The Best Gun Shops in Ridge, Maryland
Top 3 gun shops in Ridge, Maryland. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
The Gun Shop
The Gun Shop Inc.
The Gun Shop is a highly reputable firearms dealer located just minutes from Ridge in California, MD, serving Southern Maryland since 2001. Known for its exceptional customer service and knowledgeable staff, the shop offers an extensive inventory of handguns, rifles, shotguns, and tactical firearms. They provide professional gunsmithing services, including repairs, custom builds, and modifications, as well as comprehensive training courses for all skill levels. The on-site indoor shooting range and pro shop make it a destination for enthusiasts. With over 150 reviews praising their expertise and friendly atmosphere, it's a top choice for both beginners and experienced shooters in the Ridge area.
Southern Maryland Firearms
Southern Maryland Firearms LLC
Southern Maryland Firearms, located in nearby Lexington Park, has been a trusted resource for the Ridge community since 2005. This family-owned shop excels in personalized service, with a focus on educating customers and maintaining a diverse selection of new and used firearms, including popular brands like Glock, Smith & Wesson, and Sig Sauer. Their skilled gunsmiths handle everything from basic repairs to advanced custom work, including Cerakote applications. The shop also offers concealed carry training and safety courses, earning high marks for staff expertise and community involvement. With 85 reviews highlighting their reliability and inventory, it's a go-to for local shooters.
Bollinger's Gun Shop
Bollinger's Gun Shop Inc.
Bollinger's Gun Shop, situated in La Plata about a 30-minute drive from Ridge, has served Southern Maryland since 1999 and is renowned for its deep inventory and expert gunsmithing. This established shop offers a wide range of firearms, from hunting rifles to modern sporting rifles, along with ammunition, optics, and hunting accessories. Their gunsmithing services include precision machining, stock fitting, and relicensing, backed by decades of experience. Bollinger's also provides training classes for concealed carry and hunter education, with a commitment to safety and customer satisfaction. Over 120 reviews consistently praise their professionalism and extensive knowledge, making it a reliable option for Ridge residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Ridge, Maryland
What are the main gun shops in Ridge, MD, and what services do they typically offer?
The primary gun shops in Ridge, MD, include The Gun Shop, Southern Maryland Firearms, and Bollinger's Gun Shop. These establishments typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and basic gunsmithing services. Some may also provide safety training or host local shooting events, though availability varies by shop.
What are the key Maryland state regulations I should know before purchasing a firearm in Ridge?
Maryland requires a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) for handgun purchases and a 7-day waiting period for all regulated firearms. Ridge residents must also comply with Maryland's assault weapons ban and magazine capacity limits (10 rounds for rifles, 15 rounds for handguns). Always verify current laws with your local gun shop, as regulations can change.
How does the firearm purchasing process work at gun shops in Ridge, MD?
In Ridge, MD, purchasing a firearm involves completing a federal Form 4473, passing a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check, and adhering to Maryland's waiting periods. For handguns, you'll need a valid HQL. Local shops like Bollinger's or Southern Maryland Firearms can guide you through the process and help with required paperwork.
Can I complete a private party firearm transfer through a gun shop in Ridge?
Yes, Ridge gun shops like The Gun Shop or Southern Maryland Firearms can facilitate private party transfers as licensed FFLs. Maryland law requires all private sales of regulated firearms to be processed through an FFL, which includes a background check and 7-day waiting period. Contact the shop in advance to confirm transfer fees and procedures.
Do gun shops in Ridge, MD offer training or certification courses required by Maryland law?
Some Ridge-area gun shops, such as Southern Maryland Firearms, may offer or recommend training courses, including the HQL training required for handgun purchases in Maryland. However, availability varies, so it's best to call ahead. They can also direct you to certified local instructors for additional safety or concealed carry training.
Finding the Best Gun Shops Near Me in Ridge, MD: A Local Enthusiast's Guide
This guide helps Ridge, MD gun enthusiasts evaluate local shops like The Gun Shop, Southern Maryland Firearms, and Bollinger's Gun Shop by highlighting their unique strengths—from hunting-focused inventory and modern retail to expert gunsmithing—and advising readers to choose based on their specific firearm needs.
For gun enthusiasts in Ridge, Maryland, finding the right local shop is about more than just convenience—it's about community, expertise, and service tailored to our unique Southern Maryland needs. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a hunter preparing for deer season in St. Mary's County, or a first-time buyer navigating Maryland's firearm laws, having a trusted local resource is invaluable. When searching for the 'best gun shops near me' in Ridge, you'll discover several standout options that offer distinct advantages.
Let's start with The Gun Shop, a Ridge staple known for its no-nonsense approach and deep inventory. This shop excels for hunters looking for reliable shotguns and rifles suited for the local terrain. Their staff understands Maryland's specific hunting regulations and can advise on everything from waterfowl stamps to deer tagging procedures. For Ridge residents, it's a practical first stop, especially if you value straightforward service and a focus on traditional firearms.
Southern Maryland Firearms often comes highly recommended for a different reason: its modern retail experience and broad selection. If you're interested in personal defense, modern sporting rifles, or accessories, this shop tends to have a well-curated inventory. They also frequently host educational events and are knowledgeable about the state's HQL (Handgun Qualification License) process—a crucial piece of advice for any Marylander looking to purchase a handgun. Their service can make the sometimes-daunting legal process feel manageable.
For many in Ridge, Bollinger's Gun Shop represents the gold standard for gunsmithing and specialty services. If you have a family heirloom that needs repair, want a custom fitting for a shotgun, or need expert advice on a complex firearm transaction, their technical expertise is unparalleled. In a community with a rich hunting heritage like ours, having a skilled gunsmith locally is a tremendous asset. They remind us that the 'best' shop isn't always the biggest; sometimes it's the most skilled.
So, how do you choose? My advice is to define your need. For quick purchases of common ammunition or a standard hunting rifle, The Gun Shop's efficiency is perfect. For a wider selection of new firearms and defense gear, Southern Maryland Firearms is excellent. For repairs, customization, or nuanced advice, make the trip to Bollinger's. I also recommend visiting in person—a shop's atmosphere and how its staff treats customers tell you more than any online review. In Ridge, we're fortunate to have quality options that serve different facets of the shooting sports. Support them, build a relationship, and you'll find your search for the 'best gun shop near me' ends right here in our own community.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Ridge:
About Ridge, Maryland
Ridge 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 Maryland.
Local Expertise
Shops familiar with Ridge community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Ridge.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.