How to Buy Guns Online Safely and Legally

Buying a firearm online is safe, secure, and fully compliant with federal law when handled properly. Although firearms cannot be shipped directly to your home, the process is straightforward: purchase online, have the seller ship the firearm to a local licensed gun dealer (FFL), then complete the required background check and transfer paperwork before pickup. Follow the steps below to complete your purchase safely.

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How to buy guns online safely and legally

Buying a Gun Online is Easy

GunsAmerica.com makes it easy to find what you’re looking for both locally and nationally from licensed dealers or private sellers. All sellers on GunsAmerica.com are verified and vetted to ensure a safe and secure marketplace for buyers.

Step 1 : Browse Listings

Find the Right Firearm

Shop thousands of new and used firearms online from verified local sellers and national dealers.

Use the Shop Online main navigation menu to browse core categories like handguns, rifles, and shotguns, or use the keyword search bar at the top of your screen to find a specific make and model.

Filter your results by price, condition, or location to find the right firearm for your needs.

Step 2 : Add to Cart & Checkout

Review Your Selection

When you find what you want, click on the picture or the listing title to view the item and see more information about the seller.

If everything looks good to you, click Buy Now and proceed to checkout. If you think the price is too high, select Make An Offer and enter the amount you will pay. Most sellers accept or reject the offer immediately. Others receive a notification and have 48 hours to respond.

Review the order details and select the Proceed to Checkout button to complete your order.

Step 3 : Select Your FFL & Enter Payment Details

Complete Your Purchase

At checkout you complete your contact information, select an FFL dealer, and enter your payment method. GunsAmerica forwards the required FFL information to the seller and the dealer you selected along with your information so they can contact you.

Payments on GunsAmerica are safe and secure. Sellers either accept credit cards or payments via GunTab, which is a payment platform similar to PayPal but specifically designed to meet firearm compliance requirements.

Other payment platforms such as PayPal, Zelle, CashApp etc. are not firearm friendly and using their platforms as a form of payment for firearm related items is prohibited.

Step 4 : Pick Up Your Firearm

Take Delivery of Your Firearm

When you complete the checkout process, you will get tracking information and be notified when it arrives at your dealer.

Your receiving local dealer will help you complete the form 4473 and confirm your background check.

The background check can normally be completed in 10 minutes. Most dealers charge a fee for the transfer service they provide and once completed, you walk out with your new gun.

Why Buy on GunsAmerica?

Verified Sellers: We provide a secure network connecting thousands of verified local dealers, storefronts, and private collectors nationwide.
Compliance First: Every firearm sale or serialized items, like suppressors and lowers, on our platform requires a verified receiving FFL to maintain legal compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
In Business Since 1997: With nearly three decades of operating a premier firearms marketplace, our brand represents a trusted, and secure place to buy firearms online.

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Frequently asked questions

Can a gun be shipped directly to my house?

No. Federal law prohibits firearms to be sent directly to your residence. All firearms must be shipped to dealer with a valid Federal Firearms License (FFL). The FFL conducts a background check and buyers must fill out a form 4473 in order to receive a firearm or serialized item purchased online.

Is it legal to buy a gun online?

Yes, it is absolutely legal to purchase firearms and serialized items, like suppressors or lower receivers, online. The firearm must be received by a valid FFL holder and the buyer must pass a background check and fill out the necessary paperwork in order to receive the firearm.

Do I need a background check if I buy online?

Yes. Buying a gun online does not bypass the required NICS background check or paperwork involved when purchasing a firearm. You will be required to fill out a form 4473 along with the background check when picking up a firearm at your local receiving FFL.

What are the extra fees when buying a gun online?

After paying for the gun and shipping costs from an online seller, you will also pay the receiving FFL dealer a transfer fee for the firearm or serialized item you purchased online. Typical transfer fees can range from $20 - $50+ for certain items. NFA items generally have a higher cost for transfers. Certain states also charge a fee for state background checks.

Can someone else pick up the gun I ordered online?

No. The person whose name is on the billing invoice and order must be the same person who fills out the paperwork and receives the firearm. Ordering a gun online under your name for someone else can be considered an illegal straw purchase.

What is an FFL transfer and how do I choose a dealer?

An FFL transfer is the process of a local licensed gun shop or individual who receives the firearm shipped from an online seller and legally transferring it to you. GunsAmerica.com has an FFL locator tool for buyers to use at checkout where transfer costs are displayed.