Buying firearms online is a convenient and often cost-effective way to access a wider selection of guns, ammunition, and accessories. However, not all online gun dealers are created equal. With strict legal requirements and a market that attracts both serious buyers and opportunistic fraudsters, it’s vital to choose a trusted online gun dealer who is licensed, reliable, and secure.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned gun owner, here’s what you need to know when selecting a reputable dealer to ensure a safe and legal purchase.
1. Check for a Valid Federal Firearms License (FFL)
The first sign of a legitimate gun dealer is the possession of a Federal Firearms License (FFL). In the U.S., any dealer selling guns must be licensed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
How to verify:
- Look for the dealer’s FFL number or license information on their website.
- You can confirm an FFL using the ATF’s online resources or by contacting your local FFL holder.
Buying from a licensed dealer ensures the transaction follows all federal and state laws, including background checks and proper firearm transfers.
2. Evaluate Online Reputation and Reviews
A dealer’s track record is one of the best indicators of trustworthiness. Look for customer reviews and ratings on independent platforms like:
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- Trustpilot
- Google Reviews
- Reddit firearm communities
- Firearm-specific forums like AR15.com or TheHighRoad.org
Look for red flags such as:
- Poor communication
- Failure to ship orders
- Unexpected fees
- Lack of refunds or shady return policies
Positive reviews from verified customers are a good sign that the dealer delivers on their promises.
3. Secure Website and Checkout Process
Online gun dealers should offer a secure shopping experience to protect your personal and financial information.
Key things to look for:
- Website uses HTTPS encryption (look for the padlock symbol in the address bar)
- Trusted payment gateways (such as Visa, Mastercard, or verified e-check)
- Clearly outlined privacy policies and terms of use
- No excessive personal information requested
If a website looks outdated, unprofessional, or redirects you through suspicious third-party sites, it’s best to walk away.
4. Clear Compliance with Firearm Laws
A trusted dealer should have a transparent purchasing process that complies with all relevant firearm regulations. This includes:
- Requiring firearms to be shipped to an FFL dealer (not directly to your home)
- Providing guidance on background checks and local requirements
- Denying sales to states or regions where certain guns are restricted
If a seller is willing to ship a gun directly to you without an FFL transfer, they are breaking the law—and putting you at risk.
5. Detailed Product Listings and Transparency
Reputable gun dealers offer clear, detailed product information so you can make an informed decision. Each firearm listing should include:
- Make, model, and calibre
- Photos (multiple angles)
- Technical specifications
- Pricing (with or without transfer/shipping fees)
- Availability status (in stock, backorder, etc.)
Avoid sellers with vague descriptions or stock images only—they may not be selling what they claim.
6. Fair Return, Refund, and Warranty Policies
Trusted online dealers stand behind their products and should provide:
- Return policies for damaged or defective firearms
- Refund options for cancelled orders before transfer
- Support with manufacturer warranties
Always read the terms and conditions before purchasing, especially since many dealers do not accept returns after a firearm has been transferred to you via your FFL.
7. Responsive Customer Support
Reliable gun dealers provide customer service that is easy to reach and responsive to inquiries.
Test it out by:
- Calling or emailing them before placing an order
- Asking questions about the product or shipping process
- Checking response time and professionalism
Lack of contact information or non-existent support is a clear red flag.
8. Well-Known and Established Dealers
If you’re unsure where to begin, start with established online gun retailers that are widely trusted in the industry. Some reputable names include:
- Brownells
- Sportsman’s Outdoor Superstore
- Palmetto State Armory
- Guns.com
- GrabAGun
- Bud’s Gun Shop
- MidwayUSA
These platforms have been in the business for years and have well-documented histories of safe, legal transactions.
9. Local Dealer Network and FFL Integration
Look for online dealers that provide tools to:
- Find an FFL dealer near you
- Automatically ship your gun to your selected FFL
- Track shipping and transfer status
This makes the process smoother and reduces the risk of mistakes or delays in transferring your firearm.
Final Thoughts
Buying a gun online can be a safe, legal, and convenient experience—but only if you choose the right dealer. By focusing on licensing, transparency, customer reviews, and compliance with the law, you can protect yourself from scams, delays, or legal trouble.
Checklist for Choosing a Trusted Online Gun Dealer:
✅ FFL license and legal compliance
✅ Secure website and checkout
✅ Strong online reputation
✅ Detailed listings and clear terms
✅ Responsive customer service
✅ Transparent shipping and return policies
Always remember: If a deal looks too good to be true—or skips legal steps—it probably is.