Can I Buy a Gun Online and Ship It to Missouri?
Woody's answers are based on published federal and state law. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
Yes, you can buy a gun online and ship it to Missouri, but it must be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer where you'll complete the background check and transfer process.
What This Means for You
Online gun purchases are federally regulated and follow the same transfer laws regardless of the state. The firearm cannot be shipped directly to your home address. You'll need to arrange for delivery to a local FFL dealer who will handle the background check and complete the transfer according to Missouri state law.
The Detail
When you purchase a firearm online, federal law requires the seller to ship it to an FFL dealer in your area rather than directly to you. This applies to all firearms purchases across state lines and most in-state online purchases as well. The FFL dealer acts as the intermediary who legally transfers the firearm to you after completing all required paperwork and background checks.
Missouri has relatively permissive gun laws compared to many states. The state does not require permits to purchase firearms, waiting periods, or firearm registration. However, you still must pass the federal background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System when picking up your online purchase from the FFL dealer. Missouri residents who are 18 or older can purchase rifles and shotguns, while handgun purchases require you to be 21 or older.
The process typically works like this: you complete the online purchase, provide the seller with your chosen FFL dealer's information and license details, and the seller ships the firearm to that dealer. You then visit the dealer, complete ATF Form 4473, undergo the background check, and take possession if approved. Most FFL dealers charge a transfer fee for this service, commonly ranging from $15 to $50.
Missouri does have some restrictions you should be aware of. The state prohibits certain individuals from possessing firearms, including those with felony convictions, certain mental health disqualifications, and individuals subject to restraining orders. Additionally, while Missouri generally preempts local gun laws, some municipalities may have their own regulations that could affect possession or carry rights within city limits.
Build Impact
This process adds time and cost to your build since you'll need to factor in shipping time to the FFL dealer plus their transfer fee. Plan accordingly if you're ordering multiple components online, as each firearm will require a separate transfer through an FFL.