The Best Gun Shops in Hertford, North Carolina
Top 3 gun shops in Hertford, North Carolina. Rated 4.5/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Elizabeth City Gun & Pawn
Elizabeth City Gun & Pawn
Elizabeth City Gun & Pawn is a highly-rated establishment known for its extensive inventory of new and used firearms, including popular brands for hunting, sport shooting, and personal defense. They offer professional gunsmithing services, firearm training courses, and FFL transfers, with a staff praised for their expertise and customer-focused approach. Located about 20 miles from Hertford, they serve customers throughout the Perquimans County area with a commitment to quality and safety.
Edenton Gun Shop
Edenton Gun Shop
Edenton Gun Shop is a well-established, family-owned business with a strong reputation for reliability and knowledge in firearms. They provide a curated selection of rifles, shotguns, handguns, and ammunition, along with expert gunsmithing and transfer services. Customers appreciate the personalized service and fair pricing, making it a trusted destination for shooters in the Hertford region, located approximately 15 miles away.
Ahoskie Gun & Pawn
Ahoskie Gun & Pawn
Ahoskie Gun & Pawn offers a comprehensive range of firearms, pawn services, and accessories, serving the Hertford area from about 30 miles away. Known for their friendly and knowledgeable staff, they specialize in hunting and sporting firearms, with additional services like FFL transfers and ammunition sales. Their long-standing presence in the community and focus on customer satisfaction make them a reliable choice for local gun enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Hertford, North Carolina
What are the main gun shops serving the Hertford, NC area?
While Hertford itself has limited dedicated gun shops, residents commonly visit nearby stores such as Elizabeth City Gun & Pawn (about 20 minutes away), Edenton Gun Shop (roughly 30 minutes away), and Ahoskie Gun & Pawn (approximately 25 minutes away). These shops provide comprehensive services including firearm sales, transfers, and ammunition to the Perquimans County and surrounding region.
What is required to purchase a handgun from a gun shop in North Carolina?
To purchase a handgun in North Carolina, you must be at least 21 years old, a resident of the state, and possess either a North Carolina-issued Pistol Purchase Permit from your local county sheriff's office or a valid NC Concealed Handgun Permit. The gun shop will conduct a mandatory federal NICS background check at the time of purchase. For Hertford residents, permits are obtained through the Perquimans County Sheriff's Office.
Do local gun shops offer firearm safety or concealed carry training?
Yes, shops serving the Hertford area, such as Elizabeth City Gun & Pawn and Edenton Gun Shop, often host or can refer you to certified instructors for North Carolina Concealed Carry Handgun (CCH) courses. These 8-hour classes cover state laws, safety, and proficiency, and are required to apply for a concealed handgun permit through the Perquimans County Sheriff's Office.
How does the process work for an online firearm purchase to be transferred through a local FFL?
When you buy a firearm online, you must have it shipped to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in North Carolina. You should contact a local shop like Ahoskie Gun & Pawn in advance to confirm their transfer fees and policies. Upon arrival, you will complete a Form 4473 and undergo a NICS background check at the shop before taking possession, following all NC state purchasing requirements.
Are there any local regulations in Hertford or Perquimans County affecting firearm ownership or carry?
Hertford and Perquimans County generally follow North Carolina state law, which preempts most local firearm ordinances. Open carry is legal without a permit, but a valid NC Concealed Handgun Permit is required for concealed carry. It is always advisable to check for any specific county or town park regulations regarding firearms, and local gun shops can provide current guidance on lawful carry in the area.
Finding Certified Gun Stores in Hertford, NC: Your Guide to Quality Firearms Services
This guide helps Hertford, NC gun enthusiasts understand the importance of certified gun stores, highlighting what certifications mean and how to identify reputable local options in the area while emphasizing their role in safe, legal firearm ownership.
For gun enthusiasts in Hertford, North Carolina, finding a certified gun store isn't just about convenience—it's about trust, expertise, and ensuring your firearms experience meets the highest standards. While Hertford itself is a charming small town, the surrounding Perquimans County and nearby areas offer several reputable options that understand the needs of local hunters, sport shooters, and responsible firearm owners.
What exactly makes a gun store "certified"? In our context, this typically means dealers with Federal Firearms Licenses (FFL) in good standing, staff who pursue ongoing training (like NRA-certified instructors), and establishments that adhere to both state and federal regulations meticulously. These certifications matter because they ensure proper background checks, lawful transfers, and knowledgeable guidance—especially important with North Carolina's specific firearm laws.
Locally, you'll find several trusted options. Elizabeth City Gun & Pawn, just a short drive from Hertford, offers FFL services and a solid selection for northeastern NC residents. Edenton Gun Shop brings decades of local expertise to the table, serving the Chowan County area with certified transfers and gunsmithing. For those heading toward Ahoskie, Ahoskie Gun & Pawn provides another reliable option for purchases and paperwork. While Hertford doesn't have a large standalone gun shop within city limits, these nearby certified dealers become essential partners for transfers, purchases, and expert advice.
When visiting any certified gun store in our region, here's what to look for: First, verify their FFL status—reputable shops will transparently confirm their licensing. Second, observe how they handle the 4473 background check process; thoroughness here reflects overall professionalism. Third, ask about their gunsmithing services or whether they have certified armorers on staff—this is invaluable for maintenance and customization. Finally, notice if they engage in continuing education about NC firearm laws, which change periodically.
For Hertford residents, building a relationship with a certified store means more than just transactions. It means having a local expert who understands our rural lifestyle, hunting seasons, and home defense considerations unique to eastern North Carolina. These professionals can guide you on everything from selecting the right shotgun for waterfowl in the Perquimans River marshes to choosing a concealed carry option suitable for our community.
Remember, certification isn't just paperwork—it's a commitment to safety, legality, and customer education. Whether you're a longtime collector or a first-time buyer in the Hertford area, prioritizing certified establishments ensures your firearm ownership journey starts on solid ground. Stop by one of these local shops, ask about their certifications, and experience the difference that professional standards make in serving NC's responsible gun community.
About Hertford, North Carolina
Hertford 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.
Local Expertise
Shops familiar with Hertford community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Hertford.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.