How to Sell My Gun Online in Dover, Delaware

Key Takeaways (Let’s Keep It Simple):

• Don’t Skip the Legal Stuff: In Delaware, you can’t legally sell a gun without going through a licensed dealer (an FFL holder). This applies even if you’re just selling to a buddy or someone online.
• Presentation Is Everything: Clean your gun, gather the paperwork, snap some good photos, and figure out a fair price. These little things make a big difference.
• Pick the Right Spot to Sell: GunBroker? Armslist? Luxus Capital? Each one has pros and cons. Go with what makes sense for you and your comfort level.

Selling a firearm online when you’re living in Dover might feel like you’re wading into something overly complicated. And to be fair, it can be, especially if you’ve never done it before. Between the state laws, the federal rules, the paperwork, and figuring out where to even list the thing… It’s enough to make anyone hesitate.

But don’t worry—we’ll walk you through the whole thing. Whether you’re a hobbyist looking to offload a piece, someone inheriting granddad’s rifle, or just cleaning out the safe, this guide has your back. No confusing jargon, no guesswork—just a clear breakdown of what you need to do and how to do it safely, legally, and without all the stress.

First Things First: What Delaware Law Says

Before you start thinking about price tags or online listings, you’ve got to wrap your head around the local laws. Delaware isn’t the Wild West when it comes to firearms—it’s got a pretty clear framework, and if you don’t follow it, you could end up in trouble.

The Non-Negotiable Part: Legal Compliance

Let’s be blunt: selling a firearm without following the rules isn’t just risky—it’s illegal. In Delaware, that means every gun sale, whether it’s a private sale or done online, has to go through an FFL (Federal Firearms License) dealer.

Why? Well, FFLs handle background checks, verify eligibility, and make sure there’s a paper trail. It protects you as the seller, ensures the buyer is legit, and keeps the transaction above board. Skipping this step is like selling a car without a title—it’s just asking for problems.

What Exactly Is an FFL Dealer?

Think of an FFL dealer as the official middleman. They’re licensed by the federal government to deal in firearms, which includes overseeing legal transfers. So when you find a buyer—whether it’s someone in Delaware or across the country—you’ll need to coordinate with an FFL who can handle the paperwork and background check on your behalf.

It might sound like a hassle, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you’ve done it once. Plus, many gun shops in the Dover area already serve as FFLs and offer this as a routine service.

A Quick Note on Age & Restrictions

Here’s something folks sometimes forget: there are age restrictions and firearm-specific rules in play, too. Generally, you need to be at least 18 to buy a rifle or shotgun and 21 to buy a handgun. And if the buyer has a criminal record or certain mental health flags, the FFL will catch that.

Some types of firearms may also be restricted in Delaware—think certain “assault-style” weapons or those modified beyond compliance. So before you list that cool custom pistol you picked up years ago, check to make sure it’s actually legal to transfer in-state.

Getting Your Firearm Ready to Sell

Once you’re clear on the legal front, it’s time to focus on the gun itself. Because let’s face it: presentation matters. A buyer who’s shelling out cash for a firearm wants to know they’re getting something reliable, and preferably in decent shape.

Give It a Good Cleaning

No one wants to buy a dusty, greasy, mystery-condition gun. Take the time to clean it properly, both for appearance and function. Wipe down all external surfaces, clean the barrel, and make sure the action works smoothly. If it’s been sitting in storage for a while, you might even consider having a local gunsmith give it a once-over.

This isn’t just about looking good—it shows that you’ve taken care of it, and that builds confidence with the buyer.

Gather the Paperwork

Receipts, manuals, service records—if you’ve got them, find them. Even things like warranty cards or documentation from a previous transfer can help prove the firearm’s origin and condition. And if your gun comes with extras like a scope, holster, or custom grips, include that in the documentation and your listing.

Accessories can bump the value more than you’d expect.

Know What It’s Worth

Here’s where a little homework pays off. You don’t want to guess at a price and end up underselling—or scaring off buyers with an unrealistic number.

You can:

• Look at completed listings on GunBroker or GunsAmerica.
• Ask a local gun store or appraiser.
• Compare listings for similar firearms in the same condition.

