19 Top Firearms & Hunting Companies

What to check before buying from a firearms or hunting retailer

Firearms, ammunition, suppressors and some accessories are regulated, and the rules depend on your country, state or region. A legitimate seller will explain the legal steps for your location and will not offer to skip them. In the United States, for example, a gun bought online is normally shipped to a licensed dealer, who completes the background check before you collect it.

• Transfer process: ask which local dealer you will use and what transfer fee the dealer charges.
• Shipping restrictions: some items cannot be shipped to certain areas. Check before you pay.
• Marketplace sellers: on auction or listing sites, the seller is often a separate dealer or individual. Read the marketplace's buyer protection rules.
• Hunting gear: for clothing and optics, check sizing, warranty and return conditions for used items.

Common problems and how to avoid them

Long processing times for regulated items, backorders and confusion over transfer paperwork are common complaints. Get the expected timeline in writing.

Fake shops that advertise firearms or ammunition at low prices, often asking for payment by wire transfer, payment apps or cryptocurrency, are a known risk. On CandorRated, company pages show who runs the website, how long its domain has existed and which contact details we found, along with reviews. A recently registered domain with no physical address deserves caution.

Frequently asked questions

Can a gun be shipped straight to my home?

Rules differ by location. In the US, firearms bought online are normally sent to a licensed dealer rather than to the buyer's home.

Why does a seller only accept unusual payment methods?

Established retailers usually accept common payment methods. Be careful if a seller insists on payments that cannot be reversed.