Best Gun Shops in Burlington, Vermont

Top 3 gun shops in Burlington, ranked by our evaluation system.Rated 4.7 out of 5average from 297 reviews

1
Parro's Gun Shop
Rated 4.8 out of 587 reviews
Family-owned and operated since 1979, Parro's Gun Shop is widely regarded as one of Vermont's premier firearms destinations. Located just 30 minutes from Burlington, they offer an extensive selection of new and used firearms with particular expertise in hunting rifles, shotguns, and personal defense weapons. Their on-site gunsmithing services are highly respected throughout the region, handling everything from simple repairs to complex custom work. The staff is known for their exceptional knowledge and patient, educational approach with both new and experienced shooters.
- Firearms Sales
- Gunsmithing
- Training
- Transfers
- Accessories
- Ammunition
- Custom Work
2447 Waterbury-Stowe Road, Waterbury, VT 05676
45 years in business
Call(802) 244-8692 Search online(opens in a new tab)
2
J&J Arms
Rated 4.7 out of 5142 reviews
Located just 15 minutes from Burlington in Williston, J&J Arms has built a strong reputation for their knowledgeable staff and extensive inventory. They specialize in modern sporting rifles, tactical firearms, and personal defense weapons, while also maintaining a solid selection of hunting firearms. Their gunsmithing services are comprehensive, and they're one of the few shops in the area that handles NFA items including suppressors and short-barreled rifles. Customers consistently praise their professional service, competitive pricing, and willingness to educate buyers.
- Firearms Sales
- Gunsmithing
- Transfers
- Accessories
- Ammunition
- NFA Items
353 Marshall Avenue, Suite 107, Williston, VT 05495
15 years in business
Call(802) 872-9311 Search online(opens in a new tab)
3
Jolly Gun Shop
Rated 4.6 out of 568 reviews
Established for over five decades and located just 15 minutes from Burlington in Essex Junction, Jolly Gun Shop is a Vermont institution known for their traditional gunsmithing expertise and extensive hunting firearm selection. They maintain a diverse inventory ranging from classic hunting rifles and shotguns to modern handguns. The shop is particularly noted for their repair and restoration services, with gunsmiths capable of handling everything from antique firearm restoration to modern sight installations. Their staff provides old-school customer service with deep knowledge of Vermont hunting traditions and requirements.
- Firearms Sales
- Gunsmithing
- Transfers
- Accessories
- Ammunition
- Hunting Supplies
5 Park Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452
50+ years in business
Call(802) 878-5565 Search online(opens in a new tab)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about gun shops in Burlington, Vermont

What are the main gun shops in Burlington, VT, and what services do they offer?

The primary gun shops in Burlington include Parro's Gun Shop, J&J Arms, and Jolly Gun Shop. These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and gunsmithing services. Some may also provide safety training or consultations, catering to both new and experienced gun owners in the area.

What are Vermont's specific laws regarding purchasing a firearm from a gun shop in Burlington?

Vermont has no state-level permit or registration requirements for purchasing firearms, but federal laws apply, including background checks through the NICS system. However, Burlington gun shops must comply with Vermont's universal background check law for private sales, which requires all transfers to go through a licensed dealer. It's advisable to check with local shops like Parro's or J&J Arms for any city-specific ordinances or procedural details.

Do Burlington gun shops offer firearm safety or training courses, and are they required in Vermont?

Yes, shops like Parro's Gun Shop and J&J Arms often offer firearm safety and training courses, though Vermont does not mandate them for ownership. These courses are highly recommended for new gun owners and cover topics such as safe handling, storage, and state laws. Training can enhance safety and compliance, especially given Vermont's relatively permissive gun laws.

How does the FFL transfer process work at gun shops in Burlington, VT?

FFL transfers in Burlington involve a licensed dealer, such as Parro's or Jolly Gun Shop, facilitating the transfer of a firearm purchased online or from another source. The process includes a background check, completion of ATF Form 4473, and payment of a transfer fee, typically around $25-$50. This ensures compliance with Vermont's universal background check law and federal regulations.

Are there any local Burlington ordinances that affect gun shop services or firearm possession?

Burlington has some local ordinances, such as restrictions on carrying firearms in city parks or buildings, but these primarily affect possession rather than gun shop operations. Shops like J&J Arms or Parro's can advise on these rules, as Vermont state law generally preempts local regulation of sales. Always verify current ordinances with the shop or local authorities to ensure compliance.

Finding the Right Licensed Gun Shop in Burlington, VT: A Guide for Local Enthusiasts

This guide helps Burlington, VT gun enthusiasts understand the importance of choosing properly licensed gun shops, highlights local options like Parro's, J&J Arms, and Jolly Gun Shop, and provides practical advice for navigating Vermont's specific firearms landscape while ensuring legal compliance and community connection.

For gun enthusiasts in Burlington, Vermont, finding the right licensed gun shop is about more than just making a purchase—it's about connecting with a community, accessing expert knowledge, and ensuring every transaction meets Vermont's specific legal requirements. As a city that values both outdoor traditions and responsible ownership, Burlington offers several excellent options for firearms enthusiasts seeking quality service and expertise.

When searching for licensed gun shops in the Burlington area, you'll want to consider several key factors beyond just inventory. First and foremost, verify that any shop you visit is properly licensed through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This federal licensing ensures they can legally sell firearms and conduct background checks—a crucial step in Vermont where private sales don't require background checks but licensed dealers must always perform them. This distinction makes choosing a properly licensed establishment particularly important for ensuring legal compliance.

Burlington's local gun shops each bring something unique to the community. Parro's Gun Shop has been serving Vermonters for decades with a reputation for knowledgeable staff and a wide selection of hunting firearms—perfect for those exploring Vermont's abundant hunting opportunities. J&J Arms offers a more modern retail experience with competitive pricing on both new and used firearms, while Jolly Gun Shop provides personalized service and expertise in firearm customization and repairs. Visiting these establishments allows you to experience their different specialties firsthand.

Beyond sales, licensed gun shops in Burlington provide essential services that benefit local enthusiasts. Many offer Federal Firearms License (FFL) transfers for online purchases, which is particularly valuable when you find a specific firearm not available locally. They also typically provide guidance on Vermont's specific firearms laws, which differ from federal regulations in several important ways. For instance, Vermont doesn't require permits to purchase or carry firearms, but licensed dealers still maintain meticulous records and follow all federal procedures.

When visiting Burlington's licensed gun shops, come prepared with questions about their transfer fees, gunsmithing services, and local shooting range recommendations. Building relationships with these businesses can lead to valuable insights about Vermont-specific hunting regulations, seasonal availability of ammunition, and community shooting events. Remember that supporting local licensed establishments not only ensures your transactions are handled properly but also strengthens Burlington's firearms community.

Whether you're a longtime collector, a first-time buyer, or someone seeking professional gunsmithing services, Burlington's licensed gun shops offer the expertise and legal compliance needed for responsible firearm ownership in Vermont. Take the time to visit multiple shops, ask questions, and find the establishment that best matches your needs and values—you'll be supporting local businesses while ensuring your firearms journey is both enjoyable and legally sound.

About Burlington, Vermont

Burlington 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 Vermont.

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