The Best Gun Shops in Great Falls, Montana
Top 3 gun shops in Great Falls, Montana. 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 is a premier sporting goods destination serving Great Falls with an extensive firearms department featuring top brands like Browning, Sig Sauer, Glock, and Smith & Wesson. Their knowledgeable staff provides expert guidance on firearm selection, and they offer comprehensive gunsmithing services including sight installation, trigger work, and custom modifications. The store maintains a vast inventory of ammunition, optics, and shooting accessories, backed by professional training programs and FFL transfer services.
Bob Ward & Sons
Bob Ward & Sons
As a Montana institution since 1968, Bob Ward & Sons has built a reputation for quality firearms and outdoor equipment. Their Great Falls location features a well-stocked gun department with knowledgeable staff who understand local hunting and shooting needs. They carry a diverse selection of rifles, shotguns, and handguns from reputable manufacturers, along with ammunition, reloading supplies, and hunting accessories. Their experienced gunsmiths provide reliable repair and customization services.
Capital Sports
Capital Sports & Western
While located in Helena, Capital Sports serves the broader central Montana region including Great Falls residents who frequently make the drive for their exceptional service and selection. They feature an impressive firearms department with both new and used inventory, specializing in hunting rifles, shotguns, and tactical firearms. Their expert gunsmithing department handles everything from basic repairs to custom builds, and they maintain excellent relationships with major manufacturers. The staff's deep knowledge of Montana hunting regulations and conditions makes them a trusted resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Great Falls, Montana
What are the main gun shops in Great Falls, MT, and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops in Great Falls include Scheels, Bob Ward & Sons, and Capital Sports. These stores typically offer firearms sales, ammunition, accessories, and FFL transfer services. Some, like Scheels, may also provide gunsmithing or hunting gear, while local shops often emphasize Montana-specific outdoor needs.
What are Montana's firearm purchasing laws, and how do they apply in Great Falls?
Montana has no state permit required to purchase firearms, and private sales between residents are generally legal without a background check. However, for purchases from licensed dealers in Great Falls, like those at Scheels or Bob Ward & Sons, a federal background check (NICS) is required. Montana also allows open carry without a permit, but local Great Falls ordinances should be checked for specific restrictions.
Do gun shops in Great Falls offer firearm training or safety courses?
Yes, many gun shops in Great Falls, such as Capital Sports or Bob Ward & Sons, may offer or can refer you to local firearm safety and training courses. These often include hunter education, concealed carry classes (though Montana is a constitutional carry state), and basic shooting instruction tailored to Montana's outdoor lifestyle.
How do FFL transfers work at gun shops in Great Falls, MT?
FFL transfers in Great Falls involve a licensed dealer, like those at the local shops, receiving a firearm shipped from another FFL or online retailer. You'll need to complete a background check and pay a transfer fee, typically ranging from $25 to $50. It's advisable to contact shops like Scheels or Capital Sports in advance to confirm their specific transfer policies and fees.
Are there any local Great Falls regulations affecting gun shop services or firearm usage?
Great Falls generally follows Montana state law, which is permissive, but local ordinances may affect discharge or carry in city limits. For example, discharging firearms within city boundaries is typically prohibited except in designated areas. Gun shops in Great Falls can provide guidance on local rules, and it's wise to check with them or local authorities for any specific city regulations.
Finding the Right Licensed Gun Shop in Great Falls, Montana: A Local Enthusiast's Guide
This guide helps Great Falls gun enthusiasts understand how to choose a licensed gun shop by highlighting local options like Scheels, Bob Ward & Sons, and Capital Sports, and emphasizing the importance of compliance, local expertise, and community relationships.
For gun enthusiasts in Great Falls, Montana, finding the right licensed gun shop isn't just about making a purchase—it's about connecting with a community that shares your passion for firearms, hunting, and responsible ownership. In a state where firearm culture runs deep, licensed gun shops serve as crucial hubs for education, service, and camaraderie. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a hunter preparing for elk season in the nearby Rocky Mountain Front, or a first-time buyer navigating Montana's laws, understanding what makes a great local gun shop matters.
Great Falls benefits from several established licensed retailers, each offering distinct advantages. Scheels provides a broad selection of modern firearms and gear under one roof, ideal for those comparing options. Bob Ward & Sons brings generations of Montana outdoor expertise, often with knowledgeable staff who understand local hunting needs. Capital Sports offers a more specialized experience, frequently catering to enthusiasts seeking specific models or accessories. What unites these shops is their federal firearm license (FFL) status—meaning they've undergone rigorous background checks and comply with both federal and Montana regulations, ensuring your transactions are legal and secure.
When visiting a licensed gun shop in Great Falls, look beyond the inventory. A quality shop will have staff who can discuss Montana-specific considerations, like hunting regulations for Region 4 or concealed carry laws. They should offer services like transfers, which are handy if you purchase online but want local handling. Many shops also provide basic gunsmithing or can recommend local smiths for custom work. Given Great Falls' proximity to prime hunting lands and shooting ranges like the Great Falls Trap Club, a good retailer might also host events or workshops—worth asking about.
As a local enthusiast, I recommend building a relationship with your chosen shop. Stop by, ask questions, and gauge their willingness to educate. Montana's gun culture thrives on trust and knowledge-sharing, and a reputable licensed gun shop in Great Falls should embody that. Whether you're supporting a family-owned business or a larger retailer, prioritize those that emphasize safety, compliance, and community. After all, in Big Sky Country, your gun shop isn't just a store—it's a partner in your firearms journey.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Great Falls:
About Great Falls, Montana
Great Falls 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.
Local Expertise
Shops familiar with Great Falls community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Great Falls.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.