The Best Gun Shops in Horseheads, New York
Top 3 gun shops in Horseheads, New York. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
The Sportsman's Shop
The Sportsman's Shop, Inc.
The Sportsman's Shop is a premier destination for firearms enthusiasts throughout the Southern Tier region, serving Horseheads customers with exceptional expertise. This family-owned business features an extensive inventory of new and used firearms, including hunting rifles, shotguns, handguns, and tactical firearms. Their professional gunsmithing services are highly regarded, with capabilities ranging from basic repairs to custom builds. The shop maintains a comprehensive selection of ammunition, optics, and shooting accessories, plus they offer comprehensive firearms training courses. Known for their knowledgeable staff and outstanding customer service, they've built a reputation as one of the region's top firearms retailers.
G&G Guns & Ammo
G&G Guns & Ammo LLC
Located just minutes from Horseheads in Elmira, G&G Guns & Ammo has established itself as a trusted firearms dealer with an excellent reputation for customer service and expertise. The shop offers a diverse selection of handguns, rifles, and shotguns from major manufacturers, along with a well-stocked ammunition department. Their gunsmithing services include repairs, modifications, and custom work, with quick turnaround times. The knowledgeable staff provides personalized service to both new and experienced shooters, and they handle FFL transfers efficiently. Customers consistently praise the shop's fair pricing, professional atmosphere, and helpful guidance on firearm selection and ownership.
Pat's Guns
Pat's Guns
Pat's Guns serves the Horseheads area from their Elmira location, offering specialized firearms services with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. The shop specializes in both modern firearms and classic collectibles, with particular expertise in custom builds and precision rifle work. Their gunsmithing department handles everything from basic maintenance to advanced customizations, including scope mounting, trigger work, and accurizing. The staff is known for their deep technical knowledge and willingness to educate customers. With competitive pricing and a commitment to the local shooting community, Pat's Guns has built a loyal customer base through reliable service and expert guidance on all aspects of firearm ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Horseheads, New York
What are the main gun shops in Horseheads, NY, and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops in Horseheads include The Sportsman's Shop, G&G Guns & Ammo, and Pat's Guns. These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and some gunsmithing services. Many also provide safety equipment, hunting gear, and may host or recommend local training courses.
What are the key New York State firearm regulations I should know before purchasing a gun in Horseheads?
In New York State, all handgun purchases require a valid NYS Pistol Permit issued by your county, which involves background checks, references, and often a safety course. For long guns, a NICS background check is conducted at purchase, and semi-automatic rifles may require additional compliance with the NY SAFE Act. Ammunition sales also require a background check under state law.
How does the FFL transfer process work at gun shops in Horseheads, NY?
FFL transfers at Horseheads gun shops involve the shop receiving a firearm shipped from an online retailer or another dealer, then processing the required NYS paperwork and background checks. You'll need to provide identification, complete a Form 4473, and pass a NICS check. Fees typically range from $25 to $50, and for handguns, you must present your valid NYS Pistol Permit.
Do gun shops in Horseheads offer firearm safety or training courses required for NYS permits?
Yes, many Horseheads gun shops, such as The Sportsman's Shop, offer or can refer you to NYS-approved firearm safety courses required for a Pistol Permit. These courses cover safe handling, storage, and state laws, and are essential for Chemung County permit applications. Some shops may also host advanced training or hunting safety classes.
Are there any local Chemung County or Horseheads-specific laws affecting gun shop purchases or ownership?
While most firearm laws are state-level, Chemung County has specific procedures for Pistol Permit applications, including mandatory safety training and an interview process. Horseheads itself does not have additional local ordinances beyond NYS law, but shops adhere to strict state regulations on assault weapon features, magazine capacity limits, and ammunition background checks.
Finding the Best Gun Shops Near Horseheads, NY: A Local Enthusiast's Guide
This guide helps Horseheads, NY gun enthusiasts find the best local shops by evaluating key factors like expertise, inventory, and service quality at establishments like The Sportsman's Shop, G&G Guns & Ammo, and Pat's Guns, while emphasizing the importance of personalized service and understanding New York's specific firearm regulations.
For gun enthusiasts in Horseheads, New York, finding the right local gun shop is about more than just convenience—it's about building relationships with knowledgeable professionals who understand our unique needs in the Southern Tier region. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a competitive shooter, or someone seeking their first firearm for home defense or hunting in the Finger Lakes, having reliable shops nearby makes all the difference.
When searching for the 'best gun shops near me' in Horseheads, you'll want to consider several key factors beyond just proximity. First, look for shops with knowledgeable staff who take time to understand your specific needs. The Sportsman's Shop has built a strong reputation among local hunters and sport shooters for their expertise in firearms suited for our regional game—from whitetail deer in Chemung County to turkey in the surrounding woodlands. Their gunsmith services are particularly valued by those who need maintenance or custom work on hunting rifles and shotguns.
G&G Guns & Ammo offers a different strength that appeals to many Horseheads residents: their diverse inventory that caters to both practical needs and collector interests. In a region where shooting sports are popular year-round, having access to a good selection of ammunition and accessories without driving to larger cities is a genuine advantage. Their staff's willingness to special-order items means you can often get exactly what you want while supporting a local business.
Pat's Guns represents another important aspect of what makes a gun shop 'best'—personalized service and community connection. Smaller shops often provide the most tailored advice, especially for those new to firearms or seeking something specific for local competitions at nearby ranges like the Chemung County Sportsmen's Federation.
Beyond these three establishments, remember that the 'best' shop for you depends on your specific needs. Are you looking for competitive pricing on a particular firearm model? Need expert gunsmithing for a family heirloom? Want comprehensive safety training that meets New York's requirements? Different shops excel in different areas.
My advice for Horseheads residents: Visit each shop personally when possible. Notice how staff interact with customers, check their inventory firsthand, and ask about their special ordering policies and gunsmithing turnaround times. Pay attention to how well they explain New York's specific firearm regulations—a crucial service in our state with its unique laws.
Also consider the complete experience: Do they offer transfers if you purchase online? What's their used firearm selection like? How do they handle the required background checks? These practical considerations often determine which shop becomes your go-to resource.
Finally, remember that supporting local gun shops in Horseheads strengthens our shooting community. These businesses often sponsor local events, support youth shooting programs, and contribute to conservation efforts through licensing fees. By choosing to shop locally, you're investing in the infrastructure that keeps our shooting sports alive and thriving in New York's Southern Tier.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Horseheads:
About Horseheads, New York
Horseheads 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 York.
Local Expertise
Shops familiar with Horseheads community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Horseheads.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.