The Best Gun Shops in Stratford, South Dakota
Top 3 gun shops in Stratford, South Dakota. Rated 4.6/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Aberdeen Gun & Pawn
Aberdeen Gun & Pawn
Aberdeen Gun & Pawn is widely regarded as one of eastern South Dakota's premier firearm destinations, serving the Stratford area with exceptional expertise. The shop features an extensive inventory of new and used firearms including handguns, rifles, shotguns, and tactical firearms. Their knowledgeable staff provides professional gunsmithing services, FFL transfers, and comprehensive ammunition selection. Customers consistently praise the shop's outstanding customer service, fair pricing, and the staff's deep firearms knowledge, making it worth the drive from Stratford for serious firearm enthusiasts.
Scheels
Scheels All Sports
Scheels in Sioux Falls serves as a major regional destination for Stratford area residents seeking a comprehensive firearms experience. The store features an enormous selection of hunting rifles, shotguns, handguns, and tactical firearms from top manufacturers. Their professional gunsmithing department offers sight installation, trigger work, and custom modifications. The knowledgeable staff includes certified instructors who provide firearms safety and training courses. Customers consistently rate Scheels highly for their vast inventory, competitive pricing, and expert staff, making it a popular regional choice despite the distance from Stratford.
Runnings
Runnings Stores
Runnings in Watertown provides Stratford area customers with a reliable firearms destination combining farm and outdoor supplies with a substantial gun department. The store offers a well-curated selection of popular hunting rifles, shotguns, and handguns at competitive prices. Their ammunition department is consistently well-stocked, and they carry essential firearms accessories and optics. While primarily focused on hunting and sporting firearms, the knowledgeable staff provides excellent service for both novice and experienced shooters. Customers appreciate the convenience of one-stop shopping for firearms, ammunition, and outdoor gear with consistently good service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Stratford, South Dakota
What are the main gun shops serving the Stratford, SD area?
While Stratford itself is a small community, residents typically visit nearby Aberdeen for major gun shops. The top options include Aberdeen Gun & Pawn for a wide used and new selection with FFL services, Scheels for new firearms and extensive accessories, and Runnings for a mix of hunting firearms and ammo. These shops are all within a reasonable driving distance from Stratford.
What is the process to purchase a handgun or long gun in South Dakota?
South Dakota has minimal state-level restrictions on firearm purchases. For long guns and handguns, you must be 18 or 21 respectively, pass an instant federal NICS background check conducted by the dealer, and show valid government-issued photo ID. There is no state waiting period, permit-to-purchase, or firearm registration required. Private sales between South Dakota residents are also generally legal without a background check.
Do gun shops near Stratford, SD offer Federal Firearms License (FFL) transfer services?
Yes, shops like Aberdeen Gun & Pawn offer FFL transfer services for online firearm purchases. You would have the online retailer ship the firearm to their licensed address, then complete the 4473 form and background check upon pickup. It's advisable to contact the specific shop beforehand to confirm their transfer fees, policies, and availability, as these can vary.
What kind of training or certification courses are available through local gun shops?
While Stratford may not host courses locally, shops in Aberdeen and surrounding areas often provide or can refer you to certified instructors for South Dakota's Concealed Pistol Permit (CPP) course, hunter safety education, and basic firearms handling. South Dakota recognizes both resident and non-resident permits, and completing a certified course is required for a SD CPP application.
Are there any local ordinances in Stratford, SD that affect firearm ownership or carrying?
South Dakota has state preemption, meaning local governments like the City of Stratford cannot enact firearm ordinances stricter than state law. Therefore, state law governs all aspects of possession, carrying, and transportation. You can openly carry without a permit, and with a valid SD Concealed Pistol Permit, you may carry concealed. Always ensure you are aware of prohibited locations like schools and federal buildings.
About Stratford, South Dakota
Stratford 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 South Dakota.
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Shops familiar with Stratford community and local firearms needs.
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