The Best Gun Shops in Johnston, Iowa
Top 3 gun shops in Johnston, Iowa. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
JLM Shooters Supply
JLM Shooters Supply
JLM Shooters Supply is widely regarded as one of the top firearm retailers in the Des Moines metro area, serving Johnston residents with exceptional expertise and service. They operate from a modern 6,000 sq ft facility featuring an extensive selection of handguns, rifles, shotguns, and tactical firearms. The shop is particularly known for their knowledgeable staff, comprehensive gunsmithing services, and excellent customer service. They offer CCW classes, advanced training courses, and maintain one of the area's best selections of accessories and ammunition. Their NFA department handles suppressors, SBRs, and other regulated items with professional expertise.
Scheels
Scheels
Scheels is a premier sporting goods destination serving the Johnston area with one of the most comprehensive firearm selections in Central Iowa. Their massive 220,000 sq ft store features an extensive firearms department with hundreds of new and used guns across all categories. The shop employs certified experts who provide exceptional customer service and product knowledge. They offer full gunsmithing services, firearm transfers, and comprehensive training programs including hunter safety and concealed carry courses. Scheels maintains excellent inventory levels across firearms, optics, ammunition, and shooting accessories, making them a go-to destination for both new and experienced shooters.
Brownells
Brownells
Brownells is a world-renowned firearms supplier with deep Iowa roots, serving Johnston customers through their massive online presence and physical retail location. While located in Montezuma (approximately 60 miles east), they are a destination shop for serious firearms enthusiasts throughout Iowa. Their retail store showcases their legendary inventory of firearms, gunsmithing tools, parts, and accessories. Brownells is particularly celebrated for their unparalleled expertise in gunsmithing services and their comprehensive inventory of hard-to-find firearms components. They offer professional gunsmithing, firearm transfers, and maintain one of the industry's most respected training programs for gunsmiths and firearms enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Johnston, Iowa
What are the main gun shops in Johnston, Iowa, and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops in Johnston include JLM Shooters Supply, Scheels, and Brownells. These stores offer services such as firearm sales, FFL transfers, gunsmithing, ammunition, and accessories. JLM and Brownells are known for their specialized expertise and custom services, while Scheels provides a broad retail selection.
What are Iowa's requirements for purchasing a handgun from a Johnston gun shop?
In Iowa, you must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun from a federally licensed dealer (FFL) like those in Johnston. A permit to purchase or a concealed carry permit is not required, but you must pass a federal background check (NICS). Some Johnston shops may have additional store policies for handgun sales.
Do Johnston gun shops offer concealed carry training, and is it required in Iowa?
Yes, Johnston gun shops such as JLM Shooters Supply often provide Iowa-compliant concealed carry training courses. While Iowa is a constitutional carry state and no longer requires a permit to carry for most individuals, training is still recommended and available for those who wish to obtain a professional permit for reciprocity in other states.
How do FFL transfers work at Johnston gun shops, and what are typical fees?
FFL transfers at Johnston shops like Brownells or JLM involve receiving a firearm shipped from another dealer or online retailer. You will need to complete a background check and provide identification. Transfer fees in the Johnston area typically range from $25 to $50, depending on the shop and the type of firearm.
Are there any local Johnston ordinances that affect gun shop services or firearm possession?
Johnston follows state preemption laws, meaning firearm regulations are uniform across Iowa and local ordinances cannot restrict gun ownership beyond state law. Gun shops in Johnston operate under Iowa state codes, which include no waiting periods and no registration requirements for most firearms.
Nearby Cities
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About Johnston, Iowa
Johnston 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 Johnston community and local firearms needs.
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