The Best Gun Shops in Mars Hill, North Carolina
Top 3 gun shops in Mars Hill, North Carolina. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Carolina Guns & Gear
Carolina Guns & Gear
Carolina Guns & Gear is widely regarded as one of Western North Carolina's premier firearms destinations. Located about 30 minutes from Mars Hill in Asheville, this family-owned shop has built an exceptional reputation over 14 years for their vast inventory of new and used firearms, comprehensive gunsmithing services, and outstanding customer education. Their staff includes certified instructors offering extensive training programs from beginner to advanced levels. The shop features a clean, professional environment with knowledgeable staff who take time to understand customer needs. They're particularly noted for their extensive selection of modern sporting rifles, handguns, and their well-equipped gunsmithing department capable of complex custom work and repairs.
On Target
On Target Range and Gun Shop
On Target serves the Mars Hill area from their Fletcher location approximately 35 minutes away, offering a complete firearms experience with Western North Carolina's largest indoor shooting range. This modern facility combines a well-stocked retail shop with 16 indoor lanes accommodating handguns and rifles up to .50 BMG. Their inventory includes top brands like Glock, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, and Springfield Armory, with competitive pricing on both firearms and ammunition. The staff includes NRA-certified instructors offering comprehensive training programs from concealed carry to advanced tactical courses. Their gunsmithing services handle everything from simple repairs to custom builds, making them a one-stop destination for shooters throughout the region.
Asheville Armory
Asheville Armory
Asheville Armory has established itself as a top-tier firearms retailer serving the Mars Hill community from their Asheville location approximately 25 minutes away. Specializing in both modern firearms and historical military collectibles, they offer a unique blend of traditional gunsmithing expertise and contemporary firearms knowledge. Their gunsmithing department is particularly respected for precision work on both modern sporting firearms and historical restoration projects. The shop maintains strong relationships with major manufacturers ensuring consistent inventory of popular models. Customer service is a cornerstone of their business, with staff known for taking time to educate customers and find the right firearm for their needs. They also handle efficient FFL transfers and maintain good ammunition stock even during shortages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Mars Hill, North Carolina
What are the main gun shops serving the Mars Hill, NC area and what services do they typically offer?
The Mars Hill area is primarily served by shops like Carolina Guns & Gear, On Target, and Asheville Armory, which offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, and accessories. Many also provide gunsmithing services, safety equipment, and some offer training courses or have relationships with local ranges. These shops cater to both local residents and those in surrounding Madison County communities.
What are North Carolina's specific requirements for purchasing a handgun from a gun shop in Mars Hill?
In North Carolina, purchasing a handgun from a Mars Hill gun shop requires a valid North Carolina ID or driver's license with your current address, and a Pistol Purchase Permit issued by your county sheriff's office (Madison County Sheriff for local residents) or a valid NC Concealed Handgun Permit. The shop will also conduct an instant background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) at the time of purchase.
How does the long gun purchasing process differ from handguns at Mars Hill, NC gun shops?
For long guns (rifles and shotguns) at Mars Hill shops, you only need a valid government-issued photo ID proving North Carolina residency and must pass the NICS background check. Unlike handguns, long guns do not require a purchase permit from the sheriff's office in North Carolina. Some shops may have additional policies for certain firearms, so it's best to call ahead to Carolina Guns & Gear, On Target, or Asheville Armory to confirm their specific procedures.
Can I have a firearm shipped to a Mars Hill gun shop from an online retailer, and what is the transfer process?
Yes, Mars Hill gun shops like Carolina Guns & Gear and Asheville Armory typically offer FFL transfer services for firearms purchased online. You must have the online seller ship the firearm to the local shop's licensed address, then complete the required North Carolina paperwork and background check upon pickup. Transfer fees vary by shop, so contact them directly for current rates and to provide their FFL information to the seller.
What local training or safety resources are available through Mars Hill area gun shops?
While Mars Hill itself has limited dedicated training facilities, local shops often provide information on nearby training courses and may host occasional safety seminars. Many recommend certified instructors in the Asheville region for Concealed Carry Handgun courses required for a North Carolina CHP. Some shops also offer basic firearm handling demonstrations and can direct you to local shooting ranges in Madison and Buncombe counties for practice.
Nearby Cities
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About Mars Hill, North Carolina
Mars Hill 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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