The Best Gun Shops in Durham, North Carolina
Top 3 gun shops in Durham, North Carolina. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Fuquay Gun & Gold
Fuquay Gun & Gold
Widely regarded as one of North Carolina's premier firearms destinations, Fuquay Gun & Gold serves the entire Triangle area including Durham with an enormous 10,000+ square foot facility. They feature one of the largest inventories in the Southeast with extensive new and used firearms, comprehensive gunsmithing services, and a state-of-the-art indoor range. Their knowledgeable staff and exceptional customer service have earned them a stellar reputation throughout the region. The shop also offers extensive training programs, NFA services, and a massive selection of accessories and ammunition.
Carolina Gunrunners
Carolina Gunrunners
Carolina Gunrunners has built an outstanding reputation in the Triangle area for their expertise in modern sporting rifles and high-quality firearms. Located in nearby Raleigh, they serve Durham customers with exceptional professionalism and knowledge. The shop specializes in AR-platform rifles, tactical firearms, and self-defense handguns, with a strong emphasis on customer education and proper firearm selection. Their gunsmithing services are highly regarded, and they offer comprehensive NFA services including silencer transfers and Form 4 processing.
Personal Defense & Handgun Safety Center
PDHSC
As one of the Triangle's longest-established firearms retailers, PDHSC has been serving Durham and surrounding areas since 1999. They operate a comprehensive 13,000 square foot facility featuring a full-service gun shop, extensive training programs, and a modern indoor shooting range. Their experienced staff provides exceptional customer service and firearms expertise, with a strong focus on education and safety. The shop offers a wide selection of handguns, rifles, and shotguns, plus comprehensive gunsmithing services and one of the area's most respected training programs for concealed carry and self-defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Durham, North Carolina
What are the top-rated gun shops in Durham, NC, and what services do they specialize in?
The top gun shops in Durham include Fuquay Gun & Gold (known for extensive inventory and gunsmithing), Carolina Gunrunners (specializing in high-end firearms and transfers), and Personal Defense & Handgun Safety Center (focused on training and concealed carry classes). These shops offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, training, accessories, and safety equipment tailored to North Carolina regulations.
What are North Carolina's requirements for purchasing a handgun from a Durham gun shop?
In North Carolina, purchasing a handgun requires a valid North Carolina ID or driver's license with your current address, completion of a pistol purchase permit from the Durham County Sheriff's Office or a NC Concealed Handgun Permit, and passing a federal NICS background check. Gun shops in Durham will assist with the paperwork and ensure compliance with all state and federal laws.
Do Durham gun shops offer concealed carry training, and what are NC's requirements for a concealed handgun permit?
Yes, shops like Personal Defense & Handgun Safety Center offer state-approved concealed carry classes. North Carolina requires applicants to complete an 8-hour training course, submit an application to the Durham County Sheriff's Office, pass a background check, and meet eligibility criteria (e.g., age 21+, residency). Local gun shops can provide course schedules and application guidance.
How do FFL transfers work at gun shops in Durham, and what are typical fees?
FFL transfers in Durham involve the gun shop receiving a firearm purchased online or from another dealer, processing required federal and state paperwork, and conducting a background check. Typical fees range from $25 to $50 per transfer at shops like Carolina Gunrunners. You must provide ID and any required permits (e.g., pistol purchase permit) and comply with NC's waiting period and regulations.
Are there any local Durham regulations or restrictions that gun shops follow beyond state laws?
Durham gun shops adhere to North Carolina state laws, as local municipalities in NC are preempted from enacting stricter firearm regulations. However, shops follow all federal laws and may have store-specific policies (e.g., age restrictions for browsing). They also stay updated on state-level changes, such as recent legislation affecting pistol purchase permits or concealed carry reciprocity.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Durham:
About Durham, North Carolina
Durham 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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