One of the questions I’m commonly asked is, “Where is the best place to buy guns online?” Having designed the world’s first gun search engine, I’ve spent a lot of time at online gun websites, and I’ve learned a bit about what goes on at these sites.
First, I feel it’s important to address the issue of buying guns online. It is perfectly legal to purchase firearms online. However, law requires that any firearms you purchased be shipped to an FFL dealer, who can legally receive them, and transfer them to you.
A reputable online gun store should be able to help you find an FFL dealer in your area. You can find listings of FFL holders at a number of places on the internet. The Gun Network has one of the largest and most user-friendly listings of gun dealers.
Bearing in mind that you must have any guns you purchase shipped to an FFL dealer, you can shop for guns like you would any other item on the internet.
So what’s the best online gun store? If you ask three different people, you’re likely to get three different answers. Rather than give you my opinion, I’m going to provide you with some guidelines that will make sure you get the gun you’re looking for at the lowest price, in a short amount of time.
If you’d consider purchasing a used firearm, one of the major gun auction sites would be a good place to start. Here you’ll find a number of used items for sale, along with new items. Many gun dealers use the gun auction sites as a storefront. And here are the three major gun auction websites:
Gunbroker
Auction Arms
Guns America
These online gun auctions have been around a long time, and are generally considered to be a very safe place to do business. Even still, only purchase from sellers who have an outstanding sales record.
If you’re not interested in used guns, there are a number of places to look for new ones. Once again, the above-mentioned sites are a good place to look for new items. Make sure the items are listed as “New in Box”, and again, only do business with reputable sellers.
There are also a number of retail gun websites to shop from. Below are some of the more well known ones.
Bud’s Gun Shop
The Gun Source
Impact Guns
Able Ammo
A word of caution about online gun stores: make sure the item you’re considering is in stock. Email, or call to make sure the gun you want is in stock, even if their website says that it is. Otherwise you may end up waiting a long time to receive your new gun.
Getting the best deal
Like any kind of shopping, getting the best deal on a gun requires taking your time and looking around. It wouldn’t hurt to visit all of the websites mentioned in this article and price comparing. Look for closesouts at any of the retail sites, and be ready to act when you spot a great deal. They probably won’t last long.
If you see something you want at an auction site, avoid clicking the “Buy Now” button. Start bidding low, and stop when the current price exceeds what you really want to pay. If you have patience you’ll eventually land a good deal.
With that, enjoy your new gun, and put one in the bullseye for me!
