The Best Gun Shops in Saint Elmo, Illinois
Top 3 gun shops in Saint Elmo, Illinois. Rated 4.6/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
The Gun Doctor
The Gun Doctor
The Gun Doctor is a highly respected firearms retailer and gunsmithing service located approximately 25 miles from Saint Elmo. Known for exceptional customer service and technical expertise, they offer comprehensive gunsmithing services including custom builds, repairs, and modifications. Their inventory includes new and used firearms from top manufacturers, with knowledgeable staff providing personalized recommendations. The shop maintains an excellent reputation for quality workmanship and professional training courses.
R Guns
R Guns
R Guns is a well-established firearms dealer with a strong regional reputation, serving customers throughout Illinois including the Saint Elmo area. They specialize in military-style firearms and have an extensive inventory of rifles, shotguns, and handguns. The shop is particularly noted for their expertise in AR-platform firearms and their commitment to customer education. While located further north, they serve customers statewide and have built a loyal following for their quality firearms and reliable service.
Gat Guns
Gat Guns
Gat Guns is one of Illinois' largest and most comprehensive firearms retailers, serving customers from across the state including the Saint Elmo region. They feature an enormous showroom with thousands of firearms in stock, plus an indoor shooting range and comprehensive gunsmithing services. Their staff includes certified instructors offering various training courses. While the distance from Saint Elmo is significant, their reputation for massive inventory selection and professional services makes them a destination for serious firearms enthusiasts throughout Illinois.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Saint Elmo, Illinois
What are the main gun shops in Saint Elmo, IL, and what services do they offer?
The main gun shops in Saint Elmo, IL, include The Gun Doctor, R Guns, and Gat Guns. These shops typically offer services such as new and used firearm sales, FFL transfers, gunsmithing, ammunition sales, and firearm accessories. Some, like The Gun Doctor, may specialize in repairs and custom work, while others focus on retail sales and transfers.
What are the Illinois state requirements for purchasing a firearm from a gun shop in Saint Elmo?
To purchase a firearm in Saint Elmo, IL, you must have a valid Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card issued by the Illinois State Police. For handguns, you'll also need to wait 72 hours after purchase before taking possession. Long guns require a 24-hour waiting period. All purchases from licensed dealers involve a federal background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
Do Saint Elmo gun shops offer concealed carry training and licensing assistance?
Yes, many Saint Elmo gun shops, such as R Guns and Gat Guns, offer Illinois Concealed Carry License (CCL) training courses. These courses meet the state's 16-hour training requirement and cover firearm safety, laws, and shooting proficiency. After completing the course, instructors often provide guidance on submitting your application to the Illinois State Police.
How does the FFL transfer process work at Saint Elmo gun shops?
When you purchase a firearm online or from out of state, you can have it shipped to a local FFL holder like The Gun Doctor or R Guns in Saint Elmo. The receiving shop will conduct the required background check, verify your FOID card, and complete the transfer for a fee, typically $25-$50. You must pick up the firearm in person after any applicable waiting periods.
Are there any local Saint Elmo ordinances that affect gun shop services or firearm ownership?
Saint Elmo, IL, generally follows state preemption laws, meaning most firearm regulations are set at the state level rather than locally. However, it's always wise to check with local authorities or your chosen gun shop for any specific municipal codes regarding discharge or transportation. Illinois state laws, such as FOID and concealed carry requirements, are uniformly applied in Saint Elmo.
Nearby Cities
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About Saint Elmo, Illinois
Saint Elmo 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.
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