The Best Gun Shops in Charlottesville, Virginia
Top 3 gun shops in Charlottesville, Virginia. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Dominion Outdoors
Dominion Outdoors LLC
Dominion Outdoors is Charlottesville's premier full-service firearms retailer featuring an extensive selection of handguns, rifles, and shotguns from top manufacturers. Their on-site indoor range and professional training programs make them a comprehensive destination for both new and experienced shooters. The staff is known for exceptional customer service and deep firearms knowledge, with certified gunsmiths available for repairs and custom work. The shop maintains a well-stocked inventory of ammunition, optics, and shooting accessories, serving the local community with professionalism and expertise.
Green Top Sporting Goods
Green Top Hunting and Fishing Inc.
While located in Glen Allen (approximately 60 miles from Charlottesville), Green Top is a legendary Virginia institution that draws customers from across the state, including Charlottesville residents. They operate one of the largest firearms showrooms on the East Coast with an incredible inventory of modern and classic firearms. Their professional gunsmithing department handles everything from simple repairs to complex custom work, and their staff includes numerous certified firearms instructors. The massive retail space also features extensive ammunition selection, tactical gear, and outdoor equipment, making it worth the drive for serious firearms enthusiasts.
Bob's Gun Shop
Bob's Gun Shop Inc.
Located in Norfolk (serving customers from across Virginia), Bob's Gun Shop has built a stellar reputation over 25 years for exceptional gunsmithing services and quality firearms sales. While farther from Charlottesville, they regularly serve customers from across the state due to their expertise in custom gunsmithing, firearm modifications, and repair work. The shop maintains a solid inventory of handguns, rifles, and shotguns, with particular strength in custom builds and specialty firearms. Their gunsmiths are highly skilled in everything from basic maintenance to advanced custom work, making them a trusted destination for complex firearms needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Charlottesville, Virginia
What are the top gun shops in Charlottesville, VA, and what services do they offer?
The top gun shops in Charlottesville, VA, include Dominion Outdoors, Green Top Sporting Goods, and Bob's Gun Shop. These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and gunsmithing services. Some, like Dominion Outdoors, may also provide training courses and range facilities, catering to both new and experienced gun owners in the area.
What are the key Virginia state laws I need to know before purchasing a firearm in Charlottesville?
In Virginia, you must be at least 18 to purchase a long gun and 21 for a handgun, with a background check required for all sales. There is no state permit required to purchase firearms, but private sales of handguns require a background check through a licensed dealer. Additionally, Virginia has a one-handgun-per-month law, though exceptions exist for concealed carry permit holders and certain other circumstances.
How does the FFL transfer process work at gun shops in Charlottesville, VA?
FFL transfers in Charlottesville involve having a firearm shipped from an online retailer or private seller to a local licensed dealer like Dominion Outdoors or Bob's Gun Shop. The shop will conduct a background check and complete the required federal and state paperwork. You'll typically pay a transfer fee, which varies by shop, before taking possession of the firearm once approved.
Do gun shops in Charlottesville offer concealed carry training, and what are Virginia's requirements?
Yes, many gun shops in Charlottesville, such as Dominion Outdoors, offer concealed carry training courses. Virginia requires applicants to complete an approved training course that includes live-fire instruction. After training, you apply for a permit through the local circuit court, which is valid for five years and recognized in many other states through reciprocity agreements.
Are there any local Charlottesville regulations or restrictions on firearms that differ from state law?
Charlottesville follows Virginia state law, which preempts most local firearm regulations. However, local ordinances may restrict the discharge of firearms within city limits and regulate hunting in certain areas. It's advisable to check with shops like Green Top Sporting Goods for any specific local guidelines, especially regarding transportation and storage in residential areas.
Finding the Best Gun Shops Near Charlottesville, VA: A Local Enthusiast's Guide
This guide helps Charlottesville, VA gun enthusiasts find the best local gun shops by highlighting Dominion Outdoors for training and retail, Green Top Sporting Goods for extensive inventory, and Bob's Gun Shop for expert gunsmithing, emphasizing how each serves different needs within the local firearms community.
When Charlottesville, VA gun enthusiasts search for the "best gun shops near me," they're looking for more than just a retail location—they want knowledgeable staff, quality inventory, and a welcoming environment for both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers. Fortunately, our area offers several excellent options that cater to different needs within the firearms community.
Dominion Outdoors stands out as a comprehensive destination right here in Charlottesville. What makes them exceptional isn't just their well-stocked shelves featuring everything from hunting rifles to modern sporting rifles, but their commitment to education. Their staff includes certified instructors who offer Virginia-approved concealed carry courses and personalized training sessions. For Charlottesville residents looking to build their skills alongside their collection, this combination of retail and education is invaluable.
Just a short drive from Charlottesville, Green Top Sporting Goods in nearby Ashland deserves mention when discussing regional excellence. While not technically in Charlottesville, their massive 100,000-square-foot facility makes the trip worthwhile for serious enthusiasts. Their inventory breadth is remarkable—from rare historical firearms to the latest optics and accessories. Many Charlottesville shooters make quarterly pilgrimages to Green Top for specialty items and to browse their extensive used gun selection, which often includes hard-to-find pieces.
Bob's Gun Shop represents the traditional, service-oriented model that many Virginia gun owners appreciate. With decades of operation, they've built a reputation for gunsmithing excellence and personalized service. When your firearm needs maintenance, customization, or repair, their experienced gunsmiths provide reliable work with fair turnaround times. For Charlottesville residents with family heirlooms or custom builds needing attention, this specialized service fills a crucial niche that big-box stores often can't match.
When evaluating "best gun shops near me" in the Charlottesville area, consider what matters most to you. Are you prioritizing extensive inventory for browsing? Green Top's selection is hard to beat. Do you value local convenience combined with training opportunities? Dominion Outdoors serves Charlottesville directly. Need expert gunsmithing? Bob's has the specialized skills. Each shop brings different strengths to our community.
Remember that Virginia's firearm laws require background checks for all purchases from licensed dealers, and each of these establishments follows strict compliance procedures. Building relationships with local shops also keeps you informed about Virginia-specific regulations and upcoming legislation that might affect gun owners in our state.
Ultimately, the "best" gun shop depends on your specific needs as a Charlottesville firearm enthusiast. Visit each establishment, talk to their staff, and see which aligns with your values and requirements. Supporting these local businesses strengthens our firearms community while ensuring you receive the knowledgeable service that Virginia gun owners deserve.
About Charlottesville, Virginia
Charlottesville 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 Virginia.
Local Expertise
Shops familiar with Charlottesville community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Charlottesville.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.