The Best Gun Shops in Islesboro, Maine
Top 3 gun shops in Islesboro, Maine. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Kittery Trading Post
Kittery Trading Post
While located in southern Maine, Kittery Trading Post is a legendary destination that serves customers statewide, including Islesboro residents making the trip. As one of New England's premier outdoor outfitters, they offer an extensive firearms department with exceptional selection of rifles, shotguns, handguns, and tactical firearms. Their knowledgeable staff provides expert guidance, and they maintain a full-service gunsmithing department. The shop is renowned for its customer service and comprehensive inventory that attracts buyers from across Maine.
Howell's Gun Shop
Howell's Inc.
A family-owned institution in central Maine, Howell's has served generations of Maine shooters and hunters. They offer an impressive selection of new and used firearms with particular expertise in hunting rifles and shotguns. Their gunsmithing services are highly regarded, and they provide comprehensive training courses. For Islesboro residents traveling to the mainland, Howell's represents a top-tier independent shop with exceptional customer service and deep expertise in Maine hunting traditions.
The Gun Cellar
The Gun Cellar LLC
Located in Maine's largest city, The Gun Cellar serves customers from throughout the state with their premium selection and expert service. They specialize in high-quality firearms including custom builds, tactical weapons, and premium hunting rifles. Their staff includes competitive shooters and experienced hunters who provide exceptional customer guidance. The shop offers comprehensive gunsmithing services and maintains an excellent reputation for both new shooters and experienced firearms enthusiasts from coastal communities like Islesboro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Islesboro, Maine
Are there any gun shops located directly on Islesboro, Maine?
No, there are no dedicated gun shops located directly on the island of Islesboro. Residents typically travel to the mainland to visit established shops like Kittery Trading Post, Howell's Gun Shop, or The Gun Cellar, which are accessible by ferry from Lincolnville.
What is the process for purchasing a handgun in Maine as an Islesboro resident?
Maine does not require a permit to purchase a handgun for residents 21 and over. As an Islesboro resident, you can buy a handgun directly from a licensed dealer on the mainland after passing a federal NICS background check. Some dealers may require you to arrange for transport back to the island in compliance with state laws.
Can I have a firearm shipped to a gun shop in Maine for transfer if I live on Islesboro?
Yes, you can have a firearm shipped to an FFL holder on the mainland, such as Howell's Gun Shop or The Gun Cellar, for transfer. You will need to travel to their location to complete the required background check and paperwork before taking possession of the firearm, factoring in ferry schedules for pickup.
What local Maine laws should Islesboro gun owners be aware of regarding firearm transportation?
Maine law allows for the transportation of legally owned firearms in a vehicle if they are unloaded and not readily accessible. For Islesboro residents, this includes transport via the ferry, where firearms should be secured in cases. Always check with the ferry operator for any specific policies regarding firearm transport.
Do gun shops near Islesboro offer concealed carry training and permits?
Yes, shops like Kittery Trading Post and Howell's Gun Shop often offer concealed carry training courses. While Maine is a constitutional carry state and no permit is required for concealed carry for those 21 and over, obtaining a permit can still be beneficial for reciprocity when traveling to other states.
Finding Quality Gun Shops Near Islesboro, ME: A Local Enthusiast's Guide
This guide helps Islesboro, ME firearm enthusiasts navigate their options for quality gun shops on the mainland, covering strategic trip planning to destinations like Kittery Trading Post, Howell's Gun Shop, and The Gun Cellar, with practical advice for making the most of each visit.
For firearm enthusiasts living on or visiting Islesboro, Maine, the search for 'gun shops near me' involves a bit of island planning and mainland exploration. While Islesboro itself is a peaceful island community without dedicated firearms retailers, the surrounding Midcoast and Southern Maine regions offer several excellent options worth the ferry ride and short drive. Understanding your local options and planning your trips strategically can make all the difference in finding the right gear, services, and expertise.
Your search for gun shops near Islesboro typically points you toward the mainland, where several reputable establishments serve the region's hunting, sporting, and collecting community. Kittery Trading Post, located about 2.5 hours south in Kittery, is a legendary Maine destination. More than just a gun shop, it's a sprawling outdoor emporium with an extensive firearms department, knowledgeable staff, and a vast selection of new and used rifles, shotguns, and handguns. For Islesboro residents making a day of it, combining a Kittery trip with other errands is a common and efficient strategy.
Closer to home, Howell's Gun Shop in nearby Warren (about a 1.5-hour drive from the Lincolnville ferry) offers a more specialized, traditional gun shop experience. Family-owned and operated, Howell's is known for its personalized service, gunsmithing expertise, and focus on hunting firearms particularly suited to Maine's woods and seasons. It's the kind of place where the staff remembers your name and understands the specific needs of Midcoast hunters and sport shooters.
Another excellent option is The Gun Cellar, located in Brunswick, roughly a 1 hour 45 minute drive. This well-respected shop provides a clean, professional environment with a curated selection of quality firearms, ammunition, and accessories. They often cater to both seasoned enthusiasts and responsible first-time buyers, offering FFL transfer services which can be crucial for Islesboro residents purchasing firearms online who need a local dealer for the transaction.
When planning your visit to any mainland gun shop from Islesboro, always check the ferry schedule from Islesboro to Lincolnville first. A mid-week trip might mean lighter traffic and more time for personalized attention at the shop. Call ahead to confirm hours, inquire about specific inventory, or schedule a gunsmithing consultation. Many of these shops also handle FFL transfers, allowing you to purchase firearms online and have them shipped to the shop for the required background check and pickup—a convenient option that minimizes trips.
Remember that supporting these local Maine businesses does more than just supply your firearm needs. You're investing in regional expertise, community-focused service, and the preservation of Maine's strong outdoor heritage. Whether you're stocking up for deer season, looking for a new concealed carry option, or need a trusted gunsmith to work on a family heirloom, the shops within reach of Islesboro offer the quality and knowledge worthy of your journey.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Islesboro:
About Islesboro, Maine
Islesboro 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 Islesboro community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Islesboro.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.