The Best Gun Shops in Ghent, Minnesota
Top 3 gun shops in Ghent, Minnesota. Rated 4.6/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Marshall Firearms & Archery
Marshall Firearms & Archery
Marshall Firearms & Archery is a highly regarded independent gun shop located approximately 15 miles from Ghent in Marshall, MN. Established in 2005, this family-owned business has built a strong reputation for exceptional customer service, expert staff knowledge, and a comprehensive inventory of firearms, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns from top brands like Glock, Smith & Wesson, and Remington. They offer full-service gunsmithing, including repairs, customizations, and Cerakote applications, as well as CCW training courses and FFL transfers. Customers consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the shop's well-organized selection of accessories and ammunition, making it a top destination for shooters in the Lyon County area.
The Gun Shop
The Gun Shop
Located about 12 miles from Ghent in Tracy, MN, The Gun Shop has been a trusted local fixture since 2001, known for its personalized service and deep expertise in firearms. The shop features a diverse inventory of new and used guns, including popular models from manufacturers like Ruger, Browning, and Sig Sauer, along with a wide range of ammunition, reloading supplies, and hunting accessories. Their on-site gunsmithing services cover everything from basic repairs to custom builds, and they offer certified training programs for concealed carry and hunter safety. Reviewers highlight the owner's hands-on approach, fair pricing, and willingness to educate customers, contributing to high customer satisfaction in the region.
Runnings
Runnings
Runnings in Marshall, MN, is a reputable regional chain store located roughly 15 miles from Ghent, offering a broad selection of firearms, ammunition, and outdoor gear since 2007. While it does not provide on-site gunsmithing, it excels in firearm sales with a constantly updated inventory that includes rifles, shotguns, and handguns from major brands such as Mossberg, Savage, and Taurus. The store is praised for its competitive pricing, frequent sales, and knowledgeable staff in the firearms department. Additionally, they handle FFL transfers and stock a vast array of shooting accessories, optics, and hunting supplies. Customers appreciate the convenience, clean layout, and reliable service, making it a popular choice for both novice and experienced gun owners in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Ghent, Minnesota
What are the main gun shops serving the Ghent, MN area and what services do they typically offer?
The primary gun shops serving Ghent and surrounding Lyon County include Marshall Firearms & Archery, The Gun Shop, and Runnings. These establishments typically offer firearms sales (new and used), FFL transfers, ammunition, hunting accessories, and archery equipment. Some locations may also provide basic gunsmithing services, firearm safety courses, or hunting license sales, though specific services vary by shop.
What are Minnesota's key firearm purchasing and background check requirements when buying from a Ghent-area gun shop?
Minnesota requires a Permit to Purchase or a Permit to Carry for all handgun and 'assault weapon' purchases from a licensed dealer, which includes shops in the Ghent area. For long guns (rifles and shotguns), a Permit to Purchase is not required, but all purchases from an FFL require a federal NICS background check. Minnesota also has a mandatory 7-day waiting period for handgun and 'assault weapon' purchases if the buyer uses a Permit to Purchase (waiting period is waived for Permit to Carry holders).
Can I complete a private party firearm transfer through a gun shop in Ghent, MN, and what is required?
Yes, local FFLs like Marshall Firearms & Archery or The Gun Shop can facilitate private party transfers for a fee, which is a common service. For handguns and 'assault weapons,' both parties must be Minnesota residents, and the transferee (buyer) must present a valid Permit to Purchase or Permit to Carry. The FFL will conduct the required background check and record the transfer. For long guns, the process is similar but does not require a state permit for the buyer.
Are there any local Lyon County or city of Ghent ordinances that affect firearm possession or carrying that I should know about?
Minnesota has state preemption for most firearm laws, meaning local ordinances cannot be more restrictive than state law regarding possession, registration, or carrying. Therefore, the city of Ghent and Lyon County do not have additional local ordinances regulating firearms beyond Minnesota state law. However, always be aware of prohibited locations like schools or government buildings where carrying is restricted by state law, regardless of permit status.
Do gun shops near Ghent, MN offer firearm safety or training courses required for a Minnesota permit?
While the specific shops in Marshall or nearby towns may occasionally host or advertise courses, Minnesota's Permit to Carry training must be conducted by a state-certified instructor. It's best to check with individual shops like Marshall Firearms & Archery or local training organizations for scheduled courses. The training certificate is valid statewide, so you can take a course anywhere in Minnesota and apply for your permit in your county of residence (Lyon County).
Finding the Best Gun Stores Near Ghent, MN: A Local Enthusiast's Guide
This guide helps Ghent, MN gun enthusiasts find the best local gun stores by evaluating what makes shops stand out in our rural community, highlighting specific area options like Marshall Firearms & Archery, The Gun Shop, and Runnings, and providing practical advice for choosing the right store based on individual needs and local insights.
When you're searching for the 'best gun stores near me' in Ghent, Minnesota, you're not just looking for a place to buy a firearm—you're looking for a trusted partner in your shooting journey. As a gun enthusiast in this tight-knit agricultural community, you understand that quality matters, whether you're hunting the local fields, participating in regional competitions, or ensuring home security. Fortunately, the Ghent area offers several excellent options that cater to different needs within our firearms community.
Let's start with what makes a gun store truly stand out in our region. Beyond just inventory, the best shops understand Minnesota's specific hunting seasons, local range regulations, and the practical needs of rural living. They provide knowledgeable staff who can discuss everything from waterfowl loads for the nearby marshes to the right optics for our variable Minnesota weather. Service after the sale, proper fitting, and community involvement often separate good shops from great ones.
Right here in Ghent, you have some solid local options. Marshall Firearms & Archery has built a strong reputation not just for firearms but for their comprehensive approach that includes archery equipment—perfect for Minnesota's diverse hunting opportunities. Their staff typically includes experienced hunters who understand the specific needs of our region.
The Gun Shop offers exactly what its name promises: focused firearms expertise. For enthusiasts who want specialized knowledge without distraction, this establishment often provides that concentrated experience. Meanwhile, Runnings represents the larger retail option, carrying a broad selection that might include everything from hunting rifles to home defense firearms, often at competitive prices.
But here's the real local insight: the 'best' store for you depends on what you need. Are you a first-time buyer seeking patient guidance? An experienced collector looking for rare finds? Or a hunter needing last-minute supplies before opening weekend? Each Ghent-area shop has different strengths. My advice? Visit them all. Have conversations. Handle different firearms. Notice which staff members listen to your needs rather than just making a sale.
Also consider what 'near me' really means in rural Minnesota. Sometimes the best option might be a short drive to a neighboring community that specializes in your particular interest, whether that's competitive shooting, historical firearms, or custom gunsmithing. Many enthusiasts in our area develop relationships with multiple shops—using one for transfers, another for ammunition deals, and a third for expert gunsmithing.
Remember that in a community like Ghent, word-of-mouth recommendations carry weight. Talk to fellow shooters at the Lyon County Conservation Club or local hunting groups. Their experiences will give you honest insights no website can match. Ultimately, the best gun store near Ghent is the one that earns your trust, supports your shooting goals, and becomes a reliable resource in your firearms journey.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Ghent:
About Ghent, Minnesota
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