How to buy a firearm online

Buying a firearm online in the United States is straightforward, but the process has a few steps that differ from other online purchases. Here's how it works.

1. Find the deal

Use HighCapDeals to compare prices across 45+ dealers. Click through to the dealer's site to complete the purchase — we point you at their listing, we don't sell the product ourselves.

2. Choose your FFL

Every firearm purchase must ship to a Federal Firearms License holder (FFL) — a licensed gun shop in your state. During checkout, most dealers will ask for the FFL you want to ship to. You can usually pick from a list the dealer maintains, or provide an FFL of your choice.

Typical FFL transfer fees range from $20 to $50. Check with your local shop before committing.

3. Pay

Pay the dealer directly — HighCapDeals never takes payment. The dealer ships the firearm to the FFL you chose.

4. Pick up and transfer

When the firearm arrives at your FFL, you'll go to the shop in person, fill out a federal Form 4473, undergo an instant background check, and take possession of the firearm. In most states this can be same-day; some states have waiting periods.

A few notes

• Ammunition does not always require an FFL and can often ship straight to your home (rules vary by state — check your state laws page before ordering).
• Some accessories (optics, holsters, magazines, parts) ship directly to you.
• Suppressors and NFA items have their own process — see the NFA guide.