The Best Gun Shops in Edwards, Colorado
Top 3 gun shops in Edwards, Colorado. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Gypsum Creek Arms
Gypsum Creek Arms LLC
Gypsum Creek Arms is widely regarded as the premier firearms destination in the Eagle County region, located just 15 minutes from Edwards. This family-owned shop has built an exceptional reputation for outstanding customer service, extensive inventory of both modern and classic firearms, and expert gunsmithing services. Their knowledgeable staff provides personalized service to both new shooters and experienced collectors, with a strong focus on education and safety. The shop features a well-stocked showroom with hunting rifles, tactical firearms, and concealed carry options, plus comprehensive gunsmithing services including custom builds, repairs, and NFA item processing.
Vail Valley Gunsmithing
Vail Valley Gunsmithing LLC
Located in nearby Eagle, Vail Valley Gunsmithing has served the mountain communities including Edwards for over a decade with exceptional craftsmanship and expertise. While they offer a curated selection of firearms for sale, their primary reputation is built on superior gunsmithing services including precision repair, custom builds, restoration work, and maintenance. The shop is known for tackling complex firearm issues that other shops won't touch, with turnaround times that are remarkably fast for the quality of work. Their small but highly knowledgeable team provides personalized service to hunters, competitive shooters, and recreational firearms enthusiasts throughout the Vail Valley.
Rocky Mountain Pawn & Gun
Rocky Mountain Pawn & Gun LLC
Located in Glenwood Springs approximately 35 minutes from Edwards, Rocky Mountain Pawn & Gun has established itself as one of the largest and most diverse firearms retailers in the region. The shop offers an extensive inventory that rotates frequently due to their pawn and consignment business model, providing unique opportunities to find rare and collectible firearms. Their knowledgeable staff provides excellent service to both local residents and visitors to the mountain communities. The shop maintains a strong reputation for fair pricing, honest appraisals, and a wide selection of hunting rifles, handguns, and tactical firearms, plus a good stock of ammunition and accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Edwards, Colorado
What are the main gun shops in Edwards, CO and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops serving Edwards include Gypsum Creek Arms, Vail Valley Gunsmithing, and Rocky Mountain Pawn & Gun. These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, gunsmithing services, ammunition, and accessories. Gypsum Creek Arms also features an indoor range, while Vail Valley Gunsmithing specializes in custom work and repairs.
What are the key Colorado state laws I should know before purchasing a firearm in Edwards?
Colorado requires a background check for all firearm purchases, including private sales, conducted through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI). There is a 15-round magazine capacity limit for sales, though pre-ban magazines are grandfathered. Additionally, Edwards follows state law requiring a 3-day waiting period for firearm purchases starting in October 2023.
Do I need a permit to purchase a handgun from a gun shop in Edwards?
No, Colorado does not require a permit to purchase a handgun. However, you must pass a CBI background check and be at least 21 years old for handgun purchases. Some local Edwards shops may have additional store policies, so it's best to check with the specific retailer like Gypsum Creek Arms or Vail Valley Gunsmithing beforehand.
Can I complete a private party firearm transfer through Edwards gun shops?
Yes, local gun shops like Gypsum Creek Arms and Rocky Mountain Pawn & Gun can facilitate private party transfers. Colorado law requires all private firearm sales to go through a licensed FFL dealer who will process a background check. The transferring shop will typically charge a fee for this service and ensure compliance with state regulations.
What training and certification courses are available at Edwards-area gun shops?
Gun shops serving Edwards, such as Gypsum Creek Arms, offer Colorado Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) certification courses and basic firearms safety training. These courses satisfy state requirements for concealed carry permits and provide essential handling skills. Many shops also offer advanced training, women's courses, and range safety instruction tailored to local needs.
Finding Certified Gun Shops in Edwards, CO: What Local Enthusiasts Need to Know
This post explains the importance of choosing certified gun shops in Edwards, CO, highlighting how certifications ensure professional expertise, legal compliance, and quality service tailored to local needs, with insights on engaging with area shops like Gypsum Creek Arms and Vail Valley Gunsmithing.
For gun enthusiasts in Edwards, Colorado, finding a reputable and certified gun shop isn't just about convenience—it's about safety, quality, and supporting local businesses that understand our mountain community's unique needs. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a hunter preparing for elk season, or a responsible citizen seeking personal protection, choosing a certified establishment ensures you're dealing with professionals who adhere to the highest industry standards.
In the Edwards area, certification typically means the shop and its staff operate with Federal Firearms Licenses (FFLs) in good standing, but it often goes further. Look for shops where personnel hold certifications from organizations like the National Rifle Association (NRA) for training, or the American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) for smithing work. This formal training translates directly to better customer service, from helping you select the right firearm for Colorado's diverse terrain to ensuring compliance with all state and federal regulations.
Local shops like Gypsum Creek Arms, Vail Valley Gunsmithing, and Rocky Mountain Pawn & Gun form the backbone of our community's firearms ecosystem. A certified shop does more than process paperwork; it provides expert knowledge. For instance, when purchasing a firearm for high-altitude hunting near the White River National Forest, a certified professional can advise on caliber performance and optics suited for our environment. They also ensure all transactions, including background checks through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), are handled accurately and efficiently.
Certification is especially crucial for gunsmithing services. Whether you need a routine cleaning, a custom rifle fitting, or repairs on a cherished heirloom, certified gunsmiths at shops like Vail Valley Gunsmithing possess the proven skills to work on your firearms safely and precisely. They use proper tools and follow stringent protocols, protecting both your investment and your safety.
When visiting a local gun shop in Edwards, don't hesitate to ask about their certifications and the training of their staff. A reputable establishment will be transparent about their credentials. This due diligence is your best assurance of quality. Furthermore, building a relationship with a certified local shop means you have a trusted resource for years to come—for transfers, advice on Colorado's evolving firearms laws, or simply to share knowledge with fellow enthusiasts.
In a community that values self-reliance and the great outdoors, choosing a certified gun shop is a mark of a responsible gun owner. It supports local expertise and guarantees that the services you receive meet rigorous professional standards. Next time you're in the market for a firearm, accessories, or expert smithing, prioritize the certified professionals right here in Edwards. Your safety and satisfaction, and the health of our local shooting sports community, depend on it.
About Edwards, Colorado
Edwards 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 Colorado.
Local Expertise
Shops familiar with Edwards community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Edwards.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.