Baltimore, Annapolis, Frederick, Columbia, Towson, Hagerstown, Salisbury or Harford County: Maryland buyers can order from JCM Armory and pick up at a licensed dealer near them. JCM Armory is a licensed firearms dealer (FFL) in Joppa, Maryland. As a Maryland dealer ourselves, in Joppa, we handle local FFL transfers for customers anywhere in the state. Maryland has some of the more detailed firearm rules in the country, so please read this page, and check with your dealer, before you order.
How buying a gun online works in Maryland
- Pick your firearm and your dealer. Add the gun to your cart and choose a licensed Maryland dealer at checkout. Get your Handgun Qualification License (HQL) before you order a handgun.
- Off to your dealer. We keep your FFL’s license on file and ship the firearm to their address. Home delivery of firearms isn’t an option.
- 77R, wait and pickup. Complete the MSP 77R application in the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal and give the dealer your application and PIN numbers. The dealer submits it, the 7-day wait runs, and you pick up if it isn’t disapproved.
What to know about firearm transfers in Maryland
HQL for handguns. To buy a handgun you generally need a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) from the Maryland State Police (Public Safety Article 5-117.1). Applicants must be 21, Maryland residents, submit fingerprints and pass a background check, and complete a 4-hour approved training course within the past 3 years, unless exempt (for example, honorably discharged veterans and people who already lawfully own a regulated firearm).
MSP 77R application. Buying a regulated firearm (handguns and certain rifles) requires the MSP 77R application, completed only through the State Police Licensing Portal.
7-day waiting period and one per 30 days. The 7-day wait starts when the State Police receive your 77R, and you’ll get a decision by the 8th day. You can’t take possession of more than one regulated firearm in a 30-day period, with limited exceptions.
Other limits. Maryland bans the sale of many semi-automatic rifles it defines as “assault weapons” and of magazines that hold more than 10 rounds.
Gun laws differ by state and city and can change. You are responsible for following all federal, state and local laws, and your Maryland dealer can help with specifics. This overview isn’t legal advice. Some items we sell may not be legal to buy in Maryland; your dealer will not transfer an item that state law prohibits. Last reviewed: October 21, 2026.
Shipping and fees
- Guns at $300 or above: shipping is on us.
- Ammunition: we cover shipping when your ammo adds up to $750 or more.
- Below those amounts, it’s a single $15 flat rate, and firearms travel separately from ammo.
- Powder or primers in your order add a $40 hazmat surcharge, set by the carriers.
- Your Maryland dealer charges their own transfer fee.
Popular categories for Maryland buyers
- Shotguns for waterfowl on the Bay and deer
- Handguns (HQL and 77R required)
- Bolt-action rifles
- Optics
- Ammunition
- Holsters
Maryland hunting rules come from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an HQL to buy a handgun in Maryland?
Yes, unless you’re exempt. The HQL comes from the Maryland State Police and requires training, fingerprints and a background check.
How long is the wait in Maryland?
The 7-day wait starts when the State Police receive your 77R application. You’ll get a decision by the 8th day.
Does JCM Armory do FFL transfers in Maryland?
Yes. We’re a licensed dealer in Joppa and handle local FFL transfers for customers anywhere in Maryland. Contact us to arrange a transfer.
Can a gun be shipped to my house in Maryland?
No. Firearms ship only to a licensed FFL dealer, where you complete the paperwork and background check before pickup.
Is shipping free?
On firearms priced $300 or more, yes. Ammo ships free once you have $750 of ammunition in the cart. Other orders pay a flat $15, and powder or primers add a $40 hazmat fee.
Do you ship to every state?
We ship firearms to local FFL dealers in 49 states. We do not ship to California.