What to Bring to a Gun Show: A Checklist for Buyers and Sellers
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Whether you're going to a gun show to buy, sell, or just browse, having the right things with you makes the experience smoother. Show floors are busy, transactions happen fast, and once you're inside, leaving to grab something from the car is a hassle.
Here's what to pack — split by whether you're buying, selling, or just looking.
If You're Buying
Government-issued photo ID. Required for any purchase from a licensed dealer. A driver's license or state ID is standard. No exceptions.
Cash. Bring more than you think you'll need. Many private sellers are cash only, and having cash gives you leverage for negotiating. ATMs at show venues often have fees and lines.
A phone with price references. Look up the market value of items you're interested in before you go. Gun Broker, local dealer websites, and forum pricing threads give you a sense of what's fair.
A small notebook or note app. Write down table numbers, prices, and makes/models as you walk the floor. After an hour of browsing, you'll be glad you tracked what you saw and where.
A bore light. A small flashlight designed to shine down a gun barrel. Invaluable for inspecting used firearms for wear, pitting, or damage. These cost a few dollars and fit in your pocket.
A gun case or soft case. For transporting any purchases to your car. Some shows provide plastic bags, but a proper case is more secure and easier to carry.
Comfortable shoes. Gun shows are typically held in large buildings — fairgrounds, civic centers, convention halls. You'll be on your feet for hours walking on concrete.
Patience. Shows get crowded, especially in the first few hours. Be prepared to wait, browse slowly, and circle back.
If You're Selling or Trading
All paperwork for your firearms. Original receipts, manuals, and any documentation of the firearm's history. This builds buyer confidence and can justify a higher price.
Zip ties or cable locks. Many shows require all firearms entering the building to be checked by security and zip-tied. Bring your own or be prepared to use whatever the show provides.
A clear price in mind. Know the market value of what you're selling. Gun Broker sold prices are a good reference. Set a minimum you'll accept and be prepared to negotiate.
A table cover or display materials (if you've rented a table). A clean cloth, small signs with prices, and a professional-looking setup attract more interest than a bare table with guns piled on it.
Business cards (if you're a regular seller). Even informal sellers benefit from a way for buyers to follow up after the show.
If You're Just Browsing
Cash for admission and small purchases. Most shows charge a modest admission fee. Even if you're not planning to buy a firearm, you might find ammunition, accessories, knives, or other items worth picking up.
A plan. Gun shows are sensory overload — hundreds of tables, thousands of items. Know what sections interest you (firearms, ammo, knives, collectibles, military memorabilia) and focus there first.
Comfortable clothes and good shoes. Show floors are crowded and warm. Dress in layers you can shed, and wear shoes you can stand in for several hours.
General Tips for Everyone
Know the show rules. Most shows require all personal firearms brought into the building to be unloaded and inspected at the entrance. Loaded firearms on the show floor are universally prohibited.
Arrive early for the best selection. Serious buyers and the best deals tend to cluster in the first hour after doors open. If you have a specific item in mind, don't wait until afternoon.
Bring a bag or backpack. For small purchases like ammunition, magazines, cleaning supplies, and accessories. Many shows don't provide bags.
Stay hydrated. Show buildings can be warm and dry, and you'll be on your feet for hours. Bring a water bottle or plan to buy drinks on site.
More Gun Show Guides on Meet Me at the Fair
Learn the ropes before your first show:
- Vermont Gun Shows in 2026: What to Expect and Where to Find Them
- First-Time Gun Show Buyer's Guide: What to Know Before You Buy
- Collecting Vintage Firearms at New England Gun Shows
Last updated: April 2026
