How to Buy Firearms Online: Complete 2026 Guide

Learning how to buy firearms online safely and legally is easier than most people think. By Powder & Lead Staff | Updated March 2026

Key Takeaways

• Yes, buying firearms online is legal in the United States. You can browse and purchase firearms from online retailers, but the firearm must be shipped to a Federal Firearms Licensed (FFL) dealer — not to your home.
• The process has more steps than buying a book on Amazon, but it is straightforward once you understand it: buy online, ship to FFL, complete paperwork, pass background check, take possession.
• Ammunition, accessories, and parts (in most states) ship directly to your door — no FFL required.
• Buying online often saves money compared to local retail, even after shipping and FFL transfer fees.
• State laws vary significantly. Some states require permits, waiting periods, or additional steps beyond the federal process. Check your state laws before purchasing.

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Can You Legally Buy Firearms Online?

Short answer: yes. Millions of Americans buy firearms online every year, and the practice is entirely legal under federal law.

Here is what confuses most first-time buyers: you are not having a firearm delivered to your front door like a package from Amazon. Federal law — specifically the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) — requires that all firearms sales involving interstate commerce go through a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL). In practical terms, this means the online retailer ships the firearm to a licensed dealer near you, and you pick it up in person after completing the required federal paperwork and passing a background check.

This applies to every type of modern firearm: handguns, rifles, shotguns, and any other firearm regulated under the GCA. There is no workaround, no loophole, and no shortcut. Every online firearms purchase follows this process.

The only exceptions to the FFL requirement are antique firearms manufactured before 1899 and certain black powder muzzleloaders that are not classified as "firearms" under federal law. These can, in some cases, ship directly to your door. Unless you live in a state like California, where additional restrictions apply to nearly everything. State laws vary significantly — some states impose waiting periods, additional permits, or outright bans on certain types of firearms that are perfectly legal under federal law. Always check your state and local laws before ordering. Some states also restrict specific firearms that are perfectly legal everywhere else — certain magazine capacities, pistol grip configurations, barrel lengths, and even entire categories of firearms may be banned or require special permits depending on where you live. Just because an online retailer will sell it to you doesn't mean your state will let you own it. Know your local laws before you click "buy."

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Online vs. Local: Pros and Cons

Buying online is not automatically better than buying local. Both have real advantages, and the right choice depends on what matters most to you.

Advantages of buying online:

• Selection. No local shop can match the inventory of a major online retailer. If you want a specific model, configuration, or caliber, online is where you'll find it.
• Price. Online retailers compete aggressively on price. You'll frequently find firearms $50-200 below local retail, especially during sales events.
• Comparison shopping. You can check prices across multiple retailers in minutes instead of driving to three different shops.

Advantages of buying local:

• Hands-on experience. You can hold the gun, feel the trigger, check the ergonomics. No amount of YouTube reviews replaces putting a pistol in your hand.
• Expert advice. A good local dealer knows firearms and can answer questions, make recommendations based on your experience level, and steer you away from mistakes. That's worth something.
• Service and support. When something goes wrong — a warranty issue, a question about function, a need for a quick repair — your local dealer is right there. An online retailer is a phone queue.
• Relationship. Local gun shops are small businesses run by people who care about the shooting community. Supporting them keeps that community alive.
• No transfer fee. When you buy online, you pay the FFL dealer a transfer fee ($20-50 typically). Buying local eliminates that.

The smart approach: use online retailers for price and selection when you know exactly what you want, and use your local shop for advice, service, and the firearms you want to handle before buying. Most serious shooters do both.

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How Buying a Gun Online Works: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Browse and Select Your Firearm

Start by browsing online firearms retailers just as you would any other online store. You can search by type (handgun, rifle, shotgun), caliber, manufacturer, price range, and more. Major retailers like Brownells, Palmetto State Armory, and Buds Gun Shop carry thousands of firearms in stock and provide detailed specifications, photos, and customer reviews.

