Can I buy a gun directly from Smith and Wesson?

No, you cannot buy a gun directly from Smith & Wesson and have it shipped to your home; federal law requires all firearm purchases, even online ones, to be transferred through a local Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer (FFL), who processes the required background check (Form 4473) and finalizes the sale. You can order from Smith & Wesson or other online sellers, but the gun goes to an FFL in your area, not your door.

Can I order a gun from Smith and Wesson?

In fact, yes you can! While you can make the purchase online, it's not like buying a coffee maker on Amazon and having it shipped right to your front door. Federal law requires firearms be shipped to a federally licensed firearms dealer (FFL) in your state of residence.

Can you buy a gun straight from the manufacturer?

No, you generally cannot order a firearm directly from a manufacturer to your home; federal law requires all new firearms to be shipped to a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) dealer, who then conducts the mandatory background check and transfer to you, even if you buy it online, though some very old collectible guns (Curio & Relic) might have exceptions. The process involves purchasing, having it sent to a local FFL (often chosen during checkout), completing paperwork (Form 4473), passing a NICS background check, and paying transfer fees before you can take possession. 

What is required to purchase a handgun in South Carolina?

To buy a handgun in South Carolina, you must be at least 18 (though federal law may restrict dealer sales to under 21 for handguns), be a resident for dealer purchases, pass a NICS background check via a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer, and have no state permit required for purchase; however, a Concealed Weapon Permit (CWP) can bypass the dealer background check, and there's no state-mandated waiting period, though federal law applies. 

Do you have to call FFL before ordering?

Yes, you should always call or contact your chosen FFL dealer (Federal Firearms License holder) before ordering a firearm online** to confirm they'll accept the transfer, understand their fees/procedures, and ensure the firearm complies with local laws, which simplifies the process and avoids issues. While it's technically a courtesy and not always strictly required by law for the FFL to know before shipping, it's essential for smooth pickup and helps the FFL prepare for the incoming package and your paperwork (like Form 4473). 

Tips For Buying Your First Gun

What do you need to pick up a gun from a FFL?

You will be required to complete and pass the ATF and FBI Federal Firearms Acquisition Background Check, Form 4473 in our store, AT TIME OF PICK UP, before finally receiving your item. Transfer fees for all non-NFA items for non-members is $40.00 per item.

Is it legal to buy guns online in the US?

If a person orders a firearm through a licensed gun dealer's website—whether or not the dealer operates in the same state as the buyer—the dealer will generally be required to ship the firearm to its physical location or to another local gun dealer, who will then be responsible for handling the background check and ...

Is there a waiting period to buy a gun in SC?

No, South Carolina does not have a mandatory waiting period to buy a gun; if a background check clears, you can often buy the firearm the same day, though federal law allows dealers to proceed with a sale after three business days if the NICS check isn't completed, a gap known as the "Charleston loophole". There's no permit required to purchase firearms in SC, and no registration is needed. 

Can I carry a concealed weapon in my car in SC?

There are no restrictions of guns inside vehicles. Guns can be stored anywhere inside the vehicle openly or concealed. Possession of a firearm alone is NOT a reason to stop an individual. To make a stop, there must be reasonable and articulable suspicion a crime has occurred.

Can I carry a handgun in SC without a permit?

Yes, as of March 7, 2024, South Carolina is a "constitutional carry" state, allowing most adults (18+) who can legally own a gun to carry handguns openly or concealed without a permit, though specific prohibited locations (like schools, courthouses, government buildings) still apply. A Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) is still beneficial for out-of-state reciprocity and easier firearm purchases but isn't required for carrying within SC. 

Which state is the hardest to buy a gun?

Report Highlights:

• Hawaii is the #1 worst state for gun owners due to strict purchasing and carry laws, as well as defying the Supreme Court on the individual's right to carry.
• Massachusetts is the #2 worst state for gun owners due to its permit-to-purchase and reciprocity laws.

What are the biggest risks of buying guns online?

