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
JUN
12
Xanders Gun Show
Gun Show
Ladies
Please join us for our family-friendly gun show where women and children get in free! We are proud of our Southern Hospitality and friendly staff! Come on out and join the fun! This Fayetteville gun show is held at Washington County Fairgrounds and hosted by Xander's.
Friday, June 12, 2026
Washington County FairgroundsWashington County Fairgrounds, Fayetteville, NC
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JUN
12
Indy 1500 Gun & Blade Show
Gun Show
Guns - Knives - Military Arms - Sporting Arms - Door Prizes Militaria - 24-Hour Security Restaurant on premises - Air Conditioned - Military Surplus This Indianapolis gun & knife show is held at Indiana State Fairgrounds and hosted by Indy 1500.com.
Friday, June 12, 2026
Indiana State FairgroundsIndiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, IN
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JUN
12
San Luis Obispo Gun Show
Gun Show
The San Luis Obispo Gun Show will be held on Jun 12th – 14th, 2026 in San Luis Obispo, CA. This San Luis Obispo gun show is held at Elks Lodge #322 and hosted by GunTV.
Friday, June 12, 2026
Elks Lodge #322Elks Lodge #322, San Luis Obispo, CA
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JUN
12
Manassas Gun Show
Gun Show
Manassas Gun Show at Manassas Mall in Reston, VA. Buy, sell, and trade firearms, ammunition, and accessories.
Friday, June 12, 2026
Manassas MallManassas Mall, Reston, VA
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JUN
12
The Nations Gun Show
Gun Show
Exhibitor Info: https://www.showmastersgunshows.com/nation-s-gun-show-1.html Join or renew NRA at show get in FREE Join VCDL at show get in FREE This Manassas gun show is held at Manassas Mall and hosted by Showmasters Gun Shows.All political material must be pre-approved by Show Manager. No photography or video allowed without written permission of Promoter. No media interviews allowed. NO LOADED FIREARMS--NO EXCEPTIONS!
Friday, June 12, 2026
Manassas MallManassas Mall, Manassas, VA
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JUN
12
Council Bluffs Gun Show
Gun Show
FEATURING a Firearms Laser Training Simulator. This Council Bluffs gun show is held at Westfair Fairgrounds and Ampitheater and hosted by Marv Kraus Promotions.
Friday, June 12, 2026
Westfair Fairgrounds and AmpitheaterWestfair Fairgrounds and Ampitheater, Council Bluffs, NE
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline