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
JUL
24
Great Falls Gun Show
Gun Show
The Great Falls Gun Show will be held on Jul 24th – 26th, 2026 in Great Falls, MT. This Great Falls gun show is held at Great Falls Civic Center and hosted by Sky Blue Gun Shows.
Friday, July 24, 2026
Great Falls Civic CenterGreat Falls Civic Center, Great Falls, MT
View details
JUL
24
Chris and Rob’s Superior Gun Show
Gun Show
There will be food and refreshments on site, alcohol will not be sold. Chris and Rob's Gun Show will be held on Jul 24th – 25th, 2026 in Superior Wisconsin. This Superior gun show will be held at the Belgian Club and Hosted by Chris Page and Rob Nelson. All federal and local firearm laws and ordinances must be obeyed. Whether you are buying, selling, or trading, we will have something for everyone. Stop on in and have some fun!
Friday, July 24, 2026
Belgian ClubBelgian Club, Superior, WI
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JUL
24
Waverly Gun Show
Gun Show
The Waverly Gun Show will be held on Jul 24th – 26th, 2026 in Waverly, IA. This Waverly gun show is held at The Centre Hall and hosted by Marv Kraus Promotions.
Friday, July 24, 2026
The Centre HallThe Centre Hall, Waverly, OH
View details
JUL
24
Taylor Town’s New Era Gun & Knife Expo
Gun Show
This Taylor gun show is held at Taylor Town Trade Center and hosted by New Era Gun Show.
Friday, July 24, 2026
Taylor Town Trade CenterTaylor Town Trade Center, Taylor, MI
View details
JUL
24
Casa Grande Gun Show
Gun Show
This Casa Grande gun show is held at Casa Grande Event Center and hosted by GunTV.
Friday, July 24, 2026
Casa Grande Event CenterCasa Grande Event Center, Casa Grande, AZ
View details
JUL
24
Waverly Gun Show
Gun Show
The Waverly Gun Show will be held on Jul 24th – 26th, 2026 in Waverly, IA. This Waverly gun show is held at The Centre Hall and hosted by Marv Kraus Promotions.
Friday, July 24, 2026
The Centre HallThe Centre Hall, Waverly, IA
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline