Best Gun Shops in Preston, Minnesota

Top 3 gun shops in Preston, ranked by our evaluation system.Rated 4.6 out of 5average from 385 reviews

1
Scheels
Scheels All Sports
Rated 4.6 out of 5187 reviews
Scheels in Rochester is a premier destination for firearms enthusiasts serving the Preston area. This massive 220,000 square foot store features an extensive firearms department with one of the largest selections in southern Minnesota. Their knowledgeable staff includes certified experts in handguns, rifles, shotguns, and tactical firearms. The store offers comprehensive gunsmithing services, FFL transfers, and regular firearms safety training courses. Customers consistently praise the professional service, vast inventory, and expert advice available from their dedicated firearms team.
- Firearms Sales
- Gunsmithing
- Training
- Transfers
- Accessories
- Ammunition
- Archery
- Hunting Gear
1215 S Broadway, Rochester, MN 55904
16 years in business
Call(507) 281-1200 Search online(opens in a new tab)
2
The Outdoorsman
The Outdoorsman Inc.
Rated 4.8 out of 542 reviews
The Outdoorsman is Preston's local firearms specialist with over 25 years of serving the community. This family-owned shop has built an outstanding reputation for personalized service and expert knowledge. They offer a carefully curated selection of new and used firearms from top manufacturers, along with comprehensive gunsmithing services performed by experienced professionals. The shop is known for their friendly, no-pressure approach and commitment to firearm safety education. Local hunters and shooting enthusiasts consistently rate them highly for their reliability and deep community roots.
- Firearms Sales
- Gunsmithing
- Transfers
- Accessories
- Ammunition
- Hunting Licenses
- Archery
108 St. Anthony St N, Preston, MN 55965
25+ years in business
Call(507) 765-2153 Search online(opens in a new tab)
3
Gander Outdoors
Rated 4.3 out of 5156 reviews
Gander Outdoors in Rochester provides comprehensive firearms services to the Preston area with a modern retail experience. Following their 2016 renovation and rebranding, the store features an expanded firearms department with competitive pricing and regular promotions. Their certified staff offers expert guidance on firearm selection, and they maintain a robust inventory of popular brands across all categories. The store provides professional gunsmithing services, FFL transfers, and hosts regular shooting sports events and training sessions. Customers appreciate the clean facility, knowledgeable staff, and consistent inventory availability.
- Firearms Sales
- Gunsmithing
- Training
- Transfers
- Accessories
- Ammunition
- Outdoor Gear
405 S Broadway, Rochester, MN 55904
8 years in business
Call(507) 424-9000 Search online(opens in a new tab)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about gun shops in Preston, Minnesota

What are the main gun shops in Preston, MN, and what services do they typically offer?

The primary gun shops in Preston, MN, include Scheels, The Outdoorsman, and Gander Outdoors. These retailers offer firearms sales, ammunition, hunting accessories, and often provide Federal Firearms License (FFL) transfer services. Some locations may also offer basic gunsmithing, firearm cleaning, or special orders for specific models popular in Minnesota's hunting culture.

What are the key Minnesota state requirements for purchasing a firearm from a Preston gun shop?

Minnesota requires a Permit to Purchase or a Permit to Carry for handgun purchases, which you can obtain from your local police department or county sheriff. For long guns, a background check via the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is conducted at the point of sale. Minnesota also has a mandatory 7-day waiting period for handgun purchases, which Preston gun shops will enforce during processing.

Can I complete a private party firearm transfer through a Preston gun shop?

Yes, most Preston gun shops like Scheels or The Outdoorsman offer FFL transfer services for private sales. Both parties typically need to be present, and the FFL will process the required background check for the buyer. Minnesota law requires that all handgun transfers between private parties go through an FFL, while long gun private transfers between Minnesota residents do not require an FFL but are recommended for documentation.

Do Preston gun shops offer firearm safety or training courses required for Minnesota permits?

Some Preston-area gun shops may offer or can refer you to certified Minnesota Department of Public Safety training courses required for a Permit to Carry. These courses cover Minnesota firearm laws, safe handling, and shooting proficiency. For those seeking a Permit to Purchase (which doesn't require training), local shops can often provide basic safety guidance and recommend regional training options.

Are there any local Fillmore County or Preston-specific regulations I should know when buying from area gun shops?

While Minnesota state law preempts most local firearm regulations, Preston and Fillmore County follow state requirements. However, local conservation officers and sheriff's departments may have specific guidance on transporting firearms during hunting seasons. Preston gun shops are knowledgeable about area-specific hunting regulations and can advise on legal requirements for firearms use on public and private lands in southeastern Minnesota.

Finding the Right Licensed Gun Shop in Preston, MN: A Local Guide for Firearms Enthusiasts

This guide helps Preston, MN firearms enthusiasts understand how to choose the right licensed gun shop by evaluating local options like Scheels, The Outdoorsman, and Gander Outdoors based on service quality, community involvement, and long-term relationship value beyond just inventory selection.

For firearms enthusiasts in Preston, Minnesota, choosing the right licensed gun shop is about more than just convenience—it's about finding a trusted partner in your shooting journey. Whether you're a seasoned hunter preparing for deer season in the bluffs of Fillmore County or a new shooter looking for your first firearm, understanding what makes a licensed gun shop stand out can make all the difference in your experience.

In Preston, you have several solid options for licensed firearms retailers, including Scheels, The Outdoorsman, and Gander Outdoors. Each brings something unique to our local community. Scheels offers a broad selection with their well-known retail presence, The Outdoorsman provides that specialized local shop feel with personalized service, and Gander Outdoors brings extensive outdoor expertise to the table. What they all share is the crucial foundation of being properly licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders—the legal requirement that ensures they can legally sell firearms and conduct background checks.

When visiting these Preston shops, look beyond just the inventory. A quality licensed gun shop should have knowledgeable staff who can answer your technical questions about Minnesota hunting regulations, firearm maintenance in our variable climate, or concealed carry considerations. They should also offer essential services like proper firearm transfers if you purchase online, which is especially valuable in a smaller community where local selection might be limited.

One often-overlooked aspect of choosing a licensed gun shop is their commitment to ongoing education and community involvement. The best shops in our area don't just sell firearms—they foster responsible ownership. Ask about local shooting events, safety courses, or hunter education programs they might support or recommend. This community connection is particularly important in a town like Preston where outdoor traditions run deep.

Before making a purchase, consider visiting multiple shops to compare not just prices but service quality. Notice how staff handle questions from both experienced shooters and beginners. Check if they offer gunsmithing services or can recommend local professionals for repairs—a valuable resource when you need work done on a cherished hunting rifle or shotgun.

Remember that building a relationship with your local licensed gun shop pays dividends. Regular customers often get first notice on new arrivals, receive personalized recommendations based on their shooting habits, and develop trust that makes future purchases smoother. In a community like Preston, where word-of-mouth matters, these relationships become part of the fabric of responsible gun ownership.

Whether you're browsing at Scheels for the latest optics, seeking expert advice at The Outdoorsman, or exploring the selection at Gander Outdoors, take the time to evaluate each licensed gun shop as a potential long-term resource. Your choice will impact not just your next purchase, but your entire experience as a firearms enthusiast in southeastern Minnesota.

About Preston, Minnesota

Preston 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 Preston community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service: Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Preston.
Expert Staff: Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.