R J W Sales — Where to Buy Firearms and Ammunition in South Carolina

What R J W Sales offers

R J W Sales is a firearms and ammunition retailer located in South Carolina that serves hunters, sport shooters, and people buying for home defense. The shop stocks rifles, shotguns, handguns, and ammunition across common calibers. They also carry related gear like cleaning supplies, targets, and safety equipment.

Like all firearms dealers in South Carolina, R J W Sales is a federally licensed retailer (FFL), which means they follow federal background check requirements and state waiting periods. They can order items not in stock and handle transfers if you purchase a firearm elsewhere and need it processed through a licensed dealer.

Key Takeaways

• R J W Sales is a licensed firearms dealer in South Carolina that stocks rifles, shotguns, handguns, and ammunition for immediate purchase or special order.
• All firearm purchases through R J W Sales require a federal background check and comply with South Carolina's three-day waiting period.
• The shop can process transfers of firearms purchased from private sellers or online retailers, provided the item is legal to own in South Carolina.
• You will need a valid photo ID and proof of residency to purchase firearms or ammunition at any licensed dealer in the state.

Background checks and waiting periods in South Carolina

When you buy a firearm from R J W Sales or any licensed dealer in South Carolina, the transaction includes a federal background check run through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This check happens at the point of sale and typically takes a few minutes, though it can take up to three business days in some cases.

South Carolina law requires a three-day waiting period between the time you purchase a firearm and the time you can take it home. This applies to all firearms — rifles, shotguns, and handguns — regardless of whether you already own guns. The waiting period begins the day after your purchase and includes weekends and holidays. If you buy on a Friday, for example, you cannot pick up the firearm until Monday at the earliest.

The background check and waiting period are separate requirements. Even if your background check clears immediately, you still must wait the full three days. Some people use this time to arrange transportation, secure storage, or complete a firearms safety course.

What to bring when you visit

Bring a valid photo ID issued by a government agency — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You will also need proof of your current South Carolina address. A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works for this purpose. If your ID shows a different address, bring both documents.

If you are purchasing a handgun, some dealers ask whether you have a South Carolina Concealed Weapon Permit (CWP), though this is not required to buy. A CWP does bypass the three-day waiting period for handgun purchases only, so if you already hold one, bring it along.

For ammunition purchases, you typically need only your ID. South Carolina does not require a background check or waiting period for ammunition alone.

Firearm transfers and special orders

If you find a firearm online or through a private seller and want to purchase it, you can have it shipped to R J W Sales for processing. The dealer will charge a transfer fee (amounts vary by retailer) and will run the same background check and waiting period as if you bought directly from them. This is a common way to access firearms not in stock locally or to take advantage of pricing from national retailers.

R J W Sales can also special-order firearms that are not currently in their inventory. Ask about lead times and whether they charge an order fee. Some dealers require a deposit to hold a special order.

Ammunition availability and calibers

R J W Sales stocks ammunition in common hunting and sport-shooting calibers. Availability changes based on demand and supply, so calling ahead to confirm they have what you need is worth the time. Popular calibers like .308 Winchester, 9mm, .223 Remington, and 12-gauge shotgun shells are usually in stock, but less common rounds may require a special order.

Ammunition prices vary by caliber, brand, and quantity. Buying in bulk (boxes of 50 or 100 rounds) is typically cheaper per round than buying smaller quantities. Some retailers offer discounts for repeat customers or loyalty programs, so ask what they offer.

Safety and storage considerations

South Carolina does not require firearms to be stored in a particular way, but safe storage protects against theft, accidental discharge, and unauthorized access. R J W Sales staff can recommend storage options like safes, lockboxes, and cable locks. Many retailers sell these items alongside firearms and ammunition.

If you are new to firearms ownership, ask the dealer about local firearms safety courses. South Carolina does not require a safety course to own a gun, but many people take one anyway to learn proper handling, cleaning, and storage. Some courses also prepare you for the Concealed Weapon Permit test if you plan to apply.

Hours, location, and contacting the shop

R J W Sales operates during standard retail hours, though these may vary seasonally or by day of the week. Before making the trip, call ahead to confirm they are open and to ask about specific inventory. This is especially helpful if you are looking for a particular firearm or ammunition type, since stock changes frequently.

Many firearms retailers also maintain a website or social media page listing current inventory and special orders. Some accept phone orders for items in stock and hold them for pickup, which can save time if you know exactly what you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to buy a firearm in South Carolina?

No permit is required to purchase a rifle or shotgun in South Carolina. Handgun purchases do not require a permit either, though you must pass a federal background check and wait three days. A Concealed Weapon Permit is only needed if you want to carry a handgun in public.

Can I buy ammunition without a background check?

Yes. South Carolina does not require a background check or waiting period for ammunition purchases. You need only a valid ID. Some retailers may ask for ID to verify age, since federal law restricts ammunition sales to people 18 and older (21 for handgun ammunition).

What if my background check is delayed?

If NICS cannot complete your background check within three business days, federal law allows the dealer to release the firearm to you. This is rare, but it can happen if there is a name match or other issue requiring manual review. The dealer will explain your options if this occurs.

Can I return a firearm after I buy it?

Return policies vary by retailer. Some dealers allow returns within a set period if the firearm is unused and in original condition; others do not accept returns on firearms at all. Ask about the return policy before you buy, and get it in writing if possible.

How do I get a Concealed Weapon Permit in South Carolina?

You apply through your county sheriff's office. The permit costs a fee (amounts vary by county) and requires a background check. Once approved, a CWP allows you to carry a concealed handgun and bypasses the three-day waiting period for handgun purchases. R J W Sales staff can point you toward your local sheriff's office if you need the address or phone number.