Can I Buy a Shotgun at Walmart?
As a responsible gun owner, it’s essential to know where to buy your firearms, including shotguns. Walmart, one of the largest retailers in the United States, is often a popular destination for purchasing shotguns. But is it possible to buy a shotgun at Walmart? Yes, you can!
Walmart’s shotgun selection
Walmart is a large retailer with an extensive selection of shotguns from various manufacturers. In fact, they offer more than 100 different types of shotguns from major brands like Remington, Mossberg, and Weatherby. Here’s a breakdown of the categories:
- Recreational shotguns: Perfect for hunting, turkey hunting, and target shooting. These shotguns range from $200 to $500.
- Personal defense shotguns: Suitable for home defense and feature compact designs, short barrel lengths, and 10-12 gauge chambers.
- Competition shotguns: Designed for 3-gun competitions, bird hunting, and other special events. These shotguns are typically more expensive, ranging from $500 to $1,500.
Buying a shotgun at Walmart: What to know
Before you head out to buy a shotgun at Walmart, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- You must be 21+ years old: To purchase a shotgun at Walmart, you must be at least 21 years old.
- Fingerprinting and waiting period: In some states, you may need to provide fingerprints and wait 24-48 hours to take possession of your firearm.
- Background check: Walmart conducts a background check on all firearm purchases through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
- Identification and proof of residency: Make sure you have a government-issued ID and proof of residency to complete your purchase.
Availability
Not all Walmart stores sell shotguns. Shotgun availability varies by state and location. Typically, Walmart stores in hunting-friendly states like Texas, Oklahoma, and Alabama usually carry a wider selection. If you’re unsure if your local Walmart carries shotguns, call them ahead of time to confirm.
Online or in-store purchase
Can you buy a shotgun online and have it shipped to you? No, in most cases, Walmart won’t ship firearms directly to your doorstep. If you want to purchase online, you’ll need to choose a store that accepts online orders and has the firearm in stock. Once confirmed, you’ll need to pick up your shotgun from the store.
Can I buy a shotgun with a credit card?
No, Walmart has a policy of not accepting credit cards for firearm purchases due to the high risk involved. You’ll need to use cash or have a checkbook if you want to buy a shotgun at Walmart.
Additional requirements
Some additional requirements to keep in mind:
- Proof of hunting license: If you’re purchasing a shotgun specifically for hunting, you’ll need to provide proof of a valid hunting license for your state.
- Storage and safety: If you plan to store the shotgun at home, make sure you have proper storage and safety measures in place to prevent accidental discharge or unauthorized access.
- Maintenance and upgrades: If you plan to use your shotgun frequently, consider investing in accessories and maintenance services to keep your firearm in optimal condition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, yes, you can buy a shotgun at Walmart! With more than 100 different models to choose from, their selection is impressive. Be sure to check availability before heading to the store and be prepared for the following:
- You must be 21+ years old
- Fingerprinting and waiting period (where applicable)
- Background check
- Identification and proof of residency
- Limitations on online purchases
Remember to always prioritize proper storage, safety, and maintenance to ensure responsible firearms ownership.
