offers firearms repairs and customization on all types of firearms, ranging from general cleaning to a custom-built firearm. “I also offer certified firearms appraisals,” Lindsey said.

As the business’ sole owner, Lindsey works from a shop, measuring 24 feet by 24 feet, at his home at 1108 Nolan Blvd. in Madison. He chose the business’ name because of Cowboy action guns for ‘tombstone,’ and ‘cylinders’ refer to a part of a revolver.

“I have always liked firearms since I was a young teenager in Ohio, and then through the military and law enforcement,” Lindsey said about working in the craft since the 1980s. “I have always liked working with my hands, so repairing firearms just seemed to make sense.”

Lindsey has completed training at numerous firearms and armorers schools. “I received my Master Gunsmith Certification in 1986,” he said. “I used to have a shop on U.S. 72 years ago and just keep working on firearms from home.”

Lindsey is certified in various firearm disciplines, including Beretta School, Glock School, North American School of Firearms, Remington Arms, Sig Arms School and Smith and Wesson.

“There are a lot of backyard gunsmiths, but very few are actually trained,” he said.

His son Aaron assists him with general work at the business. “Earlier this year, my son Aaron began taking a deep interest in firearms. He would occasionally help with cleaning jobs,” Earl said.

“Aaron was hungry for knowledge, so I took him on as an apprentice and told him if he really applied himself he could make a good living,” Earl said. “Aaron understands, if he learns everything that I can teach him, when I retire for good the business will be his.”

For more information, call 256-655-3355 or visit tombstonecylinders.com.