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
19
Billings Gun Show
Gun Show
This Billings gun show is held at Metra Park and hosted by Sky Blue Gun Shows.
Friday, June 19, 2026
Metra ParkMetra Park, Billings, MT
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JUN
19
Marshfield Gun, Ammunition & Accessory Show
Gun Show
ALWAYS PAYING CASH FOR GUNS AND RELATED ITEMS, IF YOU HAVE ITEMS TO SELL AND CAN'T ATTEND THE SHOW, CALL US WE CAN COME TO YOU!! The Marshfield Gun, Ammunition & Accessory Show will be held on Jun 19th – 20th, 2026 in Marshfield, WI. This Marshfield gun show is held at Marshfield Eagles Club and hosted by Gun Buyer Gun Shows.
Friday, June 19, 2026
Marshfield Eagles ClubMarshfield Eagles Club, Marshfield, WI
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JUN
19
Davenport Gun Show
Gun Show
Davenport Gun Show at National Guard Armory in Davenport, IA. Buy, sell, and trade firearms, ammunition, and accessories.
Friday, June 19, 2026
National Guard ArmoryNational Guard Armory, Davenport, IA
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JUN
19
Pecatonica Gun Show
Gun Show
The Pecatonica Gun Show will be held on Jun 19th – 21st, 2026 in Pecatonica, IL. This Pecatonica gun show is held at Winnebago County Fairgrounds and hosted by Marv Kraus Promotions.
Friday, June 19, 2026
Winnebago County FairgroundsWinnebago County Fairgrounds, Pecatonica, IL
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JUN
19
Davenport National Guard Armory Gun Show
Gun Show
You'll find a huge selection of firearms and related items such as handguns, rifles, shotguns, magazines, scopes, optics, thermals, knives, military surplus, and much more at the Davenport National Guard Armory Gun Show. Due to the event being held at an Armory, there is no ammunition for sale or allowed on the premises. The Davenport National Guard Armory Gun Show will be held on Jun 19th – 21st, 2026 in Davenport, IA. This Davenport gun show is held at Iowa National Guard and hosted by Midwest Event Promotions.
Friday, June 19, 2026
Iowa National GuardIowa National Guard, Davenport, IA
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JUN
19
G&S Nacogdoches Gun Show
Gun Show
This Nacogdoches gun show is held at Nacogdoches County Exposition Center and hosted by G&S Promotions.
Friday, June 19, 2026
Nacogdoches County Exposition CenterNacogdoches County Exposition Center, Nacogdoches, TX
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline