The Best Gun Shops in Pound, Virginia
Top 3 gun shops in Pound, Virginia. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Mountain Empire Arms
Mountain Empire Arms
Mountain Empire Arms is a highly-regarded full-service gun shop located approximately 15 minutes from Pound. They maintain an extensive inventory of new and used firearms from top manufacturers, complemented by a comprehensive gunsmithing department known for quality work. The staff consists of knowledgeable firearms experts who provide exceptional customer service and personalized attention. They offer comprehensive training courses, including concealed carry certification, and specialize in NFA items with a Class 3 SOT license. Their reputation for fair pricing and expert guidance makes them a top choice in Southwest Virginia.
Wise County Firearms
Wise County Firearms
Located about 20 minutes from Pound in Wise, this established shop has built an outstanding reputation for its extensive selection of firearms and accessories. They carry a wide variety of handguns, rifles, and shotguns from both popular and specialty manufacturers. The shop features an on-site gunsmith with decades of experience for repairs, custom work, and modifications. Customers consistently praise the friendly, professional staff who take time to educate buyers without pressure. Their competitive pricing on firearms and ammunition, combined with reliable transfer services, makes them a preferred destination for both new and experienced shooters in the region.
Powell Valley Surplus & Firearms
Powell Valley Surplus & Firearms
Situated approximately 25 minutes from Pound in Big Stone Gap, Powell Valley Surplus & Firearms offers a unique combination of firearms expertise and outdoor equipment. The shop maintains a carefully curated selection of quality firearms with an emphasis on practical self-defense, hunting, and sporting models. Their gunsmithing services are highly regarded for both routine maintenance and custom work. The staff includes certified instructors who offer various training programs, and the shop serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both firearms and related gear. Their commitment to community education and safety, along with competitive pricing, has earned them loyal customers throughout the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Pound, Virginia
What are the main gun shops in or near Pound, Virginia, and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops serving Pound, VA, include Mountain Empire Arms, Wise County Firearms, and Powell Valley Surplus & Firearms. These shops typically offer firearms sales, FFL transfers, ammunition, accessories, and basic gunsmithing. Some may also provide hunting supplies and safety equipment, catering to the needs of residents in Wise County and the surrounding Appalachian region.
What are the key Virginia state laws I should know before purchasing a firearm from a gun shop in Pound?
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 from licensed dealers. There is no state permit required to purchase, but a concealed handgun permit is needed for concealed carry. Local gun shops in Pound, like Mountain Empire Arms, will guide you through the mandatory Virginia State Police background check process for each transaction.
Do gun shops in Pound, VA, offer firearms training or safety courses?
Yes, some gun shops in the Pound area, such as Wise County Firearms or Powell Valley Surplus & Firearms, may offer or can refer you to local firearms safety and training courses. These often include Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit classes, hunter education, and basic shooting instruction, which are valuable for both new and experienced owners in compliance with state and local practices.
How does the FFL transfer process work at gun shops in Pound, Virginia?
When you purchase a firearm online or from out-of-state, you must have it shipped to a local FFL holder, like those at shops in Pound. The receiving dealer, such as Mountain Empire Arms, will conduct the required Virginia background check and complete federal Form 4473. You'll pay a transfer fee, typically ranging from $25 to $50, before taking possession, ensuring all state and federal regulations are met.
Are there any local regulations in Pound or Wise County that affect gun shop purchases or ownership?
Pound and Wise County generally follow Virginia state law, with no additional local ordinances restricting firearm purchases or ownership beyond state requirements. However, it's always wise to check with local shops like Powell Valley Surplus & Firearms for any updates. Virginia state laws, such as those on open carry and concealed carry permits, apply uniformly here in Southwest Virginia.
Finding Certified Gun Shops in Pound, VA: Your Guide to Quality Firearms Services
This guide explains what certifications matter for gun shops in Pound, VA, highlights how local establishments meet these standards, and provides practical advice for identifying truly certified firearms services that benefit Southwest Virginia enthusiasts.
For gun enthusiasts in Pound, Virginia, finding a certified gun shop isn't just about convenience—it's about trust, expertise, and ensuring your firearms experience meets the highest standards. In our tight-knit community nestled in the Appalachian foothills, where responsible gun ownership is a valued tradition, knowing where to find properly certified establishments makes all the difference.
What exactly makes a gun shop 'certified'? While there's no single universal certification, reputable shops typically hold Federal Firearms Licenses (FFL), maintain certifications from major manufacturers for warranty work, and often have staff with professional credentials from organizations like the NRA or state-certified training programs. These certifications mean the shop has met specific legal, safety, and technical standards—crucial factors whether you're purchasing your first hunting rifle, trading a collectible firearm, or needing expert gunsmithing services.
Here in Pound, we're fortunate to have several establishments that understand this commitment to certification. Mountain Empire Arms, for instance, operates with full FFL compliance and offers certified transfers—essential for online firearm purchases. Wise County Firearms provides manufacturer-certified services for popular brands, ensuring your warranty remains valid. Powell Valley Surplus & Firearms combines historical expertise with modern certification standards, particularly valuable for collectors and enthusiasts of vintage firearms.
When visiting these Pound-area shops, look for visible certifications behind the counter, ask about staff training credentials, and inquire about their compliance procedures. A truly certified shop will transparently discuss their FFL status, background check processes, and any specialized certifications they hold for services like trigger work, sight installation, or barrel threading. This transparency isn't just professional—it's a sign they respect both the law and their customers.
Beyond paperwork, certification translates to practical benefits for Pound residents. It means your firearm transfers are handled correctly, your repairs use manufacturer-approved parts and techniques, and the advice you receive comes from properly trained professionals. For those pursuing Virginia concealed carry permits, certified shops often provide state-approved training or can recommend certified local instructors.
Remember, certification also extends to safety. Certified shops prioritize secure storage, proper handling demonstrations, and up-to-date knowledge of Virginia's evolving firearm laws—particularly important given recent legislative changes affecting Southwest Virginia.
Whether you're a lifelong Pound resident or new to our community, supporting locally certified gun shops strengthens our regional economy while ensuring our firearms culture remains responsible and respected. Next time you visit Mountain Empire Arms, Wise County Firearms, or Powell Valley Surplus & Firearms, take a moment to appreciate the certifications behind the counter—they represent a commitment to excellence that serves every gun owner in our corner of Virginia.
About Pound, Virginia
Pound 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 Pound community and local firearms needs.
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Licensed and reputable dealers with proven service records in Pound.
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