How To Buy A Gun Online: 5 Easy Steps
Buying a gun online can be a convenient and straightforward process, but it comes with important legal requirements that every buyer needs to understand.
Unlike purchasing other products online, firearms must go through a regulated process to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws. This includes background checks, age restrictions, and transferring the firearm through a licensed dealer.
Read Best Places To Buy A Gun Online
Knowing what to expect can make the experience smoother and help you avoid common pitfalls. In this guide, we’ll walk through each step of buying a gun online—from understanding legal requirements to picking up your firearm—so you can make an informed and responsible purchase.
Understand The Laws
Before buying a gun online, it’s essential to know the legal requirements at both the federal and state levels. Gun laws can be complex, and failing to follow them could lead to delays, fines, or even legal trouble. Here’s what you need to know:
Federal Laws
Federal law requires all firearms purchased online to be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer, where you’ll complete paperwork before taking possession.
The Brady Act mandates that most buyers pass a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This ensures that individuals with criminal records or other disqualifications don’t purchase firearms.
State Laws
Gun laws vary widely by state. Some states have limits on magazine capacity, waiting periods, or specific firearm restrictions.
You may also need a purchase permit for handguns in some areas. Be sure to check your state’s laws before buying online.
Age Requirements
Federal law sets the minimum age for purchasing firearms:
- 18 years old for rifles and shotguns
- 21 years old for handguns
Some states have additional age restrictions, requiring individuals to be 21 or older for all firearm purchases.
Always check local laws to confirm the requirements in your area. Your local FFL can help.
Step 1: Choose a Reputable Seller
Not all online gun retailers are created equal. To ensure a smooth and legal transaction, it’s important to buy from a trusted, well-established seller with a solid reputation. A reputable seller will be a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer, follow all legal requirements, and provide good customer service.
Where to Buy
Our top three recommended places to buy a gun online are:
- Palmetto State Armory – Known for great prices, frequent sales, and a wide selection of firearms, ammo, and accessories.
- Guns.com – A user-friendly platform offering both new and used firearms with a simple transfer process.
- Brownells – A trusted name in the firearm industry with a strong reputation for quality products and excellent customer service.
Types of Online Sellers
There are several types of online gun sellers, each with its own benefits:
- Online Gun Stores – These are dedicated firearm retailers that operate strictly online. Examples include Palmetto State Armory and Brownells.
- Manufacturer Websites – Some gun makers, like SIG Sauer and Smith & Wesson, sell firearms directly to customers. However, these purchases still require an FFL transfer.
- Auction Sites & Marketplaces – Websites like GunBroker.com allow individuals and dealers to sell firearms through auctions or fixed-price listings. While deals can sometimes be found, it’s important to check seller reviews and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Always do your research before making a purchase. Check customer reviews, return policies, and shipping procedures to avoid issues. Buying from a trusted source ensures you get a quality firearm without legal headaches.
Step 2: Select Your Firearm
Read Best Concealed Carry Guns
Choosing the right firearm depends on your needs, experience level, and intended use. With so many options available, it’s important to consider the type of gun, its features, and how it fits your specific purpose.
Types of Firearms
Before buying, decide what type of firearm best suits your needs:
- Handguns – Ideal for concealed carry and home defense. Options include compact, full-size, and subcompact models.
- Rifles – Great for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. Includes bolt-action, semi-automatic, and AR-style rifles.
- Shotguns – Commonly used for home defense, hunting, and sport shooting. Available in pump-action, semi-automatic, and break-action styles.
If you’re buying for concealed carry, a compact or subcompact handgun is usually the best choice. Popular options include the Sig Sauer P365 XMacro, Glock 19, and Springfield Hellcat.
Key Features to Consider
Once you’ve chosen the type of firearm, focus on specific features:
- Caliber – Determines the power and recoil. Common handgun calibers include 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP.
- Size & Weight – Affects concealability, comfort, and ease of use. Smaller guns are easier to carry but may have more recoil.
- Capacity – How many rounds the gun holds. Some states have magazine capacity restrictions, so check your local laws.
- Ergonomics – The grip, controls, and trigger should feel comfortable in your hands. If possible, try holding or testing a similar model before buying.
By taking the time to choose the right firearm, you’ll ensure that your purchase meets your needs, whether it’s for self-defense, sport shooting, or home protection.
Step 3: Purchase Process
Once you’ve chosen the right firearm and a reputable online seller, the buying process is fairly straightforward. While it’s similar to other online purchases, there are extra steps to comply with firearm laws.
