This is my go to spot for anything gun-related. I came here after checking out Solar Tactical, and it's clear where to go. You might have some trouble finding the place, but look out for the small sign on the street. There is parking outside also. When you walk in, it's a small shop. Very clean, organized and the displays are very nice. They have a huge selection of pistols, new, used etc. On the wall, they have a variety of rifles, shotguns etc as well. There's also plenty of different accessories all on the walls. If you need to take the test, you can do that here in less than 15 minutes. It's very straightforward and mostly common sense. I purchased here before, and I purchased here again. I can't say enough about the staff and their professionalism and knowledge. They answer any and all questions, and they're honest about it. I don't get the feeling they're trying to just make a sale, they're actually trying to help you make the right choice, for you. You can tell they know what they're talking about, and there's no pressure. The staff here really makes the buying experience easy, simple and stress free, especially if you're a first timer. Don't worry about going in and not knowing anything, that's why they're there, and you'll definitely walk out knowing more than you did walking in. Great staff, great selection, excellent store. Go check out and meet the staff, you won't regret it. read more

October 2021 Covid Review. This place is professional and very busy. Business is located behind BJ's family restaurant with plenty of parking. Do your homework and understand what you want and what your are trying to accomplish. You can call ahead and or message them vis Yelp messages. I did both. Go onto their website and read FAQ. Don't get upset if you didn't do your research. If they are busy, they will take your phone number and have you wait in your car and you will be notified via text message through waitlist. I am a first time buyer. I only came in twice, first day to start my PPT and then pick up my firearm 10 days later. I brought my verified utility bills, government issued ID and fire arm safety certificate. Great customer service, great guys to work with and I plan on coming back in the future. No images or photos because I didn't take any photos inside or outside. read more

Horrible service here came in ready to buy a weapon I was one of 3 people who came in and was called out for smelling like marijuana (I don't smoke) I'm not one to snitch so I took the blame was kicked out for it. I don't know if it had to do with me being a brown Hispanic but I gladly went down to Solar tactical and purchased proudly with them and the customer service was phenomenal! Highly recommend to SOLAR TACTICAL ! 5 minutes away from elite armory ! read more

The guys here are knowledgeable and extremely helpful when it comes to anything firearm related. I had an issue with a gun that was shipped here and they resolved my issue very quickly and helped me transfer additional ammo very quickly. Owen and his team here are great and I will continue to come back here to pick up my ammo. Support this business 1000%. read more

I've been coming here since 2014 and my goodness do they provide some of the best customer service I have seen in the Bay Area, I trust them for quality as well as a friendly and informative store for anyone interested in purchasing. Whether it's your first or your a seasoned salty veteran, it don't matter everyone is respectful and knowledgeable, trust you won't be judged if you are confused about anything firearm related. Love this store and I would even visit here if I was hours away haha. You missing out if you haven't come here yet. Much love elite armory team read more

Service is excellent. Knowledgeable and Friendly staff Easy to work with Straight forward A great licensed Dealer for all Firearm transactions read more

I've bought all my firearms from Elite. The employees are super helpful finding exactly what you're looking for and the price point. They have good deals on rounds too. Definitely the go to shop for me. read more

Waiting system SUCKS!!!!!!! Costumers service as well!!!! these guns are wayyyyyyyyyy over priced I felt as if the employees did not want to help us at all in store as if I was not a paying customer smh so sad read more

I have to write a positive review for this gun shop. Staff and owner are super friendly. They are super patient and knowledgable. The only downside is they are super friendly and patient, the wait line does take time. But I really enjoy working with them for my PPT transfer. I tried to buy ammo from them too. If gun shops are out of business, who is going to help us in the future? We should help each other. read more

I understand processes need to adjust during the pandemic, but a prudent business would make those changes known especially if your current practice is to not answer phones and current practices differ from your posted policies..... I reviewed the website only to show up at an empty store to immediately be told that I needed to be put on a waiting list and then told that they only administer HSC tests to clients purchasing firearms directly from them after being referred to this place by instructor. Wasted trip and gas. read more

Elite Armory - Guns & Ammo Near Me - Castro Valley, California

People were friendly and knowledgeable. I waited about ten minutes to be helped, no biggie. This was on Saturday morning, I'm guessing any other day it might be quicker. I decided to go here because the folks at Reeds in Santa Clara came off sort of snobbish towards gun owner rookies. read more

