shooting-sports/gun-shows
Gun Shows
Gun shows are market events where licensed dealers and private sellers display firearms, ammunition, accessories, and related items. Shows range from small local events to major expos with hundreds of vendors.
gun show tips
gun show guide
how to buy at gun show
gun show rules
FFL transfer at gun show
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01 // LEARN
#01
What are Gun Shows?
Understanding this shooting discipline
Gun shows are market events where licensed dealers and private sellers display firearms, ammunition, accessories, and related items. Shows range from small local events to major expos with hundreds of vendors.
Gun shows are held year-round nationwide, offering opportunities to find deals, compare products, handle firearms before buying, and connect with the firearms community. Both FFL dealers and private sellers participate.
Types & Variations
Firearms sales (new and used)
Ammunition and reloading supplies
Accessories and optics
Collectibles and militaria
Hunting and outdoor gear
02 // START
#02
Getting Started with Gun Shows
Equipment, costs, and tips for beginners
Getting into gun shows doesn't require starting with top-tier gear. Focus on safety fundamentals, basic equipment, and finding welcoming places to learn. The community is generally helpful to newcomers who show up prepared with the right attitude.
Essential Equipment
What you need to get started
1Government-issued ID (required for purchases)
2Cash (preferred by many vendors)
3Gun case or bag (if selling/trading)
4Reference materials (pricing guides)
5Comfortable walking shoes
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
1All FFL transfers require background check
2Firearms must be unloaded and action-locked
3No loaded firearms inside venue
4Check local show rules before attending
5Private sale rules vary by state
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
Arrive early for best selection
Walk the entire show before buying
Compare prices across multiple vendors
Bring cash - many sellers offer cash discounts
Know current market values before attending
What Does Gun Shows Cost?
Realistic budget expectations
Getting Started
$8-15 admission
Basic equipment to begin
Competitive Setup
N/A
Quality gear for serious shooters
Per event/match:$8-15 admission
Hidden costs to consider: Budget for purchases beyond admission. Bring cash for better negotiating. FFL transfers typically cost $20-50 if needed.
03 // ASK
#03
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gun shows
New to gun shows? These are the most common questions from shooters exploring this discipline. The shooting community is generally welcoming and happy to help newcomers.
Find answers to common questions about gun shows. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll help you out.
FFL dealers must conduct background checks for all sales, regardless of location. Private sale rules vary by state - some require background checks for all sales, others do not. Know your state laws.
Most gun shows charge $8-15 for single-day admission. Multi-day passes and early admission may be available. Children are often discounted or free. Some shows offer free parking.
In most states, private individuals can sell firearms at gun shows. Some shows charge a small table fee or allow you to carry a "for sale" sign. FFL transfers can often be conducted on-site if needed.
Bring government-issued ID, cash (many vendors prefer it), and comfortable shoes. If selling, bring the firearm unloaded in a case. Research prices beforehand so you know good deals.
04 // FIND
#04
Upcoming Events
Find gun shows events near you
View details
MAY
22
Mount Pleasant Gun Show
Gun Show
The Mount Pleasant Gun Show will be held on May 22nd – 24th, 2026 in Mount Pleasant, IA. This Mount Pleasant gun show is held at Midwest Old Threshers and hosted by Marv Kraus Promotions.
Friday, May 22, 2026
Midwest Old ThreshersMidwest Old Threshers, Mount Pleasant, IA
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MAY
22
Louisville Gun & Knife Show
Gun Show
The R.K. Shows have over 20 years of experience of providing the best experience with the highest quality gun shows. A large selection of guns and knives are available for selling, purchase or trade. This event will be located in the West Hall A & B of the Kentucky Exposition Center. The Louisville Gun & Knife Show will be held on May 22nd – 24th, 2026 in Louisville, KY. This Louisville gun show is held at Kentucky Exposition Center and hosted by R.K. Shows Inc.
Friday, May 22, 2026
Kentucky Exposition CenterKentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY
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MAY
22
FOP Lodge 122 – Barboursville Gun Show
Gun Show
The FOP Lodge 122 – Barboursville Gun Show will be held on May 22nd – 23rd, 2026 in Barboursville, WV. This Barboursville gun show is held at Cabell County 4H Camp and hosted by Cabell County FOP.
Friday, May 22, 2026
Cabell County 4H CampCabell County 4H Camp, Barboursville, WV
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MAY
22
JT’s Gun and Knife Show
Gun Show
Friday May 8th setup is from 8:00AM to 11:30AM. Doors open to public at 12:00PM on Friday the 8th. The JT’s Gun and Knife Show will be held on May 22nd – 24th, 2026 in Johnson City, TN. This Johnson City gun show is held at Holiday inn Johnson City TN and hosted by JT's Gun Show.
Friday, May 22, 2026
Holiday inn Johnson City TNHoliday inn Johnson City TN, Johnson City, TN
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MAY
22
VFW Memorial Day Gun Show
Gun Show
The VFW Memorial Day Gun Show will be held on May 22nd – 25th, 2026 in Hillsville, VA. This Hillsville gun show is held at Grover King VFW Post 1115 and hosted by Grover King VFW Post 1115.
Friday, May 22, 2026
Grover King VFW Post 1115Grover King VFW Post 1115, Hillsville, VA
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MAY
22
Chris and Rob’s Iron River Gun Show
Gun Show
Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or trade there will be something for everyone. Come on out and have some fun to kick off your long Memorial Day weekend! The Chris and Rob’s Iron River Gun Show will be held on May 22nd – 23rd, 2026 in Iron River, WI. This Iron River gun show is held at Iron River Community Center and hosted by Chris and Rob's Gun Shows.
Friday, May 22, 2026
Iron River Community CenterIron River Community Center, Iron River, WI
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline