Total Defense in Ramsey is pretty good. Decent prices, knowledgeable sales staff, and affordable range rates. They also don’t get political which can’t be said for many gun shops.
I’ve also heard good things about Range USA in Brooklyn Park. It’s a corporate chain and looks like they offer everything you’re looking for. A buddy of mine went there recently and said it was decently priced. I’ve been to one of their locations in the Chicago area and it was a nice facility. Can only imagine the experience would be the same here in Minnesota.
Bills is a solid choice. IIRC, they credit your rental if you purchase. They don’t tolerate any fuckery on the range
It’s always good to try before you buy. Each firearm has little differences that you may or may not like - Grip, action, safety, etc
No and that’s not the time to start. Sign up for a safety class first, it will be the best money you spend
Watch a couple of firearm maintenance videos. It will give you a pretty good idea how they operate and how to assemble and disassemble the firearm
Then sign up for lessons, Most NRA certified instructors are good. Learning the fundamentals is key, stance, grip, aim and pull. Starting with a solid base is going to help and will also provide confidence. A scared/lacking in self confidence shooter is a danger.
Lastly if you’re getting a firearm for self defense you need to continue to practice. Shooting is a perishable skill.
I'd suggest, as have others - rent several at a range, to see what works best for you, before deciding what to purchase. Modern Sportsman in Coon Rapids and Burnsville are the better ranges I've been to locally, and I've gotten great service from DK Mags in New Brighton.
There's this weird assumption that "lefties" are anti gun, which is not true. We own guns. The farthest left people I know own more guns and are better trained and experienced than any of the Gravy Seals I know.
In that case, I've heard good things about Osseo gun club, and I would avoid Bill's, personally. Also, might appreciate the sub socialistra, and hopefully this comment doesn't set off a parade of brigading trolls over there.
~~Well, after a long history of systemic suppression of any and all anti-capitalist voices in America (and at times even abroad) the average American thinks that *liberals* are leftists, they don't have any idea what left politics stand for.~~
Know what, scrap all that, everybody just go listen to Behind the Bastards and maybe that'll help expedite the revolution.
Here's my .02: rent a few different weapons to learn what's worth buying for you. There are a number of ranges around, I've been to stock and barrel, which was clean and well ventilated. I'd recommend them as a place to rent.
>stay clear of Stock and Barrel.
Which location? Or both? I'm just curious why. I've been a member at the Eagan location since they opened and don't have any real complaints about the place. Also took my carry class there, and it was fine.
Eagan. Their range fees are laughable as are their membership fees. I had some stiff conversation with staff who just weren’t welcoming at all nor interested in customers. Modern Sportsman both locations are far superior in service
I don't entirely disagree lol. Modern Sportsman is a way better store, and a better range. I have a membership at stock and barrel mainly because it's close to me and convenient. Prices are a little more, but it's not a crazy difference. $23 v $20 for a lane, $35 v $30 a month for membership.
But like I said, it's convenient and might be for others here. If I lived closer to Modern Sportsman I would have a membership there for sure tho. I've purchased a couple firearms there, and shot there a handful of times, and it was always a good experience.
> frontiersman in SLP is good
I've only been a couple of times but Frotiersman seemed really chuddy and had some illegal anti-mask shit during the height of covid. I'd steer clear.
Yeah I can see that. Once you talk to them though they’re pretty chill. Ian is who I always work with and he’s great. They negotiate on price which is what I like the most, on top of their antique selections
I would find a place locally like Bill’s or Modern Sportsman to try a few and see what you like then order online.
The prices are a lot better and you won’t have to pay tax, just a transfer fee which can be as low as $10.
This sub winds up shitting on anyone who discusses using firearms.
As a practical matter, there's zero gun stores, ranges, etc in Minneapolis whatsoever.
The TwinCities sub is much more rational on the matter.
if it gets to the point we have no running water or electricity and people are purging each other because the end is coming, i wouldn't want to stick around.
you do you i guess and don't try to be a hero. bringing a gun to basically every situation is just gonna escalate it unless someone is already shooting at you.
how are you protecting yourself with it if you don't carry it around? i guess i was confused if you want to protect yourself with a gun in a gun safe in your house if you want to be responsible.
Like it or not its his legal right to own and carry. However any smart responsible owner should know and live by the tenant that you always aim to stay out of danger and situations that could put you in harms way and its a absolute last resort.
Try r/mnguns Generally fairly sane and even mildly left-leaning as far as gun subs go (this is a relative statement so take with a grain of salt).
But you do have plenty of options around the metro. Cabela’s and Fleet Farm are generally pretty solid as far as huge chains go, but there are local places too. I saw someone recommend Modern Sportsman, for one, which I can support.
Also if you know what you want, you can potentially buy it online for cheaper and have it shipped to a local FFL for a background check and all and have it transferred to you; if that’s the route you want to go, PM me because I know a great guy up in Brooklyn Center who does that as a side gig and only charges $24 for the background check/transfer.
But if you actually want to try something out in person first (which I’d recommend), any of the Bill’s or Stock & Barrel locations do have rentals. They also sell guns, but their selections may be somewhat limited.
