Buying Guns Online
Buying a gun online is easy. And contrary to what some may believe, doing so does not create a loophole that allows a person to avoid doing a background check. You can purchase a gun online just like any other product. However, it cannot be shipped directly to you. Every gun purchased online is shipped to a licensed firearms dealer, where the buyer can pick it up. Below we'll detail the most commonly asked questions when it comes to buying a gun online.
Can I buy a gun online?
Yes, you can purchase a gun online just like any other product. The only difference is that we cannot ship a firearm directly to you. A firearm must be shipped to a licensed firearms dealer, where you can pick it up.
Can you ship a firearm to my house?
No, we can not ship a firearm to your house, unless you have an FFL.
What is an FFL?
An "FFL" is a Federal Firearms License. These licenses are commonly held by gun stores, pawn shops, and sporting goods stores. However, there are also many individuals that hold an FFL.
How do I choose an FFL to have my gun shipped to?
With thousands of dealers across the country, there's a good chance you have a few nearby. You can find one by searching our FFL Dealer Locator.
When you place your order with us, the FFL Dealer Locator will let you choose a licensed dealer to have your firearm shipped to. Out of courtesy to the receiving dealer, it is always recommended that you contact them to inquire about any possible transfer fees and to make any necessary arrangements for picking up your firearm.
Do I have to contact the FFL dealer?
Yes, you must contact the FFL dealer you've chosen to make them aware of the transfer and to make any necessary arrangements for picking up your firearm. It is also recommended that you inquire about any possible transfer fees they may charge.
By not contacting the dealer, there is a higher chance that the dealer will not accept your firearm, or that the dealer will not be available when the package is expected to arrive. If the firearm is returned to us for one of these reasons, additional shipping charges and/or return fees may apply.
Do I have to fill out a background check?
Yes, but not through us. Any necessary paperwork and background check is completed between you, the actual buyer/transferee, and the receiving dealer. This is usually done at the time you pick up your firearm.
How will I know when my gun is ready to be picked up?
When first contacting the dealer you've chosen, it is recommended that you make arrangements with them to pick up your firearm. When we ship your firearm, we include your contact information in the package. Most dealers will use this information to notify you once the firearm is ready to be picked up.
Some dealers may require extra time before a firearm is ready to be picked up. If you see that the package has been delivered, but you haven't received a call from the dealer, you may also contact them yourself to inquire when the firearm will be ready.
Can I return a firearm?
Any firearm purchased from Vance Outdoors can be returned to us, provided that it hasn't been picked up from the receiving FFL dealer.
While the firearm is still in the possession of the FFL dealer, please inspect the firearm thoroughly to ensure that there are no visible defects. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, please contact us before picking up the firearm from your dealer. We can arrange to have it returned to us, and upon delivery and careful inspection of the firearm, we will provide you with your choice of either a replacement, if available, or a refund of the firearm.
Return and/or restocking fees may be deducted from your refund depending on the reason for return.
You can reach us at 740-527-6200 Monday-Friday between 9am and 5pm Eastern time. We will be happy to work through any issues you may have.