7 Proven Ways to Attract More Gun Shop Customers

When your competitors are still handing out flyers, you’ve got an opportunity to build a real customer base online. If you run a gun store, you already know the market is competitive, highly regulated and often misunderstood by traditional marketing agencies.

But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck relying on walk-in traffic or an outdated email list. In fact, gun shop owners who embrace digital marketing are finding new ways to attract customers, stay compliant and grow. Even when ad restrictions get in the way.

This guide walks you through proven digital marketing strategies that don’t just check a box. They drive actual results, boost in-store traffic, and help you stand out as a trusted expert in your market. Let’s dive in.

1. Your Website Isn’t Just a Directory

Most gun shops have a website. Few actually use it to transform browsers into paying buyers who keep coming back for more. If your homepage doesn’t clearly show:

What makes your store different
What brands and services you offer
How customers can contact you or visit you
Any inventory or real-time availability (even basic)
Strong calls-to-action like “Visit Us Today” or “Check Inventory”

Then you’re losing traffic that could convert.

Gun Shop Pro Tip: Add an FAQ section that covers topics like licensing, background checks, CCW rules or local compliance laws. This not only helps your customers but gives Google more reasons to rank your site.

2. Use Local SEO to Show Up for Nearby Gun Enthusiasts

You don’t need to reach the whole country, just the people actively looking for your products nearby.Make sure you’re listed (accurately) on:

Yelp
Bing Places
Google Business Profile
Gun-specific directories like FFL Dealer Locator
Any local firearm training or CCW websites that allow links

Also, optimize your website with phrases like:

“Glock dealer in [City]”

“FFL transfer services near [Town]”

“Ammo and accessories in [Zip Code]”

This small shift helps your shop show up in local search results when buyers are ready to visit.

3. Content Is King (Especially When You Can’t Run Ads)

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room. You can’t run standard Facebook or Google ads promoting firearms or ammo. But that doesn’t mean you can’t market on those platforms. The workaround? Educational, value-driven content, including:

Post “how-to” videos on cleaning or maintenance tips
Write short blogs like “Best CCW Options for New Shooters”
Create a valuable buying guide for first-time gun owners
Share relevant updates on compliance or local law changes

This builds authority and trust, drives SEO and lets you stay top of mind without violating ad policies.

4. Use Email to Drive Repeat Visits (Not Just Promotions)

An email list is one of your most valuable tools. But if you’re only sending “10% off ammo” blasts, you’re leaving money on the table.

Instead, build a smarter sequence:

Welcome email with a store intro and visit incentive
Monthly newsletter with new arrivals and training events
Product spotlights with availability links to create FOMO
Seasonal reminders for range memberships or hunting licenses

Also ask customers to opt-in at checkout, in-store, or via your website. This nurtures a loyal customer base who stays engaged even when they’re not actively buying.

5. Lean Into Reviews and Trust Signals

People want to buy from shops that are safe, knowledgeable and easy to work with. And reviews are the fastest way to build that credibility. Ask for reviews after each sale or class. Text or email them a direct Google link. Make it personal:

“Thanks for visiting us. If we earned your trust, a quick review would mean a lot to our team.”

Showcase your best reviews on your site and in social content.

You can also collect testimonials about special orders, your level of service, great transfer experiences or how you serve new gun owners. This makes your store feel approachable, not intimidating.

You already know you can’t advertise guns directly on Facebook or Instagram. But you can post lots of other content that people will engage with, including:

Range day photos or customer shoutouts
Behind-the-scenes videos of new inventory
Tips for ongoing maintenance and safe storage
Live events, gatherings or training course highlights

Social media becomes a trust and visibility tool. And when a gun buyer finds you on Instagram or Google, it gives them confidence to walk through your door.

7. Offer Free Guides and Lead Magnets for Education-Based Marketing

Want more email signups and trust from first-time buyers? Be willing to speak to their unique needs and offer value upfront. Create a simple downloadable guide like:

“CCW State Law Cheat Sheet”

“What to Know Before Buying Your First Firearm”

“The New Gun Owner’s Range 11-Step Checklist”

Gate it behind a short email form. Once they opt in, follow up with tips, gear recommendations and an invite to visit your shop. This works especially well if you have in-store classes or private training.

Marketing Your Gun Shop Doesn’t Need to Be Complicated

You don’t need to go viral or spend thousands on ads. You need a clean website, a local presence and content that builds trust with real buyers.

At Slamdot, we help service-based businesses build digital strategies that work, even in regulated industries. We’ve designed websites, handled SEO, and created email campaigns for shops that wanted more leads and ROI.

Unlike other agencies that waste your time, we’re a team of experts who know what it takes to grow your business in the real world.

Want to grow your gun shop business? Contact us today for a free quote!

See More Helpful Tips