The Best Gun Shops in Durant, Iowa
Top 3 gun shops in Durant, Iowa. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Brownells
Brownells, Inc.
As one of the world's largest and most respected firearms retailers, Brownells serves Durant from their Montezuma headquarters just 25 miles away. Founded as a family business in 1939, they offer an unparalleled inventory of firearms, parts, accessories, and gunsmithing services. Their massive showroom features everything from modern tactical firearms to historical pieces, backed by expert staff with deep industry knowledge. The company is renowned for their extensive gunsmithing services, armorers courses, and industry-leading customer service that has made them a trusted name for generations of shooters.
Scheels
Scheels All Sports
While located in the Des Moines metro area approximately 150 miles from Durant, Scheels serves customers statewide with their massive firearms department and extensive inventory. This regional powerhouse features a comprehensive selection of handguns, rifles, shotguns, and tactical firearms from all major manufacturers. Their knowledgeable staff includes certified instructors and hunting experts who provide exceptional customer service. The store regularly hosts shooting sports events and safety training, making it a destination for serious firearms enthusiasts throughout Iowa.
C&S Sporting Goods
C&S Sporting Goods, LLC
Located in Davenport approximately 60 miles from Durant, C&S Sporting Goods has built a strong reputation as a premier firearms retailer in eastern Iowa. This family-owned business specializes in both modern sporting rifles and traditional hunting firearms, with particular expertise in custom builds and precision rifles. Their in-house gunsmithing services include everything from basic repairs to advanced custom work. The shop is known for their personalized service, competitive pricing on transfers, and extensive selection of ammunition and reloading components that serves both casual shooters and serious enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Durant, Iowa
What are the main gun shops in Durant, Iowa, and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops in Durant, Iowa, include Brownells, Scheels, and C&S Sporting Goods. These retailers offer a wide range of services such as firearms sales, ammunition, accessories, and FFL transfers. Brownells is particularly known for its extensive online catalog and gunsmithing supplies, while Scheels and C&S provide in-store expertise and local hunting gear.
What are the key Iowa state laws I should know before purchasing a firearm in Durant?
In Iowa, no permit is required to purchase rifles, shotguns, or handguns from a licensed dealer, but you must pass a federal background check. However, to carry a handgun in public, you need an Iowa Permit to Carry Weapons, which requires a training course. Durant gun shops like Brownells or Scheels can guide you through the process and provide training resources.
How does the firearm purchasing process work at Durant gun shops?
When purchasing a firearm at a Durant gun shop, you'll need to complete ATF Form 4473 and pass an instant background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Iowa does not have a waiting period for most firearms, so eligible buyers can often take possession the same day. Shops like C&S Sporting Goods or Scheels will assist with paperwork and answer any state-specific questions.
Do Durant gun shops offer firearm training or safety courses?
Yes, several Durant gun shops and nearby providers offer training courses, including those required for an Iowa Permit to Carry Weapons. Brownells, for example, is renowned for its educational resources and may host or recommend local training. It's advisable to contact shops like Scheels or C&S Sporting Goods for current class schedules and certification options.
Can I have a firearm shipped to a Durant gun shop for transfer, and what are the fees?
Yes, Durant gun shops such as Brownells, Scheels, and C&S Sporting Goods accept firearms shipped from online or out-of-state sellers through FFL transfers. Transfer fees typically range from $25 to $50, depending on the shop. You'll need to complete a background check upon pickup, and the shop will handle the necessary federal and Iowa compliance steps.
Finding the Best Gun Shops Near Durant, IA: A Local Guide for Firearms Enthusiasts
This guide helps Durant, IA firearms enthusiasts navigate local and nearby gun shop options, explaining the unique strengths of C&S Sporting Goods, Brownells, and Scheels while offering practical advice for choosing the right shop based on individual needs.
When you're searching for the 'best gun shops near me' in Durant, Iowa, you're in a unique position as a firearms enthusiast. While Durant itself is a smaller community, you have access to some exceptional options both locally and within reasonable driving distance that cater to different needs within the shooting sports community.
Right here in Durant, C&S Sporting Goods offers that essential local shop experience. This is where you can build relationships, get personalized service, and find knowledgeable staff who understand the needs of Iowa hunters and sport shooters. For everyday ammunition, basic firearms, and local expertise, supporting a hometown business like C&S strengthens our local shooting community. They often have insight into local hunting conditions and regulations specific to Cedar County and surrounding areas.
Just a short drive away in nearby cities, you'll find expanded options. Brownells, headquartered in Grinnell, is a pilgrimage site for serious firearms enthusiasts. While primarily known as a massive online and catalog supplier, their retail presence offers something special: you can sometimes handle products you've only read about and consult with staff who eat, sleep, and breathe firearms technology. Their expertise in parts, gunsmithing tools, and accessories is unparalleled in our region.
For a broad retail selection, Scheels in Davenport provides a different experience. This massive store offers a wide variety of new firearms, from hunting rifles to modern sporting rifles, along with extensive optics, shooting gear, and clothing. It's an excellent option when you want to compare multiple brands side-by-side or need outfitting for an entire hunting season.
When determining the 'best' shop for your needs near Durant, consider what you value most. Is it expert gunsmithing services? A vast selection of modern sporting rifles? Hunting expertise specific to Eastern Iowa? Or the convenience and personal touch of a local shop? Each establishment serves different purposes in a shooter's ecosystem.
My advice to Durant-area enthusiasts: Build relationships at multiple shops. Use C&S for local convenience and community connection, plan occasional trips to Brownells for specialized parts and deep technical knowledge, and visit Scheels when you want broad selection. Also remember to check smaller shops in neighboring towns like Wilton or Moscow – sometimes the best finds come from unexpected places.
Always call ahead for specific inventory or services, especially during hunting season when popular items move quickly. Whether you're a lifelong Iowan or new to the Durant area, our region offers a solid foundation of reputable firearms retailers to support your shooting sports journey.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Durant:
About Durant, Iowa
Durant 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 Iowa.
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Shops familiar with Durant community and local firearms needs.
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Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Durant.
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