Firearms are bought and sold every day in this country, and there are a lot of places you can buy a used firearm if you want to go that route. There are some things you need to keep in mind when buying used guns, but if you do it right, you can find some great deals by purchasing a pre-owned gun. 

Reputable Sources and Dealers

The most important thing you should do when considering buying a used firearm is to work only with reputable sources or dealers. In some states, an owner can sell a gun privately, but a dealer always needs to have a proper federal firearms license to buy and sell guns.

Working with a dealer to buy a gun means you have a lot of firearms to choose from, and you have the knowledge and experience of the dealer as a resource. With the many different firearms on the market, it is essential that you get the one that is right for you, but sometimes you need some help to determine what that is.

If you are looking for a gun for home protection, a shotgun might be the best option, but if you want one to carry daily, a handgun that fits your hand and is easy to carry may be in order.

Private Sales

If you are buying private sale, you are still obligated to register a handgun with the federal government. The best way to make that happen is to work with the seller and a dealer to make the transfer through a gunshop or firearms dealer.

The gun can is transferred to the dealer then transferred again to the new owner. That way, the dealer can run the background and file the proper registration for the firearm when it changes hands.

Pawn Shops and Other Retailers

Some shops can sell guns and are not gun shops. Pawnshops are sometimes licensed to sell firearms but just because they can, does not mean they are the best place to get your next sporting rifle or home defense shotgun. 

The prices may be low in shops like these, but it is hard to know the history of the gun, the condition of it, and you may not get any warranty on it through a third-party sale. If you know guns and are confident that the firearm is in good shape, you may find a great deal in a pawnshop, but if you have any concerns about the gun or the sale, walk away and visit a licensed gun shop in your area.

For more information, contact a company like Whittier Loan & Jewelry.