I Have done a Few PPT there and have found the Staff there Friendly ,Fast and very accurate with the Paperwork. They have a lot of Accessories and Parts for AR Type Rifles. They have a pretty huge 1911 Selection. Lots of Kimber's, Rugers , S&W and Glocks . They even Carry Bond Arms Derringers . Definitely worth checking out nice selection of Sporting Arms. read more

Elite Armory - Guns & Ammo Near Me - Castro Valley, California

These guys are so nice and helpful! First time gun buyer was always treated respectfully and shared the process steps without hesitation. Andrew, pepa and guys all very good people. Made it all so easy. This was a purchase for my new Marine son as a surprise Christmas graduation gift. I think he will be through the roof. Merry Christmas to the guys at Elite Armory!! read more

All I can say is these guys are super chill, knowledgeable, all around good guys. Just renewed my FSC before I moved to the area. Went to another gun shop in the same town and was treated really poorly. Not these guys welcomed me and said look around and we will be right with you. First day, knew what I wanted and they had it stock. Paperwork done, returned 10 day later for my pick up and another purchase. If that other gun stores reads this all got to say customer service customer service. read more

The worker here are so knowledgeable about everything guns I'm so glad I chose to go here to purchase. I was extremely satisfied with the process from start to finish they are true experts and very patient with a newcomer like me! read more

Excellent selection of everything you could need. The staff are all friendly and helpful. They know their stuff and are more than happy to make you feel comfortable and informed about your purchases. Highly recommend read more

Ive been there multiple tomes have gotten treated horrible. I feel like it is a race thing about because i am a young black male. And they probably think i am doing other things witch id wrong read more

Just picked up my very first rifle and will update this review in a few weeks once I've got first-hand experience with what I was sold, but from a customer service standpoint I was impressed. First off, this place is strictly business, which is how I like things. As a first time buyer with a limited budget, I was bracing myself for the condescension and high-pressure tactics of the Radio Shack sales tradition. None of that BS here. I'd stopped by three other gun shops in the area, and was surprised at how few salespeople even feel like doing business. There was the place in El Cerrito who said they might do a FFL transfer "if they felt like it", the vegan place in Walnut Creek that won't sell you anything unless you swear you're not going to hunt with it, and more than a handful of sporting goods stores who claimed they didn't have any employees who'd been trained on gun sales and didn't know when I could come back or what documents I'd need. Look, I get it, I look like a weirdo, but my money is green. If for no other reason, Elite Armory is the best because they actually want to help you buy products from them. No bias, no political nonsense. That would be a pretty low bar in most industries, but the bay area is a strange place. Secondly, they're very knowledgeable and upfront about what they've got, whether you're shopping new or used, with a decent selection. When I stopped in they had rifle models available as either "featureless" or maglock compliant, and even an assortment of black powder arms and a few very unique pieces that I haven't seen anywhere else. Most importantly: Do your research! This place is busy, every time I've come by there's been a wait. They're doing their best to manage the high demand while maintaining best practices during the pandemic. Research what kind of gun you intend to buy, what configurations are CA-compliant, and also research the store policies. This saves everyone time. Some important notes: If this is your first time buying or if you're from out of state, show up early. They stop offering the written test about an hour and a half before they close. They WILL do ammunition transfers from online sellers, but charge $35/10% (whichever is higher) plus $10/line item, so buy in bulk because ammo is moving fast. This isn't a big-box store, you can't check their inventory online and right now no one is answering phones and email response is slow. Also, they cannot sight-in guns at this location, as there is no range. Gunsmithing services are limited to what is advertised on their website. Welp, I'll be back in a month to let you know how the thing shoots. Cheers. read more

A great shop with amazing staff. This is my go-to gun store because the staff is extremely helpful and welcoming. They have a nice selection of new and used firearms that is constantly changing. They can answer any question you may have re: firearms (and even some you never thought to ask)! Also, if you are looking to consign or sell firearms, they are extremely fair -- a family friend sold her late husband's large (50+ piece) milsurp rifle collection to them, and the prices they offered were fair and they made the process absolutely pain free for my friend. read more

Went in to take FSC and it was super busy. I was able to take the exam and get the cert once I was called up fast and easy. Gier took the time to explain to me all the laws and answer all of my noobie questions. Had a great experience and ended up purchasing my first gun. Will definitely be a return customer! read more

