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The Best Gun Shops in Dexter, Minnesota

Top 3 gun shops in Dexter, Minnesota. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.

3
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4.7/5
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Top Gun Shops

Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system

1

Straight Arrow Guns

Straight Arrow Guns

★★★★☆
4.9/5

Family-owned firearms shop with exceptional customer service and extensive gunsmithing expertise. Specializes in hunting rifles, shotguns, and personal defense firearms with a strong focus on custom work and repairs. Known for their knowledgeable staff and personalized service, serving the Dexter area and surrounding communities with quality firearms and reliable gunsmithing services.

Experience:15 years
Reviews:48 customer reviews
130 Main St S, Grand Meadow, MN 55936
2

The Range

The Range, LLC

★★★★☆
4.8/5

Premier firearms facility featuring a comprehensive retail store, indoor shooting range, and extensive training programs. Offers wide selection of handguns, rifles, and shotguns from top manufacturers. Staff includes certified instructors providing various training courses. Known for excellent customer service and well-maintained facilities, serving the Dexter area with professional firearms services and education.

Experience:12 years
Reviews:187 customer reviews
4333 Highway 52 N, Rochester, MN 55901
3

Cabela's

Cabela's Retail Inc.

★★★★☆
4.4/5

Major outdoor retailer with extensive firearms department offering one of the largest selections in southern Minnesota. Features hunting rifles, shotguns, handguns, and tactical firearms from leading manufacturers. Knowledgeable staff provides firearms expertise and hunting guidance. Conveniently located near Dexter with comprehensive inventory of firearms, ammunition, and outdoor equipment for all shooting sports enthusiasts.

Experience:18 years
Reviews:156 customer reviews
1100 Cabela Dr, Owatonna, MN 55060

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about gun shops in Dexter, Minnesota

What are the main gun shops serving the Dexter, MN area and what services do they offer?

The Dexter area is primarily served by Straight Arrow Guns, The Range, and the nearby Cabela's in Owatonna. Straight Arrow Guns focuses on firearms sales, transfers, and gunsmithing, while The Range offers indoor shooting lanes, firearm rentals, and training classes. Cabela's provides a broad retail selection of firearms, ammunition, and outdoor gear, though they may not offer specialized local services like transfers from online purchases.

What are Minnesota's requirements for purchasing a handgun or semi-automatic military-style firearm in Dexter?

Minnesota requires a Permit to Purchase or a Permit to Carry for handguns and semi-automatic military-style firearms, which must be obtained from your local police chief or sheriff. In Dexter, this means applying through the Mower County Sheriff's Office or your city police if applicable. There is a mandatory 7-day waiting period for handguns and these specific rifles after the permit application is submitted, and background checks are required for all firearm purchases from licensed dealers.

How does the process work for having an online firearm purchase transferred to a gun shop in Dexter?

To transfer an online purchase, you must have the seller ship the firearm to a local Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder like Straight Arrow Guns. You will need to contact the Dexter gun shop in advance to confirm they accept transfers, provide their FFL information to the seller, and pay the shop's transfer fee upon pickup. When you pick up the firearm, the shop will process the required federal Form 4473 and conduct the mandatory background check through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA).

Are there any local training or safety course requirements or recommendations for gun owners in Dexter, MN?

Minnesota requires training for a Permit to Carry, which is also valid for purchasing handguns and specific rifles. While not required for simple ownership, local shops like The Range offer Minnesota BCA-certified courses that satisfy this requirement. These courses cover state laws, safe handling, and storage, and are highly recommended for new owners. Additionally, many Dexter-area shops and clubs offer basic firearm safety and marksmanship classes for all skill levels.

What should I know about transporting and storing firearms according to Minnesota law when purchasing from a Dexter gun shop?

Minnesota law requires firearms to be transported unloaded and in a case, preferably locked, whether in a vehicle or on foot. For storage, while no specific state mandate exists for private residences, secure storage is strongly advised, especially if minors are present. Local Dexter shops like Straight Arrow Guns and Cabela's can provide a variety of locking devices and secure storage options. Always ensure you understand both state transport laws and any local ordinances when leaving the shop with your purchase.

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

This guide explores the distinct advantages of gun stores accessible to Dexter, MN residents, including Straight Arrow Guns for local service, The Range for testing and training, and Cabela's for selection, advising enthusiasts to use each for different needs to enhance their firearms experience.

For firearms enthusiasts in Dexter, Minnesota, the search for "gun stores near me" is more than just a quick Google query—it's about finding trusted partners in our shooting sports community. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or a responsible first-time buyer, knowing where to go locally makes all the difference. Living in the heart of Minnesota's outdoor culture means we value quality, service, and expertise when it comes to our firearms needs.

Dexter and the surrounding area offer several excellent options, each with its own strengths. Straight Arrow Guns, right here in town, is a fantastic local shop known for its personalized service. As a smaller operation, they often provide that one-on-one attention that larger stores can't match. They're great for transfers, consignments, and finding specific firearms with a local touch. For many Dexter residents, building a relationship with a shop like Straight Arrow is key to long-term satisfaction.

Just a short drive away, The Range offers a different but equally valuable experience. This facility combines retail with practical application. The ability to test fire a potential purchase or hone your skills on their lanes is invaluable. For those of us in Dexter looking to verify a firearm's fit and function before buying, or who want professional training, The Range is an essential destination. It transforms the transaction from a simple purchase into a comprehensive experience.

Of course, the Cabela's in Owatonna is a major regional draw. While not in Dexter proper, its proximity makes it a viable option for a huge selection of new firearms, ammunition, optics, and gear under one roof. Their extensive inventory is hard to beat when you're looking for a specific model or comparing options side-by-side. For many in our community, a trip to Cabela's is a regular part of the firearms ownership journey.

My advice for fellow Dexter enthusiasts? Don't limit yourself to just one. Use Straight Arrow Guns for its local expertise and community connection. Utilize The Range for hands-on testing and training. Visit Cabela's for broad selection and competitive pricing. Call ahead to check inventory, especially for specific models or FFL transfer fees. Remember, building relationships at these local businesses often leads to better service, notifications about incoming shipments, and valuable advice tailored to Minnesota's hunting regulations and shooting sports scene.

Ultimately, the best "gun store near me" in Dexter, MN, depends on your immediate need. For convenience and local rapport, Straight Arrow Guns is excellent. For a try-before-you-buy experience, The Range is unmatched. For the widest possible selection, Cabela's is the destination. By understanding what each offers, you can make informed decisions that support both your passion and our local firearms ecosystem. Happy and safe shooting, neighbors!

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About Dexter, Minnesota

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