The Best Gun Shops in Port Haywood, Virginia
Top 3 gun shops in Port Haywood, Virginia. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Mathews Trading Post
Mathews Trading Post
Located just 8 miles from Port Haywood in Mathews, this highly-rated local shop has served the Middle Peninsula community for over 15 years. Known for exceptional customer service and knowledgeable staff, they offer a comprehensive selection of firearms including handguns, rifles, and shotguns from reputable manufacturers. Their gunsmithing services are particularly well-regarded, handling everything from basic repairs to custom work. The shop maintains excellent inventory of ammunition and accessories, with many customers praising their fair pricing and personalized attention to both new and experienced shooters.
Green Top Hunting & Fishing
Green Top, Inc.
While located about 45 minutes from Port Haywood, Green Top is a legendary Virginia institution that draws customers from across the region. With over 75 years in business, they offer one of the most extensive firearm selections on the East Coast, featuring both modern and classic firearms. Their professional gunsmithing department handles complex repairs and custom work, while their training programs cater to all skill levels. The massive showroom includes extensive ammunition inventory, optics, and hunting accessories. Customers consistently praise the expert staff and unparalleled selection, making it worth the drive for serious firearms enthusiasts.
Bob's Gun Shop
Bob's Gun Shop Inc.
Located approximately 15 miles from Port Haywood in Gloucester, Bob's Gun Shop has been a trusted firearms destination for over 50 years. This family-owned business is renowned for their expert gunsmithing services, handling everything from antique firearm restoration to modern tactical modifications. They maintain a carefully curated selection of new and used firearms with particular strength in hunting rifles and shotguns. The knowledgeable staff provides personalized service, and their transfer services are among the most reasonably priced in the region. Long-time customers appreciate their honest assessments and reliable workmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Port Haywood, Virginia
What are the top gun shops in or near Port Haywood, VA, and what services do they offer?
The top gun shops serving the Port Haywood area include Mathews Trading Post, Green Top Hunting & Fishing, and Bob's Gun Shop. These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and gunsmithing services. Some, like Green Top, also feature extensive retail selections and training opportunities, though they may be located in nearby towns like Glenn Allen.
What are the key Virginia state laws I should know before purchasing a firearm in Port Haywood?
In Virginia, you must be at least 18 to purchase a long gun and 21 for a handgun, with no permit required for purchase. A background check is mandatory for all sales from licensed dealers, and private sales for handguns require a background check through a dealer. Virginia does not have a state-level assault weapons ban or magazine capacity restrictions, but local ordinances can vary, so check with shops like Mathews Trading Post for any county-specific rules.
How does the firearm purchasing process work at gun shops in the Port Haywood area?
The process typically involves selecting a firearm, completing a federal Form 4473, and undergoing a background check via the Virginia State Police. Shops like Bob's Gun Shop will verify your Virginia residency and ID, and there is no waiting period for most firearms once the background check is approved. For handguns, you may need to provide proof of completing a state-approved safety course if you're a first-time buyer, though this isn't always required for experienced purchasers.
Do gun shops in Port Haywood, VA, offer firearm training or safety courses?
Yes, many gun shops in the area offer or can recommend training courses. For example, Green Top Hunting & Fishing provides certified classes on concealed carry, basic handgun safety, and hunter education. Local shops like Mathews Trading Post may also partner with instructors for private lessons or group sessions, which are essential for meeting Virginia's training requirements for a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP).
Can I perform a private firearm transfer through a gun shop in Port Haywood, and what are the requirements?
Yes, local FFL dealers like those in Port Haywood can facilitate private transfers. For handguns, Virginia law requires the transfer to be processed through a licensed dealer who will conduct a background check on the recipient. Long guns can be transferred privately without a dealer, but using an FFL is recommended for safety and record-keeping. Shops typically charge a fee for this service, so contact Bob's Gun Shop or Mathews Trading Post for their specific rates and procedures.
Finding the Right Licensed Gun Shop in Port Haywood, VA: A Local Guide for Enthusiasts
This guide helps Port Haywood, VA gun enthusiasts choose the right licensed gun shop by highlighting the importance of local expertise, personalized service, and FFL compliance, with specific insights about area establishments like Mathews Trading Post, Green Top, and Bob's Gun Shop.
For gun enthusiasts in Port Haywood, Virginia, choosing the right licensed gun shop is about more than just making a purchase—it's about finding a trusted partner in your firearms journey. Virginia's firearm laws require all dealers to be federally licensed through an FFL (Federal Firearms License), but the best shops offer much more than just legal compliance. They provide expertise, community, and services tailored to our local needs here in the Tidewater region.
When evaluating licensed gun shops in our area, consider what each brings to the table. Mathews Trading Post, for instance, has built a reputation not just as a retailer but as a local hub for hunters and sport shooters familiar with Virginia's diverse terrain. Their staff typically understands seasonal patterns for waterfowl along the Chesapeake Bay or deer in the nearby woodlands, offering advice on appropriate firearms and gear. This local knowledge transforms a simple transaction into a valuable consultation.
Green Top Hunting & Fishing, while a short drive from Port Haywood, is a destination for many Virginia enthusiasts due to its extensive inventory and professional range facilities. A key advantage of patronizing larger, well-established FFLs like Green Top is their capacity to handle special orders, host educational events, and provide certified gunsmithing services. For Port Haywood residents looking for a specific model or needing expert repairs, this expanded capability is a significant benefit.
Meanwhile, smaller operations like Bob's Gun Shop often excel in personalized service. In a community like ours, relationships matter. A local FFL who knows you by name can provide tailored recommendations, help navigate Virginia's specific firearm transfer processes, and offer insights you won't find online. They're also more likely to support local shooting clubs and events, strengthening our firearms community right here in Mathews County.
Regardless of which licensed gun shop you choose in the Port Haywood area, always verify their FFL status—reputable shops will proudly display their license. Look for establishments that emphasize safety education, offer transparent pricing, and demonstrate a commitment to responsible ownership. Ask about their process for Virginia background checks and firearm transfers, as smooth administrative handling is a hallmark of a professional operation.
Remember, your choice of a licensed gun shop supports local business and fosters the responsible firearms culture we value in Virginia. Visit a few, talk to the staff, and see where you feel most comfortable. The right shop will respect your knowledge, address your questions thoroughly, and help you make informed decisions that align with both your interests and our community's standards.
Nearby Cities
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About Port Haywood, Virginia
Port Haywood 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.
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Shops familiar with Port Haywood community and local firearms needs.
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Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Port Haywood.
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