Buying a Firearm Online: A Simple How To Guide and the Best Stores in 2025
Buying a firearm online might feel overwhelming at first, but it’s surprisingly straightforward.
With the right steps and trusted retailers, you can confidently purchase your next gun. This guide highlights the best online stores for 2025, plus explains how to buy firearms online easily. Let’s dive in and explore this convenient shopping option.
Why Buy Firearms Online?
Shopping for guns online offers unmatched convenience and variety. Unlike local stores, online retailers provide access to thousands of options, often at better prices. Additionally, you can compare deals instantly, ensuring you get the best value. For busy folks or those in rural areas, it’s a must.
The Best Online Stores to Buy Firearms in 2025
Here are the top online firearm stores for 2025, based on selection, pricing, and service:
- DEGuns.net
DEGuns.net’s website is very easy to navigate, offering a huge selection of firearms, optics, ammunition, and accessories. With a buy now and pay later option, easy to use FFL finder, and a smooth and secure checkout process DEGuns.net made the top of the list. - Palmetto State Armory
PSA offers a massive selection of rifles, handguns, and AR-15 parts. Their daily deals and fast shipping keep customers coming back. Plus, their customer service is top-notch. - Guns.com
Known for its user-friendly platform, Guns.com excels in used firearms. They provide clear condition guides and partner with local FFLs for smooth transfers. - Buds Gun Shop
Buds delivers discount prices on handguns, shotguns, and more. With over 2 million firearms sold, they are reliable. Shipping is quick and affordable too. - Sportsman’s Warehouse
This outdoor giant stocks over 10,000 firearms online. Their clearance deals are hard to beat, and shipping is seamless. It’s perfect for hunters and shooters.
How to Buy a Firearm Online: Step-by-Step
- Research and Choose Your Firearm
- Start by browsing online firearm stores like DEGuns.net or Guns.com.
- Look for a gun that suits your needs—consider type (rifle, handgun, shotgun), caliber, and budget.
- Read product descriptions, reviews, and specs to confirm it’s the right fit.
- Check availability, as popular models can sell out quickly.
- Find a Local Federal Firearms License (FFL) Dealer
- Federal law requires firearms to ship to a licensed dealer, not your home.
- Search for an FFL near you using tools like DEGuns.net’s FFL locator or ask your local gun shop.
- Contact the FFL to verify they’ll accept a transfer from your chosen online store.
- Ask about your FFL of choice’s transfer fee—typically $20-$50—since you’ll pay this later.
- Place Your Order Online
- Add the firearm to your cart on the retailer’s website.
- During checkout, if you haven’t already, provide the FFL’s contact info (name, address, phone) so the store can coordinate shipping.
- Pay for the firearm using a credit card, PayPal, or other accepted methods.
- Double-check your order details, including the shipping address of the FFL.
- Online Store Ships the Firearm to Your FFL
- After payment, the retailer processes and ships your firearm to the FFL dealer.
- Shipping usually takes 2-7 business days, depending on the store and location.
- You’ll get a tracking number to monitor the shipment’s progress.
- The FFL receives the package and logs it into their system per federal requirements.
- Visit Your FFL to Complete Paperwork
- Once the firearm arrives, the FFL notifies you—usually by phone or email.
- Bring a government-issued ID (like a driver’s license) to the FFL’s location.
- Fill out ATF Form 4473, a federal document for firearm transfers, with your personal info.
- Answer questions about your background, like criminal history or mental health, honestly.
- Pass a Background Check
- The FFL submits your Form 4473 to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
- Most checks finish in minutes, but some may take up to 3 days if flagged for review.
- You’ll be approved, denied, or delayed based on your record—denials are rare for law-abiding buyers.
- If approved, the FFL hands over the firearm after you pay their transfer fee.
- Take Your Firearm Home
- Once approved and fees are paid, the firearm is legally yours.
- Inspect it at the FFL to ensure it matches your order and has no defects.
- Follow local laws for transport—some states require a case or lock.
Is It Legal and Safe?
Yes, buying firearms online is completely legal and secure. Federal law requires all online purchases to ship to an FFL for background checks. This ensures safety and compliance with regulations. Moreover, trusted retailers prioritize customer privacy and secure transactions.
Why It’s Worth It
Buying online saves time, money, and effort compared to traditional shopping. We all want to support our local gun shop but sometimes the prices online are unbeatable. Don’t worry to much, FFL transfer fees keep a lot of smaller shops open.
Conclusion
Purchasing a firearm online doesn’t have to be intimidating. With clear steps and trusted stores like DEGuns.net, it’s easier than ever. Embrace the convenience and explore your options today. Happy shopping, and stay safe!