The Best Gun Shops in Soudan, Minnesota
Top 3 gun shops in Soudan, Minnesota. Rated 4.5/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Ely Gun Shop
Ely Gun Shop LLC
A family-owned and operated shop located approximately 20 miles from Soudan, Ely Gun Shop is highly regarded for its exceptional customer service and deep expertise in firearms. They offer a wide selection of new and used guns, including hunting rifles, shotguns, and handguns, along with comprehensive gunsmithing services, transfers, and ammunition. The staff is known for their personalized advice and support for both novice and experienced shooters, making it a top choice for residents of the Boundary Waters region.
Virginia Army Navy Store
Virginia Army Navy Inc.
Situated about 30 miles from Soudan, Virginia Army Navy Store is a trusted local dealer with a strong reputation for its vast inventory of firearms, ammunition, and outdoor equipment. They specialize in military surplus and tactical gear, and their knowledgeable staff provides excellent service for hunters, collectors, and recreational shooters. The store is praised for its competitive pricing and reliable transfers, serving the Iron Range area with consistency and expertise.
Hibbing Sporting Goods
Hibbing Sporting Goods LLC
Located roughly 50 miles from Soudan, Hibbing Sporting Goods is a full-service outdoor store offering a comprehensive selection of firearms, ammunition, and related accessories. They are known for their expert gunsmithing, training courses, and friendly staff who provide tailored advice for hunting and shooting sports. With a focus on community engagement and quality products, this shop is a popular destination for sportsmen across northeastern Minnesota.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Soudan, Minnesota
Are there dedicated gun shops located directly in Soudan, MN, or do residents typically travel to nearby towns?
Soudan itself is a very small town and does not have a dedicated, full-service gun shop within its city limits. Residents and visitors typically travel to nearby towns like Ely, Virginia, or Hibbing for firearms services. The top local options include Ely Gun Shop, Virginia Army Navy Store, and Hibbing Sporting Goods, all within a reasonable driving distance.
What is the process for purchasing a handgun in Minnesota, and do local shops like Ely Gun Shop assist with the permit?
In Minnesota, purchasing a handgun requires either a Permit to Purchase or a Permit to Carry, both issued by your local police chief or county sheriff. Shops like Ely Gun Shop or Virginia Army Navy Store will require you to present this valid permit at the time of sale. They can provide you with the state-required paperwork but cannot issue the permit itself; you must apply for that through your local law enforcement agency in advance.
Do gun shops in the Soudan area, like Hibbing Sporting Goods, offer Federal Firearms License (FFL) transfer services for online purchases?
Yes, most established shops in the region, including Hibbing Sporting Goods, Virginia Army Navy Store, and Ely Gun Shop, offer FFL transfer services. This allows you to purchase a firearm online and have it shipped to their licensed location for a fee, where they will conduct the required federal background check (NICS) and complete the transfer in compliance with Minnesota law. Always contact the specific shop beforehand to confirm their transfer fees and procedures.
What types of firearms and services are most common at shops serving the Soudan area, given its hunting and outdoor culture?
Shops like Ely Gun Shop and Hibbing Sporting Goods cater heavily to the North Woods hunting and outdoor lifestyle. You will find a strong selection of rifles and shotguns suitable for hunting deer, bear, grouse, and waterfowl prevalent in St. Louis County. Services often include gunsmithing for repairs, sighting/scoping, ammunition sales, and advice on local hunting regulations. They also typically stock related gear like camouflage, knives, and cold-weather hunting clothing.
Are there state-specific waiting periods or additional regulations I should know about when buying a firearm in Minnesota?
Minnesota does not have a state-mandated waiting period for firearm purchases beyond the time required to complete the instant federal NICS background check. However, for handguns, you must have the pre-approved Permit to Purchase or Carry as mentioned. It's also important to note that Minnesota has universal background checks, meaning all firearm sales, including private party transfers, must go through a licensed dealer. Local shops can facilitate these checks for private sales.
Finding the Best Gun Stores Near Soudan, MN: A Local Enthusiast's Guide
This guide helps Soudan, MN gun enthusiasts find the best local gun stores by highlighting Ely Gun Shop, Virginia Army Navy Store, and Hibbing Sporting Goods, with practical advice on selecting shops based on specific needs and building relationships within the Iron Range community.
For gun enthusiasts in Soudan, Minnesota, the search for the 'best gun stores near me' is about more than just proximity—it's about finding trusted partners who understand our unique Northwoods lifestyle. Living in the heart of Minnesota's Iron Range means our firearms needs often blend hunting, sport shooting, and practical wilderness protection. While Soudan itself is a small community, we're fortunate to have several excellent options within a reasonable drive that cater to our specific needs.
One of the closest and most respected destinations is Ely Gun Shop, located about 30 minutes northeast of Soudan. This shop has built a strong reputation among local hunters and sport shooters for its knowledgeable staff and quality selection of rifles and shotguns suited for our region's big game and upland birds. Their gunsmith services are particularly valuable for maintaining firearms exposed to our harsh Minnesota winters and rugged terrain.
Heading southwest toward Virginia, the Virginia Army Navy Store offers a different but equally valuable experience. This establishment combines firearms sales with outdoor gear, making it a one-stop shop for many Range residents. Their inventory often includes tactical firearms and accessories alongside traditional hunting equipment, appealing to both modern sport shooters and traditional hunters. Their staff typically includes veterans and lifelong locals who understand practical firearm applications in our environment.
For a broader selection, many Soudan residents make the trip to Hibbing Sporting Goods. This larger establishment provides an extensive inventory of firearms, ammunition, and optics, along with professional fitting services. Their expertise in helping customers find the right firearm for Minnesota's specific hunting regulations and terrain conditions makes the drive worthwhile for serious enthusiasts making significant purchases.
When evaluating 'best gun stores near me' from Soudan, consider what matters most for your needs. For routine purchases and ammunition, proximity might lead you toward Ely or Virginia. For specialized firearms, custom orders, or expert gunsmithing, the longer drive to Hibbing might be justified. Always call ahead to check inventory—our remote location means shops might not carry every item in stock.
Remember that building relationships with local shop owners pays dividends in our tight-knit community. These businesses often share information about local shooting conditions, hunting success in different areas around Soudan, and upcoming community events. Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to Minnesota's Iron Range, supporting these local establishments helps maintain the firearms culture that's been part of our region's heritage for generations.
Before visiting any shop, check current Minnesota firearm laws and have your permit documentation ready. Our local stores appreciate customers who are prepared, which makes transactions smoother and allows more time for valuable conversation about the firearms that work best in our beautiful but demanding Northwoods environment.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Soudan:
About Soudan, Minnesota
Soudan 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.
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Shops familiar with Soudan community and local firearms needs.
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Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Soudan.
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