Knowing your price range also helps if you get lowball offers—you’ll be able to respond confidently instead of second-guessing yourself.

Where to Sell: Picking the Right Online Platform

You’ve got a few solid choices here, and which one’s best depends on how involved you want to be in the process.

GunBroker: The eBay of Firearms

GunBroker is the heavyweight in the online firearm sales world. It’s an auction-style platform, which means you can list your gun, set a minimum price, and let people bid.

• Pros: Huge audience, seller tools, and payment protection.
• Cons: Fees are time-consuming if you don’t enjoy managing auctions.

It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with online selling and want to maximize value through competition.

Armslist: Think Craigslist, but for Guns

Armslist connects sellers and buyers directly. You post your ad, people reach out, and you negotiate terms.

• Pros: Simple to use, no listing fees.
• Cons: No built-in transaction process, so you’ll need to manage communication, FFL transfer, and payment all on your own.

If you’re confident in handling the logistics and want to meet local buyers, it’s a solid option—but still, make sure that transfer goes through an FFL.

Luxus Capital: Hands-Off, Hassle-Free

Luxus Capital is a good choice if you’re more of the “I want this over with” type. They buy firearms directly and handle all the red tape—background checks, shipping, FFL coordination, the whole deal.

• Pros: Fast, professional, low stress.
• Cons: You might not get top-dollar compared to an auction.

For sellers who value convenience over maximizing every last penny, this is an easy route.

Creating a Listing That Doesn’t Get Ignored

Even on the busiest sites, a bland listing will get buried. Here’s how to make yours stand out:

Photos: Clear, Honest, and Helpful

You don’t need a fancy camera—just good lighting and a neutral background. Take shots from multiple angles: side views, muzzle, grips, and any serial numbers or customizations. If there’s any wear or cosmetic damage, show it. Honesty here will save you time and prevent refund requests later.

Description: Say What Matters

Skip the fluff. Tell people:

• Make, model, caliber
• Condition (be honest!)
• Mods or upgrades
• Accessories included
• History or notable info

Example: “Smith & Wesson Model 686 .357 Magnum. 6-inch barrel, adjustable rear sights, Pachmayr grips. Light use, cleaned regularly, includes original case and speedloaders.”

That’s the kind of listing that inspires confidence.

Pricing: Be Smart, Not Stubborn

Start at the market value you found earlier. If it’s rare or in great condition, you might be able to aim a little higher. But don’t overreach—guns that sit too long attract lowballers.

Also, be ready to adjust your price if the market shifts or similar listings start going for less. A flexible seller usually ends up with a faster sale.

Final Steps: How to Actually Complete the Sale

You found a buyer—great! Now what?

Meet at an FFL (Yes, Again)

Whether your buyer is in Dover or a few states away, the transfer still has to go through a licensed dealer. If they’re local, just agree to meet at a local FFL. They’ll handle the background check and legal transfer.

Selling to Out-of-State Buyers? Shipping Is Involved

If your buyer isn’t in Delaware, you’ll need to ship the gun to an FFL in their area. Don’t ship it to their house—ever.

• Use UPS or FedEx (USPS has stricter rules).
• Pack securely—original box helps.
• Ensure the package is intact and keep the tracking info.
• Confirm everything with the receiving FFL before you ship.

A little prep here saves you from a major headache later.

Always Use a Bill of Sale

Even if the FFL keeps a record, you should too. Include:

• Buyer/seller names and contact info
• Make/model/serial number
• Sale date and price
• Signatures from both parties

It’s just good protection for both of you.

Wrap-Up: You’ve Got This

Selling your gun online in Dover doesn’t have to be stressful. Yes, there are rules. Yes, you’ll need to coordinate with a licensed dealer. But once you understand the steps and pick the right platform, it’s not nearly as complicated as it seems.

Just remember:

• Clean it.
• Price it fairly.
• Be honest in your listing.
• Use an FFL—always.

And does that still sound like too much? Luxus Capital or a local gun shop can take the wheel.

Either way, you’ve got options, and you’re now better equipped to handle them.

Frequently Asked Questions