The Best Gun Shops in Norway, Maine
Top 3 gun shops in Norway, Maine. Rated 4.7/5 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 Gun Shop is a cornerstone of the local firearms community located just minutes from Norway. Known for exceptional customer service and deep expertise, they offer an impressive selection of new and used firearms including hunting rifles, shotguns, and handguns. Their full-service gunsmithing department handles everything from simple repairs to custom work, and they maintain extensive inventory of ammunition and reloading components. The knowledgeable staff provides personalized service that has earned them outstanding reputation across Western Maine.
Kittery Trading Post
Kittery Trading Post
As New England's premier outdoor sporting goods store, Kittery Trading Post serves customers from Norway and throughout Maine with one of the largest firearm selections in the Northeast. While located in southern Maine, their reputation and extensive inventory make them a destination for serious firearms enthusiasts. They feature comprehensive gun departments with hundreds of new and used firearms, extensive accessories, and Maine's largest ammunition selection. Their professional gunsmithing services and knowledgeable staff have made them a trusted resource for generations of Maine hunters and shooters.
Maine Military
Maine Military
Located in nearby Auburn, Maine Military has established itself as a top-tier firearms retailer serving the Norway area with exceptional selection and service. Specializing in modern sporting rifles, tactical firearms, and self-defense handguns, they cater to both recreational shooters and serious enthusiasts. Their knowledgeable staff includes competitive shooters and firearms instructors, providing expert guidance on product selection and training opportunities. They maintain excellent inventory of firearms, optics, ammunition, and tactical gear with competitive pricing and professional transfer services that have earned them strong customer loyalty throughout Central Maine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Norway, Maine
What are the main gun shops in Norway, ME, and what services do they offer?
In Norway, ME, Howell's Gun Shop is a well-known local option, while nearby Kittery Trading Post and Maine Military also serve the area. These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, gunsmithing, ammunition, and accessories. Some may also provide training courses or hunting supplies tailored to Maine's outdoor culture.
What are Maine's requirements for purchasing a handgun or long gun in Norway?
In Maine, no permit is required to purchase a handgun or long gun for individuals 21 and older (18 for long guns). However, buyers must pass a federal NICS background check at the point of sale. Private sales between individuals do not require a background check, but many Norway gun shops encourage voluntary checks for safety.
Do Norway, ME gun shops offer concealed carry permit classes?
Yes, several gun shops in and near Norway, such as Howell's Gun Shop, offer concealed carry permit classes. Maine is a constitutional carry state, meaning no permit is required for concealed carry for those 21 and over, but classes are still available for education, reciprocity with other states, or personal confidence.
Can I complete an FFL transfer at a Norway gun shop if I buy a firearm online?
Yes, local gun shops like Howell's Gun Shop in Norway provide FFL transfer services for online firearm purchases. You must have the seller ship the firearm to the licensed dealer, where you'll complete a background check and pay a transfer fee, typically $20–$40. Always contact the shop in advance to confirm their transfer policies and fees.
Are there any local Norway or Maine laws affecting firearm storage or transportation?
Maine has no specific state laws requiring firearm storage, but safe storage is recommended. Firearms can be transported in a vehicle loaded and accessible if the person is eligible to possess them. In Norway, as in all of Maine, local ordinances cannot override state preemption, so firearm laws are consistent statewide.
Finding Top Rated Gun Shops in Norway, ME: A Local Guide for Firearms Enthusiasts
This guide helps Norway, ME firearms enthusiasts identify top rated gun shops by emphasizing local expertise, comprehensive services, and community understanding, with mentions of area favorites like Howell's Gun Shop and Kittery Trading Post.
For firearms enthusiasts in Norway, Maine, finding a top rated gun shop isn't just about convenience—it's about connecting with knowledgeable professionals who understand both the craft and the community. Norway sits in the heart of Oxford County, where responsible gun ownership is a valued tradition, and choosing the right shop can significantly enhance your experience, whether you're a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer.
When evaluating top rated gun shops in our area, several key factors stand out. First and foremost is expertise. A truly top-tier shop employs staff who aren't just salespeople but genuine enthusiasts and experts. They should be able to discuss the nuances of a classic bolt-action rifle, the practical considerations for a home-defense shotgun, and Maine's specific hunting regulations with equal authority. This depth of knowledge is crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring safety and compliance.
Local favorites like Howell's Gun Shop, right here in Norway, have built their reputation on this very principle. They offer a personalized, community-focused experience where you can discuss your needs in detail. For a broader selection, many Norway residents also make the trip to renowned destinations like the Kittery Trading Post, which is consistently rated highly for its vast inventory and comprehensive services, including its famous firearm library. Meanwhile, shops like Maine Military cater to specific interests, including tactical and historical firearms, appealing to collectors and those with specialized needs.
Beyond inventory, top rated shops provide exceptional service. This includes transparent pricing, thorough background check assistance, and clear communication about the transfer process. Look for shops that offer quality gunsmithing services, as local repair and maintenance support is invaluable. A shop's willingness to special-order items and its policy on used firearm consignments are also marks of a customer-centric business.
For Norway residents, the local context matters. A top shop should understand Maine's outdoor lifestyle—whether you're hunting in the western mountains, target shooting on private land, or seeking a firearm for personal protection in a rural setting. They should be a resource for information on local shooting ranges and hunting lands accessible in Oxford County.
My advice? Visit these shops in person. Talk to the staff. Gauge their passion and patience. Read local reviews and ask for recommendations from fellow enthusiasts at clubs or conservation events. In Norway, ME, a top rated gun shop is more than a store; it's a partner in your firearms journey, rooted in the values and needs of our unique community.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Norway:
About Norway, Maine
Norway 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 Norway community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Norway.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.