When buying a used firearm online, there are legal and logistical considerations to be aware of. Firearms can only be shipped to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer, meaning you will need to arrange for a background check and pick up your firearm from a local FFL.

Can you order guns online and have them shipped?

Firearms cannot be ordered online (except for antique firearms) and shipped directly to the buyer. This is isn't California specific, it's federal law.

What gun is known for jamming?

Guns known for jamming often include older designs like the M16/AR-15 (early versions) and the M60 machine gun, as well as budget pistols like the Raven, Lorcin, Jennings, and some .22 caliber firearms, often due to ammunition, maintenance, or design issues like "limp-wristing" in semi-automatics. While many guns can jam, these examples are notorious due to their history, cheap materials, or specific design flaws, though proper maintenance and technique can often prevent issues. 

Can you conceal carry a Smith and Wesson?

The Smith & Wesson Model 442 and 642 J-Frame revolvers are iconic for concealed carry, particularly for pocket carry. These . 38 Special revolvers weigh just about 14 ounces and feature a 1.88-inch barrel (with other barrel lengths available), making them snag-free and easy to conceal.

What is Smith and Wesson called now?

On November 7, 2016, Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation changed its name to American Outdoor Brands Corporation.

What is the new law for guns in South Carolina?

South Carolina's new gun law, the Constitutional Carry Act (H. 3594) effective March 2024, allows adults 18+ to carry handguns openly or concealed without a permit, training, or background check, removing the permit requirement but keeping existing prohibited places like schools and federal buildings. The law also eased vehicle storage rules but maintains permit options for out-of-state reciprocity, while a recent veto override dismissed pending charges for unlawful possession under the old law. 

Can you carry a gun that is not in your name?

In many states, the law does not require firearms to be registered, which means that even if a gun is not registered to you, you may still legally possess and carry it if you meet specific criteria. However, it is crucial to ensure that the firearm is not stolen and that you have the owner's permission to carry it.

Can you conceal carry in SC without a permit in 2025?

Effective March 7, 2024, South Carolina's constitutional carry made it legal to carry a firearm just about anywhere without a concealed weapon permit (CWP), openly or concealed.

Do you need a background check in South Carolina to buy a gun?

Background Check Procedures in South Carolina

Federal law requires federally licensed firearms dealers (but not unlicensed sellers) to initiate a background check on the purchaser prior to sale of a firearm.

Can you carry a gun in your car in SC?

Yes, in South Carolina, you can carry a gun in your car, loaded or unloaded, openly or concealed, anywhere in the vehicle if you are legally allowed to possess a firearm, thanks to 2024's constitutional carry law, but you must secure it in a closed, locked compartment (like a glovebox or trunk) if on school property. There are no restrictions on where in the car to store it (dashboard, seat, etc.) for general use, and no permit is needed, though a Concealed Weapon Permit (CWP) provides reciprocity in other states and simplifies purchases.
 

How easy is it to buy a gun in SC?

South Carolina is rather easy as far as the process is concerned. To purchase a handgun or long gun in SC you are required to have either a Concealed carry permit, or have an instant background check done. If you do not have a concealed carry permit, The firearms dealer will have you fill out an ATF form 4473.

Can you order directly from Smith and Wesson?

The NEW Smith & Wesson Online Store is now live. Browse an expanding collection of parts, accessories, and branded gear & apparel. Save 10% OFF your first online order by signing up for our email.

Can you order guns from Amazon?

No, Amazon does not sell actual firearms like handguns or rifles due to their strict policies prohibiting them; however, they do sell air guns, BB guns, pellet guns, Airsoft guns, and ammunition for those, along with related accessories, as these aren't classified as traditional firearms. While you can buy devices that shoot projectiles, you cannot purchase real guns from Amazon, though instances of accidental shipments have occurred. 

What is the process for receiving a gun bought online?

Go get your new gun

Your local FFL will notify you when your shipment has arrived. Make sure you bring a government-issued ID with your picture and current address, licenses, or permits depending on your state and the items you have purchased.