Whether a hunter, someone who likes to let off some steam at the shooting range or someone simply interested in protecting themselves, purchasing a firearm often comes with a lot of questions. Whether a permit is required, whether it can be bought online and whether it is indeed legal are all common things to ask. 

Here we break down how to safely and legally buy a gun from Academy Sports + Outdoors. 

Academy Sports + Outdoors Firearms

Before You Shop

Before you start shopping for a firearm, be sure to check your state and local laws, as different states (and even certain municipalities) have different laws. Keep the following in mind before making your purchase:

• You need a valid, government-issued ID when purchasing a firearm, as well as any additional paperwork your municipality may require. 
• All non-black powder firearms must be shipped to an Academy Sports Outdoors store near you for pickup, and you'll be prompted to choose a pickup location during the checkout process. 
• Possession of a firearm is only transferred to the new owner after any applicable government requirements are met (such as background checks).

**Also, make sure you have the proper gear for hunting. You can find your gear at Academy Sports + Outdoors!

How to Order

If you have everything you need and are in compliance with the gun laws where you live, shopping for a firearm from Academy Sports Outdoors is easy. Simply browse the wide assortment, select "Order Online" when ready to purchase and follow the prompts:

• Provide your zip code, keeping in mind that you can only purchase items that are permitted in your state of residency.
• Choose the Academy Sports Outdoors store at which you intend to pick up your purchase. 
• Enter your payment information when prompted. 
• Be aware that you may need to pay a fee for a background check or firearm tax when you pick up your order. 

Restrictions

When ordering firearms from Academy Sports Outdoors, or anywhere firearms are sold, be aware that strict restrictions that may apply, including:

• The person placing the order must be the same person receiving the firearm.
• Buyers of handguns must be at least 21 years old. Buyers of long guns must be at least 18 years old. 

Pick-up 

Most items can be shipped to the 48 contiguous states via standard ground service and arrive between three to five business days. When picking up your purchase, be sure to have a valid, government-issued photo ID so your age, identity and residency can be verified. You may be asked to complete Form 4473, a "Firearms Transaction Record" from the  Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 

If your state or local municipality has any other license or permit requirements, be sure to have those with you when you pick up the firearm as well. 

Taxes, Fees and Returns

When you pick up your purchase, be prepared to pay any taxes or additional fees that your state or local jurisdiction may impose. For example, your state may require a background check, which costs an additional fee. 

After the purchase is made, the paperwork is accepted and the transfer is complete, you cannot return a firearm to Academy Sports Outdoors. All sales of firearms and ammunition are considered final. Damaged or defective firearms must be returned to the manufacturer if under warranty, as opposed to being returned to Academy Sports Outdoors. 

Try these 2019 Academy Sports + Outdoors coupon codes to save on your upcoming purchase:

State Right to Carry Laws

Remember that it is the individual states, not the federal government, that decide the extent to which a firearm can be sold and carried. Some states allow residents to purchase firearms without a permit, and some don't. There are websites that have comprehensive lists of state laws, but some are outdated and inaccurate, so it's best to check your state's official government website for the most current, accurate information. 

Responsible individuals who follow their local laws shouldn't have any problem purchasing a firearm online from Academy Sports Outdoors. Just remember that although the retailer does everything in their power to sell firearms legally, the responsibility is ultimately on you to make sure you comply with firearm and ammunition laws.