Visit a site that sells firearms online, like Brownells, grabagun or palmettostatearmory.  There are many places out there, just make sure you’ve checked your local state laws to make sure the gun you would like to purchase is legal to own in your state.

Select the pistol, rifle or shotgun you wish to buy online.  Add it to your online cart, and complete the checkout process by paying for your online purchase.  Don’t forget to add ammunition and accessories, such as a safe and cleaning kit!

Note: make sure the firearm you wish to purchase online is legal in your state.  Just because the store has it for sale doesn’t mean you can own it where you live.  It is your responsibility to ensure it’s legal for you to possess.  Most sites will have a disclaimer at the bottom of the product page indicating what states prohibit possession of that firearm.

Locate a local licensed firearm dealer who will accept a firearm shipped from an online store.  Most gun stores will accept these transfers, but it is up to you to reach out to them to determine if they will.

Normally, a quick phone call along the lines of “Hey <insert local dealer’s name>, I purchased a firearm online and was wondering if I could have it shipped to you guys to do a transfer?”

You need to give the local dealer’s info to the site you purchased from.  Sometimes, the website will require the dealer to fax / email a copy of their license if they haven’t shipped to that dealer before.  If that’s the case, you might have to contact the dealer again to have them send the required documentation.

Once the firearm arrives at your local federally-licensed firearm dealer, it’s almost time to pick it up.  You can track your purchase using shipping information from the online store, but the local dealer still has to receive the firearm and log it on their books before you can come and pick it up.

Once they have it logged in their books, you can head up there and start the process of filling out the federal form 4473 to begin the background check process.  Your dealer will need to see your ID, and your CPL / CCW if it’s recognized as a exemption by the ATF.

NOTE: Make sure to verify the condition of your firearm prior to filling out the 4473 and taking official ownership of the firearm.  If there are any defects or issues, you want to send it back before completing the paperwork.

If your state has a waiting period,  you’ll have to wait until that period is satisfied.  Otherwise, you’re free to bring your newly-purchased firearm home with you.