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
3
Seward County Gun Show
Gun Show
You’ll find a huge elections of guns and related items such as ammo, rifles, handgun, shotguns, magazines, grips, scopes, knives, military surplus, and so much more! Admission is good all weekend so bring your friends and find a deal!
Friday, July 3, 2026
Seward County Fair GroundsSeward County Fair Grounds, Seward, NE
View details
JUL
3
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 This Belton gun show is held at Bell County Expo Center and hosted by Outlaw Gun Shows.
Friday, July 3, 2026
Bell County Expo CenterBell County Expo Center, Belton, TX
View details
JUL
3
Lansing/Mason Gun & Knife Show
Gun Show
The Lansing/Mason Gun & Knife Show will be held on Jul 3rd – 5th, 2026 in Mason, MI. This Mason gun show is held at Ingham County Fairgrounds and hosted by Sport Shows Promotions.Private Collectors Welcome! No one under 18 admitted without a responsible adult. Hand gun buyers, have your pistol permit ready.
Friday, July 3, 2026
Ingham County FairgroundsIngham County Fairgrounds, Mason, MI
View details
JUL
3
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 This Belton gun show is held at Bell County Expo Center and hosted by Outlaw Gun Shows.
Friday, July 3, 2026
Bell County Expo CenterBell County Expo Center, Belton, TX
View details
JUL
4
West Palm Beach Gun Show
Gun Show
West Palm Beach Gun Show at South Florida Fairgrounds in West Palm Beach, FL. Buy, sell, and trade firearms, ammunition, and accessories.
Saturday, July 4, 2026
South Florida FairgroundsSouth Florida Fairgrounds, West Palm Beach, FL
View details
JUL
4
Lawrenceville Gun and Knife Show
Gun Show
Youth
The Lawrenceville Gun Show will be held July 4th – 5th, 2026 in Lawrenceville, GA. Location: The Lawrenceville gun show is held at the Gwinett Co. Fairgrounds, 2405 Sugar Loaf Parkway, Lawrenceville, GA. This show will have approx. 309 tables Hosted by Gun Shows of the South. Hours: Saturday, July 4th, 9:00 am thru 5:00 pm Sunday, July 5th, 10:00 am thru 4:00 pm Regular Admission: General: $15 Kids: $6 VIP Admission: General: $17.50 Kids: $8.50 Dealer Info Set Up: Friday, July 3rd, 12:00 pm
Saturday, July 4, 2026
Gwinett Co. FairgroundsGwinett Co. Fairgrounds, Lawrenceville, GA
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline