As a veteran, you’ve earned a discount on the gear you need. But finding online stores that actually honor that service, and have a great selection of hunting rifles, can be a hassle. We’ve rounded up the five best places to buy veteran discount hunting rifles online, each with its own perks. Stick with us: we’ll break down who offers what, who it’s for, and where the fine print hides.
1. 31 M Armory (Our Top Pick) , Veteran Owned, 6% Discount
We’re a veteran-owned company, and we mean it. Every veteran gets a flat 6% discount on every single product we carry, no tiers, no categories, no exceptions. That includes hunting rifles from bolt-action classics to modern sporting rifles. Best for: hunters who want a straightforward discount and a curated selection of quality firearms.
Why it earns the top spot: because we live the values we sell. We know what veterans need because we are veterans. Our inventory includes proven hunting calibers like .308, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .30-06 from trusted manufacturers. And we guide you through the entire process, from picking the rifle to choosing an FFL dealer for transfer.
Caveat: our selection is intentional, not huge. If you’re after an obscure niche model, you might need to look elsewhere. But for a solid hunting rifle backed by a real discount and real support, we’ve got you.
For a full walkthrough of how online gun buying works, see our step-by-step guide to buying a gun online.
2. Brownells , Broad Selection with Military/LE Discount
Brownells, a company with roots dating back to 1939 (per Wikipedia), offers a military and law enforcement discount through ID.me. The discount varies, sometimes 10% off, sometimes less, but when you’re buying a high-end hunting rifle, even 5% matters. Best for: hobbyists and hunters who need everything from barrels to complete rifles.
Brownells carries an enormous catalog. You can find almost any make and model, from Ruger to Remington to custom builders. Their website is easy to handle, and they ship to FFL dealers nationwide. As with all online purchases, the rifle must be shipped to a licensed dealer for transfer, a rule set by the ATF.
But here’s the catch: the military discount isn’t consistent. It often doesn’t apply to items already on sale, and some high-demand rifles are excluded. Always check the fine print before checkout.
If you’re new to the process, on military discount guns and how to use them.
3. MidwayUSA , Competitive Pricing and Veteran Rewards
MidwayUSA is a favorite among reloaders and shooters. They offer a veteran discount through their customer rewards program and occasional military pricing events. The discount isn’t always a simple percentage off, it can be points or site-wide sales. Best for: frequent buyers who can stack rewards.
What sets MidwayUSA apart is their inventory depth. They stock hundreds of hunting rifles across all price points. Their website clearly marks eligible items for military discounts, and they often have free shipping on orders over a certain amount.
Caveat: you need to verify your status through ID.me, and the discount is not guaranteed on every rifle. Also, their rewards program requires you to opt in and track points manually.
Not sure which caliber to choose for deer hunting? Check our best deer hunting caliber guide.
4. Bass Pro Shops , Cabela’s , In-Store and Online Veteran Discounts
Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s (now the same company) offer a military discount in-store and online. The discount is typically 10% off regular-priced items, but it varies by category. Best for: hunters who like to see a rifle in person before buying.
Their online selection mirrors their stores, so you can browse and order from home. However, the online inventory can differ from what’s in your local store. The discount requires ID.me verification and is applied at checkout.
Caveat: exclusions are common, firearms, ammo, and sale items are often not eligible. Always read the terms.
Need help with FFL transfers? Our guide to FFL transfer fees explains how to find a local dealer.
5. Sportsman’s Warehouse , Reliable Source with Vet Program
Sportsman’s Warehouse offers a 5% discount to veterans through ID.me. They carry a solid range of hunting rifles, from budget-friendly to premium. Best for: hunters on a budget who want a reliable retailer.
Their website is straightforward. You can filter by brand, caliber, and price. They also have a price-match policy, which can be useful if you find a better deal elsewhere.
Caveat: the 5% discount is only on regular-priced items, and it doesn’t stack with other promotions. Also, their firearm selection isn’t as vast as Brownells or MidwayUSA.
For accessories that qualify for veteran discounts, see our best veteran discount firearm accessories post.
Comparison of Veteran Discount Hunting Rifle Retailers
FAQ
How do I verify my veteran status for a discount?
Most retailers use ID.me or SheerID. You’ll need to create an account and upload proof of service, like a DD214 or VA ID. Once verified, you can apply the discount at checkout. Each store’s process is slightly different, so check their specific requirements.
Can I use a veteran discount on sale items?
Usually not. Most stores exclude sale or clearance items from military discounts. Always read the terms before you buy. Some stores offer occasional special events where discounts stack, but this is rare.
Do I need an FFL to buy a hunting rifle online?
Yes. Any rifle purchase shipped across state lines must go to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer in your state. You select a local FFL during checkout. The dealer then performs a background check before you take possession. It’s standard, legal, and fast.
What is the best hunting rifle for veterans?
That depends on what you’re hunting. For deer and small game, a .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor bolt-action is hard to beat. For elk or larger game, consider .30-06 or .300 Win Mag. At 31 M Armory, we carry popular choices and can guide you based on your needs.
How long does shipping take for an online rifle purchase?
Once you order, the rifle ships to your chosen FFL dealer. Typical shipping is 3-7 business days. Then you coordinate with the dealer for pick-up. Some dealers process transfers same-day; others take a few days. Plan accordingly.
When you’re ready to buy veteran discount hunting rifle online, start with a store that respects your service. We recommend 31 M Armory for the simple 6% discount and veteran ownership. No hoops, no exclusions, just a good rifle at a fair price. Browse our hunting rifle selection today and see what fits your next hunt.
