Most firearms cost between $350 and $800. Hunting rifles cost about $700 on average, and pistols are generally around $500. Expect to about $700 for a shotgun and $800 for an AR-15 rifle.
How much a typical gun costs will depend on the type of gun and the features you would like to add to it. For example, a Mossberg 20-gauge shotgun can cost as low as $150, and a 9 mm pistol can cost as low as $250. Some guns can cost can even cost up to $9000. However, most popular guns will range between $350 to $800.
I recommend checking out this gun value price guide found on Amazon. It is a great place to get detailed information on the prices of firearms
Here are some examples of a few guns available for sale online:
| Model | Type | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Revolver | RUGER WRANGLER COWPOKE | $255 |
| Bolt Action Rifle | REMINGTON 700 SPS | $710 |
| Semi-Auto Rifle | FN M16 RIFLE | $3,030 |
| Double-Action Revolver | RUGER LCRX | $640 |
| Double-Action Handgun | SMITH & WESSON M&P9 M2.0 | $570 |
| Semi-Auto Rifle | RADICAL FIREARMS AR-15 RPR | $810 |
| Pump Action Shotgun | MOSSBERG 500 TURKEY | $580 |
| Pump Action Shotgun | MOSSBERG 590 SHOCKWAVE | $785 |
There are a few factors that go into how much a gun will cost. You need to consider what type of gun you want, whether you want it custom-built or added features, and the name brand of the gun. All of these will determine how much you will pay to take that gun home. Let’s take a look at a few common questions.
There are many different types of guns out there, depending on what you would like to use it for. This causes a wide range of costs when you go to purchase. Knowing which gun you would like to purchase can help narrow down the search and makes it easier to get a good estimate of how much you will spend.
For more, don’t miss How To Choose the Best Gun To Buy (Based on Your Needs).
How Much Does a Rifle Cost?
Most people will end up paying about $700 for a hunting rifle, although you can pick up a quality one for about $400 before optics are figured into the cost. A good scope will add in about $75 to $100. If you want to pick up higher quality rifles, expect to pay $1000 higher.
Just keep in mind that there are many different types of rifles, and many of the other guns we will explore in this article will may fall under the category of “rifle” as well. For the purposes of what I am referring to here, I am specifically talking about hunting rifles.
For a simple hunting rifle, the average cost is around $500. Choices from Remington (Affiliate Link with Examples) and other big names have high-quality choices that cost less, along with customized rifles that will run a little higher depending on your needs.
A lower-end model will typically suffice for all but the most discerning enthusiasts. However, I recommend testing any rifle before buying, if possible. There is inconsistency among lower-end rifles, so you definitely want to find out if you happen to have a lemon before purchasing. Or, make sure the store has a decent return policy.
Related What Is the Cheapest Way to Buy a Gun? | 5 Vendors Compared.
How Much Does an M16 Cost?
The cost of the M16 will really depend on which maker you choose. Most versions will fall somewhere between $800 and $1400 based on the features and who makes the gun to start with. You can sometimes find a cheaper version looking at gun shows and other venues, but for a high-quality version that is brand-new, this is a reasonable price to work with.
How Much Does a Handgun Cost?
You can purchase a reliable handgun for as little as $300. I would be wary about buying anything priced less than that because it is probably very cheaply made. If you are not wanting to break the bank, you can find excellent pistols, perfect for concealed carry, in the $500 to $600 range.
I would also like to mention that avoiding off-brand models is typically a good idea. If you don’t immediately recognize a maker as being a household name, I would pass. Unless you have an expert guiding you through the buying process who has actually used the gun he or she is recommending, stick to the name brands.
How Much Does a Revolver Cost?
There is a lot of variation in the cost of revolvers depending on the brand and the type you want to choose. It is possible to find hundreds of options when it comes to revolvers, so the quality and the price will vary quite a bit. For example, the Ruger models will often sell for between $300 to $800, though you can find some for a lower price for sale. The Smith & Wesson revolver will sell for $300 minimum, with several versions being more than $1000.
How Much Does a 9mm Gun Cost?
Next on our list is the 9mm pistol. This is a good choice to help keep you protected when necessary, and there are lots of choices in terms of brands and pricing, so you can find the one you need in no time. It is possible to find a 9 mm pistol for an average price between $250 to $400. Shotguns are comparable, but many fall in a higher price range, making the 9 mm a budget-friendly choice.
How Much Does a Luger Cost?
A Luger pistol is a semi-automatic pistol that was produced in several models, from several different countries, between 1898 to 1948. Because they are older and are no longer made, they can be unique but often come at a higher price than some of the other choices. This makes them a good addition to any gun collection.
