The Best Gun Shops in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire
Top 3 gun shops in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Riley's Sport Shop
Riley's Sport Shop
Family-owned since 1979, Riley's Sport Shop is a premier destination for firearms enthusiasts in central New Hampshire. Located just 15 miles from Waterville Valley, they offer an extensive selection of new and used firearms, including hunting rifles, shotguns, and handguns. Their knowledgeable staff provides exceptional customer service and expert guidance. The shop features a full-service gunsmith, comprehensive ammunition selection, and all necessary hunting and fishing supplies. Their long-standing reputation for quality and reliability makes them a trusted resource for both local residents and visitors to the White Mountain region.
The Gun Shop
The Gun Shop Inc.
Serving the Lakes Region and White Mountains for over 30 years, The Gun Shop is a highly respected firearms retailer located approximately 25 miles from Waterville Valley. They maintain an impressive inventory of handguns, rifles, and shotguns from top manufacturers, along with comprehensive gunsmithing services performed by experienced professionals. The shop is known for their friendly, knowledgeable staff who provide personalized service to both novice and experienced shooters. They offer FFL transfers, ammunition, optics, and firearm accessories, with a strong focus on safety education and proper firearm handling.
Kittery Trading Post
Kittery Trading Post
While located about 90 miles from Waterville Valley, Kittery Trading Post is New England's premier outdoor destination and well worth the drive for serious firearms enthusiasts. This iconic family-owned business features one of the largest firearm departments in the Northeast with an unparalleled selection of handguns, rifles, shotguns, and tactical firearms. Their firearms specialists are exceptionally knowledgeable, and they offer full gunsmithing services, extensive ammunition inventory, and comprehensive shooting accessories. The trading post has served generations of New England hunters and shooters since 1938, maintaining a reputation for quality, selection, and expert service that draws customers from throughout the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire
What are the main gun shops serving the Waterville Valley, NH area?
While Waterville Valley itself is a small resort town, residents and visitors typically rely on nearby shops. Key options include Riley's Sport Shop in Hooksett (about 1.5 hours away), The Gun Shop in Newport (roughly 1 hour away), and the larger Kittery Trading Post in Kittery (over 2 hours away). These are well-regarded FFLs for sales, transfers, and services in New Hampshire.
What is the process for purchasing a handgun or long gun in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has no state permit required to purchase firearms and no registration. For a long gun or handgun, you must be at least 18 (long gun) or 21 (handgun from an FFL), a resident or meet federal non-resident rules, pass a federal NICS background check at the shop, and comply with federal law. Private sales between unlicensed individuals are legal without a background check for state residents.
Do gun shops near Waterville Valley offer firearms training and safety courses?
Yes, shops like Riley's Sport Shop and The Gun Shop offer certified training. This includes New Hampshire's required course for a Pistol/Revolver License (if you want a concealed carry permit) and basic safety courses. Given Waterville Valley's proximity to outdoor recreational areas, some shops may also offer hunting safety or specialized outdoor firearm training.
Can I have a firearm shipped to a gun shop in the Waterville Valley area for transfer?
Yes, you can have an online purchase shipped to any local licensed dealer (FFL) like those mentioned. You will need to contact the chosen shop (e.g., Riley's, The Gun Shop) beforehand to confirm their transfer fees and procedures. The FFL will then conduct the required background check and complete the transfer to you in compliance with New Hampshire and federal law.
Are there any local Waterville Valley or New Hampshire laws I should know about regarding firearm transportation or carry?
New Hampshire is a constitutional carry state; no permit is required to carry a concealed firearm for anyone legally allowed to possess one. However, a Pistol/Revolver License is available for reciprocity with other states. Firearms must be unloaded in a vehicle when crossing into a school zone under federal law. Always transport firearms securely, especially given Waterville Valley's tourist and family-oriented environment.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Waterville Valley:
About Waterville Valley, New Hampshire
Waterville Valley 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 New Hampshire.
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Shops familiar with Waterville Valley community and local firearms needs.
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Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Waterville Valley.
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