The Best Gun Shops in Excelsior, Minnesota
Top 3 gun shops in Excelsior, Minnesota. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Modern Sportsman
Modern Sportsman
Modern Sportsman is widely regarded as one of the premier firearm retailers in the Twin Cities metro area. Located just 20 minutes from Excelsior, this family-owned shop features an extensive inventory of new and used firearms, comprehensive gunsmithing services, and a state-of-the-art indoor shooting range. Their knowledgeable staff provides exceptional customer service and expert guidance for both novice and experienced shooters. The shop offers extensive training programs, NFA services, and maintains one of the largest accessory selections in Minnesota.
Stock and Barrel Gun Club
Stock and Barrel Gun Club
Located just 10 minutes from Excelsior in neighboring Chanhassen, Stock and Barrel Gun Club offers a premium shooting experience with exceptional customer service. The facility features a modern indoor range, extensive firearms selection, and comprehensive training programs. Their expert staff provides personalized service and deep product knowledge. The shop is known for its clean facilities, professional atmosphere, and commitment to safety education, making it a top choice for both recreational shooters and serious firearms enthusiasts in the western metro.
Bill's Gun Shop & Range
Bill's Gun Shop & Range
As one of Minnesota's most established firearm retailers with multiple locations, Bill's Gun Shop & Range has served the Twin Cities area for over two decades. The Circle Pines location serves Excelsior residents with a massive 32-lane indoor range, extensive firearm rentals, and one of the largest retail selections in the region. Their experienced staff offers exceptional customer service, comprehensive training programs, and professional gunsmithing services. Known for their wide variety of firearms and accessories, they cater to all shooting disciplines from competitive to recreational.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Excelsior, Minnesota
What are the main gun shops near Excelsior, MN, and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops serving the Excelsior area include Modern Sportsman in Burnsville, Stock and Barrel Gun Club in Chanhassen, and Bill's Gun Shop & Range in Robbinsdale. These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and on-site shooting ranges. Many also provide training classes, gunsmithing, and rental options for hands-on experience.
What are Minnesota's key firearm purchasing requirements for buying from a gun shop near Excelsior?
In Minnesota, purchasing a handgun or semiautomatic military-style assault weapon from a licensed dealer requires a Permit to Purchase or a Permit to Carry, which you obtain from your local police department. For long guns like shotguns and rifles, a background check is conducted at the point of sale without a permit. All purchases at shops like Modern Sportsman or Stock and Barrel require a valid government-issued photo ID and completion of a federal Form 4473.
Do gun shops in the Excelsior area offer firearm safety or training courses?
Yes, local shops such as Stock and Barrel Gun Club and Bill's Gun Shop & Range offer comprehensive training courses, including Minnesota Permit to Carry classes, basic firearm safety, and advanced shooting instruction. These courses are designed to meet state requirements and enhance proficiency, often featuring both classroom and live-fire range components. It's advisable to check their schedules and book in advance due to high demand.
How does the FFL transfer process work at gun shops near Excelsior, MN?
FFL transfers at shops like Modern Sportsman or Bill's Gun Shop involve receiving a firearm shipped from an online retailer or private seller, conducting a background check, and completing required paperwork. You typically need to contact the shop in advance to provide their FFL information to the seller and pay a transfer fee, which varies by location. The process ensures compliance with federal and Minnesota state laws before you can take possession.
Are there any local Excelsior or Minnesota-specific regulations I should know before visiting a gun shop?
In Minnesota, there are no local preemption laws, so regulations are consistent statewide, but you should be aware of specific rules such as the requirement for a permit to purchase handguns and assault weapons, safe storage recommendations, and transport laws (e.g., unloaded and cased during transit). Shops near Excelsior, like those mentioned, can provide detailed guidance on these laws and any updates from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.
Why Certified Gun Stores Matter for Excelsior, MN Firearms Enthusiasts
This post explains the importance of certified gun stores for Excelsior, MN firearms enthusiasts, highlighting how local shops like Modern Sportsman, Stock and Barrel Gun Club, and Bill's Gun Shop & Range meet these standards and provide valuable, lawful services to the community.
For gun enthusiasts in Excelsior, Minnesota, choosing where to purchase firearms, accessories, or seek training isn't just about convenience—it's about trust, legality, and expertise. This is where the distinction of a certified gun store becomes paramount. In our community, which values both outdoor traditions and responsible ownership, patronizing certified establishments ensures your passion for firearms is supported by the highest standards of professionalism and compliance.
What exactly does 'certified' mean for a gun store? In Minnesota, this typically refers to dealers who maintain their Federal Firearms License (FFL) in good standing, adhere strictly to state and federal regulations, and often pursue additional credentials. These might include certifications from organizations like the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), or specific training for their staff in safety, legal transfers, and product knowledge. A certified store operates with a transparent process, from background checks to proper documentation, giving you, the Excelsior buyer, confidence that your transaction is secure and lawful.
Locally, we're fortunate to have several establishments that embody this certified standard. Modern Sportsman, for instance, is known for its rigorous adherence to protocols and educated staff who can guide you through selections and legal requirements. Stock and Barrel Gun Club not only offers retail but also emphasizes certified training and range safety, creating a holistic, responsible environment. Bill's Gun Shop & Range, with its long-standing presence, integrates certified sales with extensive range facilities and instructional programs. These Excelsior-area shops demonstrate that certification isn't just a paperwork exercise—it's a commitment to serving our community responsibly.
When you visit a certified gun store in Excelsior, you gain practical benefits. First, you avoid the risks of private sales that might lack proper oversight. Certified dealers ensure all transfers, including for used firearms, follow the law, protecting you from potential liability. Second, their staff can provide trusted advice on Minnesota-specific laws, such as permit-to-carry regulations or transport rules. Third, they often offer services like certified transfers for online purchases, safe sales recommendations, and maintenance help—valuable resources for both new and experienced owners.
As an Excelsior gun enthusiast, make certification a priority in your decision-making. Before visiting a shop, you can verify an FFL's status online or simply ask about their certifications and training philosophies. Support local businesses like Modern Sportsman, Stock and Barrel, and Bill's that invest in these standards. By choosing certified gun stores, you're not just buying a firearm; you're investing in the safety, legality, and longevity of your shooting sports experience in our beautiful Lake Minnetonka region. It's a choice that reflects well on our community and your own responsible ownership.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Excelsior:
About Excelsior, Minnesota
Excelsior 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 Excelsior community and local firearms needs.
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Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Excelsior.
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