Best Gun Shops in Alexandria, Minnesota

Top 3 gun shops in Alexandria, ranked by our evaluation system.Rated 4.6 out of 5average from 300 reviews

1
Joe's Sporting Goods
Rated 4.8 out of 585 reviews
A family-owned institution serving the Alexandria area for over four decades, Joe's Sporting Goods has built an exceptional reputation for firearms expertise and customer service. Their knowledgeable staff provides personalized assistance with firearm selection, and they maintain a well-curated inventory of hunting rifles, shotguns, and handguns. The shop also offers comprehensive gunsmithing services and is particularly respected among local hunters for their expertise in hunting firearms and ammunition selection. Their longstanding presence in the community ensures trusted relationships with both local customers and major firearms manufacturers.
- Firearms Sales
- Gunsmithing
- Ammunition
- Hunting Equipment
- Fishing Gear
- Outdoor Apparel
4520 Highway 29 S, Alexandria, MN 56308
45 years in business
Call(320) 763-3135 Search online(opens in a new tab)
2
Scheels
Scheels All Sports
Rated 4.6 out of 5150 reviews
As part of the respected Scheels chain with deep roots in the Upper Midwest, the Alexandria location offers an extensive firearms department with one of the region's largest selections of rifles, shotguns, and handguns. The store features knowledgeable staff with specialized firearm expertise and maintains excellent inventory levels across popular brands. Their comprehensive approach includes hunting equipment, optics, and extensive ammunition selection. The professional atmosphere and consistent customer service standards make this a top destination for both new and experienced firearm owners in the Alexandria area.
- Firearms Sales
- Ammunition
- Outdoor Equipment
- Hunting Gear
- Training
- Accessories
3925 Dakota St, Alexandria, MN 56308
15 years in business
Call(320) 762-9016 Search online(opens in a new tab)
3
Runnings
Runnings Stores
Rated 4.4 out of 565 reviews
Runnings provides a well-stocked firearms department that serves the Alexandria community with competitive pricing and reliable service. While being part of a regional chain, the local staff demonstrates solid firearms knowledge and maintains good relationships with the hunting and shooting community. They offer a practical selection of popular firearms brands, ammunition, and essential shooting accessories. The store's combination of firearms with broader outdoor and farm supplies makes it a convenient one-stop shop for rural and hunting customers in the Alexandria region.
- Firearms Sales
- Ammunition
- Hunting Supplies
- Farm & Home Supplies
- Outdoor Equipment
4520 Highway 29 S, Alexandria, MN 56308
12 years in business
Call(320) 763-7100 Search online(opens in a new tab)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about gun shops in Alexandria, Minnesota

What are the main gun shops in Alexandria, MN, and what services do they offer?

The primary gun shops in Alexandria, MN, include Joe's Sporting Goods, Scheels, and Runnings. These retailers typically offer firearms sales, ammunition, accessories, and FFL transfer services. Some locations, like Scheels, may also provide basic gunsmithing or firearm maintenance assistance, while Joe's Sporting Goods is known for its local expertise and hunting-focused inventory.

What are the key Minnesota state laws I should know before purchasing a firearm in Alexandria?

In Minnesota, you must pass a background check for all firearm purchases, including private sales, and obtain a permit to purchase or a permit to carry for handguns. There is no waiting period for long guns, but handgun transfers require a permit issued by your local police chief or sheriff. Additionally, Minnesota does not require firearm registration, but certain cities may have local ordinances, though Alexandria generally follows state law.

How does the FFL transfer process work at gun shops in Alexandria, MN?

FFL transfers in Alexandria involve the receiving gun shop, such as Joe's Sporting Goods or Scheels, handling the legal transfer of a firearm purchased online or from another dealer. You'll need to provide identification, complete a background check (Form 4473), and pay a transfer fee, typically ranging from $25 to $50. The shop will ensure compliance with Minnesota laws, including verifying permits for handguns, before releasing the firearm.

Do gun shops in Alexandria, MN, offer firearm safety or training courses?

Yes, some gun shops in Alexandria, like Joe's Sporting Goods, may offer or can refer you to local firearm safety and training courses. Minnesota requires a firearms safety certificate for hunters under a certain age, and many shops partner with certified instructors for permit-to-carry classes. It's advisable to contact shops directly or check with the Douglas County Sheriff's Office for approved training providers in the area.

Are there any local Alexandria ordinances or restrictions affecting gun shop purchases or carry?

Alexandria, MN, generally follows state firearm laws, with no significant local ordinances that restrict purchases beyond Minnesota requirements. However, you should be aware of state laws prohibiting carry in certain places like schools or government buildings. For specific questions, consult with local gun shops like Runnings or the Alexandria Police Department, as they can provide the most current information on any city-level regulations.

Finding the Best Gun Stores Near Me in Alexandria, MN: A Local Guide for Firearms Enthusiasts

This guide helps Alexandria, MN firearms enthusiasts navigate local gun shopping options including Joe's Sporting Goods, Scheels, and Runnings, offering practical advice on choosing the right shop based on individual needs and emphasizing the value of local expertise in our hunting and shooting community.

When Alexandria, Minnesota firearms enthusiasts search for "gun stores near me," they're looking for more than just a retail location—they're seeking trusted partners in their shooting sports journey. As a hub for hunting, sport shooting, and responsible firearm ownership in Douglas County, Alexandria offers several excellent options that cater to different needs within our community.

For those new to the area or just beginning their firearms journey, understanding what each local shop specializes in can save time and ensure you find exactly what you need. Joe's Sporting Goods has been an Alexandria institution for decades, offering that classic local gun shop experience where you're likely to get personalized attention and deep local knowledge about hunting conditions around Lake Carlos or the surrounding farmlands. Their staff typically includes seasoned hunters who understand Minnesota's specific hunting regulations and can recommend firearms suited for our whitetail deer, waterfowl, and upland game.

Scheels brings a different dimension to the "gun stores near me" search with their expansive selection and modern retail experience. For Alexandria residents looking to compare multiple brands side-by-side or explore the latest optics and accessories, their comprehensive firearms department is worth the visit. What many locals appreciate is their combination of national buying power with staff who understand our regional needs—whether you're preparing for Minnesota's firearm deer season or looking for a reliable home defense option.

Runnings offers yet another perspective, often carrying a solid selection of firearms at competitive prices alongside their extensive outdoor and farm supplies. For the Alexandria hunter or shooter who needs to pick up ammunition, a new scope, and farm supplies in one trip, this convenience factor matters. Their location makes them accessible whether you're coming from downtown Alexandria or the surrounding rural areas.

Beyond just inventory, here's practical advice for making the most of your "gun stores near me" search in Alexandria: First, consider what phase of ownership you're in—are you a first-time buyer needing education, an experienced shooter looking for a specific model, or someone needing gunsmithing services? Second, build relationships at these shops; the local knowledge about everything from where public shooting ranges are located to how recent weather patterns affect game movement is invaluable. Third, remember that supporting local businesses like Joe's helps maintain the specialized expertise that big-box stores can't always provide.

Whether you're preparing for duck season on the many lakes around Alexandria, looking to join one of our local shooting clubs, or simply exercising your Second Amendment rights, our local gun stores serve as community pillars. Take time to visit each, ask questions specific to your Alexandria-area needs, and you'll discover why our local options make searching for "gun stores near me" particularly rewarding in this part of Minnesota.

About Alexandria, Minnesota

Alexandria 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 Minnesota.

Local Expertise: Shops familiar with Alexandria community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service: Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Alexandria.
Expert Staff: Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.