Step 2: Find a Local FFL Dealer

Before you place your order, you need to identify a local FFL dealer who will receive the shipment and process your transfer. This is the step that trips up most first-time online buyers — do this before you click "Buy."

There are several ways to find a local FFL:

• Retailer's built-in FFL locator: Most major online retailers (Brownells, Palmetto State Armory, Buds Gun Shop) have an FFL finder built into their checkout process. You enter your ZIP code, and the system shows FFLs in your area that have already established a relationship with that retailer.
• FFLFinder websites: Sites like GunBroker's FFL search and other FFL directories let you search by location.
• ATF's FFL search tool: The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives maintains a public database of all active FFLs at atf.gov.
• Google search: Search "FFL transfer near me" or "gun shop near me" — most local gun shops hold FFL licenses.

Important: Call your chosen FFL before placing your order. Ask about:

• Their transfer fee — this is the fee they charge to process the paperwork and background check. Typical range is $25 to $75, though some charge more. This fee is separate from the purchase price of the firearm.
• Whether they accept transfers from the specific retailer you are buying from.
• Their hours and any appointment requirements.
• Whether they charge extra for handgun vs. long gun transfers, or for multiple firearms.

Many local gun shops are happy to process transfers because it brings customers through the door — and those customers often buy accessories, ammunition, or cleaning supplies while they are there. Do not feel awkward calling; this is routine business for them.

Step 3: Place Your Order

• Select your FFL from the retailer's built-in directory, or
• Provide your FFL's name, address, and license number so the retailer can verify them and ship the firearm

Some retailers require the FFL to send a copy of their license directly to the retailer before the firearm ships. Your FFL will know this process — they do it regularly. A quick phone call to your FFL saying "I'm ordering from an online retailer, can you send them your license?" is usually all it takes.

Step 4: The Retailer Ships to Your FFL

Shipping typically takes 3 to 7 business days depending on the retailer and your location. Some retailers offer expedited shipping for an additional fee. Your FFL will notify you when the firearm arrives, or you can track the shipment using the tracking number provided by the retailer.

Step 5: Visit Your FFL and Complete ATF Form 4473

Once your firearm arrives at the FFL, you go to the dealer's shop in person. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or state ID). If you are purchasing a handgun, federal law requires you to be at least 21 years old. For rifles and shotguns, the federal minimum age is 18 — though some states set the minimum higher.

Step 6: Pass the NICS Background Check

After you complete Form 4473, the FFL dealer submits your information to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), operated by the FBI. The NICS check is performed electronically, either by phone or through the FBI's online portal.

The check produces one of three results:

• Proceed: You are cleared to purchase the firearm. This is the most common result, and it typically comes back within minutes.
• Denied: You are prohibited from purchasing the firearm. The FFL will not transfer the firearm, and you will be informed of the denial. You have the right to appeal a denial through the FBI's NICS Appeals Services Team if you believe the denial is in error.
• Delayed: The system needs more time to complete the check. This can happen if your name matches or is similar to a record in the system. Under federal law, if the FBI does not provide a final determination within three business days, the FFL may (but is not required to) proceed with the transfer. Many dealers will wait for a final result regardless of the three-day window.

Important: Even after a "Proceed" result from NICS, some states impose mandatory waiting periods before you can take possession. California, for example, requires a 10-day waiting period on all firearm purchases regardless of NICS clearance. Other states have similar restrictions. Check your state laws — the federal background check is only part of the process in some jurisdictions.

Most NICS checks are resolved in minutes. According to FBI data, the vast majority of checks result in an immediate "Proceed" determination. Delays are relatively uncommon, and denials are rare for lawfully eligible purchasers.

Step 7: Pay the FFL Transfer Fee

Some states impose additional fees or taxes on firearms purchases. Your FFL will inform you of any state or local charges.

Step 8: Take Possession of Your Firearm

Congratulations — you have just bought a firearm online. The process usually takes about a week from clicking "Buy" to walking out with your purchase.

