How to Buy a Gun Online
How to Buy a Gun Online: A Legal and Secure Guide for Discerning Firearm Buyers
Purchasing a firearm online offers convenience, discretion, and access to world-class brands, but it also comes with important legal responsibilities. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, understanding how to buy a gun online is essential to ensuring a safe and compliant transaction.
In this guide, we walk you through everything you need to know about online firearm purchases, including how FFL transfers work, who is eligible, what state-specific laws apply, and how we help ensure compliance with magazine limits, waiting periods, and barrel configurations. If you're looking for exceptional firearms from Beretta, Tikka, Sako, Chapuis, or Manurhin, we offer a refined online buying experience backed by white-glove customer support.
How Do You Buy a Gun Online?
Buying a firearm online is a straightforward and legal process when done properly. It begins with choosing your firearm from a licensed dealer’s website, then selecting a local FFL (Federal Firearms License) dealer who will legally receive the gun and transfer it to you after a background check.
If you're shopping for Beretta pistols or shotguns, Tikka or Sako bolt-action rifles, Chapuis side-by-sides, or Manurhin revolvers, our online platform offers access to some of the world’s most respected firearms. We serve collectors, upland hunters, precision shooters, and those who value both heritage and craftsmanship.
Here’s how it works:
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Choose your firearm and begin checkout
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Enter your ZIP code to find a nearby FFL dealer
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Complete your secure purchase online
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Visit the dealer to complete your background check
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Once approved, legally take possession of your firearm
Our team is here to guide you through every step and ensure everything is handled legally and professionally.
Is It Legal to Buy a Gun Online?
Yes. Buying a firearm online is completely legal in the United States when the firearm is transferred through a licensed FFL dealer. The dealer performs a background check and ensures that all federal and state laws are satisfied before the firearm is released to you.
The only major difference between an online and in-person firearm purchase is that the selection happens online while the legal transfer still occurs in person.
What Is an FFL Dealer and Why Do You Need One?
An FFL dealer is a federally licensed business or individual who is authorized to receive, store, and transfer firearms. Firearms purchased online must be shipped to an FFL dealer, not to your home.
Once your firearm arrives at the FFL location, you will be required to present valid identification, complete the ATF Form 4473, and pass a background check before the firearm can be legally transferred to you. We make it easy to choose a local FFL dealer during checkout, and our customer support team is available to assist if needed.
Who Is Eligible to Purchase a Firearm Online?
To purchase a firearm online, you must meet the following federal requirements:
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Be at least 18 years old for rifles and shotguns, or 21 for handguns
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Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
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Have valid, government-issued photo identification
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Not be a convicted felon
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Not be under indictment or subject to a restraining order
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Not have been adjudicated mentally unfit or committed to a mental institution
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Not be a user of illegal controlled substances
Your eligibility is verified by your chosen FFL dealer using the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). If you do not pass the background check, the firearm will not be transferred.
What Are the Waiting Periods for Firearms by State?
Some states require a mandatory waiting period between the time a firearm is purchased and when it can be transferred to you. These waiting periods vary by state and sometimes by firearm type.
State Waiting Periods
| State | Handgun Wait | Long Gun Wait | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 10 days | 10 days | Applies to all firearms |
| Illinois | 72 hours | 72 hours | FOID card required |
| Maryland | 7 days | None | Applies to handguns only |
| New Jersey | 7 days (de facto) | None | Based on permit processing |
| Hawaii | 14 days | None | Rifles require a permit |
| Minnesota | 7 days | None | Applies to handguns and semi-automatic rifles |
| Washington | 10 days | 10 days | Applies to semi-automatic rifles |
| Rhode Island | 7 days | 7 days | Applies to all firearms |
| Florida | 3 business days | None | Handguns only |
| District of Columbia | 10 days | 10 days | Applies to all firearms |
What States Have Magazine Restrictions?
Several states restrict magazine capacity. These regulations apply to both detachable and fixed magazines and vary by firearm type.
