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One of our ammunition clients is going through a website migration. We gave them a few firearm-friendly ecommerce platforms to investigate, including Shopify. However, we cautioned them that they may not be eligible due to Shopify’s long-standing reputation of banning gun and firearm-related sales.
To our excitement, Shopify gave them the all-clear that they could sell ammunition on their platform!
I recently spoke with a Shopify Plus account executive to get updates on their changing policies in the firearms space. In this guide, I’ll bring you up to speed on Shopify’s latest stance on firearms sales, share how you can ensure seamless payment processing, and give you alternative ecommerce platforms to explore if Shopify doesn’t suit your business.
So, Can Your Sell Firearms on Shopify?
Yes, Shopify Plus allows you to sell certain firearms products on its platform. However, their payment gateway, Shopify Payments, has stricter policies that ban most firearms products. So, you’ll need to integrate an FFL-friendly payment processor to accept payments if you’re selling on Shopify Plus.
Can you sell guns on Shopify?
It depends. Gun products are being evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Shopify Plus team. However, their policies are growing more lenient.
For example, air rifles were previously banned by Shopify Plus but are now approved. Moving forward, you can expect more types of firearms to become unrestricted on their platform.
Can you sell ammunition on Shopify?
Generally, yes. Shopify Plus has softened its stance on ammunition.
Can you sell firearms accessories on Shopify?
Generally, yes. However, certain products like suppressors remain in a “gray area.” Products like these are being evaluated and approved on a case-by-case basis.
Shopify’s Stance on Firearms is Changing
The Shopify Plus account executive I spoke with shared that they are loosening restrictions on firearms and related products. Many products in this category are now being evaluated on a case-by-case basis, rather than being outright banned.
Today, Shopify Payments’ restrictions on firearms products remain firm. However, my contact said that he expects those to loosen over time as well. Those loosening restrictions will continue to lag behind Shopify Plus’ changing policies.
How to Get Approved to Sell on Shopify Plus
Firearms companies should contact Shopify Plus’ sales team to seek approval. You should hear back within 24 hours.
Shopify Plus vs. Shopify Payments: Navigating Payment Processing
While Shopify is softening its stance on restricting firearm products, the important caveat is that you won’t be able to use their proprietary payment gateway.
- Shopify Plus is their ecommerce platform, which is starting to restrict many firearms products.
- Shopify Payments is their payment gateway, and they continue to ban firearms products.
The good news is that Shopify Plus integrates with most third-party payment processors. So, if you migrate your website to Shopify Plus, you’ll most likely be able to continue using your existing FFL-friendly payment processor.
Firearm-Friendly Payment Processing Alternatives
Shopify Payments isn’t the only payment processor that doesn’t work with firearm companies. Square, PayPal, and Stripe are giant payment processors that are anti-gun. FFLs must integrate their ecommerce websites with a gun-friendly processor.
Here are a few to explore that integrate with Shopify Plus. Note that I’m not endorsing any of these payment service providers. You should consult with a payment processing professional to find the best option for your business.
1. Authorize.Net
Shopify provides helpful documentation for integrating Authorize.Net with your Shopify Plus store.
2. PayKings
You’ll find PayKings frequently recommended in forums discussing high-risk payment processing options. Check out their firearms page for more details.
3. eMerchant Broker (EMB)
EMB works with FFLs and provides a Shopify integration along with backend support.
Top Alternatives to Shopify for Firearm Retailers
If you find that Shopify is not a viable option for you, there are several great alternatives to consider. You can read our full reviews of the top firearms-friendly ecommerce platforms. You can also check out my summaries of a few of the best below.
BigCommerce
BigCommerce Enterprise is a top choice for large firearms retailers thanks to its explicit policy support for legal firearms sales and enterprise-grade functionality. With features tailored to compliance and scalability, it offers a stable, firearms-friendly platform ideal for long-term growth.
Pros:
- Supports FFL integrations and firearms-friendly payment processors
- Scalable with headless commerce and multi-warehouse management
- Reliable uptime and customer support
Cons:
- Higher monthly cost, starting around $1,000–$1,500/mo.
- Limited flexibility compared to open-source platforms
Adobe Commerce (Magento)
Adobe Commerce is a highly customizable solution for firearms retailers requiring deep integrations and advanced inventory handling. Its flexibility comes at a steep price, both in implementation and ongoing development.
Pros:
- Fully customizable checkout and inventory management
- Strong developer ecosystem and integration potential
Cons:
- High initial and ongoing costs ($50k–$250k+)
- Requires dedicated developers or agency partners
WooCommerce
WooCommerce is the most customizable and policy-independent platform, making it a great choice for technically savvy mid-size firearms retailers. Its open-source model provides unmatched control, but it demands technical know-how and hands-on management.
Pros:
- No platform restrictions on firearms or accessories
- Highly customizable and cost-effective long-term
- Large developer community with low development costs
Cons:
- Requires you to manage updates, hosting, and security management
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Must ensure PCI compliance independently
Is Shopify Right for Your Firearms Company?
Ambiguous or restrictive policies are likely just one frustration you’ve encountered while trying to find the best ecommerce platform for your business. With such an impactful decision, you shouldn’t go it alone.
At Uproer, we’re experts in the ecommerce industry, helping our firearms clients wisely invest in SEO and navigate platform migrations. And, we’re here to help you. Reach out to us to start a conversation today!
