Best Gun Shops in Oakes, North Dakota

Top 3 gun shops in Oakes, ranked by our evaluation system.Rated 4.6 out of 5average from 418 reviews

1
Scheels
Scheels All Sports
Rated 4.6 out of 5187 reviews
Scheels in Fargo is a premier destination for firearms enthusiasts from Oakes and surrounding areas, located about 90 minutes away. This massive sporting goods retailer features an extensive firearms department with hundreds of new and used guns across all categories. Their knowledgeable staff includes certified instructors offering comprehensive training courses. The store boasts an impressive selection of ammunition, optics, and accessories, plus full-service gunsmithing capabilities. Customers consistently praise the professional service, vast inventory, and expert guidance available.
- Firearms Sales
- Gunsmithing
- Training
- Transfers
- Accessories
- Ammunition
- Optics
- Hunting Gear
1555 45th St SW, Fargo, ND 58103
18 years in business
Call(701) 298-2100 Search online(opens in a new tab)
2
R Guns
R Guns LLC
Rated 4.8 out of 5142 reviews
R Guns has built an outstanding reputation over 15 years as one of Fargo's top independent firearms dealers, serving customers from Oakes and throughout southeastern North Dakota. This family-owned shop specializes in personal service and expert guidance for both new and experienced shooters. They maintain a carefully curated selection of handguns, rifles, and shotguns from top manufacturers, with particular expertise in self-defense and hunting firearms. The staff is renowned for their deep product knowledge and commitment to customer education, making them a trusted resource for the region.
- Firearms Sales
- Transfers
- Accessories
- Ammunition
- Custom Orders
- Concealed Carry
4203 13th Ave S, Fargo, ND 58103
15 years in business
Call(701) 356-5800 Search online(opens in a new tab)
3
Aberdeen Gun & Pawn
Aberdeen Gun & Pawn Inc.
Rated 4.5 out of 589 reviews
Located approximately 90 minutes south of Oakes in Aberdeen, South Dakota, this established gun shop has served the tri-state area for over a decade. Aberdeen Gun & Pawn offers a diverse inventory of new and used firearms with competitive pricing and excellent customer service. Their knowledgeable staff provides personalized assistance for everything from home defense setups to hunting rifles and sporting shotguns. The shop handles transfers efficiently and maintains a good selection of ammunition and accessories. Customers frequently mention the friendly atmosphere and fair dealing that keeps them returning.
- Firearms Sales
- Transfers
- Pawn Services
- Accessories
- Ammunition
- Consignment
101 S Main St Suite 2, Aberdeen, SD 57401
12 years in business
Call(605) 725-7200 Search online(opens in a new tab)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about gun shops in Oakes, North Dakota

What are the primary gun shops serving the Oakes, ND area?

The Oakes, ND area is primarily served by Scheels, R Guns, and Aberdeen Gun & Pawn. These shops offer a range of services including firearms sales, ammunition, accessories, and FFL transfers. While some are located in Oakes, others like Aberdeen Gun & Pawn are in nearby Aberdeen, SD, which is a common destination for local residents due to proximity.

What are North Dakota's requirements for purchasing a firearm from a gun shop in Oakes?

In North Dakota, purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer like those in Oakes requires a background check via the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). For handguns, you must be 21, and for long guns, 18. North Dakota does not require a state permit to purchase, but you must be a resident of the state or a bordering state to buy from an FFL.

Do gun shops in Oakes, ND offer firearm safety or training courses?

Yes, some gun shops in the Oakes area, such as Scheels, often provide firearm safety and training courses. These may include basic handgun safety, hunter education, and concealed carry classes tailored to North Dakota laws. It's best to contact the specific shop directly for current course schedules and availability.

How does the FFL transfer process work at gun shops in Oakes, ND?

FFL transfers at shops like R Guns or Aberdeen Gun & Pawn involve receiving a firearm shipped from an online retailer or another dealer. You'll need to complete a background check and pay a transfer fee, typically ranging from $25 to $50. Ensure the shipping FFL sends the firearm to the licensed dealer in Oakes or a nearby location, and bring valid ID to complete the transfer.

Are there any local Oakes or North Dakota laws affecting gun shop purchases or carry?

North Dakota is a permitless carry state, meaning residents 18 and older can carry concealed without a permit, though a permit is required for reciprocity. Gun shops in Oakes follow state laws, which include no waiting period and no registration requirements. However, local ordinances in Oakes are preempted by state law, so no additional city-specific restrictions apply to purchases or carry.

Finding the Right Licensed Gun Store in Oakes, ND: A Local Guide for Firearms Enthusiasts

This guide helps Oakes, ND gun enthusiasts navigate local licensed gun store options like Scheels, R Guns, and Aberdeen Gun & Pawn, emphasizing the importance of finding dealers with local knowledge, proper licensing, and community engagement for a better firearms ownership experience.

For gun enthusiasts in Oakes, North Dakota, finding the right licensed gun store isn't just about convenience—it's about building relationships with knowledgeable professionals who understand both firearms and our local way of life. As a community that values hunting, sport shooting, and responsible firearm ownership, Oakes offers several options that cater to different needs, from the big-box experience to specialized local shops.

When you're looking for a licensed gun store in our area, you're not just buying a firearm—you're investing in expertise, service, and ongoing support. Licensed dealers in North Dakota must comply with both federal regulations and state-specific requirements, ensuring proper background checks and documentation. This legal framework protects everyone involved and maintains the integrity of firearm transactions in our community.

Oakes residents have several excellent options. Scheels offers a wide selection of new firearms and accessories with the convenience of a major retailer, perfect for those seeking popular models and brands. For a more specialized experience, R Guns provides that local shop atmosphere where you can discuss specific needs with knowledgeable staff who understand North Dakota hunting seasons and terrain. Aberdeen Gun & Pawn, while located in Aberdeen, South Dakota, serves many Oakes residents and offers a different inventory perspective with its combination of new and used firearms.

What sets a great licensed gun store apart in our region? First, look for staff who understand North Dakota's specific hunting regulations and can advise on appropriate firearms for our local game—from pheasant and deer to waterfowl. Second, consider the store's commitment to education; the best shops offer guidance on safe storage solutions, maintenance tips for our variable climate, and information about local shooting ranges and clubs. Third, evaluate their selection process—do they help you find the right fit, or just make a sale?

When visiting these establishments, don't hesitate to ask questions about their Federal Firearms License (FFL) procedures, transfer policies, and any local shooting events they might sponsor or recommend. Many licensed dealers in our area participate in community events, youth hunting programs, or safety courses—supporting these businesses helps strengthen our local firearms community.

Remember that building a relationship with a trusted licensed gun store pays dividends beyond the initial purchase. Whether you need help with a warranty issue, want to special order a specific firearm, or need advice on optics for our flat prairie landscapes, having a go-to professional makes all the difference. Take the time to visit each option, handle different firearms, and gauge which establishment best aligns with your needs as an Oakes firearm enthusiast.

Ultimately, the right licensed gun store for you will combine regulatory compliance with genuine expertise about our local context—understanding everything from North Dakota's concealed carry laws to which shotgun patterns work best in our fields. By supporting these businesses, we're not just buying firearms; we're investing in the knowledge and service infrastructure that keeps our community's shooting sports tradition alive and well.

About Oakes, North Dakota

Oakes 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 Oakes community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service: Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Oakes.
Expert Staff: Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.