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What You Can and Cannot Buy Online

Requires FFL Transfer (Ships to Dealer, Not Your Home)

• All modern firearms — handguns, rifles, shotguns, any firearm manufactured after 1898
• Stripped lower receivers — the serialized part of an AR-15 or similar platform is legally a firearm and requires an FFL transfer
• Frames and receivers — any serialized component classified as a firearm under ATF regulations

Ships Directly to Your Door (No FFL Needed)

• Ammunition — in most states, ammunition ships directly to your home (see state exceptions below)
• Optics and sights — scopes, red dots, iron sights, magnifiers
• Accessories — lights, lasers, slings, grips, stocks, handguards, rail systems
• Gun cleaning supplies — cleaning kits, solvents, lubricants, bore snakes
• Magazines — in most states (some states restrict magazine capacity; check your state laws)
• Holsters, cases, and range bags
• Reloading equipment — presses, dies, powder measures, scales
• Upper receivers — the non-serialized upper of an AR-15 is not a firearm and ships to your door
• Barrels, triggers, and internal parts — replacement parts that are not serialized

Gray Areas and State Restrictions

• Suppressors (silencers): Legal to purchase in most states. As of January 1, 2026, the $200 NFA tax stamp for suppressors was eliminated by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1), signed into law July 4, 2025. ATF Form 4 registration and an extended background check through the NFA (National Firearms Act) process are still required. These are purchased through specialized Class 3 / SOT dealers, not standard online retail.
• Short-barreled rifles and shotguns: Also NFA items. Like suppressors, the $200 tax stamp was eliminated effective January 1, 2026 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. ATF Form 4 registration and background check are still required. Note: machine guns and destructive devices still require the $200 NFA tax.
• Antique firearms (pre-1899): Not classified as "firearms" under federal law and may ship directly to your home. State laws may vary.
• Black powder firearms: Muzzleloaders and other black powder firearms are generally not classified as firearms under the GCA and may ship to your door. State laws vary.
• Items uniquely restricted by your state: Some states ban or restrict specific firearms, features, or accessories that are perfectly legal under federal law and in most other states. Arbitrarily misnomered "assault weapon" bans, magazine capacity limits, pistol roster requirements, and restrictions on specific calibers or configurations vary wildly. An online retailer may happily sell you something your state won't let you possess. The responsibility to know your state laws is yours.

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Where to Buy Firearms Online: Top Retailers

Brownells

Best for: AR-platform rifles and parts, gunsmithing supplies, wide firearms selection
Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $49 (restrictions apply for firearms)
FFL process: Built-in FFL locator at checkout

Palmetto State Armory (PSA)

Palmetto State Armory is known for aggressive pricing, especially on AR-15s, AK-pattern rifles, and their own branded firearms. PSA manufactures their own line of AR-15s, AKs, and the Dagger (a Glock-compatible handgun) at price points that consistently undercut competitors. If you are looking for the best deal on a budget-friendly AR-15 or AK, PSA is almost always worth checking.

Best for: Budget-friendly AR-15s and AKs, frequent deals and promotions
Shipping: Varies; watch for free shipping promotions
FFL process: Built-in FFL locator at checkout

If you are still building out your setup, check out our picks for the best books on firearms history.

Buds Gun Shop

Buds Gun Shop is one of the highest-volume online firearms retailers in the country. Their pricing is consistently competitive, and they carry a massive selection of handguns, rifles, and shotguns from virtually every major manufacturer. Buds also has a layaway program, which is uncommon among online firearms retailers — you can put a firearm on layaway and pay it off over time before it ships to your FFL.

Best for: Wide selection, competitive pricing, layaway option
Shipping: Varies by item
FFL process: Built-in FFL locator; large network of preferred dealers

GunBroker

GunBroker is the firearms world's auction marketplace — think of it as the eBay of guns. Both dealers and private sellers list new, used, and collectible firearms. You can bid on auctions or use fixed-price listings. GunBroker is particularly useful for finding used firearms, discontinued models, and collectible pieces that are not available through standard retail channels.

