Essential Hunting Gear Checklist for Deer Season 2025

Essential Hunting Gear Checklist for Deer Season 2025 Deer season is around the corner, and being prepared is key to a successful hunt. Beyond your firearm and ammunition, there’s a range of essential gear that can make or break your hunting trip. Here’s our expert-approved deer hunting gear checklist for 2025. Must-Have Hunting Gear Hunting License & Tags: Always carry valid NYS hunting license and tags. Appropriate Firearm or Bow: Ensure you have a compliant rifle, shotgun, or bow for your hunting zone. Ammunition: Bring extra rounds or arrows in case of misses or malfunctions. Quality Optics: Scopes or binoculars for spotting game at a distance. Blaze Orange Vest & Hat: NYS requires hunters to wear visible orange ...  Read More

NYS Safe Storage Laws: What Gun Owners Must Know in 2025

NYS Safe Storage Laws: What Gun Owners Must Know in 2025 New York State’s safe storage laws are designed to prevent unauthorized access to firearms, reduce accidents, and ensure responsible gun ownership. As of 2025, these laws have strict requirements for how and where firearms must be stored. Here’s what every NY gun owner needs to know. In-Home Storage Requirements All firearms must be securely stored in a locked container or equipped with a gun locking device when not in use. If anyone under 16 resides in the home or is visiting, firearms must be locked or disabled at all times. Failing to comply can result in misdemeanor charges and fines. Vehicle Storage Laws When left in a vehicle, firearms must be stored in a loc...  Read More

Gear Up for Hunting Season: Must-Have Accessories for NY Outdoorsmen

Gear Up for Hunting Season: Must-Have Accessories for NY Outdoorsmen hunting-accessories-ny-season Fall hunting season in New York is right around the corner, and it’s time to make sure you have the right gear to succeed in the field. Whether you're tracking whitetail deer or setting up for small game, having reliable accessories can make all the difference. At AT Guns and Gear, we have the essentials to keep you prepared and comfortable this hunting season. Top Hunting Accessories You Need: Range Bags & Field PacksCarry your gear with ease. Our durable range bags are perfect for organizing ammo, cleaning kits, optics, and more. Designed for hunters who need functionality and ruggedness. Shooting Rests & BipodsStab...  Read More

Top Firearms for Deer Season 2025: Best Rifles & Shotguns

Top Firearms for Deer Season 2025: Best Rifles & Shotguns With deer season approaching, hunters across New York are gearing up for success. Choosing the right firearm is critical for a clean, ethical harvest. Whether you prefer rifles or shotguns, we've compiled a list of the top deer hunting firearms for the 2025 season. 1. Savage 110 Apex Hunter XP Calibers: .308 Win, .30-06 Springfield, 6.5 Creedmoor Why it's great: Out-of-the-box accuracy with a factory-mounted Vortex Crossfire II scope. Best Use: Ideal for NY’s wooded terrain and medium-long range shots. 2. Ruger American Rifle Calibers: .270 Win, .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor Why it's great: Affordable, lightweight, and consistently reliable. Best Use: Great for fi...  Read More

A Beginner’s Guide to Buying Used Firearms: Tips for First-Time Buyers

A Beginner’s Guide to Buying Used Firearms: Tips for First-Time Buyers Buying a used firearm can be a smart way to save money, but it requires careful inspection and knowledge of the legal transfer process—especially in New York. Here’s how first-time buyers can navigate the used firearms market confidently and safely. Why Buy Used? Lower cost compared to new firearms. Access to discontinued or collectible models. Many used firearms are in excellent condition if properly cared for. Inspection Checklist Bore Condition: Look for a clean, rust-free bore with sharp rifling. Matching Serial Numbers: Ensure the frame, slide, and barrel (if applicable) have matching numbers. Check Function: Dry-fire the action, inspect safety mec...  Read More

How to Get a Pistol Permit in New York State: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

📝 Step 1: Determine Your County’s Requirements New York pistol permits are issued at the county level, and each county has its own procedures, forms, and timelines. Start by visiting your county’s pistol permit division website or contacting the local Sheriff’s office or county court. For example: Erie County: Erie County Clerk’s Office – Pistol Permit Division Monroe County: Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Albany County: Albany County Court 🔍 Tip: Requirements vary! Some counties require character references, while others mandate in-person interviews or additional paperwork. 🧾 Step 2: Complete the Application Packet Most counties require you to pick up or download a pistol permit application packet. It typica...  Read More

