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Originally Posted On: https://my.concealedcoalition.com/buying-a-gun-in-wisconsin/
There aren’t many steps you’ll have to complete before buying a gun in Wisconsin, because the state has some of the country’s most relaxed regulations. Purchasing a firearm is relatively straightforward if you’re eligible to own a gun under federal law.
Learning the gun-buying process is a good idea, though, because it ensures you meet the requirements before entering a gun shop. This guide will walk you through the steps you’ll need to take to purchase a firearm in the state of Wisconsin.
Things You’ll Need to Buy a Gun in Wisconsin
You don’t need to bring much with you when you purchase a weapon in Wisconsin. You won’t want to forget anything, however, because doing so would prolong the process. The only three things that are necessary for this purchase are:
A Way to Pay
The first thing you’ll require to buy a gun in Wisconsin is a method of payment. Most gun shops will accept multiple forms, including credit cards, debit, and checks. Cash might be the only option when buying from a private seller, however.
State ID
Only Wisconsin residents are permitted to buy firearms in the state. You’ll need to bring state identification to the gun shop that proves you live in Wisconsin at the time of purchase. You aren’t legally allowed to buy a gun without this ID.
A Background Check
You’ll have to complete a background check before buying a firearm from a federally licensed dealer. The state will conduct a background check through the Wisconsin Department of Justice for any handgun purchases you make, and it will use the National Instant Criminal Background Check System if you’re buying a rifle or shotgun. No background checks are necessary when purchasing a weapon through a private seller
Identification and a payment method are generally the only things you need to buy a gun in Wisconsin, because no licensing is necessary, and the dealer will perform the background check for you. It’s worth looking at the steps you’ll want to complete before making this purchase, though, to ensure everything goes smoothly.
7 Steps to Buying a Gun in Wisconsin
It’s advisable to figure out the exact steps you’ll need to take before making your gun purchase in the state of Wisconsin. Much of the path you take will depend on your personal preferences, including where you plan to take your gun after buying it. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Choose a Gun Type
You should start the process by researching the type of firearm you wish to purchase. Some guns require federal registration, which could be a consideration as you decide. Identifying the weapon you want to buy makes the next steps far easier to navigate.
2. Come Up With a Budget
How much do you want to spend on your firearm? The prices will vary greatly, so determining your budget can help you make your selection and assist as you decide whether a concealed carry permit is worth your while. Having a maximum amount you wish to spend can eliminate some products from consideration and streamline the process.
3. Learn the Open Carry Laws
Wisconsin isn’t a constitutional carry state, but you are free to open carry without a license. This law means you can bring your visible firearm anywhere in the state if guns aren’t prohibited in that location. Open carry laws apply to your vehicle too, but the gun must be in a place where it’s visible to passersby.
4. Read the Concealed Carry Laws
Concealed carry laws in Wisconsin are slightly different, as you’ll need the necessary certification to carry a concealed weapon in the state. Only those 21 and up are eligible, and applicants must complete a firearm safety course before applying. You can apply for your license online after completing your course.
5. Take a Concealed Carry Course
The concealed carry class you’ll need to complete in Wisconsin is relatively straightforward, and it only takes a few hours to finish. There’s no shooting involved, as the course just goes over some basic precautions you’ll need to take when using your gun. You can submit your certification online once you’ve passed the class, and the Wisconsin Department of Justice will approve it quickly.
6. Find a Dealer
The next step is finding a dealer that carries your desired firearm. You can usually look at in-stock items online to make the process easier and save yourself from driving around town searching for the perfect gun. Remember that you’ll need your ID with you if you choose a federally licensed dealer.
7. Buy Your Gun
You’re now ready to buy your weapon. It’s a good idea to obtain your concealed carry permit before making this purchase, because it makes it easier to transport the gun back to your home. Your gun will be part of your life for years to come, so take the time to ensure you’re making the right decision.
Buying a gun in Wisconsin isn’t much different than going to the store for any other item you might need, although your background check will flag you if you have any felonies or outstanding warrants on your record. You can make the process even easier by picking up your concealed carry permit before making your purchase.
Join the More Than 1 Million People Certified in Our Concealed Carry Courses
You’ll need a concealed carry permit in Wisconsin if you plan to bring your gun to restaurants, stores, and other private entities where open carry is prohibited. Keep in mind that some of these venues might ban concealed carry weapons too. Completing this course also makes it easier to take your gun in your vehicle or away from your personal property.
Concealed Coalition provides the firearm safety course you need to get a concealed carry permit in the state of Wisconsin. Our curriculum is approved by the state, ensuring you can apply for and receive your certification in a hurry. Be sure to contact our offices today to speak with an expert about your concealed carry educational needs in Wisconsin.
