The Best Gun Shops in Cowlesville, New York
Top 3 gun shops in Cowlesville, New York. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
The Target Shooter
The Target Shooter LLC
The Target Shooter is widely regarded as one of Western New York's premier firearms destinations, located just 15 minutes from Cowlesville. This family-owned business operates both a comprehensive retail store and an indoor shooting range. They offer an extensive selection of new and used firearms from top manufacturers, along with a complete gunsmithing department that handles everything from basic repairs to custom builds. Their knowledgeable staff provides exceptional customer service and they host regular training courses from beginner to advanced levels. The shop is particularly noted for their expertise in tactical firearms and NFA items.
Wyoming County Sportsmen's Center
Wyoming County Sportsmen's Center Inc.
Located just 10 miles from Cowlesville in Attica, Wyoming County Sportsmen's Center has built a strong reputation for excellent customer service and comprehensive inventory. They specialize in hunting firearms and accessories, carrying a wide selection of rifles, shotguns, and handguns from major manufacturers. Their gunsmithing services include scope mounting, trigger work, and general maintenance. The shop is particularly popular among local hunters and sportsmen for their expertise in New York-compliant firearms and their extensive ammunition selection. Family-owned and operated, they're known for treating customers like neighbors.
Runnings
Runnings Stores LLC
The Batavia Runnings location, approximately 20 minutes from Cowlesville, offers a well-stocked firearms department within a larger outdoor and farm supply store. As part of a regional chain with strong local presence, they provide competitive pricing on new firearms from major manufacturers and maintain good inventory levels. Their firearms staff receives specialized training and they handle transfers efficiently. While not as specialized as dedicated gun shops, Runnings offers the advantage of one-stop shopping for firearms, ammunition, hunting gear, and outdoor supplies. They're particularly convenient for those who appreciate the combination of firearm selection with broader outdoor recreational shopping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Cowlesville, New York
What are the main gun shops serving the Cowlesville, NY area and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops serving Cowlesville and Wyoming County include The Target Shooter, Wyoming County Sportsmen's Center, and Runnings. These establishments typically offer firearms sales (rifles, shotguns, and handguns), FFL transfers, ammunition, hunting supplies, and various accessories. Some locations may also provide gunsmithing services, safety equipment, and connections to local training opportunities.
What are the key New York State-specific regulations I need to know before purchasing a firearm in Cowlesville?
New York State requires a license for all handgun purchases (pistol permit) and semi-automatic rifles now require a semi-automatic rifle license. All firearm purchases from a licensed dealer in Cowlesville require a National Instant Criminal Background Check (NICS). Additionally, New York has an Assault Weapons Ban, safe storage laws, and ammunition sales background checks, so consult with your local shop for current compliance details.
How does the pistol permit process work for Cowlesville residents in Wyoming County?
Cowlesville residents must apply for a pistol permit through the Wyoming County Clerk's office. The process involves submitting an application, undergoing background checks, providing references, and often completing a state-approved firearm safety course. Processing times can vary, and the permit is required before you can take possession of any handgun purchased from a local shop like The Target Shooter or Wyoming County Sportsmen's Center.
Do Cowlesville gun shops handle FFL transfers for online purchases and what are the typical fees?
Yes, shops like The Target Shooter and Wyoming County Sportsmen's Center in the Cowlesville area perform FFL transfers for firearms purchased online. Transfer fees typically range from $25 to $50 per firearm, plus any applicable New York State sales tax. You must contact the shop in advance to ensure they accept transfers, provide their FFL information to the seller, and complete all required NYS paperwork and background checks upon pickup.
What local training or safety resources are available through gun shops near Cowlesville, NY?
Local shops often partner with or can refer you to certified instructors for required and optional training. For example, the Wyoming County Sportsmen's Center may host or advertise NYS Hunter Education courses and pistol safety classes necessary for permit applications. These resources ensure Cowlesville residents meet state requirements and develop proper firearm handling skills, which is crucial given New York's strict safe storage and usage laws.
Finding the Best Gun Shops Near Cowlesville, NY: A Local Enthusiast's Guide
This guide helps Cowlesville, NY gun enthusiasts find the best local shops by highlighting The Target Shooter for personalized service, Wyoming County Sportsmen's Center for training and range access, and Runnings for convenience, with practical advice for choosing based on individual needs in Wyoming County's hunting and shooting culture.
For gun enthusiasts in Cowlesville, New York, finding the right local shop is about more than just convenience—it's about connecting with knowledgeable professionals who understand our unique needs in Wyoming County's hunting and shooting culture. Whether you're looking for your first firearm, need expert gunsmithing, or want to join a community of fellow shooters, Cowlesville offers several excellent options worth exploring.
When searching for 'best gun shops near me' in our area, The Target Shooter should be your first stop. This locally-owned establishment has built a reputation for its personalized service and extensive selection of firearms, ammunition, and accessories. What sets them apart is their willingness to spend time educating customers—especially valuable for newcomers to the sport. Their staff includes experienced hunters who can offer specific advice for pursuing whitetail deer or turkey in the surrounding Wyoming County woodlands.
Just a short drive away, Wyoming County Sportsmen's Center offers more than just retail shopping. This facility combines a well-stocked gun shop with an indoor shooting range and training programs—a rare combination in our rural area. For Cowlesville residents looking to practice year-round or take certified safety courses, this center provides essential resources. Their gunsmithing services are particularly valuable for maintaining hunting rifles and shotguns that see regular use in our variable Upstate New York weather.
Runnings, while a larger regional chain, deserves mention for its consistent inventory and competitive pricing on firearms and shooting supplies. For Cowlesville hunters needing last-minute ammunition or basic gear during hunting season, their reliable stock can be a lifesaver. They often carry region-specific items like blaze orange clothing and deer processing supplies that cater directly to our local needs.
When evaluating 'best gun shops near me,' consider what matters most to you as a Cowlesville shooter. For personalized expertise and community connection, prioritize locally-owned shops like The Target Shooter. For training and range access alongside purchases, Wyoming County Sportsmen's Center excels. For convenience and broad selection, Runnings fills an important niche. All three establishments understand the practical realities of gun ownership in New York State and can help navigate our specific regulations.
My advice? Visit each location and talk with their staff. Notice who asks about your intended use—whether for home defense, target shooting at local ranges like Alabama Swamps, or hunting in the nearby Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge. The best shop for you will be the one whose expertise aligns with your shooting interests and whose staff makes you feel like part of Cowlesville's responsible firearms community. Remember to check each shop's events calendar too—many host seasonal sight-in days before hunting season, which is especially valuable for ensuring your equipment is ready for Wyoming County's fields and forests.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Cowlesville:
About Cowlesville, New York
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