The Best Gun Shops in Clifton, Arizona
Top 3 gun shops in Clifton, Arizona. Rated 4.5/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Safford Gun & Pawn
Safford Gun & Pawn LLC
Safford Gun & Pawn is a highly regarded full-service gun shop located approximately 35 miles from Clifton, serving the Greenlee County area with an extensive inventory of new and used firearms, ammunition, and accessories. Known for their expert gunsmithing services and knowledgeable staff, they offer firearm transfers, safety training courses, and custom work. With nearly two decades in business, they have built a strong reputation for excellent customer service and community support, making them a top choice for shooters in eastern Arizona.
Thatcher Gun Shop
Thatcher Gun Shop Inc.
Thatcher Gun Shop, situated about 30 miles from Clifton, is a trusted local establishment specializing in a wide selection of rifles, handguns, and shotguns, along with comprehensive gunsmithing and repair services. The shop is praised for its friendly, experienced staff who provide personalized service, including firearm safety training and FFL transfers. Founded in 2010, they have consistently high ratings for their expertise, fair pricing, and commitment to supporting the outdoor community in Graham and Greenlee Counties.
Globe Gun & Pawn
Globe Gun & Pawn LLC
Globe Gun & Pawn, located roughly 50 miles from Clifton, is a well-established shop serving the eastern Arizona region with a robust inventory of firearms, tactical gear, and reloading supplies. They offer professional gunsmithing, including repairs and customizations, along with concealed carry training and efficient transfer services. With over 15 years in operation, they are known for their reliable customer service, competitive prices, and active involvement in local shooting sports, making them a dependable option for residents of Clifton and surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Clifton, Arizona
What are the main gun shops serving the Clifton, AZ area, and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops serving Clifton, AZ include Safford Gun & Pawn, Thatcher Gun Shop, and Globe Gun & Pawn. These shops typically offer firearms sales, ammunition, FFL transfers, gunsmithing, and accessories. While Clifton itself has limited options, residents often visit these nearby shops for their firearm needs.
What are Arizona's requirements for purchasing a firearm from a gun shop near Clifton?
Arizona has minimal state-level restrictions, so purchasing a firearm from shops like Safford Gun & Pawn requires no permit or waiting period. Federal requirements apply, including a background check via the NICS system and being at least 18 for long guns or 21 for handguns. Some local shops may have additional store policies, so it's best to call ahead.
Do gun shops in the Clifton area offer concealed carry training and permits?
Yes, shops like Thatcher Gun Shop and Safford Gun & Pawn often provide concealed carry weapon (CCW) training courses. While Arizona is a constitutional carry state, a CCW permit allows for reciprocity in other states and exempts you from background checks during purchases. Check with individual shops for class schedules and certification details.
How does the FFL transfer process work at gun shops near Clifton, AZ?
FFL transfers at local shops like Globe Gun & Pawn involve having an online or out-of-state firearm shipped to their licensed location. You'll need to complete a background check and pay a transfer fee, typically $25-$50. Contact the shop beforehand to confirm their transfer policies, fees, and required identification.
Are there any local ordinances in Clifton, AZ that affect gun ownership or carrying?
Clifton, AZ follows state preemption laws, meaning local governments cannot enact firearm regulations stricter than state law. Arizona's laws permit open carry without a license and constitutional carry for concealed firearms. Always ensure you're compliant with state laws, especially regarding prohibited places like schools and federal buildings.
Finding Quality Licensed Gun Shops in Clifton, AZ: A Guide for Local Enthusiasts
This guide highlights the importance of licensed gun shops for Clifton, AZ enthusiasts, emphasizing their role in legal compliance, local expertise, and community building, with practical advice on evaluating and supporting local FFLs.
For gun enthusiasts in Clifton, Arizona, finding a reputable, licensed gun shop is about more than just convenience—it's about community, expertise, and ensuring every transaction is handled with the utmost legality and care. In our corner of Greenlee County, we're fortunate to have access to several established Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders who serve as crucial hubs for our shooting sports community. Understanding what sets a great licensed shop apart can enhance your experience whether you're a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer.
A true licensed gun shop does far more than just sell firearms. It acts as a resource. The best shops, like those serving the Clifton area such as Safford Gun & Pawn, Thatcher Gun Shop, and Globe Gun & Pawn, provide essential services that go beyond the counter. This includes conducting legally required background checks through the NICS system, facilitating private party transfers, and handling the meticulous paperwork that keeps our hobby on the right side of federal and state law. For Clifton residents, this local expertise is invaluable, saving you a long drive to a bigger city for routine FFL transfers or compliance questions.
When evaluating a licensed gun shop in our region, consider their depth of local knowledge. Arizona has its own set of firearms laws, and a shop entrenched in the Clifton and broader eastern Arizona community will be well-versed in them. Do they offer guidance on Arizona's constitutional carry laws? Can they advise on best practices for storing your firearm in our unique desert climate? This localized counsel is something you won't get from a big-box retailer.
Furthermore, a great local FFL becomes a pillar of the shooting community. They're often the first to know about local shooting events, hunter education courses, or conservation efforts in the nearby Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Building a relationship with your local shop means you have a trusted expert to turn to for everything from selecting the right ammunition for hunting in the Black Hills to finding a qualified gunsmith for a repair.
My advice for Clifton enthusiasts? Visit your local licensed shops. Have a conversation. Ask about their transfer fees, their process for special orders, and how they stay current on evolving regulations. Notice if they take the time to explain the process, especially the mandatory waiting period and background check, without rushing. In a small town, reputation is everything, and the best shops thrive on trust and repeat business.
Supporting these local, licensed businesses ensures that Clifton retains access to critical firearms services and fosters a responsible, informed gun culture. They are more than just stores; they are stewards of our Second Amendment rights right here in Greenlee County.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Clifton:
About Clifton, Arizona
Clifton gun owners and enthusiasts deserve quality service when choosing a firearms dealer. Our featured shops specialize in firearms sales, gunsmithing, and training services with expert staff in Arizona.
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