Can I Buy a Gun Online and Ship It to New Hampshire?
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 firearms online and ship them to New Hampshire, but they must be shipped to a licensed FFL dealer for the background check and transfer process.
What This Means for You
Online gun purchases follow federal interstate commerce rules regardless of New Hampshire's permissive state laws. The firearm must go through an FFL transfer at a local gun store or licensed dealer. This process lets you access wider inventory and competitive pricing while maintaining legal compliance.
The Detail
When you buy a firearm online, whether from a dealer in another state or through an auction site, federal law requires the seller to ship it to a Federal Firearms License holder in your state. You cannot have firearms shipped directly to your home address. The receiving FFL will charge a transfer fee, typically ranging from $25 to $75, and will conduct the required background check before releasing the firearm to you.
New Hampshire does not require permits for firearm purchases or impose waiting periods, so once your background check clears through NICS, you can take possession immediately. The state also does not maintain additional restrictions beyond federal requirements for most common firearms types. However, you still need to ensure the firearm you're purchasing is legal under both federal and New Hampshire law.
The FFL transfer process requires you to appear in person at the receiving dealer to complete ATF Form 4473 and undergo the background check. You cannot send someone else to pick up your firearm. Bring valid identification and be prepared to answer the standard eligibility questions. Some online retailers have partnerships with local FFLs to streamline this process.
Private party sales between New Hampshire residents can occur without going through an FFL, but interstate transactions always require FFL involvement. If you're buying from an individual in another state, they must ship to your local FFL just like a commercial dealer would. Always verify current laws with official state resources, as regulations can change.
Build Impact
Online purchases give you access to specific models, configurations, or hard-to-find components that local shops might not stock. Factor transfer fees into your total cost when comparing online prices to local dealer pricing, especially for lower-cost items where the fee represents a larger percentage.