The Best Gun Shops in Paynesville, Minnesota
Top 3 gun shops in Paynesville, Minnesota. Rated 4.6/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Scheels
Scheels All Sports
Scheels in nearby Waite Park is a premier destination for firearms enthusiasts serving the Paynesville area. This massive 220,000-square-foot store features an extensive selection of handguns, rifles, shotguns, and tactical firearms from top manufacturers. Their dedicated gun library showcases collectible and high-end firearms, while their knowledgeable staff provides exceptional customer service. The full-service gunsmithing department handles repairs, custom work, and modifications. Scheels also offers comprehensive firearms training courses and maintains a robust inventory of ammunition and accessories.
Stearns Sports
Stearns Sports
Located in nearby Sauk Centre, Stearns Sports has built an outstanding reputation for quality firearms and exceptional customer service. This family-owned shop specializes in hunting rifles, shotguns, and handguns with a focus on practical firearms for Minnesota hunters and sportsmen. Their knowledgeable staff provides personalized service and expert advice on firearm selection. The shop offers reliable gunsmithing services, FFL transfers, and maintains a solid inventory of ammunition and hunting accessories. Customers consistently praise their fair pricing and professional approach.
Cabela's
Cabela's Incorporated
Cabela's in St. Cloud is a well-established outdoor retailer serving the Paynesville area with a comprehensive firearms department. They offer an extensive selection of new and used firearms including hunting rifles, shotguns, handguns, and tactical firearms. The store features a Gun Library with collectible and specialty firearms, and their certified technicians provide professional gunsmithing services. Cabela's offers firearms safety courses and hunter education, plus they maintain one of the region's largest ammunition inventories. Their knowledgeable staff and consistent pricing make them a popular choice for central Minnesota shooters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Paynesville, Minnesota
What are the main gun shops serving the Paynesville, MN area and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops serving Paynesville include Scheels, Stearns Sports, and Cabela's. These retailers offer comprehensive services such as new and used firearm sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, hunting accessories, and optics. Some locations also provide basic gunsmithing services, firearm cleaning, and safety equipment tailored to Minnesota hunters and sport shooters.
What are the key Minnesota state laws I should know before purchasing a firearm in Paynesville?
Minnesota requires a Permit to Purchase or a Permit to Carry for handgun purchases, and a 7-day waiting period for handguns if using a Permit to Purchase. For long guns, a background check is conducted at the point of sale with no permit required. Minnesota does not have firearm registration, but private sales between individuals require a transfer through a licensed dealer or a permit check for handguns.
How does the firearm purchasing process work at a Paynesville-area gun shop like Scheels or Cabela's?
The process begins by selecting a firearm and presenting a valid Minnesota ID proving Paynesville-area residency. The dealer will have you complete ATF Form 4473, followed by an instant background check through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA). For handguns, you must also present a valid Minnesota Permit to Purchase or Permit to Carry. Once approved, you can take possession of the firearm, except for handguns with a Permit to Purchase which have a 7-day wait.
Do Paynesville gun shops handle FFL transfers for online purchases, and what are typical fees?
Yes, shops like Stearns Sports and Scheels in the Paynesville area perform FFL transfers. Typical transfer fees in Minnesota range from $25 to $50 per firearm. You must contact the receiving dealer in advance to provide their FFL information to the online seller, then complete the standard Form 4473 and background check upon the firearm's arrival, following all Minnesota permit requirements.
What training or safety resources are available through gun shops near Paynesville, MN?
While Paynesville itself may have limited dedicated training facilities, nearby retailers like Cabela's and Scheels often offer or can refer customers to Minnesota DNR-certified firearm safety courses, which are required for hunters born after December 31, 1979. These shops also typically provide resources on Minnesota carry laws and may host or promote local training events for Permit to Carry certification.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Paynesville:
About Paynesville, Minnesota
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