The Best Gun Shops in Monticello, Minnesota
Top 3 gun shops in Monticello, Minnesota. Rated 4.6/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Fleet Farm - Monticello
Fleet Farm
Fleet Farm's Monticello location is a well-established regional retailer offering a comprehensive firearms department with a solid selection of rifles, shotguns, and handguns from major manufacturers. Known for competitive pricing and regular promotions on ammunition and shooting accessories, this store serves as a reliable destination for both hunting and recreational shooting needs. The staff maintains good product knowledge and the store benefits from the corporate buying power of the Fleet Farm chain, ensuring consistent inventory availability for the Monticello area.
Joe's Sporting Goods
Joe's Sporting Goods
Located approximately 15 miles from Monticello in Buffalo, Joe's Sporting Goods is a family-owned business with over two decades of experience serving the Wright County area. They offer an exceptional selection of firearms including hunting rifles, shotguns, and handguns, complemented by professional gunsmithing services. The store is particularly noted for its knowledgeable staff, personalized customer service, and comprehensive hunting department. Their expertise in local hunting regulations and quality equipment makes them a top choice for serious hunters and shooting enthusiasts throughout the region.
Scheels - St. Cloud
Scheels
Located about 25 miles northwest of Monticello, the St. Cloud Scheels features one of the most extensive firearms departments in central Minnesota. This massive sporting goods store offers an impressive inventory of rifles, shotguns, handguns, and tactical firearms from premium brands, along with an indoor shooting range and professional gunsmithing services. The knowledgeable firearms staff provides excellent customer service and the store regularly hosts shooting sports events and training sessions. Their comprehensive selection of ammunition, optics, and shooting accessories makes the drive worthwhile for serious firearms enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Monticello, Minnesota
What are the main gun shops serving the Monticello, MN area and what services do they offer?
The primary retailers serving Monticello include Fleet Farm - Monticello (offering firearms, ammunition, and hunting accessories), Joe's Sporting Goods (known for firearms sales, transfers, and outdoor gear), and Scheels in nearby St. Cloud (providing a wide firearms selection, FFL transfers, and gunsmithing). These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, safety equipment, and hunting accessories, with some providing additional services like basic gunsmithing or hunting license sales.
What are Minnesota's specific firearm purchasing requirements that apply in Monticello?
In Monticello, as in all of Minnesota, handgun and 'semiautomatic military-style assault weapon' purchases require a Permit to Purchase or a Permit to Carry from your local police chief or sheriff, which involves a background check. There is no waiting period for long guns, but all firearm transfers from a licensed dealer require a federal NICS background check. Minnesota also requires reporting of lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement within 48 hours of discovery.
How does the FFL transfer process work at Monticello-area gun shops for online purchases?
When you purchase a firearm online, you must have it shipped to a local Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder like Fleet Farm, Joe's Sporting Goods, or Scheels. You contact the chosen shop to confirm they accept transfers, provide their FFL information to the seller, and once the firearm arrives, you complete the required Minnesota paperwork (Permit to Purchase for handguns/assault weapons) and pass the NICS background check at the shop. Expect a transfer fee, typically $25-$50 in this area.
Are there any local Monticello or Wright County ordinances that affect gun owners beyond state law?
Monticello and Wright County generally follow Minnesota state preemption laws, meaning local governments cannot enact firearm regulations stricter than state law. However, you must comply with state laws regarding transport (handguns must be unloaded and in a case, separate from ammunition during transport in a vehicle unless you have a Permit to Carry). Always check for any posted restrictions on discharging firearms within city limits, as local noise or discharge ordinances may apply in certain areas.
What training or safety resources are available through gun shops near Monticello, MN?
While the Monticello Fleet Farm and Joe's Sporting Goods may offer basic safety materials or referrals, for formal training you'll often need to look to nearby organizations. Scheels in St. Cloud and other regional outfitters frequently host or can direct you to certified Minnesota DNR Firearms Safety courses (required for hunters born after 1979) and Permit to Carry classes. Local gun clubs and ranges in the broader Wright County area also provide hands-on training and safety courses recommended for new owners.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Monticello:
About Monticello, Minnesota
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