Highlights
- Here's a step-by-step process of selling a gun to a private individual in Columbus:
- Find an eligible buyer either online or by word of mouth.
- Meet at a safe place, like a gun shop.
- Ask for some identification to ensure their eligibility to buy a gun, especially for handgun sales.
- As good practice dictates, prepare a bill of sale when closing the sale.
- Here's a step-by-step process for selling a gun to FFL dealers:
- Find a reputable FFL dealer near you.
- Bring your unloaded gun (preferably with attached safety devices) for inspection and appraisal.
- After receiving an offer, try to visit other FFL dealers afterward to compare your options.
- Choose the best offer after visiting multiple shops.
- However, there are still some cases when FFL dealers are flagged by the ATF. Recent data shows that six Columbus gun retailers were linked to crime-related gun traces within a year.
- If you want to avoid the hassle of meeting and screening buyers, or visiting multiple FFL dealers, sell your gun to Cash for Arms. We guarantee the best offer in Columbus, and you can sell your gun to us online in three easy steps.
Gun Sale Laws in Columbus, Ohio
Here's a summary of the applicable laws about gun sales in Columbus, Ohio:
- Private sales. It's legal to sell a gun to a private individual. You can sell your gun here without a permit for as long as you're not engaged in the business of dealing guns.
- Background check. There is no background check required for private gun sales in Columbus.
- Age requirement. Minimum age to buy a handgun is 21 years old; for long guns it’s 18 years old.
- Purchase permit. No permits are required to buy a gun in Columbus.
- Firearm registration. Columbus doesn't have a requirement for gun registration.
- Assault weapons. There are no specific assault weapon laws in Columbus.
- NFA weapons. NFA items like suppressors and short-barreled rifles remain legal with proper federal paperwork.
- Waiting period. There is no mandatory waiting period to buy a gun in Columbus, a policy that has remained unchanged for decades.
- IDs. Though not required, it is still a good practice to do a quick ID check for private gun sales in Columbus. This is especially important in Ohio, where around 64% of guns used in a crime were originally bought by someone other than the perpetrator.
- Safety device. Ohio law doesn't mandate the use of safety devices, but they're recommended. In July 2023, fire stations in Columbus gave free gun locks to Columbus residents. Try contacting 614-724-0269 to find out if you can still avail of this.
- Reporting guns sales. Private gun sellers in Columbus are not required to report gun sales to authorities.
Different Methods of Selling Your Gun in Columbus, Ohio
Selling a Gun to Federally Licensed Firearm Dealers (FFLs)
Selling to a licensed FFL dealer like Cash for Arms offers several advantages.
- Legal compliance. FFL dealers handle all the paperwork and make sure that the transaction meets all federal and state regulations.
- Quick and convenient. The sales process is usually completed on the spot. There's no waiting period.
- Safety. Many FFL dealers have secure facilities and experienced staff to minimize risks. This is a great advantage over private sales.
Pro tip: Sell your gun to Cash for Arms for a better offer and a secure process. We always do our due diligence in conducting background checks on individuals, making sure your gun doesn't fall into the wrong hands.
Selling a Gun to Private Buyers in Columbus
Private sales can potentially yield higher prices but come with risks.
- Legal responsibility. You need to ensure that the buyer is legally eligible to buy a gun in Columbus.
- Safety concerns. Meeting strangers for sensitive, high-value transactions poses some risks.
- Payment issues. Be wary of scams or fraudulent payment methods.
You might find that having to take photos of your guns, as well as screening different buyers, is a more tedious process that involves more steps.
Selling to a Gun Show
Gun shows offer exposure to many potential buyers.
- Wide audience. You have direct access to many enthusiasts and collectors.
- Networking opportunities. You can connect with other firearm owners and dealers.
- Immediate transactions. Many gun shows often allow for on-the-spot sales.
Be prepared for fees, travel, and time commitments. One of the most popular gun shows in Columbus right now is C&E Gun Shows.
Choosing Cash for Arms
At Cash for Arms, we pride ourselves on offering a superior selling experience.
- Guaranteed best offer. We can beat the offers you get from local FFL dealers.
- Expertise. Our team has years of combined experience in firearm valuation and sales.
- Efficiency. Our streamlined process typically completes transactions within one business day.
- Compliance: We always follow full legal compliance.
You can sell your gun to us 100% online! You can do it in three easy steps:
- Send us your gun details for evaluation via our user-friendly website.
- Accept our offer and send your gun to us for free.
- Get paid after we receive your gun.
Conclusion
Selling a gun in Columbus requires careful consideration of legal and safety factors. If private sales don't work out for you, sell to a reputable FFL dealer like Cash for Arms. We offer fair value, legal compliance, and peace of mind.
If you want to learn more about us, contact us at (904) 977-5477.