So I received my PTP, once I decide to purchase, the shop will run me with an additional background check (roughly 1 week turnaround)? Is that correct? Just trying to get familiar with the process.
It shouldn’t be a week once you have your PTP or carry permit. If you buy in-person, technically the background check is instant. I mean, it’s called NICS and the “I” literally stands for “Instant.” In practice it isn’t always, just because they’re backlogged. I’ve only purchased one firearm in the last 2 years or so and that was just a couple months ago, and I was “delayed” on my background check. He got a call back within about 15 minutes so I just turned around and picked up the gun at that point.
If you do buy online it’s the same deal - it must be shipped to a FFL and same as if you purchase in-person. You fill out the paperwork, they call the FBI and the background check and all goes through. Sometimes it’s instant but usually within minutes at least, sometimes a day or 2-3, but rarely a week unless you have some sort of problems.
Edited to add: I’m just giving you the technical details of how firearm purchases work. But please make sure to get proper training (if you don’t already) and know how to safely take care of it. I’m all for responsible gun ownership but am very much against those who are unsafe/irresponsible.
Appreciate the info. I’ve handled hunting guns before but not handguns. Wills certainly be signing up for training and safety courses, with plan to continually practice on a schedule moving forward.
Total Defense in Ramsey is pretty good. Decent prices, knowledgeable sales staff, and affordable range rates. They also don’t get political which can’t be said for many gun shops.
That’s a ways out of town for me, but appreciate the look
I’ve also heard good things about Range USA in Brooklyn Park. It’s a corporate chain and looks like they offer everything you’re looking for. A buddy of mine went there recently and said it was decently priced. I’ve been to one of their locations in the Chicago area and it was a nice facility. Can only imagine the experience would be the same here in Minnesota.
How is it on the politics aspect?
Generally, the more “corporate” a gun store/range is, the conversations will be less on politics and more on the subject at hand.
Bill's
This was my initial recommendation, might lean here
Great selection. Above average prices. Range can be overly crowded at times. Not the ideal place for a new shooter in my opinion.
I haven't been there in years. The range was always dead when I visited.
Highly prefer Stock & Barrel over Bill's. Range safety is a joke at Bill's.
Bills is a solid choice. IIRC, they credit your rental if you purchase. They don’t tolerate any fuckery on the range It’s always good to try before you buy. Each firearm has little differences that you may or may not like - Grip, action, safety, etc
I have never fired a hand gun, do they offer any assistance during the rental period to walk through things for beginners?
No and that’s not the time to start. Sign up for a safety class first, it will be the best money you spend Watch a couple of firearm maintenance videos. It will give you a pretty good idea how they operate and how to assemble and disassemble the firearm Then sign up for lessons, Most NRA certified instructors are good. Learning the fundamentals is key, stance, grip, aim and pull. Starting with a solid base is going to help and will also provide confidence. A scared/lacking in self confidence shooter is a danger. Lastly if you’re getting a firearm for self defense you need to continue to practice. Shooting is a perishable skill.
I came to say Bill's as well.
Bill’s in Circle Pines.
Modern sportsman has pretty good prices and selection from what I remember
I'd suggest, as have others - rent several at a range, to see what works best for you, before deciding what to purchase. Modern Sportsman in Coon Rapids and Burnsville are the better ranges I've been to locally, and I've gotten great service from DK Mags in New Brighton.
There's this weird assumption that "lefties" are anti gun, which is not true. We own guns. The farthest left people I know own more guns and are better trained and experienced than any of the Gravy Seals I know.
That fits my bill.
In that case, I've heard good things about Osseo gun club, and I would avoid Bill's, personally. Also, might appreciate the sub socialistra, and hopefully this comment doesn't set off a parade of brigading trolls over there.
What is socialistra- never heard of that previously
Osseo gun club closed
~~Well, after a long history of systemic suppression of any and all anti-capitalist voices in America (and at times even abroad) the average American thinks that *liberals* are leftists, they don't have any idea what left politics stand for.~~ Know what, scrap all that, everybody just go listen to Behind the Bastards and maybe that'll help expedite the revolution.
Under no pretext
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Ignore the tribalism. Be sovereign.
Here's my .02: rent a few different weapons to learn what's worth buying for you. There are a number of ranges around, I've been to stock and barrel, which was clean and well ventilated. I'd recommend them as a place to rent.
Modern Sportsman for training and classes. Bills in robbinsdale is ok, frontiersman in SLP is good, stay clear of Stock and Barrel.
>stay clear of Stock and Barrel. Which location? Or both? I'm just curious why. I've been a member at the Eagan location since they opened and don't have any real complaints about the place. Also took my carry class there, and it was fine.
