The Best Gun Shops in Billings, Montana
Top 3 gun shops in Billings, Montana. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
The Gun Shop
The Gun Shop
A premier local gun shop renowned for its extensive inventory of handguns, rifles, and shotguns from top brands like Glock, Smith & Wesson, and Ruger. Highly praised for exceptional customer service, with staff known for their deep expertise in firearms selection, customization, and safety. Offers comprehensive gunsmithing services, including repairs and custom builds, along with CCW training courses and reliable FFL transfers. Customers consistently highlight the shop's welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable assistance.
Big Horn Arms
Big Horn Arms
Specializes in hunting and sporting firearms tailored to Montana's outdoor lifestyle, featuring brands such as Browning, Winchester, and Kimber. Staff are experienced hunters and competitive shooters, providing personalized service and expert advice on firearm maintenance, ballistics, and local regulations. Known for reliable gunsmithing services, including sight installations and trigger jobs, and a solid selection of ammunition and accessories. Reviews emphasize the shop's integrity, professionalism, and focus on customer satisfaction.
Scheels
Scheels All Sports
A well-established sporting goods chain with a massive firearms department offering a wide range of products from brands like Sig Sauer, Remington, and Benelli. Known for competitive pricing, frequent sales, and a vast inventory of ammunition, optics, and hunting gear. Provides basic gunsmithing services such as bore sighting and minor repairs, along with safety and hunting training programs. Staff are trained to assist all skill levels, and the shop is praised for its clean, organized layout and family-friendly environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Billings, Montana
What are the main services offered by gun shops in Billings, MT, like The Gun Shop or Big Horn Arms?
Gun shops in Billings, such as The Gun Shop and Big Horn Arms, typically offer firearms sales (new and used), FFL transfers, gunsmithing, ammunition sales, and accessories like holsters and optics. Many also provide firearm safety training and concealed carry classes tailored to Montana law. Some shops, like Scheels, may have a broader retail selection including outdoor gear alongside firearms.
What are the key Montana state laws I should know before purchasing a firearm in Billings?
Montana has relatively permissive gun laws: no permit is required to purchase firearms, and there is no state registration or waiting period. However, federal background checks (NICS) are required for purchases from licensed dealers in Billings. Montana also allows constitutional carry for concealed weapons for residents 18 and older, but shops often recommend training for safety and legal awareness.
How does the FFL transfer process work at Billings gun shops for online purchases?
When you buy a firearm online, you must have it shipped to a licensed FFL in Billings, such as The Gun Shop or Big Horn Arms. You'll contact the shop in advance to confirm transfer fees (typically $25-$50) and procedures, then complete a federal Form 4473 and background check upon pickup. The shop will handle the transfer in compliance with Montana and federal laws.
Do gun shops in Billings offer concealed carry training, and is it required in Montana?
Yes, many Billings gun shops like The Gun Shop or Big Horn Arms offer concealed carry weapon (CCW) training courses. While Montana allows constitutional carry without a permit for residents, a permit can provide benefits like reciprocity in other states. Training covers state laws, safety, and proficiency, and is recommended even if not legally required.
Are there any local Billings or Yellowstone County regulations affecting gun shop purchases?
Billings and Yellowstone County generally follow Montana state law, with no additional local restrictions on firearm sales or ownership. However, shops in Billings adhere to federal regulations and may have store-specific policies. It's always wise to check with individual shops like Scheels or Big Horn Arms for any specific procedures or community guidelines they follow.
Finding Certified Gun Stores in Billings, MT: What Every Firearms Enthusiast Should Know
This post explains what 'certified gun stores' truly mean for Billings, MT gun enthusiasts, emphasizing staff training, local expertise, and practical advice for identifying establishments that go beyond basic licensing to provide genuine value and safety for the community.
For gun enthusiasts in Billings, Montana, choosing where to shop for firearms isn't just about convenience—it's about trust, expertise, and adherence to the highest standards. When you're looking for certified gun stores in our area, you're seeking more than just a retail counter; you're looking for establishments that demonstrate professional commitment through recognized certifications, knowledgeable staff, and rigorous safety protocols.
In the Billings community, certification often means several things. First, it indicates that a store maintains its Federal Firearms License (FFL) in good standing with the ATF—a non-negotiable baseline. But for local enthusiasts, certification extends further. It's about stores whose staff pursue continuous education, whether through manufacturer-specific programs (like Glock Armorer or NRA certifications), state-mandated safety training credentials, or involvement with professional organizations like the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF).
Why does this matter in Billings? Montana's strong hunting heritage and outdoor culture mean firearms serve diverse purposes—from big-game hunting in the nearby Beartooths to competitive shooting at the Billings Rod and Gun Club. A certified store understands these local contexts. For instance, when you walk into The Gun Shop or Big Horn Arms, certified staff should be able to discuss not just firearm specs, but also Montana's hunting regulations, recommend appropriate calibers for elk in our region, or advise on safe storage solutions for a family home.
Scheels, as a larger sporting goods retailer, also brings its own set of corporate training standards and buyer certifications to the table. Their scale allows them to offer a wide selection, but it's the knowledge of their firearms department staff that truly adds value for a Billings buyer.
Here's practical advice for evaluating certified gun stores in our area: Don't just look for certificates on the wall—engage with the staff. Ask about their training background. Do they have certified armorers on site for basic repairs? Can they properly guide you through a 4473 form? Are they knowledgeable about Montana's specific laws regarding concealed carry or vehicle transport? A truly certified establishment will welcome these questions.
Furthermore, consider stores that go beyond the minimum. Some may offer certified training courses themselves or host NRA-certified instructors. This creates a valuable ecosystem for Billings residents, from first-time buyers to seasoned collectors.
Ultimately, in a community that values self-reliance and responsible gun ownership, patronizing certified gun stores in Billings supports businesses invested in safety, education, and ethical commerce. It ensures that the legacy of responsible firearms ownership in Montana continues with the professionalism it deserves.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Billings:
About Billings, Montana
Billings 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 Montana.
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Shops familiar with Billings community and local firearms needs.
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Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Billings.
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