Best for: Used and collectible firearms, hard-to-find models, auction-style deals
Shipping: Varies by seller
FFL process: Buyer provides FFL info to seller; GunBroker has a built-in FFL search tool

Sportsman's Warehouse

Sportsman's Warehouse operates both online and through brick-and-mortar stores across the country. Their online selection is solid, and you can often order online and pick up in store — effectively combining online selection with instant pickup (after paperwork, of course). They carry firearms, ammunition, optics, and a full range of outdoor gear.

Best for: Online order with in-store pickup, outdoor gear alongside firearms
Shipping: Free shipping on qualifying orders; ship-to-store option
FFL process: Ship to any Sportsman's Warehouse store as your "FFL" or to an independent FFL

Bass Pro Shops / Cabela's

Bass Pro Shops acquired Cabela's and now operates both brands. Their online firearms inventory covers the major manufacturers, and like Sportsman's Warehouse, you can order online and pick up in store. Bass Pro and Cabela's stores are widespread, making in-store pickup convenient for many buyers. They are particularly strong in hunting rifles, shotguns, and related outdoor gear.

Best for: Hunting rifles and shotguns, ship-to-store convenience, outdoor gear
Shipping: Ship to store for pickup
FFL process: Pick up at any Bass Pro or Cabela's location

MidwayUSA

MidwayUSA is primarily known for ammunition, reloading supplies, and accessories rather than firearms themselves. However, they carry an excellent selection of optics, gun parts, cleaning supplies, and shooting gear. If you are building or upgrading a firearm, MidwayUSA is an essential stop for components and accessories that ship directly to your door.

Best for: Ammunition, reloading supplies, accessories, optics, parts
Shipping: Competitive flat-rate and free shipping promotions
FFL process: Limited firearms selection; primarily an accessory and ammo retailer

Guns.com

Guns.com is one of the largest online firearms marketplaces, with a massive inventory of new and used firearms from hundreds of manufacturers. Their search and filtering tools make it easy to narrow down exactly what you're looking for, and they run frequent sales and clearance events worth watching. Checkout is straightforward, and they handle FFL coordination well.

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Buying Ammunition Online

Buying ammunition online is dramatically simpler than buying firearms. In most states, ammunition ships directly to your door — no FFL, no paperwork, no background check required at the federal level. You order it, it arrives in a box on your porch.

This is where many firearms owners save the most money. Online ammunition prices are frequently 15-30% lower than local retail, especially when buying in bulk. The trade-off is shipping cost and weight (ammunition is heavy), but most retailers offer free shipping thresholds or flat-rate shipping that makes online purchasing worthwhile for orders of 500 rounds or more.

State Exceptions for Online Ammunition Purchases

Several states have imposed restrictions on online ammunition sales. As of 2026, notable restrictions include:

• California: Ammunition must be shipped to a licensed ammunition vendor. You cannot receive ammunition directly at your home. A background check is required at the point of sale.
• New York: Ammunition must be shipped to an FFL dealer, and a background check is conducted at pickup.
• Illinois: Requires a valid FOID (Firearm Owners Identification) card to purchase ammunition. Many online retailers require a copy of your FOID before shipping.
• Connecticut: Requires an eligibility certificate or permit to purchase ammunition.
• Massachusetts: Requires a valid FID card or License to Carry to purchase ammunition.
• New Jersey: Requires a valid Firearms Purchaser Identification Card or permit.

Always check your state's current ammunition laws before ordering online. Regulations can change, and some municipalities impose additional local restrictions beyond state law.

Best Online Ammunition Retailers and Price Tools

AmmoSeek — Price Aggregator

AmmoSeek is the Google of ammunition shopping. It is a price aggregation engine that searches dozens of online ammunition retailers simultaneously and displays results sorted by price per round. Enter your caliber, quantity preference, and bullet type, and AmmoSeek shows you the cheapest options across the internet. This is always the first place to check before buying ammunition.

