Washington Firearms Guide — 2026

Washington Gun Laws
& Values — 2026

Complete Washington gun laws, private sale values, and the safest way to buy, sell, and transfer firearms in Washington in 2026.

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Washington Firearms Laws — 2026

Washington Gun Laws at a Glance

Understanding Washington’s firearms laws is essential before buying, selling, or transferring any firearm. This guide covers Washington’s key regulations as of 2026. For specific legal advice, consult a licensed Washington attorney — laws change and this guide is informational only.

Legal Disclaimer

This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Gun laws change frequently. Verify current {state} law with official state sources or a licensed attorney before making any decisions.

Key Facts

Washington Gun Law Quick Reference — 2026

CATEGORY	STATUS IN WASHINGTON	NOTES
Concealed Carry Permit	Shall-issue
Private Sale Background Check	All transfers require background check	FFL dealer requirement
Waiting Period	10 days (all firearms, 2023)	After purchase
Castle Doctrine	Yes	Home defense
Open Carry	Open carry generally permitted	Handguns
CC Reciprocity	Moderate reciprocity	Other states honored
Firearm Registration	Not required	State requirement
Red Flag Law	Check current law	Laws change frequently

Important: Washington requires all firearm transfers (including private party) to go through a licensed FFL. A 10-day waiting period applies to all firearms (expanded from handguns only in 2023). Semi-auto rifle purchase age was raised to 21.

Private Sales in Washington

How to Sell a Gun Privately in Washington

Regardless of Washington’s specific requirements, the safest private gun sale process protects both buyer and seller legally and financially:

Step 1: Get Your ValueUse gunprice.com/ for a free AI valuation — know what your gun is worth in Washington’s private market before you list.

Step 2: Verify Your Serial NumberRun your serial number at GunClear.com ($10) — FBI database check confirms your firearm isn’t stolen. Certificate protects you legally.

Step 3: List on Verified MarketplaceGunShare.com connects you with verified buyers in Washington and nationwide. Free to list. Every buyer is verified.

Step 4: Legal TransferGunTransfer.com provides background check, bill of sale, and permanent digital records for $50 flat — compliant in all 50 states including Washington.

Step 5: Document Your CollectionLog every firearm at GunVault.co — serial numbers, photos, valuations, and succession planning. Free to start.

What Washington Gun Owners Are Selling

Most Popular Firearms in Washington — 2026 Values

These are the most commonly bought and sold firearms in Washington’s private market. Click any model for a specific AI-powered valuation.

FIREARM	TYPE	2026 PRIVATE SALE VALUE	VALUE GUIDE
Glock G19 Gen 5	9mm Pistol	$390–$490	Value guide
Ruger 10/22	.22 LR Rifle	$200–$280	Value guide
S&W M&P Shield Plus	9mm Pistol	$300–$400	Value guide
Mossberg 500 Field	12ga Shotgun	$200–$290	Value guide
AR-15 (mid tier)	5.56 Rifle	$450–$900	Value guide
Ruger GP100	.357 Revolver	$560–$720	Value guide

FAQs

Washington Gun Law FAQs

Do I need a background check to sell a gun privately in Washington?

All transfers require background check in Washington. GunTransfer.com provides background checks and bill of sale for $50 regardless of state requirements — protecting both parties legally.

Can I sell my gun without a dealer in Washington?

Private party transfers between unlicensed individuals are permitted in Washington subject to applicable state law. Use GunTransfer.com for documented legal transfers.

How do I find out what my gun is worth in Washington?

gunprice.com/ provides free AI-powered private sale valuations based on current market data. Values reflect the actual Washington and national private sale market — not dealer trade-in estimates.

Does Washington state require background checks for private gun sales?

Yes — Washington requires all firearm transfers, including private party sales, to go through a licensed FFL dealer with a background check. The state also has a 10-day waiting period for all firearms.

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