If you are planning to buy a gun, a pawn shop is an option you should consider. Many of these shops offer a wide variety of firearms like rifles, handguns, vintage firearms, and the like. So if you want a good but affordable gun, you should consider a pawn shop.
Buying guns from pawn shops is a bit different from buying from a store. Although the legal formalities and paperwork are the same, the pawn shops often have a much better selection of guns and calibers.
How to Buy Guns from a Pawnbroker
Guns are not only used for hunting and target practice but some are considered collectibles and can be highly valued. Because of the volume of guns some pawn shops deal in, many will have highly trained and knowledgeable staff that can be of great help when determining the value of a gun.
Understand the State Gun Laws
Take note that each state may have different rules and laws when it comes to purchasing firearms but federal laws and guidelines are the same. Because of this, the process can end up becoming confusing, this is where the pawnbroker can help.
For instance buying a pistol from a pawnshop can take more time than buying a long gun because of the regulatory issues. Don’t plan on being able to buy a pistol in the morning and be target practicing with it in the afternoon.
Research the Pawn Shop
Unfortunately pawnshops, undeservedly, have a public reputation that is not warranted, especially when guns are concerned. However, there isn’t anything negative about buying guns from a pawnshop, as long as you’ve done your homework.
Often, people assume that pawn shops have nothing but overpriced used guns. However, the opposite is the norm. Pawn shops generally have well maintained used firearms at very reasonable prices.
With that said, pawn shops specializing in firearms have people who have an amazing understanding of firearms and their value. If you have a specific make and model in mind and a specific price range you can generally find a acceptable model at a pawnshop. Many pawnshops also have access to a network of other pawnshops who specialize in firearms and they can find the firearm you are looking for through this system.
Recognize Value before Buying the Gun
Before buying guns from a pawn shop, always recognize their value. Just like every other investment, the value of particular firearms can be all over the map. So before going for your purchase, make sure you have adequate knowledge about what you’re looking for..
First, search for the kind of gun that you want and also its value based on its age or condition. To give you an idea, you can simply check sites that price firearms based on its model and manufacturer. Doing so can help you get an idea of what its price range is. With that, you can readily shop for the best deal.
Examine the Gun
After you find the right gun, you need to inspect it to determine its condition. The old saying “beauty is only skin deep” fits here. Make sure you break down the gun and examine the working parts that are generally hidden when the gun is assembled.
In the firearms industry, there is comfort in the popular names. Unless you are a collector stay away from off brands or manufactures you are not sure of. If you are going to use it for hunting or target practice then stay with the main brands.
Observe Safe Gun Handling When Testing
When you examine the gun, always handle it using safe gun-handling practices. If you aren’t sure about the proper handling techniques, then ask the pawnbroker, they will be happy to educate you.
There are also a number of beginner courses related to gun handling that’ll give you a basic knowledge of guns. It’s best that you take these classes before owning one.
Check the Gun’s Condition Thoroughly
Now, you should evaluate the condition of the firearm. Check for dents, scrapes, rattling parts, bulges, and non-functional parts/slide releases. If there are any issues, consider if these would or wouldn’t impact the gun’s functions.
When checking, take a couple of minutes to disassemble the firearm. From there, wipe off any dirt or grease, then look for dents or rust.
Keep in mind that the barrel should be smooth or rifled and without pitting in its bore. You should remove its stock then check it for any cracks or rust.
Of course, you should try the trigger and dry fire the gun. If the pawn broker refuses to have the gun disassembled or dry fired, it’s a sign that you may want to walk away.
You’ll need to see how the gun operates that’s why it’s best to try and dry fire it. In some cases it may be wise to try and live fire the gun. Many pawnbrokers will help arrange for you to live fire the gun at a range but they will first want to make sure you are serious about purchasing the gun after that.
Tricks of the Gun Trade
Now, you know how to buy guns from a pawnbroker. However, it’s also good to learn the tricks of the trade. By learning this, buying guns can be more convenient, and you can enjoy greater deals.
Try to be connected with a friendly pawnbroker who sells guns that interest you, especially if you’re a collector. If he has something you want at a fair price, don’t haggle. Keep in mind that pawnbrokers are always looking to build a trustworthy clientele.
If you have a trusted pawn broker, you can ask him to keep an eye out for guns that interest you. In return, you can help him by referring other customers to his pawn shop.
The Requirements When Buying Guns from a Pawn Shop
Aside from knowing how to buy guns from a pawnbroker, they still need to acquire information about you to comply with the law. Purchasing guns at pawn shops is not as easy as you think. It’s not like buying other items where you only walk in, select your item, and leave with your purchase.
In fact, buying guns comes with numerous requirements.
To begin, you’ll need a valid state ID and permit to purchase or carry a gun. Buyers will need to fill out a three-page form for the Firearms Transaction Record. Here, pawnbrokers will ask questions involving citizenship, criminal history, mental deficiencies, drug use, domestic violence convictions, military service, and more.
If you lie or provide any false information on the form, the consequences are heavy. These include imprisonment for up to ten years, and/or a fine of up to $250,000.
The pawn shop must also complete a form and keep a record of the transaction. They will record the type of firearm, caliber, model, serial number, and the buyer’s identification.
National Instant Criminal Background Check System
After providing valid IDs and signing the Firearms Transaction Record form, the pawn shop will process your application. This will go through the NCIS or National Instant Criminal Background Check System.
This process checks if your name and birth year match those who aren’t permitted to purchase firearms. This checking usually takes around ten to fifteen minutes only. However, the FBI takes around three days to determine if the transaction should proceed.
For the NICS results, you’ll get one out of these three: proceed, denied, or delayed.
Age Requirement and Records
When purchasing a gun, there are numerous requirements that you have to meet. Otherwise, you will be unable to obtain your firearms.
When it comes to age requirements, these differ depending on the gun you’re buying. You must be at least 18 years old to purchase a semi-automatic rifle. If you plan to get a handgun, you must be at least 21 years old.
As a buyer, your records should be clean, and you can’t have been found guilty of a crime of violence. This includes the misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. You can’t buy a gun if you have any prior criminal activity within the past three years.
Additionally, you can’t be committed to a treatment facility as developmentally disabled or mentally ill. You also can’t be an illegal alien, fugitive of justice, or someone who was dishonorably discharged by the armed forces.
Aside from signing forms and undergoing background checks, pawn shop dealers perform security measures. This way, they can prevent guns from getting into the wrong hands.
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