Buying Your First Gun in Ohio: What You Need to Know

Buying your first firearm is a significant decision — and in Ohio, it’s more straightforward than most people expect. This guide walks you through everything a first-time buyer needs to know before walking into a gun store.

Ohio Gun Laws at a Glance

Ohio is one of the more gun-friendly states. You must be 21 or older to purchase a handgun, 18 or older for rifles and shotguns. All firearm purchases from a licensed dealer require a federal NICS background check — this is federal law, not state policy.

Ohio does not require a permit to purchase, own, or carry a long gun. A Concealed Handgun License (CHL) is required to carry a concealed handgun in public, though open carry is generally permitted for those 21+.

Step 1: Get Your Ohio Concealed Carry License (CHL)

While you don’t need a CHL to purchase a handgun, having one is beneficial:

CHL holders skip the NICS background check wait — it’s an instant approved-or-denied
You can carry concealed in more places than without a license
Process takes 4-6 weeks: 8 hours of training + fingerprints + application to the Ohio Sheriff’s office

If you’re planning to buy your first handgun soon, consider signing up for a CHL class first. Amherst Armory can point you to local certified instructors.

Step 2: Choose the Right Firearm for You

Not sure what to get? Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s practical for most first-time buyers:

Pistols (Handguns)

Most first-time buyers start with a compact 9mm pistol. They’re:

Lightweight and easy to handle
Available with simple thumb safety or no external safety
Affordable — quality options start around 50-500
Ammo is widely available and relatively inexpensive

Popular beginner-friendly handguns: Glock 43X, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, Sig Sauer P365, Ruger EC9S.

Rifles

If home defense is your priority, an AR-15 style rifle in 5.56/.223 is highly effective. They’re accurate, customizable, and relatively easy to shoot. For rural buyers, a pump-action shotgun is a time-tested choice.

Shotguns

A 12-gauge pump shotgun is one of the most effective home defense tools available. Downsides: significant recoil for new shooters, loud report, and heavier than pistols. A 20-gauge is a good middle ground with less recoil.

Step 3: Budget for What You Actually Need

Here’s the real cost breakdown for first-time buyers:

Firearm: 50-00 for a quality used handgun or rifle
CHL class: 5-50 (if getting your concealed carry license)
Holster: 5-5
Eye and ear protection: 0-0
Cleaning kit: 5-0
Ammo for practice: 0-0 per range trip

Plan on spending 00-,100 total your first year including training, gear, and ammunition.

Step 4: Find a Reputable FFL Dealer

Whether buying new or used, work with a licensed FFL dealer who:

Inspects every firearm before putting it on the shelf
Offers a clear warranty or return policy
Has staff who take time to understand your experience level
Doesn’t pressure you into buying more than you need

Amherst Armory is a licensed FFL dealer in Amherst, Ohio, serving Lorain County. We specialize in quality used firearms, offer honest guidance for first-time buyers, and include a 3-day mechanical warranty on all purchases.

Step 5: Store Your Firearm Responsibly

Ohio has no mandatory storage law, but best practice is:

Keep firearms secured — out of reach of children and unauthorized persons
A quality gun safe or lockable case is the best investment you’ll make
Never leave a firearm in a vehicle unattended
Understand your liability — storing an unsecured firearm accessible to a minor is a crime in Ohio

Ready to Buy?

Come by Amherst Armory at 1927 Cooper Foster Park Rd, Suite B, Amherst, OH 44001 during business hours — no appointment needed. Feel free to call ahead at (440) 210-7979 if you have questions before visiting.

We help first-time buyers every week. Bring a valid Ohio ID, be prepared to pass a NICS background check (instant if you have a CHL), and leave with a firearm you’ll feel confident owning.

Buying Your First Gun in Ohio: What You Need to Know