4 Useful Tips for Selling Your Firearm to a Pawnshop

The firearm buy-and-sell community is vast, and with so many alternatives available, it can be challenging to decide where to take your gun in exchange for some cash. A pawnshop is an easy and fast way for most.

While we like a good bargain here at River City Pawn, we will still ensure that you leave knowing you got the best deal possible. Here are four things you should do before selling your gun to a pawnshop.

1. Check the Pawnshop’s License

Ask the pawnbroker whether they're actually licensed to transact with you. Pawnshops must adhere to strict municipal and federal laws, especially when it comes to firearms. A pawnshop must be a certified FFL dealer, which means it is certified to buy and sell new or used guns. It should also transport them from one branch to another for your convenience.

2. Research Your Gun's Value Beforehand

Most firearms have a pawnshop value ranging from $1 to $1,300. A gun's pawn value is typically $300 approximately. Websites like True Gun Value and Blue Book of Gun Values are valuable resources where you can get close-to-accurate values.

The most significant benefit of pawning a pistol is that you receive immediate cash for it. However, you will not earn as much for it as you would if you took the effort to sell it through other means. This refers to auctions, where you can get incredible prices, especially for historical pieces.

3. Prep Your Gun Before Going

Unload your guns entirely and store any ammo and attachments in a separate, sealed container. Before entering the pawnshop, place the weapons in their cases. River City Pawn's pawnbrokers and appraisers adhere to the strictest safety protocols when it comes to weapons.

4. Prepare for a Background Check

One last point to remember is that pawnbrokers will most likely screen you through a routine background check before or during the transaction. It makes no difference if you already owned the pistol before pawning it. In any case, routine background checks are required by state law across the country.

Knowing this, save yourself time by bringing your government-issued ID, driver's license, and any other documents usually required when purchasing a gun from a licensed store.

What Kind of Guns Do Pawnshops Usually Buy?

Most pawnshops will pawn or sell any quality pistol or rifle that has been severely worn but still functions correctly. A "like new" gun will be much more precious, and it will be even more valuable if you have an antique rifle, such as one from the Civil War. Regardless, expect them to vet and inspect your antique gun to ensure its authenticity—even if you know the history, a pawnbroker would still follow their standard procedures.

Conclusion

Selling a firearm to a pawnshop or obtaining a loan on a firearm from a pawnbroker is an excellent option to obtain quick cash. While the process may involve meticulous checking and proper documents, the right pawnbroker can help make the process easier for you.

For a hassle-free, competitive deal, head on over to River City Pawns! Our pawnshop in Henderson, KY has all the licenses necessary to transact with gun owners. Visit us today and get ready for a solid bargain!