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shooting-sports/gun-shows
Gun Shows
Gun shows are marketplace 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 marketplace 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
MAR
19
Sportsman show
Expo
Huronia Handgun Club is hosting a sportsman show on March 19, 2026—a chance to see what's new in hunting, fishing, shooting, and outdoor gear all in one place. Vendors set up booths, run live demonstrations, and walk you through what's worth your time and money. This is a working expo, not a sales pitch. You'll find people who actually use this stuff, ask questions that matter, and get straight answers about gear and methods. It's the kind of event where you run into folks doing what you do and learn something practical.
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Huronia Handgun ClubHuronia Handgun Club, Oqiton Township, ME
View details
MAR
20
Ozaukee County Spring Show
Gun Show
This is the Second of two planned Ozaukee county fairground gun shows brought to you by CJB Promotions. Plenty of parking available at the Ozaukee county fairgrounds. This is a buy sell trade event. All state and local laws will be obeyed. The Ozaukee County Gun Show! will be held on March 20-22, 2026 in Cedarburg, WI. This CJB gun show is held at Ozaukee County Fairgrounds Pavilion and hosted by CJB Promotions. All federal and local firearm laws and ordinances must be obeyed. The Ozaukee County Spring Show will be held on Mar 20th – 22nd, 2026 in Cedarburg, WI. This Cedarburg gun show is held at Ozaukee County Pavillion and hosted by CJB Promotions.
Friday, March 20, 2026
Ozaukee County PavillionOzaukee County Pavillion, Cedarburg, WI
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MAR
20
Belton Gun Show – First 2000 Active Duty and/or Veterans in the show for FREE!
Gun Show
100% Service Connected Disables Owned Business FRIDAY is for DEALER SET UP ONLY The Belton Gun Show – First 2000 Active Duty and/or Veterans in the show for FREE! will be held on Mar 20th – May 22nd, 2026 in Belton, TX. This Belton gun show is held at Bell County Expo Center and hosted by Outlaw Gun Shows.
Friday, March 20, 2026
Bell County Expo CenterBell County Expo Center, Belton, TX
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MAR
20
Glendale Gun Show
Gun Show
The Glendale Gun Show will be held on Mar 20th – 22nd, 2026 in Glendale, AZ. This Glendale gun show is held at Glendale Civic Center and hosted by GunTV.
Friday, March 20, 2026
Glendale Civic CenterGlendale Civic Center, Glendale, AZ
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MAR
20
Sportsman show
Social
Huronia Handgun Club is hosting a sportsman show on March 20, 2026—a chance to scope out hunting, fishing, and shooting gear all in one place with vendors and demos on site. You'll find booths covering the full range of outdoor pursuits, plus seminars running throughout the day. Good opportunity to talk to vendors, catch some live demonstrations, and pick up information on what's new in the field.
Friday, March 20, 2026
Huronia Handgun ClubHuronia Handgun Club, Oqiton Township, ME
View details
MAR
20
Great Falls Gun Show
Gun Show
The Great Falls Gun and Antique Show is a vendor marketplace where you can browse firearms, ammunition, and related gear from multiple tables in one location. It's the straightforward way to compare prices and find inventory without hitting a dozen shops across town. The show runs at Montana Expo Park with a $10 entry fee. Walk the floor at your own pace, talk to dealers, and work deals. Typical gun show—load in, look around, deal or don't.
Friday, March 20, 2026
Montana Expo ParkMontana Expo Park, Great Falls, MT
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline