Howdy from the mnts of Virginia.
Start learning how to find cheap,used bada$$ old USA iron. I'm picking up a nice 6X48 stationary sander today for 50$
Needs a few things but beats the snot out of any chicom nonsense.
So,while you "want" to work on guns..... management of equipment purchases,capital investment'ly speaking,and how to QUICKLY get these pcs in action.....with no excuse rebuilds. It's largely techniques,principles,and mostly the same stuff you sorta need to work on guns.
Just have to get your ducks fully in a row. Gun work requires machines to make money. The ability to "find" and quickly fix issues puts you in the fast lane. Good luck with your projects.
Edit: we have a 1/2 dz belt sanders already.