The Best Gun Shops in Biddeford Pool, Maine
Top 3 gun shops in Biddeford Pool, Maine. Rated 4.6/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Howell's Gun Shop
Howell's Gun Shop
Family-owned and operated since 1979, Howell's is widely regarded as one of Maine's premier firearms destinations. Located about 30 minutes from Biddeford Pool, they offer an extensive inventory of new and used firearms, comprehensive gunsmithing services, and a knowledgeable staff. Specializing in hunting rifles, shotguns, and personal defense weapons, they also maintain a robust selection of ammunition and reloading components. Their gunsmithing department handles everything from simple repairs to custom builds.
Cabela's
Cabela's LLC
As a major outdoor retailer located approximately 20 minutes from Biddeford Pool, Cabela's offers an enormous selection of firearms, ammunition, and shooting accessories. Their firearm department features everything from modern sporting rifles to traditional hunting shotguns and handguns. While being a large chain, their Maine location maintains knowledgeable staff and provides FFL transfer services. The store serves as a one-stop shop for all shooting sports needs alongside extensive hunting and outdoor gear.
Finest Shot
Finest Shot
Located just 10 minutes from Biddeford Pool, Finest Shot has built a strong reputation for excellent customer service and comprehensive training programs. They offer a carefully curated selection of handguns, rifles, and shotguns with an emphasis on personal defense and sporting applications. The shop is particularly noted for their extensive training curriculum, including Maine concealed carry certification and advanced defensive shooting courses. Their knowledgeable staff provides personalized service in a welcoming environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Biddeford Pool, Maine
What are the main gun shops near Biddeford Pool, ME, and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops serving the Biddeford Pool area include Howell's Gun Shop, Cabela's, and Finest Shot. These shops offer services such as firearm sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and in some cases, gunsmithing or training. Howell's Gun Shop, for example, is known for its personalized service and local expertise, while Cabela's provides a wide selection of outdoor and shooting gear.
What are Maine's requirements for purchasing a firearm from a gun shop in Biddeford Pool?
In Maine, purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer like Howell's Gun Shop or Cabela's near Biddeford Pool requires you to be at least 18 years old for long guns and 21 for handguns, pass a federal NICS background check, and show valid government-issued photo ID. Maine does not require a permit to purchase most firearms, but dealers must comply with all federal regulations, including completing a Form 4473 for each transaction.
Do gun shops in the Biddeford Pool area offer concealed carry training and permits?
Yes, several gun shops near Biddeford Pool, such as Finest Shot, offer concealed carry training courses that meet Maine's requirements. Maine is a constitutional carry state, meaning no permit is required for residents 21 and over to carry concealed, but training is still recommended and may be required for reciprocity in other states. Shops often provide courses covering safety, laws, and practical skills.
Can I complete an FFL transfer at a gun shop in Biddeford Pool, and what is the process?
Yes, local gun shops like Howell's Gun Shop and Cabela's near Biddeford Pool perform FFL transfers for firearms purchased online or from out-of-state. You must contact the shop in advance to confirm transfer fees and procedures, provide your shipping information to the seller, and complete a background check upon pickup. Transfer fees and policies can vary, so it's best to check with the specific FFL holder beforehand.
Are there any local ordinances in Biddeford Pool that affect gun ownership or usage?
Biddeford Pool, as part of the city of Biddeford, follows Maine state preemption laws, which generally prohibit municipalities from enacting firearms regulations stricter than state law. However, local discharge ordinances may restrict shooting in certain areas, so it's important to check with the Biddeford Police Department or your local gun shop for any specific rules regarding firearm use within city limits.
Discovering Top Rated Gun Shops in Biddeford Pool, Maine: A Local Enthusiast's Guide
This guide explores top-rated gun shops serving Biddeford Pool, Maine, highlighting Howell's Gun Shop for local expertise, Cabela's for selection, and Finest Shot for service and education, with advice on choosing based on personal needs and Maine's coastal context.
For firearm enthusiasts in Biddeford Pool, Maine, finding a top-rated gun shop isn't just about convenience—it's about connecting with knowledgeable professionals who understand our unique coastal community's needs. Whether you're a seasoned hunter preparing for Maine's hunting seasons, a sport shooter looking for equipment, or a first-time buyer seeking guidance, the right local shop makes all the difference. Here in York County, we're fortunate to have several establishments that consistently earn high marks from the firearms community.
Howell's Gun Shop stands out as a true local institution, operating with deep roots in the Biddeford Pool area. What makes Howell's a top-rated destination isn't just their inventory, but their personalized service. The staff understands Maine's specific hunting regulations, coastal weather considerations for firearm maintenance, and can provide tailored advice for everything from duck hunting along the Saco River estuary to upland game in nearby woodlands. Their expertise in fittings, custom orders, and Maine-compliant firearms makes them invaluable to local enthusiasts.
While not exclusive to firearms, Cabela's in nearby Scarborough deserves mention for its comprehensive selection and competitive pricing. For Biddeford Pool residents making the short drive, it offers the advantage of seeing and handling a vast array of firearms under one roof, alongside all the ancillary gear. Their certified optics specialists and regular special events can be particularly helpful for those comparing multiple options or seeking specific tactical or sporting models that smaller shops might not stock regularly.
Finest Shot represents another quality option, particularly noted for their gunsmithing services and educational approach. In a community where firearms are often passed down through generations, their ability to service, repair, and restore heirloom pieces is highly valued. They've built a reputation for patiently educating customers—a trait especially appreciated by new gun owners in our area who are navigating Maine's permit process or learning responsible ownership practices.
When evaluating top-rated gun shops here in Biddeford Pool, consider what matters most to you. For hyper-local expertise and community connection, Howell's is exceptional. For maximum selection and one-stop shopping, Cabela's fills that role. For specialized services and hands-on education, Finest Shot excels. I recommend visiting each, asking specific questions related to your intended use (be it coastal waterfowling, home defense in our quieter off-season months, or target shooting), and noticing which team communicates most clearly about safety, maintenance, and legal responsibilities. Remember that in Maine, a top-rated shop does more than sell firearms—it fosters responsible ownership within our unique coastal culture. Check online reviews specific to our region, but also ask fellow enthusiasts at local ranges or conservation club meetings for their personal experiences. Your ideal shop should feel like a resource, not just a retailer.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Biddeford Pool:
About Biddeford Pool, Maine
Biddeford Pool 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 Maine.
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