Just my opinion for what its worth:
I recently corresponded with another board member about attending a gunsmithing program myself after I retire from the fed.
I would stay away from any "learn from home" type courses. In the gunsmith or firearms trade, there are just too many tasks and jobs that require a "hands on" approach to learning them.
I am a retired Navy Aviation Ordnanceman (Armorer). I have a very sound background in firearms assembly/disassembly, service and repair. I know how to bore-sight, re-finish stocks, good working knowledge of hot dip and rust bluing(and the preparation of), fitting pads, etc.
I'm also a pretty good trouble-shooter, able to pin down what is going on or wrong with a firearm. Each of these things I mention I learned from actually doing, over and over again.
Being a museum curator also gave me valuable experience identifying, examining, researching and documenting historical firearms and edged weapons.
I'm looking at attending a formal program now to learn more of the fine arts such as engraving and checkering. I seriously doubt that you could really learn any of those skills from a series of videos or self-paced books.
I would put that VA benefit to better use by attending a local community college in your area that offers a gunsmithing program or possibly tool and die.
Again, just my humble opinion. Maybe some "smiths" will chime in with other advice. Good luck.
