How buying a gun in Columbia works
Pick an FFL dealer near you that accepts shipped transfers and name it at checkout. We confirm their license and ship the firearm to them. Ammunition, optics and parts ship straight to your door where Missouri law allows.
Missouri requires no purchase permit, registration, or waiting period for firearm purchases. Dealer sales involve completing ATF Form 4473 and passing a NICS background check. Federal age restrictions apply: 21 for handguns and 18 for long guns. Online orders are shipped to the Missouri FFL dealer of your choice.
Dealers in these communities all work for Columbia-area buyers:
- Ashland
- Hallsville
- Centralia
- Rocheport
- Harrisburg
- Fulton
- Boonville
- Midway
Carrying a gun in Boone County
Missouri allows permitless concealed carry for adults 19 and older, or 18 for service members and veterans who are legally eligible to own a firearm. An optional permit is available through the Boone County Sheriff. Open carry may be restricted in some cities, and firearms are prohibited on posted properties.
Hunting near Columbia
Missouri's November firearms deer season runs from November 14 to 24, 2026, with additional antlerless and alternative-methods periods later in the year. Legal firearms include centerfire rifles and pistols with expanding bullets, slug shotguns, and muzzleloaders. Check MDC regulations and CWD sampling requirements for details.
Hunters in Boone County often explore Three Creeks and Rock Bridge areas to the south, as well as the Missouri River bottoms near Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area for duck hunting.
Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, southwest of Columbia along the Missouri River, is a popular destination for waterfowl hunting and shooting enthusiasts.
Public shooting ranges near Columbia
The public ranges on the city pages are run or listed by the state wildlife agency, a state forest or a national forest, chosen by distance from each city. Licenses, passes and hours are set by the agency.
Source: State wildlife agency and public-land range listings, September 2026. Distances are approximate; call or check the agency site before you drive out.