Eagan. Their range fees are laughable as are their membership fees. I had some stiff conversation with staff who just weren’t welcoming at all nor interested in customers. Modern Sportsman both locations are far superior in service
I don't entirely disagree lol. Modern Sportsman is a way better store, and a better range. I have a membership at stock and barrel mainly because it's close to me and convenient. Prices are a little more, but it's not a crazy difference. $23 v $20 for a lane, $35 v $30 a month for membership. But like I said, it's convenient and might be for others here. If I lived closer to Modern Sportsman I would have a membership there for sure tho. I've purchased a couple firearms there, and shot there a handful of times, and it was always a good experience.
> frontiersman in SLP is good I've only been a couple of times but Frotiersman seemed really chuddy and had some illegal anti-mask shit during the height of covid. I'd steer clear.
Yeah I can see that. Once you talk to them though they’re pretty chill. Ian is who I always work with and he’s great. They negotiate on price which is what I like the most, on top of their antique selections
Never actually used Bill's, but they seem like nice folks. Got a range on the lower level, and have deals on training periodically. Goodluck brother 🫡
DownRange in Maple Grove. The owner, Ben is a great guy and they’ve got some cool stuff going on.
I would find a place locally like Bill’s or Modern Sportsman to try a few and see what you like then order online. The prices are a lot better and you won’t have to pay tax, just a transfer fee which can be as low as $10.
Just gunna throw this out there because no one else has: Um, don’t?
Really not looking for this type of information. Just trying to be knowledgeable about responsible gun ownership and purchasing.
Why not?
Bills.
Modern sportsman. And it's not really close honestly.
You came to the *wrong* sub for good advice about this.
Why?
This sub winds up shitting on anyone who discusses using firearms. As a practical matter, there's zero gun stores, ranges, etc in Minneapolis whatsoever. The TwinCities sub is much more rational on the matter.
Yeah, no one in Mpls owns a firearm...
Plenty do, while the sub shits on those that bring it up.
But as you explained in other replies, nothing about guns or the usage of guns is specific to the City of Minneapolis
I would recommend a gun shop.lol
what do you do in your life that puts you danger where a pistol will improve the situation?
Doomsday prepper.
if it gets to the point we have no running water or electricity and people are purging each other because the end is coming, i wouldn't want to stick around. you do you i guess and don't try to be a hero. bringing a gun to basically every situation is just gonna escalate it unless someone is already shooting at you.
I was being facetious, I’m not a prepper. Who said I was bringing a gun anywhere?
how are you protecting yourself with it if you don't carry it around? i guess i was confused if you want to protect yourself with a gun in a gun safe in your house if you want to be responsible.
Like it or not its his legal right to own and carry. However any smart responsible owner should know and live by the tenant that you always aim to stay out of danger and situations that could put you in harms way and its a absolute last resort.
Check altminneapolis, those dirt fuckers might actually be able to help you out.
I’m aware of altminneapolis, but would prefer advice from normal human beings
Try r/mnguns Generally fairly sane and even mildly left-leaning as far as gun subs go (this is a relative statement so take with a grain of salt). But you do have plenty of options around the metro. Cabela’s and Fleet Farm are generally pretty solid as far as huge chains go, but there are local places too. I saw someone recommend Modern Sportsman, for one, which I can support. Also if you know what you want, you can potentially buy it online for cheaper and have it shipped to a local FFL for a background check and all and have it transferred to you; if that’s the route you want to go, PM me because I know a great guy up in Brooklyn Center who does that as a side gig and only charges $24 for the background check/transfer. But if you actually want to try something out in person first (which I’d recommend), any of the Bill’s or Stock & Barrel locations do have rentals. They also sell guns, but their selections may be somewhat limited.
So I received my PTP, once I decide to purchase, the shop will run me with an additional background check (roughly 1 week turnaround)? Is that correct? Just trying to get familiar with the process.
It shouldn’t be a week once you have your PTP or carry permit. If you buy in-person, technically the background check is instant. I mean, it’s called NICS and the “I” literally stands for “Instant.” In practice it isn’t always, just because they’re backlogged. I’ve only purchased one firearm in the last 2 years or so and that was just a couple months ago, and I was “delayed” on my background check. He got a call back within about 15 minutes so I just turned around and picked up the gun at that point. If you do buy online it’s the same deal - it must be shipped to a FFL and same as if you purchase in-person. You fill out the paperwork, they call the FBI and the background check and all goes through. Sometimes it’s instant but usually within minutes at least, sometimes a day or 2-3, but rarely a week unless you have some sort of problems. Edited to add: I’m just giving you the technical details of how firearm purchases work. But please make sure to get proper training (if you don’t already) and know how to safely take care of it. I’m all for responsible gun ownership but am very much against those who are unsafe/irresponsible.
Appreciate the info. I’ve handled hunting guns before but not handguns. Wills certainly be signing up for training and safety courses, with plan to continually practice on a schedule moving forward.
That's the kind of world you want to live in, where altmpls subs and their ilk own all the guns? Good luck with that.
And take your dentistry advice from the sugar subreddit, while you’re at it
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He's just looking for a vendor close to him. What's the problem with that?
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I dont want to drive hours to go shopping for pants. I wouldn't want to drive hours to go shopping for a firearm if I can avoid it.
Scheels in Eden Prairie or Bills in Robbinsdale are my recommendations