A luger will often cost more than many of the other guns we have here because of its novelty and the way it is designed. It is common to find this gun available on actions and other sites for as much as $2200 to $9000. It is possible to find this gun for a lower price, but you will need to shop around and be on the lookout for quite some time.
How Much Does an AR15 Cost?
Expect to pay between $600 and $800 for a decent AR. Anything below that is often more cheaply made and usually should be passed on. Basically, you do get what you pay for when it comes to AR-15s. I recommend not settling on this front and just going ahead and expect pay at least $1,000 for a high-quality AR.
Of course, the cost of the AR15 will vary as well. Most high-quality versions will fall somewhere between $400 to $1200, though there may be occasional sales where you can find a good one for $350. If you fancy a gun that is higher in quality or custom-built, then the price could fall a little higher as well.
How Much Does a Shotgun Cost?
Most people will spend about $750 on a shotgun, although quality ones are available in the $350 range. It all depends on what you want from the firearm. The more utilitarian ones that hunters often want are generally about $500, and the more aesthetically dressed-up sport models are often $1,000 to $1250.
Shotguns are a good choice to pick because it is possible to purchase one for a lower price than some of the other guns. You can easily find a really high-quality version for $400.
The two most popular models of the shotgun, including the Mossberg 500 and the Remington 870, come for under that price. In fact, the Mossberg Maverick 20-gauge is available for $150. This makes it the perfect gun to choose for those who want something that lasts while remaining on a budget.
Keep in mind that this is for the price of a single-barrel shotgun. It is possible also to purchase a double-barrel shotgun too. If you do choose this option, you will need to add to the price. These shotguns require extra materials and have more power than their single-barrel counterparts, so the price will go up. You should still find some good versions for a decent price, though.
To see the most popular recommended firearm accessories available on Amazon, just click here.
Things to Prepare Before Purchasing a Gun
There are a few things to prepare before you purchase your gun. The exact rules and procedures will vary between each state, but a few steps that all states have in common include:
Obtaining a License
Obtaining your own gun license is a simple and quick process. There are often several secondary requirements you must meet, though. You may have to pay a small fee for the license. In some states, you must be fingerprinted as an extra precaution. Always find out what these procedures are before you start and finish them before purchasing your gun.
Having a license for your firearm before you try to purchase any gun is a good policy. With the license in hand, you can walk into any gun retailer and purchase without being delayed. You will need to go through the process anyway, so doing it ahead of time will help you walk out of the retailer with the gun you want.
The Background Check
A background check is only required if you choose to purchase your gun through a Federal Firearms Licensee. This would include any retailers and some individuals. If you purchase a gun through a gun show, online, or through a private sale, a background check is not necessary. If you are interested in seeing who qualifies as an FFL in your state, check with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Firearms Safety Course
Many states now require potential gun owners to finish a firearms safety course before obtaining their license. This is especially true if you plan to get a concealed carry permit because these often have greater inherent danger.
Even if your state does not require this training, it is a good idea to complete one. They help you have all the information necessary on safety, how to care for and maintain your gun, liability issues, and special laws concerning guns in your state.
Parting Shot
Each gun category has a different price range depending on the features and how it is used. Knowing which gun you would like to purchase and deciding what features are important on the gun will make a difference in the final price. Some guns naturally fall on the lower end of the price spectrum, while others, due to their use and customization, will cost a little more. Even for those who are budget-conscious, it is possible to find a high-quality gun.
The great news is that you can buy a gun online from the comfort of your recliner. I recommend that you check out guns.com to find a great selection and some of the best prices anywhere.
For more, check out the 3 Best Places to Sell Guns and Ammo Online.
Jim James is a published author and expert on the outdoors and survivalism. Through avid research and hands-on experience, he has gained expertise on a wide variety of topics. His time spent at college taught him to become really good at figuring out answers to common problems. Often through extensive trial and error, Jim has continued to learn and increase his knowledge of a vast array of topics related to firearms, hunting, fishing, medical topics, cooking, games/gaming, and other subjects too numerous to name.
Jim has been teaching people a wide variety of survivalism topics for over five years and has a lifetime of experience fishing, camping, general survivalism, and anything in nature. In fact, while growing up, he often spent more time on the water than on land! He has degrees in History, Anthropology, and Music from the University of Southern Mississippi. He extensively studied Southern History, nutrition, geopolitics, the Cold War, and nuclear policy strategies and safety as well as numerous other topics related to the content on survivalfreedom.com.