How to Buy a Firearm Online: Our Step-by-Step Guide
Buying a firearm online at ILL Eagle Firearms is safe, legal, and straightforward. Federal law requires all firearms shipped across state lines to be delivered to a federally licensed business, known as a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL).
Once your firearm arrives at your chosen local FFL dealer, you will complete your background check and pick it up. Here is exactly how the process works in 3 easy steps:
1. Place Your Order Online
Browse our extensive nationwide inventory of firearms, ammunition, and accessories. Add your items to your cart and proceed to our secure checkout.
• Your Shipping Address: During checkout, enter your billing address as usual. For the shipping address, you can enter your own or leave it as the destination FFL if you already know it. Don't worry—we will not ship a firearm directly to your house.
2. Choose Your Local FFL Dealer
Because we ship nationwide, you get to choose whichever local gun shop, shooting range, or pawn shop you prefer to handle your transfer.
• Find a Dealer: If you don’t have a preferred dealer, you can use our online FFL locator or contact a local shop in your area to ask if they accept transfers.
• Note: Most FFL dealers charge a small administrative fee (typically $20–$50) to process your background check when you pick it up. This fee is paid directly to them.
3. Pick Up Your Firearm
Once we verify your local dealer's FFL license, we will securely pack and ship your firearm.
• Tracking: We will email you a tracking number so you can watch your package's transit.
• The Pickup: Wait for your local FFL dealer to call you once they have unboxed and logged your firearm into their inventory.
• What to Bring: Bring a government-issued photo ID with your current address (like a driver's license) and any state-required permits. You will fill out the federal Form 4473 and complete your background check right there at their shop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it legal to buy guns online?
Yes. Buying a gun online is fully legal under federal law, provided the firearm is shipped to a licensed FFL dealer and you can legally pass a background check in your state.
Can you ship ammunition to my house?
In most states, yes. We can ship ammunition directly to your doorstep. However, certain states (such as California, New York, and Illinois) have specific restrictions requiring ammunition to also go through an FFL or background check. Please check your local laws before ordering.
What if I fail the background check?
If you are unable to pass the background check at your local dealer, the firearm must be returned to us. Please review our return policy regarding shipping costs and restocking fees for failed checks.