How old do you have to be to buy a used gun in Michigan?

You must be at least 18 years old to purchase a long gun in Michigan and at least 21 years old to purchase a pistol.

Do you need a license to purchase a used handgun in Michigan?

Yes, Michigan requires a license to purchase before buying a handgun, unless you already hold a valid Concealed Pistol License (CPL). The license to purchase can be obtained through your local police department or sheriff's office.

What paperwork is required when buying a used gun in Michigan?

Buyers and sellers must complete a Firearm Sales Record (Form RI-060), which can include multiple firearms in a single transaction. A copy should be submitted to local law enforcement, one copy given to the other party, and one copy kept for personal records.

Where can I buy used guns in Michigan?

You can buy used handguns and long guns from local retailers, individual firearm owners, or online marketplaces. Local retailers offer advantages like professional inspections, paperwork assistance, background check processing, and warranty policies.

What should I check when inspecting a used gun before buying?

Before handling the firearm, verify the magazine well and chamber are free of ammunition. Then check for rust, wear, cracks, and modifications, and perform a basic function check by engaging and depressing the trigger.

What are common mistakes to avoid when buying a used gun?

Common mistakes include failing to verify the seller's identity, skipping the inspection, not verifying serial numbers, failing to complete required paperwork at the time of sale, and ignoring suspicious seller behavior or unusually low prices.

How to Buy Used Gun in Michigan | Uncoiled Firearms & Range

If you are in the market for a firearm in Michigan, shopping for used guns is a good option for saving some cash and finding great deals.

You’ll find plenty of used guns for sale, but the process involves a bit more legwork on your end if you plan on purchasing from a private seller. If you go to a licensed dealer, they handle many of the logistics when you buy used guns.

Before you start searching for terms like “used handguns for sale,” you need to know how buying a handgun in Michigan works.

The requirements are similar when buying used rifles, so you can use the same process, regardless of which type of firearm you are trying to purchase.

Understanding Michigan Used Gun Laws in 2026

When you are learning how to buy a handgun in Michigan, you have to account for both state and federal firearms laws. Sales are classified as dealer and private.

The purchasing process is similar for handguns and long guns, with one major exception. You can purchase a long gun if you are 18 or older. You must be at least 21 years old to purchase a pistol in Michigan.

One of the most important parts of learning how to buy a gun in Michigan involves understanding the eligibility requirements and prohibited persons rules.

State and federal law prohibit certain people from buying and possessing firearms, including those with felony convictions, individuals who are the subject of a protection order, and those with specific mental health concerns.

Where To Buy Used Guns in Michigan

You can buy used handguns and long guns from:

Local retailers
Individual firearm owners
Online marketplaces

A quick search of “used guns near me” will populate hundreds of results for used handguns and used rifles. However, many people prefer to buy used firearms from a local shop because they offer advantages such as:

Professional inspections
Assistance with required paperwork
Background check processing
Warranty policies on some firearms

If you want access to the largest selection possible, an online marketplace is a great choice because benefits include:

A larger selection
Competitive pricing
Rare or discounted models

However, you’ll need to arrange for the firearm to be shipped to a licensed dealer near you. If working with a private seller, verify the person’s identity, complete the required paperwork, and carefully inspect the firearm.

You can skip the hassle of a private sale. Explore used firearms at Uncoiled Firearms.

Step-By-Step: Buying a Used Pistol in Michigan

It’s helpful to know how to buy a pistol in Michigan before beginning the process.

Step 1: Confirm You Are Legally Eligible

You must be 18 years of age or older to legally possess a handgun in Michigan. However, Michigan’s gun laws require you to be at least 21 years of age to purchase a handgun.

Make sure you are eligible before shopping for a firearm. Be aware of common disqualifiers, such as felony convictions or active protection orders where you are the subject.

Step 2: Obtain a License To Purchase, if Required

Michigan requires you to have a license to purchase before buying a handgun. However, you do not need a license to purchase if you have a valid CPL. You’ll need to obtain the license through your local police department or sheriff’s office. Reach out to your local police agency for more information.

When applying for your license, you’ll need to present a valid state ID or DL. You will also need to undergo a background check.

Step 3: Find and Inspect the Used Pistol

Once you’ve obtained any required license, you can start shopping. Find the pistol that suits your goals, and evaluate the following:

Condition
Serial numbers
Overall functionality

Look out for any obvious defects, such as broken or damaged mechanisms, rust, or other issues that could prevent the firearm from functioning as designed.

Also compare the used gun price to the cost of a new gun of the same make and model. That’s one of the easiest ways to determine whether you are getting a good deal or if it would be better to purchase the firearm new.

Step 4: Complete the Required Transfer Paperwork

Michigan requires you to complete a Firearm Sales Record (Form RI-060) during the sale of a firearm. You can include multiple firearms on one Form RI-060. You’ll need to include some basic information about the buyer and seller. Then make sure you complete all required information in the form and have both parties sign it.

Step 5: Submit Any Required Records and Keep Copies

Submit a copy of the Form RI-060 to your local law enforcement agency, provide one copy to the other party, and keep a copy for yourself. Failing to submit these documents could result in fines or criminal charges, especially if you buy or sell a firearm to an unauthorized individual.

Inspecting a Used Gun Before You Buy

Inspecting a firearm before you buy it is one of the most important steps when purchasing a used gun in Michigan. Before handling or manipulating the action on the firearm, physically and visually inspect it to verify that the magazine well and chamber are free from any ammunition.

Next, look for:

Rust
Wear
Cracks
Modifications

Then, perform a basic function check by engaging and then depressing the trigger. A like-new handgun is worth more than a clearly worn firearm. Pricing rare handguns and rifles can be more difficult, and you should consider getting an expert appraisal.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Buying a Used Gun

Here are some common mistakes to look out for when buying a used gun:

Failing to verify the seller.
Skipping the inspection.
Failing to verify the serial numbers.
Not completing the paperwork at the time of the sale.
Ignoring suspicious seller behavior.

Additionally, if a gun is priced way too low, you should be concerned. The firearm may be stolen, damaged, or otherwise unusable.

Explore Used Guns for Sale From an Authorized Dealer

Shopping with an established firearm retailer, like Uncoiled Firearms, is the safest and most convenient way to buy used guns. Our facility prioritizes compliance and inspects every firearm we sell. Explore our selection of new and used guns.

Uncoiled Firearms is also your one-stop shop for suppressors, NFA items, and CPL licensure courses.

Come into our shop for one-on-one assistance.