Last updated April 2nd 2026 · By Nick Hall, who has bought 40+ guns online through FFL transfers across every major dealer

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Firearm Safety & Legal: Educational content only. You’re responsible for safe handling and legal compliance. Always:

Treat every gun as loaded
Point the muzzle in a safe direction
Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot
Know your target and what’s beyond

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Table of Contents

Introduction: How to Buy Guns Online in 2026

Buying a gun online is one of the smartest moves you can make as a firearms buyer. I’ve purchased dozens of firearms online over the years, and in nearly every case I’ve saved anywhere from $50 to $300 compared to what my local gun shop was charging for the same model. Online retailers have lower overhead, more competition, and bigger inventories. That means better prices for you.

Millions of Americans buy firearms online every year, and the process is 100% legal in all 50 states. The key thing to understand is that a gun purchased online doesn’t ship to your front door. It ships to a licensed dealer near you (called an FFL), where you complete a background check and pick it up in person. It’s the same background check you’d go through buying a gun off the shelf at any gun store.

If you’ve never bought a gun online before, this guide walks you through every step of the process. From finding the best price to completing your transfer, we’ll cover it all. By the end, you’ll know exactly how it works and feel confident placing your first online order.

Is It Legal to Buy Guns Online?

Yes. Buying guns online is legal in all 50 states. This is one of the most common questions I hear from first-time buyers, and the answer is straightforward. Federal law (the Gun Control Act of 1968) allows the sale of firearms across state lines, as long as the gun is shipped to a federally licensed firearms dealer (FFL) in the buyer’s state of residence.

You never receive a firearm directly at your home. When you buy a gun online, the retailer ships it to an FFL dealer near you. You then go to that FFL, fill out a Form 4473, pass an FBI background check (called NICS), and pick up your firearm in person. It’s the exact same process as buying a gun in a store, with the added step of shipping.

The one exception is antique firearms manufactured before 1899. Under federal law, pre-1899 antiques are not considered “firearms” and can be shipped directly to your door without an FFL. This applies to original antiques only, not modern reproductions.

Some states have additional requirements on top of federal law. For example, states like California, Illinois, and New York require purchase permits or waiting periods. We’ll cover state-specific restrictions later in this guide. But the core answer is simple: buying online is legal, and millions of people do it every year without issue.

It’s worth noting that the same federal and state laws that apply to in-store purchases apply to online purchases. There is no special “internet loophole.” The only difference is that the gun takes a detour through the mail before reaching the FFL where you complete the exact same paperwork you’d fill out at any gun counter in America.

How the Process Works: Step by Step

The entire process from clicking “buy” to walking out with your gun usually takes about a week. Here’s exactly what happens at each step.

Step 1: Find the Gun You Want Online

Start by shopping for the gun you want. Major online retailers like Palmetto State Armory, Brownells, and Guns.com carry thousands of firearms. You can also use our live pricing tool to compare prices across multiple retailers at once and make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Don’t just look at the sticker price. Factor in shipping costs and FFL transfer fees (covered below) to get your true out-the-door cost. A gun that’s $20 cheaper at one retailer might actually cost more after shipping.

Step 2: Find a Local FFL Dealer to Receive It

Before you place your order, you need to know which FFL dealer will receive the gun for you. This is the licensed dealer where you’ll pick up your firearm and complete the background check. Most local gun shops and pawn shops that sell guns are FFLs, but transfer fees vary widely.

Here’s how to find an FFL near you:

Google search: Search “FFL transfer near me” or “gun transfer [your city]”
GunBroker FFL Finder: GunBroker.com has a built-in FFL locator at gunbroker.com/ffl
Ask the retailer: Many online gun stores have their own FFL finder tools at checkout
Home-based FFLs: These often charge the lowest transfer fees ($15-$25) since they have low overhead

Call ahead and ask what they charge for transfers. Fees typically range from $20 to $50. Some big box stores like Bass Pro and Cabela’s do transfers as well, though their fees tend to be on the higher end.

Step 3: Place the Order Online and Provide Your FFL’s Info

Once you’ve found the gun and chosen your FFL, place your order just like any other online purchase. During checkout, you’ll need to provide the name and address of your receiving FFL dealer. Most retailers have a system where you can select your FFL from a database, or you can enter their information manually.

Some retailers require the FFL to send a copy of their license before they’ll ship. Don’t worry, this is routine. Your FFL has done this hundreds of times. Just let them know the order is coming, and they’ll usually fax or email their license to the retailer if needed.

Step 4: The Retailer Ships the Gun to Your FFL

After your order is processed, the retailer ships the firearm directly to your FFL. Shipping usually takes 3 to 7 business days, depending on the retailer’s location and shipping method. Firearms must ship via FedEx or UPS (not USPS for handguns), and they require an adult signature at the FFL’s address.

Most retailers provide tracking numbers so you can follow your shipment. Some popular retailers like Palmetto State Armory can take a few extra days for processing during peak sale periods (Black Friday, for example), so plan accordingly.

Step 5: Your FFL Contacts You When It Arrives

When the gun arrives at your FFL, they’ll log it into their bound book (the official record every FFL is required to keep) and then contact you. Most dealers will call or text you the same day. Some smaller shops might take a day to process incoming transfers, especially if they’re busy.

Step 6: Complete the Background Check at the FFL

Head to your FFL with a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or state ID that shows your current address). You’ll fill out ATF Form 4473, which is a federal form that asks basic questions about your identity and eligibility to purchase a firearm. It’s two pages and takes about five minutes to complete.

Your FFL then submits your information to the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). In most cases, the check comes back in minutes with a “proceed” response, and you can take your gun home immediately. Sometimes the system returns a “delayed” response, which means the FBI needs more time (up to three business days). In rare cases, the check results in a denial.

Step 7: Pay the Transfer Fee and Take Your Gun Home

Once you pass the background check, you pay the FFL their transfer fee (typically $20 to $50) and the gun is yours. Some FFLs also charge sales tax depending on your state. The whole in-store process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes from the time you walk in.

That’s it. Seven steps, and you’ve bought a gun online. The whole process from order to pickup typically takes one to two weeks. After you do it once, it becomes second nature, and you’ll wonder why you ever paid full retail at a local shop.

What Is an FFL Transfer?

FFL stands for Federal Firearms License. An FFL is a business or individual licensed by the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) to sell and transfer firearms. When you buy a gun online, it must ship to an FFL holder, not directly to you. The process of receiving that gun through the FFL is called a “transfer.”

An FFL transfer involves the dealer receiving the gun, logging it in their records, having you fill out Form 4473, running the background check, and then releasing the firearm to you. For this service, the FFL charges a transfer fee.

How Much Do FFL Transfers Cost?

Transfer fees vary by dealer (see our full FFL transfer fees by state guide) but typically range from $20 to $50 per firearm. Here’s what I’ve seen across different types of FFLs:

Home-based FFLs: $15 to $25 (lowest fees, lowest overhead)
Small gun shops: $25 to $40
Big box stores (Bass Pro, Cabela’s): $30 to $75
Pawn shops: $25 to $50

Some FFLs charge extra for multiple firearms on the same transfer. Others offer a flat rate regardless of how many guns ship together. Always ask about pricing up front before you commit to a particular FFL. Even a $20 difference in transfer fees can eat into the savings you got from shopping online.

How to Find a Cheap FFL Near You

The best way to find affordable transfers is to search for home-based FFLs in your area. These are individuals who hold a federal license and operate out of their home. They don’t have the overhead of a storefront, so they can afford to charge $15 to $25 per transfer. Check local gun forums, Facebook groups, and Armslist for recommendations in your area.

Pro tip: if you plan to buy multiple guns online (and once you see the savings, you will), building a relationship with a reliable, affordable FFL saves you money on every purchase.

What Is Form 4473?

ATF Form 4473 is the Firearms Transaction Record. Every time you buy a gun from an FFL (whether online or in-store), you fill out this form. It’s a federal requirement, and it’s the same form used at every licensed gun dealer in the country.

What Does Form 4473 Ask?

The form collects your personal information (name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, which is optional but speeds up the background check) and asks a series of yes/no eligibility questions. These questions cover things like:

Are you the actual buyer of the firearm?
Have you been convicted of a felony?
Are you under indictment for a felony?
Have you been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence?
Are you a fugitive from justice?
Are you an unlawful user of controlled substances?
Have you been adjudicated as mentally defective or committed to a mental institution?
Are you subject to a restraining order?

