While there are extensive online shopping options for gun purchases, buyers may find shopping at their local gun store more convenient. In addition to providing a more hands-on shopping experience, a local gun dealer can be an invaluable resource when it comes to understanding state gun laws and licensing requirements and providing advice as to which gun is the best choice for the buyer.
Here are four tips for finding a local gun store:
1. A simple Google search on the Internet using the terms "local gun store near me" will provide extensive search results tailored to a person's computer IP address. In other words, the Internet provider's geolocation service will pinpoint and suggest gun stores in that area to list at the top of the search results. These results allow the user to easily access further information including gun store addresses, phone numbers, and travel distances. Often these listings are accompanied by a map graphic.
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2. Whenever available, check the consumer reviews of local gun stores. These are often available in the same search results and, if using the Google search engine, are identified with a link called Google Reviews. In addition,
Yelp, an online review site, can also be a resource that not only offers consumer reviews but also store hours and other information.
3. Specific gun store locator websites are also available online and these can be a useful resource for consumers. For example,
Arms Dealer purports to "put together the most up to date information and reviews on gun shops and shooting ranges" and tailors this information to the user's IP address.
4. When searching for local gun stores, consumers should be aware that under federal law, gun dealers must have a Federal Firearms License. In fact, gun stores are referred to as FFL dealers and while they are licensed by the federal government, they are also regulated by firearm laws within the state, county, and city in which they operate their business.
Guns stores are bound by exacting rules and regulations when it comes to selling firearms and ammunition. Therefore, consumers should understand that gun stores have no discretion when it comes to federal and state laws. These laws apply to online purchases as well. One of the benefits of buying firearms from a local gun store rather than online is that the dealer can walk the consumer through the process and will be knowledgeable about local and state gun laws.
Choosing a local gun store for a firearm purchase has the added benefit of providing the consumer the opportunity to find out about local gun resources. These resources may include the location of shooting ranges, membership in local gun clubs, information about local gun show events, and other forms of firearm networking.
This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws of your state and destination before travel.
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