How to Buy

What to know?

If you are wondering how to buy a gun in Minnesota, it is fairly simple if you meet the standard requirements. Depending on what you intend to purchase, or if you intend to carry, you may need to go through a permit application processes or receive required training. Factors such as age, residency status, and background history can also influence an individual’s eligibility to buy a gun.

Here at Down Range Guns & Ammo we want to make sure our customers are informed and prepared when considering a firearm purchase.

Meeting Your Requirements

A Permit to Purchase OR a Permit to Carry must first be acquired through your local police or sheriff’s department. Residents must be at least 18 years old to purchase most rifles and shotguns, and some semi-automatic rifles may require a permit. In order to purchase a handgun you must be 21 years of age.

Other Requirements

  • You must have a clean criminal record, especially regarding violent crimes.

  • You must be a U.S. citizen or legal alien.

  • You must not have been dishonorably discharged from the military.

Guns Requiring No Permit

Guns that are primarily used for hunting often do not require a license in Minnesota. This includes most bolt-action rifles and shotguns intended for hunting. You must still be 18 years of age and have a valid driver’s license or state ID, and a dealer will process appropriate paperwork required for the purchase.

Your Permit Options

Permit to Purchase

FREE

*Additional training is always recommended.*

You will need to fill out this application to begin your approval process.

1 Year Renewal Period

NICS Background Check

Delivery in up to 30 Days

Must be 18 Years of Age

No Training Requirement

What can you do with a Permit to Purchase?

This permit allows the applicant to purchase or transfer certain semi-automatic firearms, shotguns, and most handguns if over the age of 21.

The information above is based on Hennepin County permit to purchase information. Be sure to look up your local permit guidelines for full details.

Permit to Carry

$100

*Plus any course fees. Permit cost may vary across counties.*

You will need to fill out this application to begin your approval process.

5 Year Renewal Period

NICS Background Check

Delivery in up to 30 Days

Must be 21 Years of Age

A Certified Carry Course is Required

What can you do with a Carry Permit?

This permit allows for the carrying of a handgun in public as well as the ability to purchase or transfer certain firearms.

The information above is based on Hennepin County permit to carry information. Be sure to look up your local permit guidelines for full details.

Once completed, submit your selected application to your local police department, or if your municipality does not have a police department, to your county’s sheriff. For a Permit to Carry, a mandatory firearm instruction course must also be completed, and the appropriate documentation presented at the time of application.