The Best Gun Shops in Eliot, Maine
Top 3 gun shops in Eliot, Maine. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Howl & Co. Firearms
Howl & Co. Firearms LLC
Howl & Co. is a highly regarded local gun shop right in Eliot known for exceptional customer service and expertise. They specialize in custom firearms work, offering comprehensive gunsmithing services alongside new and used firearm sales. The shop is praised for its knowledgeable staff, personalized service, and quality workmanship. They offer extensive training programs and are particularly noted for their attention to detail and commitment to the local shooting community.
Kittery Trading Post
Kittery Trading Post Inc.
Located just minutes from Eliot in neighboring Kittery, Kittery Trading Post is a legendary New England outdoor retailer with an extensive firearms department. They offer one of the largest selections of firearms in Northern New England, including hunting rifles, handguns, and tactical firearms. The shop features an indoor shooting range, comprehensive gunsmithing services, and knowledgeable staff. Their reputation for quality service and massive inventory makes them a regional destination for firearm enthusiasts.
Precision Point Firearms
Precision Point Firearms LLC
Precision Point Firearms in nearby Kittery is a highly specialized shop known for premium firearms and expert gunsmithing services. They focus on quality over quantity, offering carefully selected inventory and custom firearm builds. The shop is particularly noted for their precision rifle work, custom AR-15 builds, and exceptional customer service. Their staff includes certified instructors offering various training courses, and they're recognized for their technical expertise and attention to detail in all services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Eliot, Maine
What are the main gun shops in Eliot, ME, and what services do they offer?
The top gun shops in and around Eliot include Howl & Co. Firearms, Kittery Trading Post, and Precision Point Firearms. These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and gunsmithing services. Some, like Kittery Trading Post, also feature extensive retail selections and training opportunities.
What are the key Maine state laws I should know before purchasing a firearm in Eliot?
In Maine, no permit is required to purchase a rifle, shotgun, or handgun from a licensed dealer, but you must pass a federal NICS background check. Private sales do not require a background check for long guns, but one is required for handguns unless the buyer has a concealed carry permit. Eliot residents should also be aware that Maine is a constitutional carry state, allowing lawful carry without a permit.
Do Eliot gun shops offer concealed carry training, and is it required in Maine?
While Maine is a constitutional carry state and does not require a permit to carry concealed for those 21 and over, many Eliot-area shops like Kittery Trading Post offer concealed carry courses. These courses are beneficial for understanding legal responsibilities, improving skills, and obtaining a permit for reciprocity in other states.
How does the FFL transfer process work at gun shops in Eliot, ME?
When you purchase a firearm online or from out-of-state, it must be shipped to a local FFL holder like Howl & Co. Firearms or Precision Point Firearms in Eliot. You will need to complete a federal Form 4473 and pass a NICS background check upon pickup. The FFL will charge a transfer fee, typically ranging from $25 to $50, before releasing the firearm.
Are there any local Eliot ordinances that affect firearm ownership or usage?
Eliot, like most Maine municipalities, generally defers to state law regarding firearms, with no additional local ordinances restricting ownership or carry. However, discharge of firearms is prohibited within certain populated areas, so always confirm safe shooting locations. For specific usage questions, consult with local shops like Howl & Co. Firearms for guidance.
Finding the Best Gun Stores Near Eliot, Maine: A Local Enthusiast's Guide
This guide helps Eliot, Maine gun enthusiasts navigate the local options, explaining the distinct strengths of Howl & Co. Firearms for personalized service, Kittery Trading Post for vast inventory, and Precision Point Firearms for precision shooting expertise.
For gun enthusiasts in Eliot, Maine, the search for the 'best gun stores near me' isn't just about proximity—it's about finding shops that match your specific needs, whether you're a collector, a hunter preparing for Maine's seasons, or a responsible citizen seeking self-defense options. Fortunately, the Southern Maine and Seacoast region offers several excellent options, each with its own strengths, right in our backyard.
Let's start locally. Right here in Eliot, Howl & Co. Firearms has built a reputation for personalized service. This isn't a big-box experience; it's a shop where the staff often knows customers by name. They focus on a curated selection of firearms, transfers, and expert gunsmithing. If you value building a relationship with your local dealer and need attentive service for a specific firearm issue or purchase, Howl & Co. is an essential stop. It embodies the community-focused spirit of Eliot.
A short drive over the bridge brings you to the legendary Kittery Trading Post in Kittery. For many Mainers, this is a destination. It's far more than a gun counter; it's a sprawling outdoor emporium. Their firearms department is vast, featuring everything from the latest tactical rifles to classic hunting shotguns and a huge selection of ammunition. Their knowledgeable staff can handle almost any question. For the Eliot resident looking to browse an enormous inventory under one roof, compare dozens of models side-by-side, or pick up hunting gear and a new firearm in one trip, Kittery Trading Post is unparalleled.
For those whose priority is precision, Precision Point Firearms, also located in Kittery, is a must-visit. As the name suggests, they cater to the shooter who demands accuracy. They specialize in precision rifles, long-range shooting gear, optics, and reloading supplies. If you're involved in competitive shooting, looking to build a custom rifle for the ranges or woodlands of Maine, or want expert advice on ballistics and setup, this is your shop. Their expertise fills a specific and vital niche for the serious enthusiast.
So, which is the 'best'? It depends entirely on you. My advice for Eliot residents is to visit all three. Start at your hometown shop, Howl & Co., for everyday needs and local rapport. Head to Kittery Trading Post for inventory breadth and a one-stop outdoor shopping experience. And make time for Precision Point Firearms when your projects require specialized precision knowledge. By understanding the unique advantages of each, you transform a simple online search for 'best gun stores near me' into a strategic approach to supporting the local firearms ecosystem that serves our Eliot community so well.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Eliot:
About Eliot, Maine
Eliot 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.
Local Expertise
Shops familiar with Eliot community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Eliot.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.