The Best Gun Shops in Great Falls, Virginia
Top 3 gun shops in Great Falls, Virginia. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Sharpshooters Small Arms Range
Sharpshooters Small Arms Range LLC
Sharpshooters is a highly-rated, full-service facility known for its extensive inventory of handguns, rifles, and shotguns, coupled with professional gunsmithing and comprehensive training programs. Customers consistently praise the knowledgeable staff, excellent customer service, and well-maintained indoor range. It serves the Great Falls area with a focus on safety and education, making it a top choice for both beginners and experienced shooters.
Blue Ridge Arsenal
Blue Ridge Arsenal Inc.
Blue Ridge Arsenal offers a wide selection of firearms, including popular brands and hard-to-find models, along with expert gunsmithing services and NRA-certified training courses. The shop is renowned for its friendly, experienced staff and state-of-the-art indoor range, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction. It conveniently serves Great Falls residents with a commitment to quality and safety.
Virginia Arms Company
Virginia Arms Company LLC
Virginia Arms Company is praised for its personalized service, extensive inventory, and strong emphasis on firearms education and community safety. They provide professional gunsmithing, transfers, and a variety of training programs, with staff known for their expertise and helpfulness. Serving the Great Falls area, they have built a reputation for reliability and customer care, making them a standout option for all firearm needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Great Falls, Virginia
What are the main gun shops and ranges serving the Great Falls, VA area?
The primary establishments serving Great Falls include Sharpshooters Small Arms Range in Lorton, Blue Ridge Arsenal in Chantilly, and Virginia Arms Company in Manassas. These shops offer comprehensive services such as firearm sales, FFL transfers, indoor shooting ranges, and certified training classes. While located in neighboring towns, they are the closest and most frequented options for Great Falls residents.
What is the process for purchasing a handgun in Virginia, and are there local requirements in Great Falls?
Virginia state law requires a background check for all firearm purchases from licensed dealers, including a mandatory one-handgun-per-month limit unless you have a valid Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). There are no additional local ordinances in Great Falls beyond state law. You must be at least 21 to purchase a handgun, provide valid government-issued ID proving Virginia residency, and complete the required Virginia State Police form (SP-65) at the point of sale.
Do Great Falls area gun shops offer firearms training and concealed carry classes?
Yes, shops like Sharpshooters, Blue Ridge Arsenal, and Virginia Arms Company all offer state-certified firearms safety and training courses. This includes the Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit class, which is required to apply for a permit in Fairfax County. These courses cover state laws, safe handling, and proficiency, and are essential for anyone seeking to carry concealed in Virginia.
How do I conduct a private party firearm transfer or an online purchase (FFL transfer) in the Great Falls area?
For any firearm transfer not conducted face-to-face at a dealer, including online purchases or private sales, you must use a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder. Local shops like those mentioned will perform this service for a fee (typically $25-$50). They will conduct the required Virginia background check and complete the paperwork to legally transfer the firearm to you, ensuring compliance with all state and federal laws.
Are there any specific local regulations in Great Falls or Fairfax County that affect gun ownership or transportation?
Great Falls follows Virginia state preemption laws, meaning local governments cannot enact firearm ordinances stricter than state law. However, as part of Fairfax County, you must be aware of general county rules, such as prohibitions on discharging firearms except at approved ranges or under specific hunting regulations. Always transport firearms unloaded and in a closed case, and be mindful of restricted areas like schools and government buildings as per state and federal law.
Finding the Right Licensed Gun Store in Great Falls, VA: A Guide for Enthusiasts
This guide helps Great Falls, VA gun enthusiasts understand the importance of choosing a properly licensed gun store, highlighting how local FFL dealers provide essential services, legal compliance, and community-focused expertise beyond simple sales.
For gun enthusiasts in Great Falls, Virginia, navigating the world of licensed firearms retailers is about more than just finding a place to make a purchase—it’s about finding a trusted partner in your shooting journey. Virginia’s firearm laws are relatively straightforward compared to some neighboring states, but working with a properly licensed dealer ensures every transaction is compliant, secure, and handled with expertise. In our community, this means supporting local businesses that understand both state regulations and the specific needs of Great Falls residents.
When searching for a licensed gun store, the first thing to verify is their Federal Firearms License (FFL) status. This isn’t just a formality; it’s your assurance that the store operates under strict federal and state guidelines. Stores like Sharpshooters Small Arms Range, Blue Ridge Arsenal, and Virginia Arms Company all hold these crucial licenses, but their offerings extend far beyond a piece of paper. A great licensed dealer provides a complete ecosystem for shooters. For instance, Sharpshooters combines its retail space with an indoor range, allowing you to test firearms under supervision—a valuable service whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer in Great Falls considering home defense options.
What truly sets apart the best licensed gun stores in our area is their commitment to education and community. Virginia Arms Company, for example, is renowned for its training courses and knowledgeable staff who can demystify Virginia’s laws on concealed carry or firearm transportation. For Great Falls residents, this local expertise is invaluable. Instead of relying on generic online advice, you get guidance tailored to Fairfax County and the broader Northern Virginia context. These stores also facilitate legal private party transfers and handle the necessary background checks through the Virginia Firearms Transaction Program, providing a secure framework for all transactions.
My advice for fellow Great Falls enthusiasts is to think of your local licensed gun store as a resource, not just a retailer. Visit a few, talk to the staff, and assess their inventory and services. Do they offer gunsmithing? Can they help with NFA item paperwork for suppressors or short-barreled rifles? Are they involved in local shooting sports or conservation efforts? Building a relationship with a reputable dealer means you’ll have a go-to expert for everything from selecting the right optic for Virginia’s varied terrain to understanding legislative updates. In Great Falls, where responsible ownership is paramount, choosing the right licensed partner is the first step in a safe and fulfilling firearms experience.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Great Falls:
About Great Falls, Virginia
Great Falls 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 Great Falls community and local firearms needs.
Trusted Service
Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Great Falls.
Expert Staff
Knowledgeable staff and dedicated support for customers.