Adding to Cart & Checkout
After selecting your firearm, add it to your cart and proceed to checkout. At this stage, most websites will ask you to enter the details of a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer where your gun will be shipped. If you don’t have one selected yet, you can usually search for an FFL dealer directly on the retailer’s site or find one on your own.
Payment Methods
Online gun stores typically accept several forms of payment, including:
- Credit/Debit Cards – The most common option, though some stores charge a small fee for card transactions.
- Bank Transfers or ACH Payments – Some retailers offer discounts for direct bank transfers.
- PayPal & Other Third-Party Services – Most firearm retailers do not accept PayPal due to its policies on firearm sales.
- Buy Now, Pay Later – Some sellers offer financing options through services like Credova, allowing you to pay in installments.
Order Confirmation
After completing your payment, you’ll receive an order confirmation email. The retailer will then process your order, verify your selected FFL dealer, and prepare your firearm for shipment.
At this point, it’s a good idea to contact your chosen FFL dealer to let them know you’re having a firearm shipped to them. Some dealers require a heads-up before receiving a gun on your behalf.
Once your order is processed, the seller will ship your firearm to your FFL dealer, where you’ll complete the necessary steps to take possession.
Step 4: Shipping & Transfer
When you buy a gun online, the firearm cannot be shipped directly to your home. Federal law requires that it be sent to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer, where you’ll complete the necessary paperwork and background check before taking possession. Here’s how the shipping and transfer process works:
Finding an FFL Dealer
To complete the transfer, you’ll need to choose a local FFL dealer to receive your firearm. You can use online tools to search for FFL dealers, or simply call local gun shops or pawn shops to see if they offer transfer services.
Many gun stores and sporting goods shops are FFL dealers, but it’s always a good idea to confirm before making arrangements.
If you’re unsure where to start, most online sellers will allow you to search for FFL dealers right on their website or provide a list of options.
Transfer Fee
When your firearm arrives at the FFL dealer, they will process the transfer. This typically involves verifying your identity, conducting a background check, and having you complete any required paperwork. The dealer will charge a transfer fee for this service, which usually ranges from $20 to $50, depending on the dealer and location.
It’s a good idea to confirm the transfer fee with your chosen FFL dealer before finalizing the purchase. Some retailers also offer a list of fees that their partner dealers charge for transfers.
Once the firearm is transferred to your FFL dealer, you’ll be notified and can proceed to the next step: picking up your new gun!
Step 5: Background Check & Pick Up
Once you are notified your firearm has arrived, head to your FFL dealer’s location with your government-issued ID. You’ll need to be present to complete the transfer and legally take possession of your firearm. Make sure to bring any additional documents required by your state or the dealer.
Background Check
At the FFL dealer, you’ll fill out the ATF Form 4473, which collects information to determine if you’re eligible to own a firearm. The dealer will submit the details to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
In most cases, the background check is completed quickly, but if there are any issues, the dealer will inform you.
Pick Up Your Firearm
After everything is approved, the dealer will hand over your firearm. You can then take it home, and the purchase is officially complete.
Waiting Periods For Some States
In some states, a waiting period may apply before you can pick up your gun, even after passing the background check. The length of this waiting period depends on state laws, so be sure to check your local regulations.
Current List of States With Waiting Periods
| State/District | Waiting Period | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| California | 10 days | All firearms |
| Colorado | 3 days | All firearms |
| Florida | 3 days or longer, depending on background check completion | All firearms |
| Hawaii | 14 days | All firearms |
| Illinois | 72 hours (3 days) | All firearms |
| Maine | 72 hours (3 days) | All firearms |
| Maryland | 7 days | Handguns |
| New Jersey | 7 days | Handguns |
| New Mexico | 7 days | All firearms |
| Rhode Island | 7 days | All firearms |
| Vermont | 72 hours (3 days) | All firearms |
| Washington, D.C. | 10 days | All firearms |
Table accurate as of publication
Conclusion
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Our guide will help you:
- Boost your self-defense confidence.
- Gain critical concealed carry knowledge.
- Learn what you need for optimal self defense
Buying a gun online is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow each legal step carefully. From understanding federal and state laws to completing the background check and finalizing the purchase, every part of the process is designed to ensure you’re legally able to own and safely handle a firearm.
If you’re ready to begin carrying your firearm on you, our free guide to concealed carry covers everything you need to know, from selecting the right firearm and holster to tips on carrying comfortably and confidently. It’s a valuable resource to help you carry safely and effectively.
