The Best Gun Shops in Ashley, North Dakota
Top 3 gun shops in Ashley, North Dakota. Rated 4.6/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Dakota Sporting Arms
Dakota Sporting Arms
Dakota Sporting Arms is a premier firearms retailer located just 20 miles from Ashley in Ellendale. This family-owned shop has built an outstanding reputation for exceptional customer service and expert knowledge. They carry a comprehensive selection of handguns, rifles, shotguns from top manufacturers, along with extensive ammunition inventory and hunting accessories. Their certified gunsmith provides reliable repair and customization services, and they offer professional firearms training courses. Known for their personalized service and deep community roots, they serve hunters, sport shooters, and self-defense customers throughout the Ashley region.
Scheels
Scheels All Sports
Scheels in Jamestown is a regional powerhouse serving the Ashley area with a massive selection of firearms and outdoor equipment. Located approximately 60 miles from Ashley, this reputable chain store features an extensive firearms department with knowledgeable staff who provide expert guidance. They stock a wide variety of rifles, shotguns, handguns from leading brands, along with comprehensive ammunition options and shooting accessories. Their professional approach to firearms sales and transfers, combined with their commitment to customer education, makes them a top choice for serious shooters and hunters in southeastern North Dakota.
Runnings
Runnings Stores
Runnings in Aberdeen, South Dakota serves the Ashley area with a well-stocked firearms department and reliable service. Located about 70 miles from Ashley, this regional chain has established itself as a trusted source for firearms, ammunition, and outdoor equipment. They offer a solid selection of popular firearms brands at competitive prices, along with comprehensive ammunition inventory and shooting accessories. Their knowledgeable staff provides professional service for both new and experienced gun owners, and they handle FFL transfers efficiently. While primarily serving the Aberdeen area, they regularly assist customers from across the North Dakota border including Ashley residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Ashley, North Dakota
What are the main gun shops serving the Ashley, ND area and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops serving Ashley, ND include Dakota Sporting Arms, Scheels, and Runnings. These retailers offer firearms sales, ammunition, hunting accessories, and basic gunsmithing services. Dakota Sporting Arms is known for its local expertise and personalized service, while Scheels and Runnings provide broader retail selections including firearms and outdoor gear.
What are North Dakota's specific requirements for purchasing a firearm in Ashley?
North Dakota requires purchasers to be at least 18 for long guns and 21 for handguns, with no state permit required to purchase. All firearm purchases from licensed dealers in Ashley require a federal background check through the NICS system. Private sales between North Dakota residents do not require background checks, but both parties must be legally eligible to possess firearms.
Do Ashley gun shops offer firearm safety training or concealed carry classes?
Yes, local gun shops like Dakota Sporting Arms often provide or can refer customers to certified firearm safety and concealed carry training. North Dakota recognizes both resident and non-resident concealed carry permits, and classes cover state-specific laws, safe handling, and marksmanship fundamentals. Some shops may host certified instructors or provide information about upcoming local training sessions.
How do FFL transfers work at Ashley gun shops for online firearm purchases?
When purchasing firearms online, you must have them shipped to a licensed FFL dealer in Ashley like Dakota Sporting Arms. The receiving gun shop will conduct the required background check and complete the transfer paperwork for a fee typically ranging from $25-$50. You'll need to provide valid North Dakota identification and pass the federal background check before taking possession of the firearm.
Are there any local Ashley ordinances or county regulations that affect gun ownership beyond state law?
Ashley follows North Dakota's preemption law, which prohibits local municipalities from enacting firearm regulations stricter than state law. McIntosh County, where Ashley is located, has no additional restrictions beyond state requirements. North Dakota is generally firearm-friendly with no assault weapon bans, magazine capacity limits, or registration requirements that would affect purchases in Ashley.
Finding Your Perfect Firearm: A Guide to Licensed Gun Stores in Ashley, ND
This guide helps Ashley, ND gun enthusiasts navigate local licensed gun stores like Dakota Sporting Arms, Scheels, and Runnings, emphasizing the importance of knowledgeable service, regulatory compliance, and building relationships with dealers who understand both firearms and local hunting and protection needs.
For gun enthusiasts in Ashley, North Dakota, finding the right licensed gun store is about more than just a transaction—it's about connecting with knowledgeable professionals who understand both the technical aspects of firearms and the practical realities of life in McIntosh County. Whether you're a seasoned hunter preparing for pheasant season, a competitive shooter, or a first-time buyer seeking home protection, the licensed establishments in our area serve as crucial community hubs where expertise meets local needs.
In Ashley, you have several excellent options for licensed firearm purchases and services. Dakota Sporting Arms stands out as a dedicated local shop where you'll often find owners and staff who can discuss everything from the ballistics of a .30-06 to the best local spots for deer. Their Federal Firearms License (FFL) ensures all transactions comply with state and federal regulations, giving you peace of mind with your purchase. Meanwhile, larger retailers like Scheels and Runnings offer the advantage of extensive inventory under that same licensed umbrella, allowing you to compare numerous models side-by-side while still benefiting from trained staff who can process your background check efficiently.
What truly separates a great licensed gun store from a mere retailer is the service that extends beyond the counter. When you visit these Ashley establishments, pay attention to whether staff ask about your intended use—are you hunting coyotes in the surrounding prairie, or looking for a reliable sidearm for farm protection? A quality licensed dealer will help you navigate North Dakota's specific regulations, including concealed carry requirements and hunting ordinances. They should also provide guidance on proper storage solutions, especially important in households with children.
Before visiting any licensed gun store in Ashley, do your homework. Check current inventory online when possible, but don't underestimate the value of handling firearms in person. The feel of a stock against your shoulder or the grip in your hand can't be replicated through a screen. When you visit, bring your North Dakota driver's license and be prepared for the mandatory background check—a standard procedure at all properly licensed establishments. Consider building a relationship with one shop; repeat customers often receive notifications about new arrivals, special orders, or local shooting events.
Remember that supporting licensed gun stores in Ashley means investing in our local economy and ensuring responsible firearm commerce in our community. These businesses provide not just products, but education, safety resources, and a connection point for local shooters. Whether you end up choosing the specialized focus of Dakota Sporting Arms or the broad selection at Scheels or Runnings, you're participating in a tradition that respects both our Second Amendment rights and our North Dakota values of responsibility and community.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Ashley:
About Ashley, North Dakota
Ashley 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 Dakota.
Local Expertise
Shops familiar with Ashley community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Ashley.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.