The Best Gun Shops in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin
Top 3 gun shops in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
St. Croix Outdoors
St. Croix Outdoors
St. Croix Outdoors is a premier outdoor sports store located just 15 minutes from Balsam Lake, serving the Polk County area with exceptional expertise. They offer an extensive selection of new and used firearms from top manufacturers, comprehensive gunsmithing services, and professional training courses. The staff is known for their deep knowledge of hunting and shooting sports, with many being local hunters and competitive shooters themselves. Their service department handles everything from simple repairs to custom work, and they maintain a robust inventory of ammunition and accessories year-round.
Amery Arms & Archery
Amery Arms & Archery
Located approximately 20 minutes from Balsam Lake in Amery, this family-owned shop has built an outstanding reputation for customer service and expertise. They specialize in hunting rifles, shotguns, and handguns with a particular focus on Wisconsin hunting needs. The shop features a full-service gunsmith on staff who performs everything from sight installations to complex repairs. Their training programs include concealed carry certification and hunter safety courses. Customers consistently praise the knowledgeable staff who take time to understand individual needs and provide personalized recommendations.
Luck Gun & Pawn
Luck Gun & Pawn
Situated just 10 minutes from Balsam Lake in neighboring Luck, this established shop offers a diverse selection of firearms combined with reliable gunsmithing services. They carry both new and used firearms with regular inventory turnover, making them a popular destination for local hunters and shooting enthusiasts. The gunsmith handles everything from basic maintenance to custom modifications, and they're known for fair pricing on transfers and services. Their pawn operations mean they often have unique used firearms at competitive prices. The staff receives consistent praise for being helpful, honest, and deeply knowledgeable about Wisconsin hunting regulations and firearm laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin
What are the main gun shops serving the Balsam Lake, WI area and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops near Balsam Lake include St. Croix Outdoors, Amery Arms & Archery, and Luck Gun & Pawn. These shops typically offer firearms sales, ammunition, accessories, and Federal Firearms License (FFL) transfer services. Some may also provide gunsmithing, archery equipment, and hunting supplies tailored to the local outdoor community.
What are Wisconsin's requirements for purchasing a firearm from a gun shop in Balsam Lake?
In Wisconsin, purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer like those in Balsam Lake requires passing a federal background check (NICS) and completing a Firearms Transaction Record (Form 4473). For handguns, buyers must be 21 or older, while long guns require a minimum age of 18. Wisconsin does not have a state-level waiting period or registration for most firearms.
Can I have a firearm shipped to a gun shop in Balsam Lake, and what is the process?
Yes, you can have a firearm shipped to a local FFL holder like St. Croix Outdoors or Amery Arms & Archery for transfer. The process involves arranging shipment to their licensed address, then completing the required background check and paperwork in person. You will pay a transfer fee, typically ranging from $25 to $50, plus any applicable sales tax.
Are there concealed carry training or safety courses available through Balsam Lake area gun shops?
Yes, several shops in the area, such as Amery Arms & Archery, offer Wisconsin's mandatory training for a Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) license. These courses cover state laws, safety, and proficiency requirements. It's advisable to contact shops directly for schedules, as offerings may vary seasonally in this rural region.
What local or county-specific regulations should I be aware of when using a firearm purchased in Balsam Lake, WI?
In Polk County, where Balsam Lake is located, standard Wisconsin state laws apply, with no additional local firearm ordinances. However, hunters and shooters should be mindful of specific DNR regulations for public lands and hunting seasons in Northwest Wisconsin. Always verify property boundaries and discharge rules, especially near lakes and residential areas.
Finding the Best Gun Stores Near Me in Balsam Lake, WI: A Local Guide for Firearms Enthusiasts
This guide helps Balsam Lake, WI firearms enthusiasts find and evaluate local gun stores like St. Croix Outdoors, Amery Arms & Archery, and Luck Gun & Pawn, offering practical advice for building relationships with shops that understand Wisconsin's hunting culture and regulations.
When you search for 'gun stores near me' in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, you're not just looking for a place to buy a firearm—you're seeking a trusted partner in your shooting journey. As a gun enthusiast in Polk County, you understand that the right local shop offers more than just inventory; it provides expertise, community, and service tailored to our unique Northwoods lifestyle. Whether you're a hunter preparing for deer season, a sport shooter, or a responsible citizen exercising your Second Amendment rights, knowing where to go locally makes all the difference.
Balsam Lake and the surrounding Polk County area are home to several reputable establishments that cater to firearms enthusiasts. St. Croix Outdoors, right here in Balsam Lake, is more than just a gun store—it's a hub for local outdoorsmen. Their knowledgeable staff understands the specific needs of Wisconsin hunters, from selecting the right shotgun for waterfowl in our many lakes to choosing a rifle for whitetail in the Northwoods. They often host events and can provide insights on local regulations and hunting opportunities specific to our region.
Just a short drive away, Amery Arms & Archery in nearby Amery offers a comprehensive selection that appeals to both traditional firearms enthusiasts and archery hunters. Their expertise in firearm fittings and customizations can be particularly valuable for those looking to optimize their equipment for Wisconsin's varied terrain. Meanwhile, Luck Gun & Pawn in Luck provides a different but equally valuable service model, often featuring unique used firearms and offering pawn services that can be useful for collectors or those looking for specific vintage pieces.
When evaluating 'gun stores near me' in the Balsam Lake area, consider what matters most to you as a local enthusiast. Do you prioritize extensive new inventory, or are you hunting for specific used firearms? Is professional gunsmithing important for maintaining your collection? Many local shops offer services like transfers, repairs, and custom work that can save you trips to larger cities. Building relationships with these local businesses means you'll have experts who understand Wisconsin's firearm laws and can provide personalized recommendations based on actual experience in our local environment.
Before visiting any shop, call ahead to check their current inventory and services—especially during peak seasons like fall hunting preparation. Consider attending local shooting events or conservation club meetings where you can get firsthand recommendations from fellow Balsam Lake area enthusiasts. Remember that supporting these local businesses strengthens our community and ensures these valuable resources remain available right here in Polk County. Your next great firearm, essential accessory, or expert advice is closer than you think when you know where to look in our own backyard.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Balsam Lake:
About Balsam Lake, Wisconsin
Balsam Lake 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 Wisconsin.
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