As an FFL dealer, I am often asked how to go about buying a gun online. I am being asked this question more, and most of these requests are coming from people who have never bought a gun or have some misconceptions about the process of purchasing online.
I don't want it to be perceived that I am encouraging people not to shop at their local gun shops but there are some considerable advantages from buying online.
- Convenience
- Multiple vendor access
- Better selection
- Better prices (as a general rule)
- No sales tax
- Free shipping (often available)
The steps for buying online are:
- Choose a firearm.
- Choose an online retailer.
- Make the purchase.
- Choose an FFL dealer and have it shipped to the FFL.
- Go to FFL and pick up the firearm.
Choosing a Firearm
The below video is an excellent explanation of how to choose a firearm. It is specific to handguns, but it can also apply to long guns as well.
Choosing an Online Retailer
Choosing an online gun retailer is not any different than choosing any other retailer. I would check out their reviews. Do they have what you are looking for? What are their shipping policies? And, obviously, what are their prices?
There are many online firearm auctions where you can buy new or used and from retailers or individuals.
Below are some sources that I recommend.
Make the Purchase
This is the easy part.
Choosing an FFL Dealer
Either during the purchase or after, you will be asked to choose an FFL dealer to receive the firearm. Why is that? Well, despite what the Left and media would have you believe, buying a firearm online is not some way to bypass any legal requirements of purchasing a gun. The process is the same regardless of where it is purchased. So, the firearm must be sent to a dealer so he/she can process the required paperwork and do any necessary background checks.
On some retailer's website, it will have a list of FFL dealers on file. If the list doesn't include the dealer you want to use, the website will generally have instructions on how your chosen FFL dealer can send a copy of his/her dealer license to the retailer.
If you are in the DFW Metroplex I am always happy to help with the transfer and you just need to click this link to start the process.
If you need to find an FFL dealer, here are a few places with lists.
Pickup your Firearm
Once your firearm arrives at the FFL, you will coordinate a time with the dealer to pick it up and finish the transfer. You will be required to fill out a form 4473 (firearm transaction record) and the FFL dealer will complete a background check. If you have a license to carry, you won't be required to have a background check, but each state may have additional requirements.
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