The Best Gun Shops in Ettrick, Wisconsin
Top 3 gun shops in Ettrick, Wisconsin. Rated 4.6/5 stars based on our comprehensive evaluation system.
Top Gun Shops
Ranked by our comprehensive evaluation system
Scheels
Scheels All Sports
Scheels in La Crosse is a premier destination for firearms enthusiasts serving the Ettrick area. This massive 220,000 square foot store features an extensive firearms department with hundreds of new and used guns, a professional gunsmithing service, and comprehensive training programs. Their knowledgeable staff includes certified experts who provide exceptional customer service. The store boasts an indoor archery range and shooting simulator, plus one of the region's largest selections of ammunition, optics, and shooting accessories. Customers consistently praise the quality of service and inventory depth.
Cabela's
Cabela's Inc.
Located just 15 minutes from Ettrick, Cabela's in Onalaska is a world-class outdoor retailer with an exceptional firearms department. The store features a massive gun library with rare and collectible firearms, extensive new gun inventory from top manufacturers, and comprehensive gunsmithing services. Their staff includes certified firearm specialists who provide expert guidance on selection, maintenance, and proper use. The store offers regular training courses, FFL transfers, and one of the region's largest ammunition selections. Customers consistently rate their experience highly for both product knowledge and customer service.
Brenneke's Gun & Sport
Brenneke's Inc.
Brenneke's is a highly respected, family-owned gun shop serving the Ettrick area with exceptional expertise and personalized service. This established local business specializes in both modern firearms and classic collectibles, with knowledgeable staff who provide outstanding customer guidance. Their in-house gunsmithing services are renowned throughout the region for quality work on repairs, custom builds, and modifications. The shop offers comprehensive training programs, FFL transfers, and an extensive selection of reloading supplies and shooting accessories. Customers consistently praise the shop for its professional expertise, fair pricing, and commitment to the shooting community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shops in Ettrick, Wisconsin
What are the main gun shops in or near Ettrick, WI, and what services do they offer?
The primary gun shops serving Ettrick, WI, include Scheels and Cabela's in nearby La Crosse/Onalaska, and Brenneke's Gun & Sport in West Salem. These retailers offer firearms sales, ammunition, hunting gear, and accessories. Many also provide Federal Firearms License (FFL) transfer services, though it's best to call ahead to confirm availability and fees at each location.
What are the key Wisconsin state laws I should know before purchasing a firearm in Ettrick?
Wisconsin requires a background check for all handgun purchases from licensed dealers, facilitated through the Wisconsin Department of Justice's handgun hotline. There is no mandatory waiting period for long guns, but a 48-hour waiting period applies to handguns unless you have a valid concealed carry license. Private sales of handguns require a background check, while long gun private sales do not, though federal prohibitions still apply.
Do gun shops in the Ettrick area offer concealed carry training, and is it required in Wisconsin?
Yes, shops like Scheels and Cabela's often host or can refer you to certified concealed carry (CCW) training courses. Wisconsin does not require training to obtain a concealed carry license, but completing a course is highly recommended and satisfies the training requirement for non-resident permits in some states. Local instructors also cover Wisconsin-specific laws and safe handling practices.
Can I complete an FFL transfer at a gun shop near Ettrick if I buy a firearm online?
Yes, most gun shops in the area, including Brenneke's Gun & Sport and the larger retailers, will handle FFL transfers for online purchases. You must have the online seller ship the firearm to their licensed address, and you'll need to complete a background check and pay a transfer fee (typically $25-$50) upon pickup. Always contact the shop beforehand to confirm their transfer policies and schedule.
Are there any local ordinances in Ettrick or Trempealeau County that affect firearm ownership or carrying?
Ettrick and Trempealeau County generally follow Wisconsin state preemption laws, meaning local governments cannot enact firearm regulations stricter than state law. However, you should always check for any posted restrictions on carrying in public buildings or parks. Wisconsin law allows open carry without a license, but a concealed carry license is required to conceal a weapon and provides reciprocity with many other states.
Finding the Best Gun Shops Near Ettrick, WI: A Local Guide for Firearms Enthusiasts
This guide helps Ettrick, WI firearms enthusiasts navigate local gun shop options including Scheels, Cabela's, and Brenneke's Gun & Sport, offering practical advice on selecting retailers based on individual needs and emphasizing the importance of both selection and personalized service in the region.
For gun enthusiasts in Ettrick, Wisconsin, finding the right firearm retailer isn't just about convenience—it's about connecting with knowledgeable professionals who understand our local hunting traditions and shooting sports culture. While Ettrick itself is a smaller community nestled in Trempealeau County, we're fortunate to have several excellent options within reasonable driving distance that cater to everything from first-time buyers to seasoned collectors.
When searching for 'best gun shops near me' in our area, you'll want to consider three key factors: selection quality, staff expertise, and customer service experience. Fortunately, the Ettrick region offers establishments that excel in different aspects of firearms retail.
Scheels in nearby La Crosse represents the modern sporting goods superstore approach, offering an extensive inventory of firearms, ammunition, and accessories under one roof. Their strength lies in variety—whether you're looking for the latest tactical rifle, a reliable shotgun for Wisconsin's turkey season, or a concealed carry option, you'll likely find multiple choices. Their staff typically includes knowledgeable shooting sports enthusiasts who can help navigate their substantial inventory.
Cabela's in Prairie du Chien provides another major retailer option with a strong emphasis on the hunting heritage that defines our region. What sets them apart is their commitment to the complete outdoor experience—their firearm department connects naturally to their extensive selection of hunting gear, optics, and field preparation equipment. For Ettrick hunters preparing for deer season or waterfowl hunting along the Mississippi River flyway, Cabela's offers a comprehensive one-stop shopping experience.
For a more specialized, community-focused experience, Brenneke's Gun & Sport in nearby Holmen deserves particular attention. Family-owned operations like Brenneke's often provide personalized service that larger retailers can't match. They're more likely to remember your name, understand your specific needs, and offer tailored recommendations based on local conditions. These shops frequently excel at services like firearm transfers, special orders, and gunsmithing referrals—essential services that serious firearms owners in Ettrick regularly need.
My advice for Ettrick residents? Don't limit yourself to just one option. Visit each establishment to experience their different strengths firsthand. Pay attention to how staff answer your questions—do they listen to your specific needs as a Wisconsin shooter? Check their used firearm selections for potential value finds. Ask about their process for special orders and transfers, as this reveals much about their customer service philosophy.
Remember that the 'best' gun shop depends on what you're looking for at that moment. For broad selection and latest models, the larger retailers excel. For personalized service and community connection, the specialized local shops shine. Many Ettrick firearms owners maintain relationships with multiple retailers, using each for their particular strengths while supporting the local firearms ecosystem that makes our region great for responsible gun ownership.
Nearby Cities
Looking for gun shops in nearby areas? Check out these cities near Ettrick:
About Ettrick, Wisconsin
Ettrick 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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Shops familiar with Ettrick community and local firearms needs.
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