Top 5 Home Defense Firearms for 2025

Top 5 Home Defense Firearms for 2025: Expert Picks Choosing the right firearm for home defense is one of the most important decisions a gun owner can make. In 2025, advancements in reliability, ergonomics, and ammunition have made certain models stand out for protecting your home and family. Below are our top 5 expert picks for home defense firearms, along with tips on selecting the right one for your needs. 1. Pump-Action Shotgun – Mossberg 590 or Remington 870 Why it’s great: Simple, reliable, and highly effective at close range. Gauge: 12 or 20 gauge (20 gauge is easier to handle with less recoil). Bonus Tip: Add a weapon-mounted light to identify threats in the dark. 2. Semi-Auto Shotgun – Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol ...  Read More

Travel with Firearms in New York: Legal Guide

🧭 Travel with Firearms in New York: Legal Guide 1. 🚗 Federal “Safe Passage” Under FOPA Under the Firearms Owners’ Protection Act (FOPA)—18 U.S.C. § 926A—you’re allowed to transport a firearm through states where it may be illegal, as long as: Origin and destination both permit lawful possession The firearm is unloaded It is stored in a locked container, not readily accessible lamarchesafrankolaw.com+13Saland Law+13Wikipedia+13The Law Offices of Jeffrey Lichtman+2USCCA+2USCCA+2USCCAWikipedia+1Wikipedia+1 This federal protection applies during continuous travel—limited stops for essentials are typically allowed . 2. 🚘 New York State Requirements Even with FOPA’s protection, NY imposes its own strict requirements: ...  Read More

Ammunition 101: Types of Ammo and How They're Used

Ammunition 101: Types of Ammo and How They're Used Whether you're new to firearms or just looking to expand your knowledge, understanding the different types of ammunition is essential. From self-defense to target shooting and hunting, the right ammo makes all the difference. 🔸 Common Ammo Categories 1. FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) Use: Target shooting, training How it works: A soft lead core encased in a hard metal shell. FMJs are affordable and reliable but not ideal for self-defense due to over-penetration. 2. HP (Hollow Point) Use: Self-defense, law enforcement How it works: Designed to expand on impact, creating a larger wound channel and transferring more energy. This reduces the risk of over-penetration and increases stopping p...  Read More

New York Gun laws 2025

New York Gun Law Changes in 2025: What Gun Owners Need to Know As of mid-2025, several new firearms-related laws and regulatory updates have gone into effect in New York State. These changes impact both everyday gun owners and FFL dealers, and staying informed is essential for staying compliant. 🚨 Key Changes as of 2025 1. Mandatory Safe Storage Expanded New York now requires all firearms in a residence to be securely stored — not just when children are present. Firearms must be in a locked container or equipped with a locking device. Ammunition should be stored separately unless using a quick-access safe. What it means for you: Even if you live alone, your firearms must be locked when not in use. 2. Permit to Purchase for AL...  Read More

Buying a Used Gun: What to Watch Out For

Buying a Used Gun: What to Watch Out For Used guns can be a great deal — but only if you know what to look for. A great price might hide legal issues, damage, or features that aren’t New York-compliant. Here’s how to avoid the most common pitfalls when buying a used firearm in New York State. 1️⃣ Know Who You're Buying From Whether it’s a GunBroker auction, local shop, or private party: Always verify that the seller is reputable Avoid meeting strangers without vetting them Don’t accept any deal that bypasses an FFL transfer — it’s illegal in NY 📌 Private sales must go through an FFL like AT Guns and Gear LLC for background checks and legal compliance. 2️⃣ Inspect the Condition Before accepting or bidding on ...  Read More

Blog Post: How Firearm Storage Works in NY (Permit Issues, Red Flags, Travel)

🔐 How Firearm Storage Works in New York (Permit Issues, Red Flags, Travel) Whether you're dealing with a suspended pistol permit, a red flag protection order, or just leaving town for a while, secure firearm storage can be critical — and in New York, it must be done legally. Here’s what you need to know about storing your guns safely and lawfully with an FFL dealer in New York. 🚫 Why You Might Need Temporary Firearm Storage We commonly provide firearm storage for: 🔴 Permit suspensions (temporary or pending revocation) 🚨 Extreme Risk Protection Orders (Red Flag Law) ✈️ Extended travel or out-of-state deployment 💔 Divorce or domestic disputes involving firearms 🏠 Storage while relocating or securing a new saf...  Read More

Blog Post: How to Transfer Inherited or Estate Firearms in NY

⚖️ How to Transfer Inherited or Estate Firearms in NY Inheriting a firearm can be complicated — especially in New York, where strict laws require lawful possession, proper permits, and formal transfer steps. Whether you’re dealing with a will or not, here’s what heirs and executors need to know. 📜 Step 1: Secure the Firearm First, ensure the firearm is stored securely — especially if: The owner passed away recently No one currently holds a valid permit (for handguns) There are minors or prohibited persons in the household 🔐 If needed, AT Guns and Gear LLC offers secure firearm storage while the estate is processed. 📝 Step 2: Determine Who Inherits It Inheritance typically follows either: A legal will, na...  Read More

Do I Need a Semi-Auto Rifle Permit in NY?

🔐 Do I Need a Semi-Auto Rifle Permit in NY? — Full Article New York’s firearm laws, including the SAFE Act, place restrictions on semi-automatic rifles—but what does that mean for everyday gun owners? Here's what you need to know about when a permit is required. 🏛️ What the SAFE Act Covers Passed in 2013, the New York SAFE Act bans features like detachable magazines, pistol grips, folding stocks, and bayonet mounts on semi-auto rifles. To legally possess one: Your rifle must be registered with NYS or be an approved “NY SAFE Act Compliant” model Possession of "assault weapon" features without registration is prohibited 📝 Registration vs. Permit New York does not issue a semi-auto rifle permit like those for handguns...  Read More

How to Legally Transfer a Firearm in NY

🔐 How to Legally Transfer a Firearm in NY Transferring a firearm in New York isn’t complicated — but it does come with strict legal requirements. Whether you're buying a gun online, selling one privately, or sending it to a family member, it must go through the correct legal channels. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and avoid legal trouble. 🔁 All Transfers Must Go Through an FFL In New York State, all firearm transfers must go through a licensed FFL (Federal Firearms License) dealer, even if the sale is between private individuals. That means: You can’t sell or give someone a gun directly — even family members. The buyer must pass a background check and complete ATF Form 4473 at the FFL. The FFL m...  Read More

"Tips for Choosing Your First Firearm"

Introduction: Importance of selecting the right firearm based on personal needs, experience level, and intended use. Body: Identify Your Purpose: Factors to consider (self-defense, hunting, sport shooting). Matching firearm types to intended use. Consider Your Comfort Level: Importance of firearm ergonomics and fit. How to test grip, weight, and control. Start with Basic Models: Recommendations for beginner-friendly firearms. Features to look for in entry-level handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Seek Professional Advice: Benefits of consulting firearm instructors and experienced shooters. Finding reputable firearm dealers and ranges for guidance. Budget for Additional Costs: Understa...  Read More

"Understanding Different Types of Firearms: A Beginner’s Guide"

Introduction: Overview of firearm categories and their uses in shooting sports, self-defense, and hunting. Body: Handguns: Explanation of pistol and revolver types. Uses, advantages, and considerations for choosing a handgun. Rifles: Overview of bolt-action, semi-automatic, and lever-action rifles. Applications in hunting, target shooting, and long-range shooting. Shotguns: Types of shotguns (pump-action, semi-automatic, over-under). Uses in hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. Assault Weapons and Military-style Firearms: Definition and controversy surrounding assault weapon classification. Legal considerations and regulations (e.g., NY SAFE Act). Specialized Firearms: Intro...  Read More

Top 10 Essential Firearm Safety Tips

Always Treat Every Firearm as if It's Loaded: Explanation of the golden rule of gun safety. Tips on handling firearms with caution. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Shoot: Importance of trigger discipline. Techniques for keeping fingers outside the trigger guard. Be Sure of Your Target and What’s Beyond It: Explanation of the third rule of firearm safety. Tips on assessing the environment before shooting. Store Firearms Safely When Not in Use: Importance of secure storage options (safes, lockboxes). Tips on storing firearms away from children and unauthorized access. Regularly Maintain and Clean Your Firearms: Importance of firearm maintenance f...  Read More

Firearm EDU NYS

Understanding New York State Gun Laws: A Comprehensive Guide Navigating the complexities of gun laws in New York State can be daunting, but it's essential for responsible gun ownership and compliance with the law. Whether you're a current gun owner, considering purchasing a firearm, or simply interested in the legal landscape, this guide will help you understand the key aspects of New York's gun laws. 1. Gun Ownership and Licensing Requirements In New York State, the process to legally own a firearm involves stringent licensing requirements. Here are the main steps and considerations: Handgun Licensing: To own a handgun, you must obtain a pistol permit. This process includes a thorough background check, fingerprinting, and a revi...  Read More

Education on Firearms: Why It's Important and How to Get Started

Firearms have been a part of American culture for centuries, and they continue to play a significant role in our society today. However, with that role comes responsibility, and it's essential that anyone who handles firearms understands how to do so safely and responsibly. That's where education on firearms comes in. Why is Education on Firearms Important? Safety: Firearms can be dangerous if not handled properly, and education on firearms helps prevent accidents and injuries. Legal Compliance: There are many laws and regulations governing firearms, and education on firearms helps ensure that you understand and comply with these laws. Increased Confidence: Education on firearms can increase your confidence and competen...  Read More