The Best Gun Shops in Watauga, Tennessee
Top 3 gun shops in Watauga, Tennessee. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
The Gun Rack LLC
The Gun Rack LLC
The Gun Rack is a highly respected family-owned firearms dealer located just 15 minutes from Watauga in Johnson City. Known for exceptional customer service and extensive inventory of new and used firearms, they specialize in custom builds and have an on-site gunsmith. Their staff is praised for deep knowledge and patience with both novice and experienced shooters. The shop maintains an excellent reputation for fair pricing and quality gunsmithing services.
The Gun Barn
The Gun Barn
Located in historic Jonesborough approximately 20 minutes from Watauga, The Gun Barn has built a strong reputation for their vast selection of firearms and competitive pricing. They're particularly known for their extensive ammunition inventory and helpful, knowledgeable staff. The shop features both modern and classic firearms with a focus on customer education. Their transfer services are highly rated with reasonable fees and efficient processing.
Carter County Gun Works
Carter County Gun Works
Situated in nearby Elizabethton just 10 minutes from Watauga, Carter County Gun Works is a full-service gun shop with excellent gunsmithing capabilities. They specialize in custom orders and hard-to-find firearms, with staff known for their expertise in both modern tactical and traditional hunting firearms. The shop maintains a clean, professional environment and is praised for their attention to detail and reliable service work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Watauga, Tennessee
What are the main gun shops in Watauga, TN, and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops in Watauga, TN, include The Gun Rack LLC, The Gun Barn, and Carter County Gun Works. These shops typically offer firearms sales (new and used), FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and basic gunsmithing services. Some may also provide training or safety courses, so it's best to contact them directly for specific offerings.
What are Tennessee's requirements for purchasing a firearm from a gun shop in Watauga?
In Tennessee, purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer in Watauga requires you to be at least 18 for long guns and 21 for handguns, a resident of Tennessee, and pass a federal NICS background check. There is no state waiting period or permit required for purchase, but you must present valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license.
Do Watauga gun shops handle private party transfers, and what is the process?
Yes, gun shops like The Gun Rack LLC or Carter County Gun Works in Watauga typically facilitate private party transfers as Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders. The process involves both parties visiting the shop, completing a Form 4473, and undergoing a background check for the recipient, with the shop charging a fee (usually $20-$50) for the service to ensure legal compliance.
Are there any local Watauga or Tennessee laws affecting concealed carry that gun shops should know?
Tennessee is a permitless carry state, allowing most adults 21+ to carry concealed without a permit, but gun shops in Watauga often recommend obtaining a Tennessee Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit for reciprocity in other states and to bypass background checks for future purchases. Local Watauga ordinances generally align with state law, which preempts most local restrictions on firearms.
Do gun shops in Watauga, TN, offer training or safety courses for new gun owners?
Some Watauga gun shops, such as The Gun Barn or Carter County Gun Works, may offer or can refer you to local training courses, including Tennessee's mandatory safety course for an Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit. These courses cover firearm safety, state laws, and marksmanship, and are valuable for both new and experienced owners to ensure responsible handling and compliance.
Nearby Cities
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About Watauga, Tennessee
Watauga 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 Tennessee.
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