The Best Gun Shops in Deer Lodge, Montana
Top 3 gun shops in Deer Lodge, Montana. Rated 4.6/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Bob Ward & Sons
Bob Ward & Sons
As a regional powerhouse in outdoor retail, Bob Ward & Sons offers one of the most comprehensive firearm selections in western Montana. Located just 40 minutes from Deer Lodge in Butte, this family-owned business has served Montana hunters, sport shooters, and firearm enthusiasts for over two decades. Their knowledgeable staff provides exceptional customer service, and their gunsmithing department handles everything from basic repairs to custom work. The store maintains extensive inventory of rifles, shotguns, handguns, and ammunition from top manufacturers, making it a premier destination for Deer Lodge residents seeking quality firearms and expert advice.
The Outpost
The Outpost
The Outpost has built an outstanding reputation as a premium firearms retailer serving the Butte-Deer Lodge area. With nearly perfect customer ratings, this shop is renowned for its expert staff who provide personalized service and deep firearms knowledge. They specialize in quality new and used firearms with particular strength in hunting rifles and Montana-appropriate sporting arms. Their gunsmithing services are highly regarded, and they maintain excellent inventory of ammunition and reloading components. The shop's commitment to customer education and satisfaction makes it a trusted resource for Deer Lodge area shooters seeking professional guidance and quality products.
Bob Ward's Sports & Outdoors
Bob Ward & Sons
Located in Missoula approximately 60 miles from Deer Lodge, this Bob Ward's location provides another excellent option for western Montana firearm enthusiasts. As part of Montana's trusted outdoor retail chain, this store offers extensive firearm selections backed by knowledgeable staff with deep understanding of Montana hunting and shooting needs. Their gunsmithing department provides comprehensive services, and they regularly host firearm safety and training courses. The store maintains strong inventory of popular calibers and hard-to-find ammunition, making it worth the drive for Deer Lodge residents seeking specific firearms or accessories not available locally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Deer Lodge, Montana
What are the main gun shops in Deer Lodge, Montana, and what services do they typically offer?
The primary gun shops in Deer Lodge include Bob Ward & Sons, The Outpost, and Bob Ward's Sports & Outdoors. These shops typically offer firearms sales, ammunition, FFL transfers, hunting and shooting accessories, and basic gunsmithing services. Some locations may also provide hunting licenses and safety equipment specific to Montana's outdoor activities.
What are Montana's specific firearm purchasing regulations that apply in Deer Lodge?
Montana has no state permit required to purchase rifles, shotguns, or handguns, and no firearm registration is mandated. However, federal requirements still apply, including background checks through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) for purchases from licensed dealers. Deer Lodge residents should note that Montana is a constitutional carry state, allowing both open and concealed carry without a permit for those legally allowed to possess firearms.
How does the FFL transfer process work at Deer Lodge gun shops for online firearm purchases?
When you purchase a firearm online, you must have it shipped to a licensed FFL dealer in Deer Lodge like Bob Ward & Sons or The Outpost. You'll need to contact the receiving gun shop in advance to confirm they accept transfers, provide their FFL information to the seller, and pay a transfer fee (typically $25-$50). Upon arrival, you'll complete a federal Form 4473 and pass a NICS background check before taking possession of the firearm.
What local training or safety courses are available through Deer Lodge gun shops?
While specific course offerings vary, Deer Lodge gun shops may provide or recommend firearm safety courses, hunter education certification (required for Montana hunters born after 1985), and concealed carry classes. Given Montana's constitutional carry laws, these courses focus on safety, marksmanship fundamentals, and legal knowledge rather than permit requirements. Check with individual shops like Bob Ward's Sports & Outdoors for current course schedules and availability.
Are there any local Deer Lodge ordinances or county-specific regulations affecting firearm ownership or carry?
Deer Lodge follows Montana state preemption laws, which prohibit local municipalities from enacting firearm regulations stricter than state law. Powell County, where Deer Lodge is located, has no additional county-specific firearm ordinances. However, firearm restrictions still apply on certain federal properties and private establishments that post appropriate signage prohibiting weapons.
Nearby Cities
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About Deer Lodge, Montana
Deer Lodge 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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