How buying a gun in Louisville works
Pick an FFL dealer near you that accepts shipped transfers and name it at checkout. We confirm their license and ship the firearm to them. Ammunition, optics and parts ship straight to your door where Kentucky law allows.
Kentucky does not require purchase permits, registration, or waiting periods for firearm purchases. Dealer sales involve completing ATF Form 4473 and passing a NICS check. Federal age restrictions apply: buyers must be 21 for handguns and 18 for long guns. Online orders are shipped to the FFL dealer chosen by the buyer.
Dealers in these communities all work for Louisville-area buyers:
- Jeffersontown
- St. Matthews
- Shively
- Middletown
- Shepherdsville
- Prospect
- La Grange
- Mount Washington
Carrying a gun in Jefferson County
Since 2019, Kentucky allows permitless concealed carry for adults aged 21 and older who are legally eligible to own firearms. An optional CCDW license, issued by the Kentucky State Police through the Jefferson County Sheriff, aids with reciprocity. Concealed carry is prohibited on posted private properties and certain government buildings.
Hunting near Louisville
The 2026-27 modern gun deer season in Kentucky runs from November 14 to November 29, following archery season in early September and muzzleloader seasons in October and December. Legal firearms during modern gun season include rifles, handguns, shotguns, and muzzleloaders. Bag limits are determined by county zones.
Hunters in Louisville utilize state WMAs to the south and east. Review the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife guide for Jefferson County's deer zone and bag limits.
The Ohio River supports Louisville's fishing and waterfowl traditions, while Fort Knox to the south contributes a significant military presence.
Public shooting ranges near Louisville
The ranges on the city pages are public ranges run or listed by the state wildlife agency, a state forest or a national forest, chosen by distance from each city. Fees, passes and hours are the agency's.
Source: State wildlife agency and public-land range listings, September 2026. Distances are approximate; call or check the agency site before you drive out.