Lucky Gunner

Lucky Gunner has earned a reputation for fast shipping, competitive prices, and genuine in-stock inventory — what they show as available on the website is actually in their warehouse. They also produce some of the most thorough independent ammunition testing content on the internet, including gelatin test data for defensive loads. Their reviews and ballistic test results are worth reading even if you buy elsewhere.

SGAmmo

SGAmmo specializes in bulk ammunition at competitive prices. They carry a wide selection of both domestic and imported ammunition and are known for straightforward pricing without hidden fees. If you shoot a lot and buy in case quantities (500-1,000 rounds), SGAmmo is consistently among the cheapest options.

For more on choosing the right ammunition, see our guide to the Best 9mm Ammo for Self-Defense in 2026.

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State-Specific Considerations

Federal law establishes the baseline for firearms purchases, but your state may impose additional requirements. This section provides general guidance — it is not a comprehensive list of state laws, and you must verify your state's specific requirements before purchasing.

Common State-Level Requirements

• Waiting periods: Some states impose mandatory waiting periods between purchase and taking possession, ranging from 24 hours to 14 days. Even if your NICS check clears instantly, you may need to wait before picking up your firearm. States with waiting periods as of 2026 include California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Washington, and others.
• Purchase permits: Several states require you to obtain a purchase permit or firearms ID card before buying a firearm. This is a separate process from the federal background check and usually involves a state-level application, background check, and sometimes training requirements. States include Illinois (FOID), New Jersey (FID/permit), Connecticut, Hawaii, and others.
• Registration: A small number of states require firearms registration after purchase. Hawaii and Washington, D.C. have registration requirements.
• Handgun restrictions: Some states maintain rosters of "approved" handguns that can be sold to civilians. California's Handgun Roster is the most well-known; if a handgun is not on the roster, it cannot be sold to California residents through normal retail channels.
• Magazine capacity limits: Several states restrict magazine capacity (commonly limiting to 10 or 15 rounds). If you buy firearms online that ships with standard-capacity magazines, the retailer or FFL may need to substitute compliant magazines for restricted states.
• Assault weapon restrictions: States including California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, and others restrict or ban certain semi-automatic firearms based on features. Know your state's laws before purchasing.

Interstate Purchases

You can absolutely buy a firearm online from a retailer or seller in a different state. The firearm ships to your local FFL, and the transfer is processed under the laws of your state. The retailer's location does not matter — what matters is where you take possession.

One important federal rule: handguns can only be transferred to residents of the state where the FFL is located. If you buy a handgun from a retailer in Texas but live in Ohio, the handgun ships to an FFL in Ohio and you complete the transfer under Ohio law. Long guns (rifles and shotguns) have slightly more flexibility under federal law, but the practical process is the same — the firearm ships to your local FFL.

Bottom line: always verify your state and local laws before purchasing any firearm online. Your FFL dealer is also an excellent resource — they process transfers every day and know the applicable laws for your jurisdiction.

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Cost Comparison: Online vs. Local Gun Shop

One of the main reasons people buy firearms online is price. But you need to factor in the total cost — not just the sticker price. Here is how to do a fair comparison:

When online wins: If the online price is more than $50-100 below your local shop's price, online purchasing saves you money even after shipping and transfer fees. This is common for popular firearms like Glock handguns, Smith & Wesson M&P models, and AR-15 platform rifles where online competition drives prices down. It is also useful when your local shop does not carry the specific model you want.

When local wins: If your local shop has competitive pricing, you save the shipping and transfer fees, you can handle the firearm before buying, and you can walk out the same day (in states without waiting periods). Many local shops will also price-match or come close to online pricing if you ask. If you are still building out your setup, check out our guide to the best gun safes in 2026.

Pro tip: Always add up the total delivered cost (firearm + shipping + FFL transfer fee + any credit card surcharges + sales tax) before ordering online. Compare that total to your local shop's out-the-door price.

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Essential Accessories That Ship Directly to You

Once you have purchased your firearm, you will likely want accessories. All of these ship directly to your door — no FFL required.

