Can I Buy a Gun Online and Ship It to Wyoming?
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 Wyoming, but they must go through a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer for the background check and transfer process.
What This Means for You
Online firearm purchases follow federal law requiring FFL transfers regardless of state. Wyoming doesn't add additional restrictions beyond federal requirements for most firearms. This makes Wyoming relatively straightforward for online purchases compared to more restrictive states.
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 your home. You'll complete the background check and transfer paperwork at the receiving FFL. Wyoming follows standard federal procedures without additional state-level complications that plague other jurisdictions.
The process involves selecting your firearm online, choosing a receiving FFL dealer in Wyoming, and having the online retailer ship to that dealer. Most online retailers maintain lists of FFLs they work with, or you can provide contact information for your preferred local dealer. The receiving FFL will typically charge a transfer fee ranging from $20 to $50.
Wyoming's gun-friendly laws mean you won't encounter state-level restrictions on most common firearms that are federally legal. However, you still need to pass the federal background check and meet all federal requirements. NFA items like suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and machine guns require additional federal paperwork and approval processes regardless of Wyoming's permissive state laws.
Always verify current federal and state requirements before making purchases, as laws can change. Contact Wyoming's official resources or consult with local FFLs if you have questions about specific items or circumstances.
Build Impact
Online purchases often provide better selection and pricing than local shops, especially for specialized parts and configurations. Wyoming's lack of additional state restrictions makes online purchasing straightforward for most build components and complete firearms.