The Best Gun Shops in Catawba, North Carolina
Top 3 gun shops in Catawba, North Carolina. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Carolina Gunrunners
Carolina Gunrunners LLC
Carolina Gunrunners is widely regarded as one of the premier firearm destinations in the Hickory metro area, serving Catawba and surrounding communities. They operate from a modern 10,000 sq ft facility featuring an extensive showroom with diverse inventory including handguns, rifles, shotguns, and tactical firearms. Their professional gunsmithing department handles everything from basic repairs to custom builds and modifications. The staff consists of knowledgeable firearms experts who provide exceptional customer service, with many customers praising their helpful attitude and willingness to educate. They also offer comprehensive training courses, FFL transfers, and maintain a robust selection of ammunition and accessories.
Foothills Firearms
Foothills Firearms LLC
Located just minutes from Catawba in Conover, Foothills Firearms has built an outstanding reputation for quality firearms and exceptional customer service. They specialize in modern sporting rifles, handguns, and hunting firearms, with a particular focus on the AR-15 platform. Their in-house gunsmithing services include custom builds, repairs, and professional Cerakote applications. Customers consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff who take time to understand individual needs and provide personalized recommendations. The shop maintains a well-stocked inventory of firearms, optics, and ammunition, and they're known for their efficient FFL transfer process and competitive pricing.
Carolina Sporting Arms
Carolina Sporting Arms Inc.
While located in Charlotte, Carolina Sporting Arms serves customers throughout the region including Catawba County and is considered one of the top firearm destinations in Western North Carolina. They operate a massive 25,000 sq ft facility that includes an extensive showroom, state-of-the-art indoor shooting range, and comprehensive training center. Their inventory is among the largest in the Southeast, featuring everything from concealed carry handguns to high-end hunting rifles and tactical firearms. The professional gunsmithing department offers full services including custom builds, sight installation, and repairs. Their training programs are particularly renowned, covering everything from basic firearm safety to advanced defensive tactics and concealed carry certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Catawba, North Carolina
What are the main gun shops in Catawba, NC, and what services do they typically offer?
The primary gun shops in the Catawba area include Carolina Gunrunners, Foothills Firearms, and Carolina Sporting Arms. These shops typically offer firearms sales (new and used), FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and often basic gunsmithing services. Some may also provide safety equipment, holsters, and local hunting or shooting resources specific to North Carolina's Piedmont region.
What are North Carolina's requirements for purchasing a handgun from a gun shop in Catawba?
To purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer in Catawba, NC, you must be at least 21 years old, a resident of North Carolina, and pass a federal NICS background check. North Carolina also requires a pistol purchase permit from your county sheriff's office OR a valid NC Concealed Handgun Permit to bypass the permit requirement. Catawba residents would obtain this permit through the Catawba County Sheriff's Office.
Do Catawba gun shops process private party transfers or online purchases, and what is required?
Yes, shops like Carolina Gunrunners and Foothills Firearms typically offer FFL transfer services for private sales or online purchases. Both the buyer and seller (if local) must complete paperwork at the shop, and the buyer must pass the same background check requirements as a retail purchase. There is usually a transfer fee, and the firearm must be shipped to or brought by the seller to the licensed Catawba FFL for the transaction.
Are there any local Catawba or North Carolina-specific regulations I should know before buying a long gun or shotgun?
For long guns and shotguns purchased in Catawba, you must be at least 18 years old and pass a NICS check. North Carolina does not require a purchase permit for long guns. However, be aware of local hunting regulations if purchasing for that purpose, and note that some municipalities in NC may have additional discharge ordinances, though Catawba County is generally permissive for lawful shooting on private property.
Do gun shops in Catawba offer concealed carry training or resources for obtaining an NC CHP?
Many Catawba-area shops, such as Carolina Sporting Arms, either offer or can refer you to state-certified Concealed Carry Handgun (CCH) courses required for an NC permit. The course includes firearm safety, law, and live-fire qualification. After completing the course, you apply through the Catawba County Sheriff's Office. Some shops may also provide holster fittings or safe storage options tailored to concealed carry.
Nearby Cities
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About Catawba, North Carolina
Catawba 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 North Carolina.
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