Magazine Capacity Limits
| State | Max Capacity Allowed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | 10 rounds | Applies to all firearm types |
| New York | 10 rounds (7 loaded) | Cannot load more than 7 outside of ranges |
| New Jersey | 10 rounds | Applies to handguns and rifles |
| Connecticut | 10 rounds | Older mags must be registered |
| Massachusetts | 10 rounds | Pre-ban magazines must be dated appropriately |
| Colorado | 15 rounds | Applies statewide |
| Maryland | 10 rounds | Cannot transfer high-capacity magazines in-state |
| Hawaii | 10 rounds | Applies only to handguns |
| Vermont | 10 (handguns), 15 (rifles) | Applies to new sales |
| Washington | 10 rounds | Shipping restricted |
| Illinois | Varies by city | Cook County and others restrict mags over 10 rounds |
| Oregon | 10 rounds | Subject to ongoing litigation |
| District of Columbia | 10 rounds | Strict enforcement |
If your selected firearm includes a high-capacity magazine that is restricted in your state, we will offer a compliant alternative at checkout.
Are There Barrel Length and Configuration Restrictions?
Yes. In addition to federal rules on minimum barrel length, some states restrict specific features such as threaded barrels, folding stocks, pistol grips, and flash suppressors. These features are commonly used to define “assault weapons” in states with more restrictive laws.
Configuration Restrictions by State
| State | Key Restrictions |
|---|---|
| California | Minimum 30" overall length, no pistol grips, no threaded barrels |
| New York | No adjustable stocks, flash suppressors, or threaded barrels on semi-autos |
| New Jersey | Limited to one military-style feature including threaded barrels |
| Connecticut | No threaded barrels or collapsible stocks on rifles or pistols |
| Massachusetts | Based on AWB-style list; restricts threaded barrels and folding stocks |
| Maryland | Banned rifle list; configuration includes threaded barrels |
| Hawaii | Assault pistols banned; threaded barrels restricted |
| Washington | Assault weapon ban includes threaded barrels |
| Illinois | Local bans may restrict certain features including threaded barrels |
| District of Columbia | Most tactical features including threaded barrels are prohibited |
Federal law requires a minimum barrel length of 16 inches for rifles and 18 inches for shotguns unless the firearm is registered under the National Firearms Act (NFA).
If your chosen firearm includes a restricted configuration or feature, we will help you modify or select an alternative that is compliant with your state’s regulations.
Can You Still Buy a Gun Online If Your State Has Restrictions?
Yes. In most cases, we can provide compliant configurations or alternative options. Our system checks for state restrictions during checkout and will notify you of any conflicts. Our customer service team is always available to assist with compliance questions or product adjustments.
How Long Does the Online Gun Buying Process Take?
The total timeline can vary by location and your selected FFL dealer. Here is a general overview:
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1 to 3 business days for order processing
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1 to 5 business days for shipping to your FFL
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Same-day to several days for background check approval
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Additional waiting period depending on your state
We provide real-time tracking updates and FFL coordination throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone else pick up my firearm?
No. Only the person who purchased the firearm and passed the background check may receive it.
What if I fail the background check?
The firearm will not be transferred. We will assist you in returning the item in accordance with federal law.
Do I need a permit to buy online?
Some states require specific permits or certifications, such as California (FSC), Illinois (FOID), or New York (pistol license).
Key Takeaways
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Buying a firearm online is legal and requires transfer through a licensed FFL dealer
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Background checks are federally required and performed at your local FFL
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States may impose additional laws on waiting periods, magazine capacity, and firearm features
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We ensure full legal compliance and offer white-glove customer support
Shop Firearms Online with Confidence
Whether you're in search of a precision rifle, a refined side-by-side, or a timeless revolver, our online store is designed for enthusiasts who value legality, craftsmanship, and personalized service. Explore our curated selection of firearms from Beretta, Tikka, Sako, Chapuis, and Manurhin, and let us assist you through every step of the online buying process.
