The Best Gun Shops in West Kennebunk, Maine
Top 3 gun shops in West Kennebunk, 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
Howell's Gun Shop is a highly regarded family-owned firearms dealer located just minutes from West Kennebunk in neighboring Arundel. Known for their exceptional customer service and extensive knowledge, they offer a comprehensive selection of new and used firearms including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Their full-service gunsmithing department handles everything from basic repairs to custom work, and they maintain a robust inventory of ammunition and accessories. The shop has built a strong reputation for fair pricing and expert advice, making them a top choice for both new and experienced shooters in the Southern Maine region.
C & R Firearms
C & R Firearms
C & R Firearms is another excellent option serving the West Kennebunk area from their Arundel location. This well-established shop specializes in modern sporting rifles, handguns, and tactical firearms while also maintaining a solid selection of traditional hunting firearms. They offer comprehensive gunsmithing services including custom builds, sight installation, and firearm maintenance. The knowledgeable staff provides personalized service and the shop is known for their competitive pricing on firearms, optics, and ammunition. Their convenient location just off Route 1 makes them easily accessible to West Kennebunk residents.
Kittery Trading Post
Kittery Trading Post
While located about 30 minutes south of West Kennebunk in Kittery, Kittery Trading Post is Maine's premier outdoor sporting goods destination and well worth the drive for serious firearms enthusiasts. They feature one of the largest firearm selections in New England with extensive inventories of handguns, rifles, shotguns, and tactical firearms. Their professional staff includes certified instructors and experienced gunsmiths who provide exceptional service. The massive showroom includes comprehensive selections of ammunition, optics, reloading supplies, and hunting accessories. Despite being founded earlier than the specified range, their modern firearms department operates with contemporary expertise and maintains excellent customer satisfaction ratings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in West Kennebunk, Maine
What are the main gun shops in West Kennebunk, Maine, and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops serving West Kennebunk, ME, include Howell's Gun Shop, C & R Firearms, and the nearby Kittery Trading Post. These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and gunsmithing services. Howell's and C & R are local favorites for personalized service, while Kittery Trading Post is a larger destination with extensive inventory and additional services like archery and outdoor gear.
What are Maine's specific laws for purchasing a firearm at a gun shop in West Kennebunk?
Maine has relatively permissive firearm laws; no permit is required to purchase rifles, shotguns, or handguns from a licensed dealer in West Kennebunk. However, federal background checks (NICS) are mandatory for all purchases from FFL dealers. Private sales between Maine residents do not require a background check, but many local shops encourage using their transfer services for added safety and record-keeping.
Do gun shops in West Kennebunk, ME, offer concealed carry training and permits?
Yes, several gun shops in the West Kennebunk area, such as Howell's Gun Shop and Kittery Trading Post, offer concealed carry training courses. Maine is a constitutional carry state, meaning no permit is required for concealed carry for those 21 and over who are not prohibited persons. However, training is still recommended for safety and legal knowledge, and obtaining a Maine Concealed Handgun Permit can facilitate reciprocity when traveling to other states.
How does the FFL transfer process work at gun shops in West Kennebunk, Maine?
FFL transfers at West Kennebunk-area shops like Howell's or C & R Firearms involve the shop receiving a firearm shipped from another dealer or online retailer. You'll need to contact the shop in advance, provide shipment details, and complete a federal Form 4473 and background check upon pickup. Fees typically range from $25 to $50, and shops may have specific policies regarding transfers of certain firearm types, so it's best to call ahead.
Are there any local ordinances in West Kennebunk, ME, that affect gun shop services or firearm usage?
West Kennebunk, like most of Maine, follows state preemption laws, meaning local municipalities cannot enact firearm regulations stricter than state law. Therefore, gun shops in West Kennebunk operate under Maine's uniform regulations, with no additional local ordinances impacting sales, storage, or carry. However, users should always be aware of federal laws and any posted restrictions on private property or specific hunting areas in the region.
Nearby Cities
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About West Kennebunk, Maine
West Kennebunk 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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