Gun Cleaning Kit

Every firearm needs regular cleaning. A basic cleaning kit for your caliber is an essential first purchase. Look for a kit that includes bore brushes, cleaning rods or pull-through cables, patches, solvent, and lubricant.

Browse gun cleaning kits on Amazon

See our detailed guide: Best Gun Cleaning Solvents in 2026

Range Bag

A quality range bag keeps your firearm, ammunition, ear protection, eye protection, cleaning supplies, and tools organized for trips to the range.

Browse range bags at Palmetto State Armory

Eye and Ear Protection

Electronic ear protection is worth the investment — it amplifies conversational speech while cutting harmful noise levels. Paired with quality shooting glasses, this is gear you will use every time you shoot.

Browse electronic ear protection on Amazon

See our detailed guide: Best Shooting Ear Protection in 2026

Gun Safe or Lock Box

Secure storage is a responsibility, not an option. Whether you choose a full-size gun safe, a bedside quick-access vault, or a portable lock box, securing your firearm when it is not in use is essential for safety.

Browse gun safes on Amazon

See our detailed guide: Best Gun Safes in 2026

Holster (for Handguns)

If you purchased a handgun for self-defense or concealed carry, a quality holster is your next purchase. A good holster provides safe retention, trigger guard protection, and comfortable carry.

See our detailed guide: Best Concealed Carry Holsters in 2026

Optics

Red dot sights for handguns and rifle scopes ship directly to you. Mounting and zeroing your optic is part of the fun of owning a firearm.

See our detailed guides:

• Best Red Dot Sights for Pistols in 2026
• Best Rifle Scopes Under $500 in 2026

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Tips for First-Time Online Buyers

If this is your first time buying a firearm online, these tips will save you time, money, and frustration.

1. Call Your FFL Before You Order

This is the most important tip on this list. Call the FFL, confirm their transfer fee, confirm they can accept from your retailer, and ask about their hours. A two-minute phone call prevents a week of confusion.

2. Compare Total Cost, Not Just Sticker Price

The advertised price is only part of the equation. Add shipping, FFL transfer fee, any credit card surcharges, and sales tax. Then compare to your local gun shop's out-the-door price. Sometimes online is cheaper; sometimes it is not.

3. Check Retailer Reviews and Reputation

Stick with established retailers. The retailers listed here are well-known and reputable. If you find a deal on a website you have never heard of, check reviews on forums, Reddit, and consumer review sites before sending money. Firearms are not the place to take a chance on an unknown vendor.

4. Understand Your State Laws Before You Buy

Do not assume that because a firearm is legal under federal law, it is legal in your state. Research your state's requirements for permits, waiting periods, magazine restrictions, and feature-based restrictions before you order. Your FFL can help with this, but ultimately it is your responsibility to know the law.

5. Keep Records of Your Purchase

Save your order confirmation, shipping receipt, and the FFL transfer paperwork. These records document your lawful purchase and ownership. While not legally required in most states, having a paper trail is good practice.

6. Inspect the Firearm at Pickup

When you pick up your firearm from the FFL, inspect it before leaving. Check for any shipping damage, verify the serial number matches your order, and confirm it is the correct model and configuration. Report any issues immediately to both the FFL and the retailer.

7. Budget for Ammunition and Training

A firearm without ammunition and the skills to use it safely is incomplete. Budget for at least 200 rounds of practice ammunition and, ideally, a basic firearms safety or proficiency course. Many ranges offer introductory classes for new gun owners.

8. Consider Buying During Sales Events

Online firearms retailers run major sales around holidays — Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Black Friday, and Veterans Day are the biggest. Prices on popular firearms can drop $50-150 during these events. If your purchase is not urgent, waiting for a sale can save meaningful money.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to buy a gun online?

