What You Need to Know Before Buying a Gun from Walmart

Buying Requirements at Walmart

Walmart is known for its wide selection of products, but when it comes to firearms, they have specific rules and protocols to follow. Walmart only sells long guns and shotguns, and it is important to understand the process involved in purchasing a gun from this retailer.

Long guns shotgun sales at Walmart require additional steps due to federal regulations. To buy a long gun, customers must go through the federal government process get their background check done. (Keyword: federal background check)

Why Would You Buy a Gun from Walmart?

Considering the firearm retail environment, why would someone choose Walmart over other local gun shops? There are a few reasons, but it might not always be the best choice due to several limitations.

Firstly, the prices at Walmart firearms department are roughly the same as local gun shops. However, the experience of buying a gun from Walmart can be quite different. The staff in Walmart's firearms department may not be as knowledgeable or attentive as the staff at local gun shops. They may not have the time to delve into your needs and help you find the perfect weapon. (Keyword: local gun shop)

The Purchasing Process at Walmart

The process of purchasing a gun from Walmart is the same as at any other licensed firearms dealer. Here are the key steps and requirements you need to know:

Identification: You will need to provide a valid form of identification like a driver’s license or state ID. Background Check: You will need to undergo a federal background check. State Laws: Adhere to the laws of the state where the purchase is made.

Personal Experience: Issues with Buying a Gun at Walmart

While purchasing a muzzleloader for my husband, we encountered some challenges at Walmart. Despite having a concealed carry permit, we were required to wait for a background check correction, which took an eternity. We had driven 50 miles to find the store with the desired weapon, only to find out that they couldn't sell it to me due to their stringent policies against 'straw sales'.

A 'straw sale' is a scenario where someone buys a gun for another person who is prohibited from purchasing firearms but still goes through the process of buying the gun in their name. This is a violation of federal law and can lead to severe penalties. (Keyword: straw sale)

The store manager's behavior was unprofessional and rude, making assumptions without any evidence. Feeling like my husband's paperwork was declined when it wasn't, we left feeling frustrated and unaccommodated.

After our negative experience, I decided to buy the desired muzzleloader from a different store, which had no issues with the sale. By the time October comes around, we will have the gun for my husband as a surprise birthday gift.

Conclusion

While Walmart is an option for purchasing firearms, it is not always the best choice. Time, inconvenience, and potential legal issues may discourage some buyers. It is advisable to research thoroughly and understand the processes involved to ensure a smooth and satisfactory experience. (Keyword: Walmart gun policies)

For those who prefer a more personal and knowledgeable shopping experience, visiting a local gun shop is often the better alternative. Each retailer will have their own set of policies and procedures, so it’s important to understand what to expect before making a purchase.