Answering “yes” to any of the disqualifying questions will result in a denial. Lying on Form 4473 is a federal felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, so always answer truthfully.

How Long Does the Background Check Take?

Once you complete the form, the FFL submits your info to the NICS system. Most checks come back within minutes with one of three responses:

Proceed: You’re approved. The FFL can release the firearm to you immediately.
Delayed: The FBI needs more time to research. They have up to three business days. If you don’t hear back after three business days, the FFL may (at their discretion) transfer the firearm to you.
Denied: You cannot purchase the firearm. If you believe the denial is in error, you can appeal through the FBI’s NICS Section.

About 90% of checks return a “proceed” result within minutes. If you have a common name, you’re more likely to get delayed. One way to speed things up is to include your Social Security number on the form (it’s optional but helps the system distinguish you from others with similar names). You can also apply for a UPIN (Unique Personal Identification Number) from the FBI if you’re frequently delayed.

Best Online Gun Stores

Not all online gun retailers are created equal. After years of buying firearms online, these are the stores I trust and recommend. Each one is a major, reputable dealer with secure checkout, fast shipping, and good customer service.

Palmetto State Armory (PSA)

Palmetto State Armory is one of the biggest online gun retailers in the country, and for good reason. Their prices are consistently among the lowest you’ll find anywhere, and they run frequent sales that can save you even more. PSA is especially well known for their AR-15 kits, complete rifles, and budget-friendly handguns. If you’re a first-time buyer looking for the best deal, start here.

Brownells

Brownells has been in the firearms industry since 1939. They carry a massive selection of guns, parts, accessories, and gunsmithing tools. If you need a complete firearm and want to grab optics, magazines, or upgrade parts in the same order, Brownells is the way to go. Their customer service is top-notch, and they frequently offer free shipping promotions.

Guns.com

Guns.com offers a clean, user-friendly shopping experience with competitive pricing. They carry both new and certified used firearms, and their checkout process is one of the smoothest in the industry. They also have a built-in FFL finder that makes selecting your transfer dealer easy.

Sportsman’s Warehouse

Sportsman’s Warehouse is a great option if you want the convenience of buying online with the option to pick up in store. They frequently offer free shipping to store, which eliminates shipping costs entirely. Their prices are competitive, and they carry a wide selection of handguns, rifles, and shotguns from all the major manufacturers.

EuroOptic

EuroOptic specializes in premium and European firearms that can be hard to find elsewhere. If you’re in the market for high-end rifles, precision optics, or brands like H&K, Beretta, CZ, or Sauer, EuroOptic is where you want to shop. Their staff is extremely knowledgeable, and they often have demo or open-box deals on premium optics.

Other reputable retailers worth checking include MidwayUSA, KyGunCo, GrabAGun, and Battlehawk Armory. Each has competitive pricing and serves different niches well.

For a complete breakdown of every major online gun retailer with detailed reviews, check out our Best Online Gun Stores guide.

How to Save Money Buying Guns Online

One of the biggest advantages of buying online is the potential for serious savings. Here are the strategies I use to get the best possible prices.

Shop Holiday Sales

Online gun retailers run major sales throughout the year. The biggest discounts happen during Black Friday/Cyber Monday, July 4th, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and around tax refund season (February and March). Palmetto State Armory in particular is famous for their Black Friday deals, where you can find guns at or below dealer cost. If you can wait for a sale, you’ll save significantly.

Compare Prices Across Retailers

Prices on the same gun can vary by $50 to $100+ between different retailers. Never buy from the first store you check. Use our live pricing tool to instantly compare prices across all the major online gun stores. It takes 30 seconds and can save you real money.

Consider Police Trade-Ins and Used Guns

Police trade-in firearms are one of the best values in the gun world. These are duty guns that departments are replacing with newer models. They’re typically well-maintained and have moderate holster wear but function perfectly. You can find police trade-in Glocks, Smith & Wesson M&Ps, and SIG Sauers for 40-60% off the price of new.

Certified used guns from retailers like Guns.com are another solid option. These are inspected, graded, and often come with a return policy. It’s a great way to get a quality firearm at a lower price point.

Look for Free Shipping

Shipping on firearms typically costs $10 to $30, and some retailers charge even more for handguns (which must ship overnight or second-day air). But many retailers periodically offer free shipping promotions, especially on orders over a certain dollar amount. Brownells frequently runs free shipping on orders over $99. Sportsman’s Warehouse offers free ship-to-store. Stacking a free shipping deal with a sale price is one of the best ways to maximize your savings.

Watch for Manufacturer Rebates

Gun manufacturers frequently offer mail-in or online rebates ranging from $25 to $100+. Brands like Smith & Wesson, Springfield Armory, Ruger, and Taurus run rebate programs throughout the year. These rebates stack with sale prices, so you can sometimes double up on savings. Check the manufacturer’s website before you buy.

Factor in Total Cost

Always calculate your total out-the-door cost before pulling the trigger on a purchase. That means: gun price + shipping + FFL transfer fee + any applicable sales tax. A gun that looks $30 cheaper at one retailer might cost more after you add their $14.99 shipping fee versus another retailer that offers free shipping. Do the math first.

Buying Ammo Online

Good news: buying ammunition online is even easier than buying firearms. In most states, ammo ships directly to your door with no FFL required. You order it, it shows up at your house. It’s that simple.

Buying ammo online is almost always cheaper than buying it at a local store, especially when you buy in bulk. Cases of 500 or 1,000 rounds bring the per-round cost down significantly. Many retailers offer free shipping on ammo orders over a certain threshold (typically $99 to $150). Palmetto State Armory is consistently one of the cheapest places to buy ammo online.

States with Ammo Restrictions

While most states allow direct-to-door ammo delivery, some states have restrictions you need to know about:

California: Ammo must be shipped to a licensed ammo vendor. You undergo a point-of-sale background check for each purchase.
Illinois: You need a valid FOID card to purchase ammunition.
New York: Ammo must be shipped to an FFL, and a background check is required.
New Jersey: You need a Firearms Purchaser ID card or valid permit to purchase ammo.
Massachusetts: You need a valid FID card or LTC to purchase ammunition.
Connecticut: Ammo purchases require a valid permit or certificate.
Washington, D.C.: Ammo must be purchased through a licensed dealer.

If you live in one of these states, check your specific state requirements before ordering. For everyone else, buying ammo online and having it delivered to your front porch is perfectly legal. For more on stocking up, see our guide on where to buy ammo online.

State Restrictions to Know About

While buying guns online is legal nationwide, individual states can impose additional requirements on top of federal law. These don’t prevent you from buying online, but they add steps to the process. Here’s a quick overview of the most common state-level restrictions.

States That Require a Permit to Purchase

Some states require you to obtain a purchase permit or license before you can buy a firearm. You’ll need this permit before your FFL can transfer the gun to you. States with some form of purchase permit include Illinois (FOID card), Connecticut, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York.

States with Waiting Periods

Several states impose mandatory waiting periods between when you purchase a firearm and when you can take possession of it. Even if your NICS check comes back instantly, you’ll have to wait the required number of days. States with waiting periods include California (10 days), Florida (3 days for handguns, with a concealed carry permit exemption), Hawaii (14 days), Illinois (72 hours for handguns, 24 hours for long guns), and Washington state (10 days for semi-auto rifles).

States with Assault Weapon Bans or Feature Restrictions

States like California, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. have laws restricting certain firearms or features (pistol grips, threaded barrels, magazine capacity, etc.). If you live in one of these states, make sure the specific model you’re ordering is compliant with your state’s laws. Many retailers sell state-compliant versions of popular rifles for restricted states.

For a full breakdown of every state’s gun laws, see our US Gun Laws by State guide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

After helping thousands of readers buy guns online, I’ve seen the same mistakes come up again and again. Here’s what to watch out for so your first purchase goes smoothly.

Not Checking FFL Fees Before You Order

This is the number one mistake new online gun buyers make. They find a great deal online, place the order, and then discover their local FFL charges $75 for a transfer. That wipes out most of your savings. Always call your FFL and confirm their transfer fee before you place an order. Better yet, find a low-cost FFL ahead of time and keep their info saved for future purchases.

Not Reading the Return Policy

Firearms are not like most online purchases. Most retailers have strict no-return policies on firearms once they’ve been transferred to you through an FFL. Once your FFL logs it into their book and you sign the 4473, you own it. There’s no “I changed my mind” option at that point.

Some retailers allow returns or cancellations before the gun ships, and most will work with you if the gun arrives with a defect or isn’t what you ordered. But the window is narrow and the process involves shipping back through an FFL. Read the return policy on the retailer’s website before you buy, especially on firearms over $500.

Buying from Unverified Sellers

Stick with established retailers. If you’re buying from a marketplace like GunBroker, check the seller’s feedback rating and history. A seller with thousands of positive reviews is a much safer bet than someone with five transactions. If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Scams exist in the online firearms space just like anywhere else.

Not Factoring in Total Cost

Your final cost is more than the listed gun price. Add up the gun price, shipping, FFL transfer fee, and any sales tax to get the real number. I’ve seen people “save” $40 on the gun itself but pay $30 in shipping and $50 in transfer fees at a big-box FFL, making their total higher than if they’d just bought locally. Always compare total cost, not sticker price.

Impulse Buying Without Price Comparison

Just because a retailer slaps a “SALE” label on a gun doesn’t mean it’s actually a good deal. I’ve seen “sale” prices that were higher than everyday prices at other stores. Use our live pricing tool to compare across retailers before you buy. Thirty seconds of price checking can save you $50 or more.

Buying Your First Gun

If you’re not just new to buying online but new to guns entirely, here’s some quick advice that will save you time, money, and frustration.

Rent Before You Buy

Most indoor ranges offer gun rentals. This is the single best thing you can do before buying your first gun. What feels great in your hand on the counter might not shoot well for you, and vice versa. Spend $50 at the range renting three or four different guns, and you’ll have a much better idea of what you actually want. It’s the cheapest research you’ll ever do.

Where to Start

For handguns, start with 9mm. It’s the most popular handgun caliber in America for good reason: manageable recoil, cheap to practice with, widely available, and effective for self-defense. Popular first handguns include the Glock 19, Smith & Wesson M&P 9, SIG Sauer P320, and Springfield Hellcat (for concealed carry).

For rifles, 5.56/.223 is the go-to starting caliber. An AR-15 platform rifle is versatile, customizable, and has extremely affordable ammo for practice. You can find quality AR-15s from Palmetto State Armory starting around $500. If you’re more interested in a traditional bolt-action rifle for hunting, the Ruger American and Savage Axis are both excellent budget options in calibers like .308 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor.

For shotguns, a 12-gauge pump action like the Mossberg 500 or Remington 870 is a time-tested starting point. They’re affordable, reliable, and versatile enough for home defense, hunting, and sport shooting. You can find these from most online retailers in the $300 to $400 range.

For a deeper look at first-gun recommendations, read our guide on the best handguns for beginners.

Take a Training Class

No matter how many YouTube videos you watch, nothing replaces hands-on instruction from a qualified firearms instructor. Most ranges offer beginner courses that cover safety, handling, and marksmanship fundamentals. I’d recommend taking a basic pistol or rifle course within your first month of ownership. It’s an investment in safety and skill that pays for itself immediately.

Budget for Accessories

Your first gun purchase is rarely just the gun. Budget for the essentials you’ll need alongside it. For a handgun, that means at least two extra magazines, a quality holster (if you plan to carry), cleaning supplies, eye protection, ear protection, and practice ammo. For a rifle, add a sling, optic or red dot, and a case or bag. Plan to spend an additional $100 to $300 on accessories beyond the gun itself. Many online retailers sell bundle deals that include magazines and accessories at a discount.

Current Online Gun Deals

Ready to put this guide into practice? Here are today’s best deals from the retailers listed above.

Updated: April 19, 2026 at 8:16 AM EST

We've scoured the top firearms retailers to find today's biggest discounts. Here are the best gun deals available right now, ranked by percentage off retail price.

April 19, 2026

Top 8 Handgun Deals Top 8 Rifle Deals Top 8 Shotgun Deals

Top 8 Handgun Deals

Beretta 92X PCO 9mm Pistol 4.9" 15rd Gray Nistan - J92XPCO21 BEST

Palmetto State Armory

44% OFF

$1,799.99

$999.99