The Best Gun Shops in Cambridge, Illinois
Top 3 gun shops in Cambridge, Illinois. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Midwest Shooters Supply
Midwest Shooters Supply
Midwest Shooters Supply is widely regarded as one of the top firearm retailers in the region serving Cambridge and surrounding areas. Located just 15 minutes from Cambridge in Kewanee, they offer an extensive inventory of new and used firearms from major manufacturers. Their knowledgeable staff provides exceptional customer service and they operate a full-service gunsmithing department. Specializing in both modern sporting rifles and traditional firearms, they also offer comprehensive training courses and handle NFA transfers. Their reputation for fair pricing and expert advice makes them a destination shop for serious firearms enthusiasts.
Henry Gun & Pawn
Henry Gun & Pawn
Located approximately 20 minutes from Cambridge in Henry, this established shop has built a strong reputation for quality firearms and reliable service. They maintain a diverse selection of handguns, rifles, and shotguns from entry-level to premium models. The staff includes experienced gunsmiths who perform repairs, custom work, and modifications. Their pawn services often yield unique used firearms at competitive prices. Customers consistently praise their transparent pricing policy and the staff's willingness to educate buyers, making them particularly popular with first-time firearm owners seeking guidance.
Geneseo Gun Works
Geneseo Gun Works
Serving the Cambridge area from Geneseo (approximately 25 minutes away), Geneseo Gun Works has established itself as a premier destination for serious shooters and collectors. They specialize in high-quality firearms with an emphasis on American-made products and carry an impressive selection of tactical, hunting, and competitive shooting firearms. Their gunsmithing services are particularly renowned, offering everything from basic repairs to advanced custom builds and precision accurizing. The shop maintains a well-stocked ammunition inventory even during shortages and offers professional transfer services. Their commitment to customer education and community involvement has earned them loyal customers throughout the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Cambridge, Illinois
What are the main gun shops in or near Cambridge, IL, and what services do they offer?
The top gun shops in the Cambridge area include Midwest Shooters Supply, Henry Gun & Pawn, and Geneseo Gun Works. These shops typically offer firearms sales, ammunition, FFL transfers, gunsmithing, and accessories. Some may also provide training classes or used firearm consignment services tailored to local hunters and sport shooters.
What is the process for purchasing a firearm from a gun shop in Cambridge, IL?
To purchase a firearm in Cambridge, IL, you must present a valid FOID (Firearm Owner's Identification) card issued by the Illinois State Police. The gun shop will conduct a background check through the Illinois State Police and the FBI's NICS system. After approval, you can complete the sale, but for handguns, there is a 72-hour waiting period, and for long guns, a 24-hour waiting period applies.
Do gun shops in Cambridge, IL, offer concealed carry license training?
Yes, some gun shops in or near Cambridge, such as Midwest Shooters Supply or Geneseo Gun Works, may offer Illinois Concealed Carry License (CCL) training. The 16-hour course covers firearm safety, laws, and marksmanship, and is required to apply for a CCL with the Illinois State Police. Check with individual shops for course schedules and availability.
Can I perform a private party firearm transfer through a Cambridge, IL, gun shop?
Yes, gun shops in Cambridge, like Henry Gun & Pawn or Midwest Shooters Supply, can facilitate private party firearm transfers as an FFL holder. Both parties must have valid FOID cards, and the transfer will include a background check. This service ensures the transaction complies with Illinois state law and provides a record of the transfer.
Are there any local Cambridge or Henry County regulations affecting gun shop purchases?
While Illinois state laws, such as FOID and waiting periods, govern firearm purchases in Cambridge, there are no additional local ordinances in Henry County that restrict gun shop sales beyond state requirements. However, it's always wise to confirm with the specific gun shop for any recent changes or store policies that may affect your purchase.
Finding Certified Gun Shops in Cambridge, IL: Your Guide to Quality Firearms Services
This guide explains the importance of choosing certified gun shops in Cambridge, IL, highlighting what 'certified' truly means for safety, training, and legal compliance, and how to identify these qualities in local establishments.
For gun enthusiasts in Cambridge, Illinois, finding a reliable, certified gun shop isn't just about convenience—it's about safety, expertise, and supporting local businesses that understand our community's values. When we talk about 'certified gun shops,' we're referring to establishments that go beyond basic retail. These are shops where staff often hold professional certifications from organizations like the NRA, where they prioritize secure transactions through proper FFL (Federal Firearms License) procedures, and where their gunsmiths may have verifiable training. In a smaller community like Cambridge, this certification and local reputation mean everything.
So, what should you look for in a certified gun shop right here in Henry County? First, check for a valid, current Federal Firearms License prominently displayed. This is the baseline legal certification for any shop to sell firearms. Next, inquire about the staff's training. Shops like Midwest Shooters Supply often have team members certified in firearm safety instruction, which is invaluable whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector. This local expertise ensures you get the right firearm for your needs, whether it's for home defense, hunting in the Illinois backcountry, or sport shooting.
Another key aspect of a certified operation is its commitment to legal compliance and secure transfers. Every firearm sale or transfer in Cambridge must go through a proper background check via the Illinois State Police and the FBI's NICS system. A certified shop meticulously handles this paperwork, ensuring a smooth and lawful process. This is where local shops like Henry Gun & Pawn or Geneseo Gun Works build trust; they guide you through the mandatory Illinois Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card verification and waiting periods without cutting corners.
Beyond sales, look for shops offering certified services. This might include a qualified gunsmith for repairs and modifications, or certified instructors for concealed carry (CCL) classes required in Illinois. Having these services locally saves you a trip to the Quad Cities or Peoria. When you visit a Cambridge-area shop, don't hesitate to ask questions: 'What certifications do your gunsmiths hold?' 'Are your safety instructors NRA-certified?' Their answers will tell you a lot.
Supporting certified local gun shops strengthens our Cambridge community. They provide a secure, knowledgeable hub for responsible gun ownership. Before your next purchase or needing a service, consider the value of that local certification—it represents a commitment to safety, education, and the law that benefits every gun owner in Illinois.
About Cambridge, Illinois
Cambridge 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 Illinois.
Local Expertise
Shops familiar with Cambridge community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Cambridge.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.