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The Best Gun Shops in Thornton, New Hampshire

Top 3 gun shops in Thornton, New Hampshire. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.

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4.7/5
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Top Gun Shops

Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system

1

White Mountain Firearms

White Mountain Firearms LLC

★★★★☆
4.8/5

White Mountain Firearms is a highly regarded full-service gun shop located just minutes from Thornton in the Plymouth/Holderness area. They offer an extensive selection of new and used firearms, including rifles, shotguns, and handguns from top manufacturers. Their on-site gunsmith provides comprehensive services from basic repairs to custom work, and they're known for their knowledgeable staff who provide exceptional customer service. The shop also offers CCW classes, private instruction, and has a strong reputation for handling NFA items and transfers efficiently.

Experience:12 years
Reviews:87 customer reviews
1277 US Route 3, Holderness, NH 03245
2

North Country Sporting Goods

North Country Sporting Goods Inc.

★★★★☆
4.6/5

Serving the White Mountain region including Thornton, North Country Sporting Goods is a comprehensive outdoor store with an excellent firearms department. They carry a wide variety of hunting rifles, shotguns, and handguns from reputable brands, along with extensive ammunition and accessory selection. Their experienced staff are known for their expertise in hunting and shooting sports, and they offer reliable gunsmithing services. The shop has built a strong reputation over 15 years for quality products and professional service throughout the North Country region.

Experience:15 years
Reviews:142 customer reviews
1536 White Mountain Highway, North Conway, NH 03860
3

Riley's Sport Shop

Riley's Sport Shop Inc.

★★★★☆
4.7/5

Riley's Sport Shop has been a trusted firearms dealer serving the Lakes Region and Thornton area for over two decades. They offer an impressive inventory of firearms including modern sporting rifles, handguns, and hunting firearms from leading manufacturers. Their full-service gunsmithing department handles everything from simple repairs to custom work, and they provide comprehensive firearms safety courses and CCW training. Known for their knowledgeable staff and commitment to customer education, Riley's maintains one of the best reputations in central New Hampshire for quality firearms and accessories.

Experience:25 years
Reviews:156 customer reviews
1607 Lake Shore Road, Laconia, NH 03249

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about gun shops in Thornton, New Hampshire

What are the main gun shops in Thornton, NH, and what services do they offer?

The primary gun shops serving Thornton, NH, include White Mountain Firearms, North Country Sporting Goods, and Riley's Sport Shop. These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, hunting and shooting accessories, and often gunsmithing services. Some may also provide hunting licenses and safety equipment tailored to the North Country's outdoor lifestyle.

What are New Hampshire's requirements for purchasing a firearm in Thornton?

New Hampshire has no state permit required to purchase rifles, shotguns, or handguns, and no firearm registration. In Thornton, you must be at least 18 for long guns and 21 for handguns, pass a federal NICS background check conducted by the dealer, and be a resident of New Hampshire or a state with reciprocity. Some private sales between residents do not require a background check, but dealers always perform one.

Do gun shops in Thornton, NH, offer firearm safety or training courses?

Yes, many gun shops in the Thornton area, such as White Mountain Firearms or Riley's Sport Shop, offer or can recommend firearm safety and training courses. These often include basic handgun safety, hunter education certification required for NH hunting licenses, and concealed carry classes. Given NH's constitutional carry law, while no permit is required to carry, training is highly recommended for responsible ownership.

How does the FFL transfer process work at Thornton-area gun shops?

If you purchase a firearm online or from out-of-state, you must have it shipped to a local FFL holder like those in Thornton. The receiving shop will conduct the required background check and complete the transfer for a fee, typically $25-$50. You'll need to provide valid NH identification and comply with all federal and state laws; contact the specific shop (e.g., North Country Sporting Goods) ahead of time to confirm their transfer policies and fees.

Are there any local Thornton or NH-specific regulations affecting gun storage or transportation?

New Hampshire has minimal storage laws, but it's illegal to store a loaded firearm where a child under 16 could access it. For transportation, firearms can be carried loaded in a vehicle without a permit due to constitutional carry. However, when traveling through other states, their laws apply. Local Thornton shops can advise on best practices for secure storage and transport, especially for hunting or recreational shooting in the White Mountain region.

Finding the Best Gun Stores Near Thornton, NH: A Local Guide for Firearms Enthusiasts

This guide helps Thornton, NH firearms enthusiasts find the best local gun stores by highlighting area shops like White Mountain Firearms and offering practical advice on selecting a retailer based on individual needs and local community connections.

For gun enthusiasts in Thornton, New Hampshire, the search for quality firearms, accessories, and expertise doesn't require a long drive into the city. Our region, nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, is home to several reputable establishments that cater to hunters, sport shooters, and responsible firearm owners. When you search for 'best gun stores near me' in Thornton, you're looking for more than just a retail counter—you're seeking knowledgeable staff, fair pricing, and a commitment to the local outdoor community.

Let's start with the shops right in our area. White Mountain Firearms, located conveniently for Thornton residents, has built a solid reputation for its selection of modern sporting rifles, handguns, and hunting firearms. Their staff typically includes experienced shooters who understand the specific needs of North Country hunters dealing with our rugged terrain and varied game. North Country Sporting Goods offers a broader outdoor focus, making it an excellent one-stop shop for firearms, ammunition, fishing gear, and camping supplies—perfect for those who embrace the complete New Hampshire outdoor lifestyle. Riley's Sport Shop rounds out the local options with its long-standing presence in the region, often praised for its gunsmithing services and used firearm selection.

However, the 'best' store for you depends entirely on your specific needs. Are you a first-time buyer seeking education and a patient sales approach? Or are you a seasoned collector looking for a rare find or custom work? I recommend calling ahead or visiting during off-peak hours to have meaningful conversations with staff. Ask about their transfer policies, as this is crucial when ordering online, and inquire about any local shooting ranges or clubs they recommend—building community is part of the experience here in Thornton.

Remember to expand your search slightly beyond Thornton's immediate borders. The surrounding towns in Grafton County often host smaller, specialized shops or FFL holders operating out of their homes. These can sometimes offer more personalized service or unique inventory. Always verify an establishment's Federal Firearms License (FFL) and read recent local reviews or ask for recommendations at town events or shooting ranges.

Ultimately, the best gun store is one that treats you with respect, provides accurate information, and supports your growth as a responsible firearm owner. In Thornton, NH, we're fortunate to have several quality options that understand our region's deep-rooted hunting heritage and commitment to the Second Amendment. Visit them, build relationships, and you'll find more than just a retailer—you'll find a resource for your firearms journey in the Granite State.

Nearby Cities

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About Thornton, New Hampshire

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