Yes. Buying firearms online is legal under federal law. The firearm must be shipped to a Federal Firearms Licensed (FFL) dealer, where you complete ATF Form 4473 and pass a NICS background check before taking possession. You cannot have a modern firearm shipped directly to your home (with narrow exceptions for antiques and certain black powder firearms). The online purchase is simply a way to browse inventory and pay — the actual transfer happens in person at the FFL, just as it would if you bought from a local gun shop.

Can I have a gun shipped to my house?

No, with very limited exceptions. Modern firearms (manufactured after 1898) must be shipped to an FFL dealer. The exceptions are antique firearms manufactured before 1899 and certain black powder muzzleloaders that are not classified as "firearms" under the Gun Control Act. Even for these exceptions, some states impose additional restrictions. For all practical purposes, if you are buying a modern handgun, rifle, or shotgun, it ships to an FFL.

How much does an FFL transfer cost?

FFL transfer fees typically range from $25 to $75, depending on the dealer and your location. Some dealers charge less for long guns than handguns, and some offer discounts for multiple firearms transferred at once. A few high-volume shops charge as little as $15-20 to attract transfer business. The only way to know your local FFL's fee is to call and ask — it is not standardized.

How long does the background check take?

Most NICS background checks are completed in minutes. The system is designed for rapid processing, and the majority of checks return a "Proceed" determination almost immediately. However, some checks are delayed for further review. Federal law provides a three-business-day window — if the FBI does not provide a final determination within three business days, the FFL may (but is not required to) proceed with the transfer. Some states impose their own waiting periods regardless of how quickly the NICS check clears.

Can I buy a gun online from another state?

Yes. You can purchase a firearm from any online retailer or individual seller in any state. The firearm ships to an FFL in your state, and the transfer is processed under your state's laws. The seller's location does not matter — interstate firearms commerce through FFLs is exactly what the system is designed to handle. The key requirement is that the FFL performing the transfer is in your state of residence.

What if my background check is delayed?

If your NICS check returns a "Delayed" status, the FBI has up to three business days to issue a final determination. During this time, you simply wait. If the FBI does not respond within three business days, federal law allows (but does not require) the FFL to proceed with the transfer at their discretion. Many FFLs choose to wait for a definitive result regardless. If your check is frequently delayed, you can apply for a NICS Appeal Services Team (NAST) Voluntary Appeal File (VAF), which helps prevent future delays by pre-clearing your information in the system.

Do I need a concealed carry permit to buy a gun online?

No. A concealed carry permit (or license to carry) is required to carry a concealed firearm in public — it is not required to purchase one in most states. However, in some states, a valid carry permit can expedite or substitute for the NICS background check. And some states do require a purchase permit or firearms ID card (separate from a carry permit) to buy firearms. Check your state's specific requirements.

What happens if I fail the background check?

If your NICS check results in a "Denied" determination, the FFL cannot transfer the firearm to you. Common reasons for denial include felony convictions, misdemeanor domestic violence convictions, active restraining orders, adjudication as mentally defective, unlawful drug use, and other prohibiting factors listed on ATF Form 4473. If you believe the denial is in error, you have the right to appeal through the FBI's NICS Appeals Services Team. False denials do occur, and the appeal process exists to correct them.

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Conclusion

Buying firearms online is a straightforward, legal process that millions of Americans use every year. The steps are simple: find your firearm, choose a local FFL, place your order, wait for delivery to the FFL, complete the paperwork, pass the background check, pay the transfer fee, and walk out with your purchase.

The online marketplace gives you access to a far wider selection and more competitive pricing than any single local gun shop can offer. For first-time buyers, it opens up options that may not be available locally. For experienced buyers, it is often the most cost-effective way to purchase. Start with established retailers like Brownells, Palmetto State Armory, or Cabela's for firearms, and MidwayUSA for ammunition.

The key is to plan ahead: identify your FFL, understand the total cost, and know your state's laws before you click "Buy." Do those three things, and the process is smooth.

If you are new to firearms ownership, we encourage you to invest in training alongside your first purchase. A firearm is a tool — and like any tool, it is most effective and safest in the hands of someone who knows how to use it properly.

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