Your Ultimate Guide to Buying Guns Online: Tips and Tricks

Buying a gun online might seem as easy as clicking “add to cart,” but there’s more to it. This guide will walk you through the steps to ensure your online gun shopping experience is smooth, legal, and successful.

How to Buy a Gun Online Legally

Do You Meet Age Requirements?

One of the first things to consider before buying a gun online is whether you meet the age requirements. For rifles and shotguns, you must be at least 18 years old, while for handguns, the minimum age is 21. Similarly, to purchase handgun ammunition, you must be at least 21 years old. This is what is contained in federal law. State laws may extend beyond.

Besides age, there are other restrictions to consider, such as criminal record and mental health restrictions. It’s important to remember that owning a gun is a responsibility, not just a right.

Browse Thousands of Guns

One of the benefits of shopping online is the sheer variety available. Unlike a brick-and-mortar store, the offer of an online gun store is virtually limitless. You can scroll through thousands of gun brands and models and spend a whole day choosing a gun that suits your needs. Take your time, explore, and once you find the gun that suits your needs, add it to your cart.

Proceed to Checkout

After adding your chosen firearm to the cart, proceed to checkout. You’ll need to log in to your account or opt for guest checkout if you do not have an account.

It’s important to pay close attention to the details you provide during checkout, particularly your billing address. This address must match exactly with the identification of the person who will be completing Form 4473, a document required by the ATF for the legal sale and purchase of firearms.

Also, keep in mind that P.O. Boxes are not acceptable for firearm sales. This is due to regulations that require the seller to verify the actual and physical address of the buyer.

Choose Your FFL

The next step involves choosing your Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL). In essence, the FFL dealer acts as a bridge between the online gun store and the customer, ensuring that all transactions adhere to federal and state laws. Online gun stores, in turn, arrange for the shipment of the firearm to the chosen FFL dealer and handle the necessary paperwork.

So, to pick your FFL, enter your zip code, select the radius for your FFL search, and click ‘Search.’ Select the FFL dealer who will receive your firearm and process your transfer.

Place the Order

Once you’ve selected your FFL, it’s time to place your order. After placing the order, you’ll receive an order confirmation email followed by a shipping confirmation email with tracking information once your order ships.

Wait for the Delivery

Now, wait for your gun to arrive at your local FFL. Once it arrives, you’ll receive a notification that your order is ready for pickup.

Pick It Up

The final step is to visit the FFL dealer’s physical location to fill out the ATF form for the store to perform a background check on you and then complete the transfer. Remember to bring your state ID and any other appropriate identification materials when picking up your firearm.

What to Pay Attention to When Shopping for Guns Online

Exploring online gun stores can be a daunting task, especially for first-time buyers. So here are some points to consider to ensure an efficient and successful online firearm shopping experience.

Understand Your Needs

Take a moment to understand why you need a firearm. Is it for self-defense? Hunting? Or just target practice at the range? Your needs will largely dictate the type of gun you should be looking for. A full-size Sig P320 is a great home defense pistol but not as carriable as the Sig P365. A standard AR-15 chambered for the .223 Rem is a nice 3-gun competition rifle but hardly applicable for deer hunting. Understanding your needs helps narrow down your choices and makes your shopping less overwhelming.

Research is Key

Don’t just buy the first gun that catches your eye. Take time to research different models and variations and how they match your specific requirements. Read reviews and watch videos to get a sense of how the gun performs. Remember, knowledge is power – the more informed you are, the better buying decisions you’ll make.

Check the Seller’s Reputation

Just as you wouldn’t buy from a shady physical store, don’t compromise when it comes to online retailers. Check out the seller’s reputation. Look for reviews or ratings that previous customers have left. A reputable seller will prioritize customer service and offer quality products.

Pay Extra Attention When Shopping Used Guns Online

While shopping for guns online, you can come across both new and used firearms. If you’re considering a used gun, pay extra attention to its condition. Ask for detailed photos and a comprehensive history of the firearm. Remember, a cheaper price tag might be tempting, but it’s not worth it if the gun is in poor condition. However, reputable online gun stores typically do not offer used guns for sale if they are in poor condition.

Understand the Law

Laws regarding firearm purchases vary from state to state. Ensure you’re familiar with the laws in your area. Some states require a waiting period before you can take possession of a firearm, while others require a permit or license. Ignorance of the law can lead to unnecessary complications and delays, so do your homework.

Factor in Additional Costs

When budgeting for your firearm purchase, remember to factor in additional costs like shipping, taxes, and transfer fees. These can add up and might make what seemed like a good deal less appealing.

Don’t Forget About Safety

Last but not least, always prioritize safety. This includes safe gun handling, secure storage, and investing in proper training. Remember, owning a firearm is a big responsibility, and safety should always be your top concern.

We hope buying guns online isn’t a daunting task at all anymore. Just do your homework, follow the procedure (you can always find a comprehensive guide to buying guns online on the website of the gun store you choose to purchase from), and don’t be shy to contact customer support. Happy shopping!