The three ways to sell
Every lawful sale runs through a licensed dealer with the usual DROS and waiting period, with narrow statutory exceptions (for example, certain antiques and curio-and-relic long guns; Pen. Code §§ 27850–27966). What differs is how much work you do, how long it takes, and how the money is structured.
Consign through a dealer | Private Party Transfer sale | Dealer buys outright | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Effort for you | Low: the dealer lists and sells it | High: you find your own buyer | Lowest: one visit, done |
| Timeline | Until it sells, could be weeks | As soon as you have a buyer, plus the 10-day wait | Fastest: settled the same visit |
| Who handles compliance | The dealer (DROS, waiting period, transfer) | The dealer at the counter, for both parties | The dealer |
| Cost structure | Dealer-set consignment fee (a percentage or flat rate) | State fees at the DROS ($37.19) + in-person PPT fee capped at $10 | None to you: the dealer sets their buy price |
| What you typically net | Often more, minus the dealer’s fee | The price you and the buyer agree on | Usually the least: the dealer takes the resale risk |
What consignment costs, and what CalGunHub doesn't touch
Consignment fees are set entirely by the individual dealer. There is no standard rate. It varies by shop, by firearm, and by sale price, and some dealers structure it as a percentage while others use a flat fee. Ask each dealer directly for their terms before you commit.
CalGunHub lists dealers who do this work but never sets, quotes, or collects any fee, and does not take a cut of your sale. The money conversation is strictly between you and the dealer you choose.
As a general pattern: selling outright to a dealer is fastest but usually nets the least, because the dealer takes on the resale risk. Consignment often yields more but takes longer and involves the dealer's fee. A private sale can capture the most, but you do the work of finding a buyer and still complete the transfer at a dealer. Only a qualified dealer or appraiser can value a specific firearm. CalGunHub does not appraise firearms or provide valuations.
The fees that are fixed by law
On a Private Party Transfer sale, most of the cost is set by statute, not the dealer. The buyer typically pays these transfer fees; the sale price is separate and agreed between you and the buyer.
- State fees (DROS)
- $37.19
- Dealer PPT fee
- $10.00
Want a licensed dealer to handle it?
Tell us what you inherited and we'll route you to California FFL dealers who take estate and consignment work. The dealer handles the transfer or sale and sets their own fees. CalGunHub is a directory and does not sell firearms, set fees, or appraise anything.
Common questions
How do I sell an inherited gun in California?
There are three common paths: consign the firearm through a licensed FFL who sells it for you and handles the transfer; find your own buyer and complete a Private Party Transfer at a dealer; or sell the firearm outright to a dealer. All lawful sales run through a licensed dealer with the usual DROS and waiting period. This is general information, not legal advice. Verify with the CA DOJ.
What does firearm consignment cost in California?
Consignment fees are set entirely by the individual dealer. There is no standard rate, and it varies by shop, firearm, and price. CalGunHub does not set, quote, or collect any fee; ask each dealer directly for their consignment terms. Selling outright to a dealer usually nets less than a patient consignment sale because the dealer takes on resale risk.
How much is an inherited firearm worth?
Value depends on the make, model, condition, and current demand, and only a qualified dealer or appraiser can assess a specific firearm. CalGunHub does not appraise firearms or provide valuations. A dealer who takes estate work can look at the firearm and discuss realistic pricing with you.
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