About Us

Custom Crafted Firearms

about_01HCTC Firearms, LLC. was founded in beautiful North Idaho in early 2012, after several years in the works.  The skills and professionalism used when working on your guns has been developed over the last 20 years.  Guns are not just a numbers game here, as they all are tools, and must function whatever the condition.  HCTC is not a mass production plant, nor an assembly line.  Each gun is specifically purpose built, specially for each customer.  Any business can profess that their product is best, but we strive to explain why we offer something that is not available anywhere else.  On occasion, I even try to demonstrate the “hows” and “whys”  on the range.  All parts and components used are top notch, top shelf, and top performing.  These are not to be confused with the most expensive, or the fad products that come and go.  Every item that is fit and installed in a gun that crosses the bench has been extensively tested, period!  Every firearm that is built or repaired is guaranteed to exceed the expectations of its owner.  You won’t see a large store front, or expansive building, but you will get something we could all use a little more of….customer service.  If we can’t guarantee it, we wont touch it.

The Gunsmith

profile_pic_01Nick Franssen is the manager/gunsmith of HCTC Firearms, LLC. Nick has been extensively involved with firearms for more than 20 years. From the early years with BB guns and .22’s, to the NRA and State matches, from the mountains and marshes of North Idaho, to the streets across the region, firearms are his life.  Many people say they “do gunsmithing”, however, this is commonly not more than gun plumbing.  Nick runs a full machine shop to make stuff, not just swap parts.  Nick is a factory armorer for several companies including Glock, Remington, Colt, and others.  While gunsmithing and the shooting sports are his true passion, it is not his calling. When not at the bench, Nick is a full time police officer. Nick holds his Idaho POST Advanced Patrol Certification, as well as being a Certified Instructor in Basic Firearms, Patrol Rifle, and Patrol Procedures, with a career emphasis on instructing.  Nick is an avid hunter especially waterfowl, predators, and upland game. Nick has competed with some of the best in the country through the NRA and Idaho Governor’s 10 matches.