The staff here are super patient and knowledgeable. Unlike some places, they don't make you feel rushed or pressured. The prices are fair-- pretty standard with the current firearm price hike. I would certain recommend this place to others. Thanks, Elite Armory. read more

Bought my first pistol through Elite Armory in Tracy back in 2015. Since then I've made all my purchases close to home at Elite Armory in CV. The team there are super helpful and never push the sale, they are knowledgeable in everything they have. If you have a question one of the guys will have the answer for you. Prices are competitive to the market. Of course it's expensive to buy guns and ammo at this moment, but they're not out here prize gauging. They are pretty busy at all times, specially on Tuesday which is their Monday, so keep that in mind. read more

Very nice Associates with top notch "Chick Fil-a" customer service. This is my go to gun store. They have many selections of firearms, ammo, and gears/accessories. Keep Up the good work! read more

Elite Armory - Guns & Ammo Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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Andrew was very informative without being pushy. He had alot of patience and was able to help me make an important decision on which firearm would suit me best for protection. Their prices are very reasonable. Highly recommend. read more

The service was great! Owen was the person who helped me and he went above and beyond to get me situated with knowing the differences between guns, brands and caliber. He took the time to explain everything in great detailed and I never felt rushed or pressured into anything. The shop is on the cozier side, but they have a bigger shop in Tracy. I felt very confident purchasing here and their prices are competitive with other stores around. This will be my go to shop going forward. read more

Can't say enough good about these guys. Good selection and availbility of products and great to deal with. This is not like going to a convenience store for household goods. Expect to wait, it's the nature of things these days. read more

Bad customer service and not reputable; still waiting on my refund. Reason for the review: I took a piece in to have a kit conversion done. They examined everything and payment was taken. After leaving, I received a call saying that they could no longer help me because they found weed in the carry bag. Panicked and trying to figure out how a bag of weed go in my bag I rushed back. When I asked to see the weed, I was presented with two small sticks about the length of a nickel, covered in lint. It was not weed. Mind you, this bag had been open on their in-store counter for at least 20 minutes and there was no smell or anything. I have OCD, so I took the sticks to a dispensary that confirmed my suspicion. I was turned away for two dirty sticks from a camping trip. Oh, and I am still waiting on my supposed refund. If you want plant experts with your smithing then maybe this is the place for you. Ridiculous. read more

Just an update review. I've been seeing a lot of bad comments left for these guys. I just wanted to jump in and give my positive two cents. I have been coming to this place for years and have gotten work down on my guns, bought ammo, etc. every time has been a great and chill experience. During this pandemic era I know that lots of people have been panic buying lots of items including guns and ammo. I tried my luck at calling with no answer. Then I remembered they are often business this time and taking appointments. So I shot over a quick email which was answered within the day and at the latest the following day. I got all my questions answered and didn't have to worry about a "wasted trip" or anything of that sort. I even checked out there other location in Tracy and got to put some rounds down range during the pandemic. The process to book a range time was quick and painless. I wasn't a fan of the time frame due to it being during rush hour traffic time. But that wasn't their fault and I have the opportunity to shoot when other places weren't allowing shooting or provided terrible customer service. I see a lot of people bashing them for their customer service and it is true no one should feel like they are disrespected. However, the times I have been in the shop and hear some of the call in or in store questions have made me scratch my head a few times. No that, I am making excuses for them but look at it from their perspective. They are busy people are calling non stop. People are coming to the store without an appointment or without knowing what they want expecting the staff to have all the answers to the questions the customer hasn't even asked yet while trying to go as fast as they can to help the next person who is outside waiting to make sure they get to the appointment time frames as close as possible. In these uncertain times the best thing we can do for our small businesses is show a little understanding and work with them in this unprecedented time. Because like all of us (them included) no one has been through a time like this before so history has not repeated itself it is being created in front of our eyes. So for elite armory thank you guys for always treating me right even on bad days. Also just to throw in race this is coming from a black man. I saw a comment about this place not treating black people right. I have been in had treatment so well I brought my parents in to get service from them as well all of us who are black I might add. And we were treated with the upmost respect. I don't know the situation for the person who made the statement they did. But for the black people who are first time gun buyers don't let one negative review stop you from your 2nd amendment right. My only advice is do a little research online before coming in so you have your questions lined up so they can either confirm or dispute the info you found online and you can then make a conscious decision then on purchasing your firearm. read more

