How to Sell My Gun in Memphis, Tennessee

Key Takeaways:

• Private Sales Are Legal but Require Responsibility: Tennessee allows private firearm sales between residents without needing a licensed dealer. However, sellers should verify the buyer’s eligibility, such as checking a valid Tennessee ID and considering a voluntary background check, to avoid legal risks and promote community safety.
• Proper Documentation Protects Both Parties: While not legally required, creating a bill of sale with detailed firearm information and signatures is highly recommended. It provides proof of the transaction, ensures transparency, and serves as a safeguard in case of future disputes or inquiries.
• Explore Multiple Selling Options for the Best Outcome: Sellers can choose from local gun shops, online marketplaces, or specialty buyers like Luxus Capital. Each has pros and cons—shops offer professional handling, online platforms provide broader reach, and specialized buyers may offer higher prices for rare or collectible firearms.

A Real-World Guide for Responsible Gun Owners

So, you’re thinking about selling a gun in Memphis. Maybe it’s a piece you no longer shoot, part of an old collection, or something you inherited and aren’t sure what to do with. Whatever the reason, the good news is: it’s entirely doable—and if you’re informed, it’s not all that complicated.

That said, it’s not something to rush. Tennessee’s firearm laws have quirks, and understanding how they work is your first step toward making a smooth, legal, and responsible sale.

Private Sales: Legal? Yes. Effortless? Almost.

In Tennessee, private sales between residents are entirely legal. You don’t need a Federal Firearms License (FFL), and you’re not required to use a dealer as a middleman, though some folks still prefer to.

Here’s the kicker: just because the law doesn’t make you do a background check doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. It’s not just about legal coverage; it’s about peace of mind. Checking the buyer’s ID to confirm Tennessee residency is a must. And if you can, try to get a feel for whether they’re legally allowed to own a firearm.

Selling to someone who’s legally prohibited—say, due to a felony conviction or a mental health disqualification—can land you in serious legal trouble. No one wants to deal with that. Even a simple online check with a willing buyer’s consent (like through the TBI’s voluntary background check) can go a long way.

Moral of the story? Use common sense. Your right to sell privately comes with a responsibility to keep your community safe.

Put It in Writing: Why a Bill of Sale Still Matters

Technically, Tennessee doesn’t require a bill of sale for a private firearm transaction. But honestly? You’re better off making one anyway.

Think of it like selling a car—you’d want documentation showing who bought it, when, and what exactly they walked away with. At a minimum, your bill of sale should include:

• Full names and addresses of both buyer and seller
• Date of the transaction
• Make, model, and serial number of the firearm
• Both parties’ signatures

This isn’t just paperwork for its sake. It protects you and the buyer if questions come up later, whether from law enforcement, insurance, or personal record-keeping. Plus, having that document on hand helps you remember the details down the road, especially if you ever need to refer back.

Stay Sharp on the Law (and Local Rules Too)

Now, let’s talk legal stuff—nothing too heavy, but essential. Tennessee law lays out some clear restrictions on who can own firearms. That includes folks with felony convictions, certain mental health adjudications, or domestic violence histories.

Also, don’t forget that Memphis might have its local ordinances. Cities sometimes enforce zoning rules or extra steps for certain transactions. Keeping an eye on updates from the Tennessee Department of Safety or even calling a local gun shop can help you stay in the know.

And if you ever feel like you’re out of your depth, ask for help. A quick call to a firearms-savvy attorney or a reputable dealer can clarify things.

So, Where Can You Sell in Memphis?

You’ve got options. Memphis has a healthy firearms community, and there are a few solid routes you can take, depending on how hands-on you want to be and how fast you’re trying to sell.

1. Gun Shops

Selling through a local shop is pretty straightforward. Stores like Range USA or Guns and Ammo on Summer Avenue often buy directly from walk-in customers or take guns on consignment.

The upside? You get a professional evaluation without worrying about legal paperwork—they’ve got it covered. The downside? Most shops take a cut, especially on consignment. But for many, that’s a fair trade for convenience and peace of mind.

One tip: shop around. Visit a couple of stores and see who gives the best offer. You might be surprised by how many offers can vary.

2. Online Marketplaces

Websites like Armslist let you list your firearm and connect with local buyers. It’s a broader reach than just local shops, and you might catch the eye of someone specifically hunting for what you’re offering.

But—massive but—online selling comes with risk. You’ll still need to verify the buyer’s residency and legal status. And you should always meet in a safe, public place. Memphis PD and Shelby County Sheriff’s Office offer “safe exchange zones” specifically for deals like this.

Avoid shipping the gun unless you’re transferring through an FFL. When your transaction crosses state lines or goes through the mail, you’re in federal territory—a different ball game.

3. Luxus Capital (For Premium Firearms)

If you’re selling a high-end, rare, or collectible piece—something beyond the average Glock or Ruger—consider working with a specialist like Luxus Capital.

These folks aren’t your average buyers. They deal in premium firearms and collections and know how to assess value for rarities that most shops won’t give you fair credit for. You might even learn something about your firearm in the process.

Working with a company like this is less about quick cash and more about finding the right home for a firearm with historical, artistic, or collector’s value. It’s a different experience—and often a better payday, too.

Tips to Make Your Sale Smoother (and Smarter)

Even with all the legal and logistical boxes checked, you can do a few things to make your sale more successful and more pleasant.

Know What It’s Worth

Don’t go in blind. Take a few minutes (or hours) to check what similar guns are going for online, or crack open a Blue Book of Gun Values. Condition, brand, caliber, rarity—these all factor into price.

Consider getting a professional appraisal. Especially if you’re dealing with older or unique firearms, an expert’s opinion can back up your asking price and help you negotiate confidently.

Clean It Up

A clean, well-maintained firearm sells better—it’s that simple. Could you give it a good wipe-down? If it’s been sitting in a safe for a decade, maybe field-strip it to remove dust or grime.

Buyers will appreciate the care, showing that you’ve taken responsibility for the firearm’s upkeep, which matters greatly to serious buyers.

Be Straightforward

Nobody likes surprises, especially when buying a gun. Be honest about condition, history, and any quirks or repairs. If it’s got a scratch, say so. If the trigger’s been modified, mention it.

Photos go a long way, too. Take clear, well-lit shots from multiple angles. A detailed description with a few solid images can often sell a gun faster than a low price.

Wrapping It All Up: Keep It Smart, Keep It Legal

Selling a gun in Memphis doesn’t have to be a headache. If you take the time to understand the rules, know your options, and prepare your firearm correctly, you’re setting yourself up for a safe and smooth sale.

Some people sell to clear space. Others upgrade. And some want their old gear to end up with someone who’ll use it. Whatever your reason, doing it correctly means fewer worries and more satisfaction.

Be cautious, stay informed, and enjoy the process. You’ll likely meet fellow gun enthusiasts, learn something new about your firearm, or at least walk away with some extra cash and peace of mind.

And hey—if you ever find yourself with something rare and are unsure where to begin? Luxus Capital might be your next call.

Happy selling, Memphis.

Frequently Asked Questions