I am looking for a handgun so I decided to come to this place I took the handgun test which was $25 good price after I tried to purchase a handgun and they wanted more identification I don't think they want to sell guns Plus they had a very small selection basically I had to choose between two guns both were way overpriced so I took my business elsewhere read more

We called earlier in the week to ask if they do PPT. They said they are processing PPT and told us to stop by on Saturday. They also mentioned that they are busy so show up early. We showed up early on Saturday and waited. Once they opened, they asked what we were looking for. We said that we'd like to do a PPT. The guy said that they only do PPT on weekdays. I know gun shops are really busy right now. But to waste our time like that is just not right. Run your business however you want. But don't waste your customer's time like that. It does no one any good. If you're looking for a firearm or firearm related services, I would strongly recommend going somewhere else. Go to someone that cares for the customer and values their time and business. Don't give these jerks your time or money. read more

As a rookie I walked in to the shop and was given excellent customer service! Sales person didn't try to over sell me and was helpful in walking me through the purchasing process. Prices are competitive.Definitely will return for all future buys. read more

As a first time gun buyer you never know what to expect and if your going to sound like a noob. Elite armory made me feel comfortable asking dumb questions and assisting me with which gun I should buy for the purpose I want. Price range wise it was similar to neighboring prices and cheaper in ammunition prices read more

I want to give this place a better rating, I really do. But I just can't bring myself to do it, and here's why. I've come to this gun shop twice, once for my friend to purchase a gun, and once more to receive the gun. He purchased a Springfield 1911 Milspec Parkerized. Before coming to the shop, we called to check inventory and price. The gentleman on the phone confirmed that the gun was available but would not quote us a price over phone. Within the hour, we arrive at the store, which by the way, is extremely difficult to find if it's your first time visiting. It's located behind an abandoned old restaurant in a tiny shopping strip. There are no signs or markers from the main road. The shop itself if extremely small and happened to be absolutely packed on the day we visited. Be sure to grab a number if you want service, because this place will not honor first come, first served. I didn't catch the name of the fellow who first assisted us, but he was a certified jack-ass. He was extremely rude when we asked about a sale price or cash discount, and was very dismissive and condescending in attitude. We were just about to purchase a $700+ pistol after waiting 30+ minutes for service, and taking up all but 2 minutes of the sales associate's time. To top it all off, the buffalo wings from his lunch left a comedic amount of sauce smeared across his face, which made his already off-putting personality even more unpleasant. I wouldn't buy a magic pistol that shot out 300 year old Spanish gold coins from this guy. Things seemed a bit unorganized when laptops were being passed around and we were handed off to another employee. My friend and I were assisted by other sales associates and that's where the experience took a positive turn. The other employees were personable, friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. A day and night difference. The remainder of the time spend in the store was a much more pleasant experience. We returned 2 weeks later to pick up the 1911. The jackass wasn't there and we were helped by another gentleman who was personable and friendly. He was enthusiastic about showing us the DP-12 by Standard Manufacturing, and was quite patient. It is very possible that I return to this shop to purchase a firearm for myself. But it will be a cold day in hell before I purchase a firearm from the buffalo sauce gentleman behind the counter whom only a mother could love. read more

Elite Armory - Springfield 1911 - Guns & Ammo Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Best place ever. This shop is extremely organized, you show up at the door, an employee comes outside takes your name and number & lets you know your place in line if there is one, then you get a text when it's your turn. Inside they have the nicest and knowledgeable employees, they explain everything to you & are very good at handling beginners. They show you everything you need to know about the gun you want and how to properly use it. I was never rushed to purchase anything either. I did my FSC at their Tracy location and the employees there were also super nice and chill. I'll be doing all my business at elite armory. However be a good customer & do your research on what paperwork you need & what kind of gun you're interested in because it's not a toy shop for you to browse all day, even though I wish I could lol read more

Great service. The staff is patient, knowledgeable, and most are very friendly. Everything is fairly priced. I've checked prices for hand and long guns at big box stores and Elites prices are competitive. I checked prices on accessories and they are competing with big box stores and amazon. read more

Went in looking for a shot gun left with a receipt to pick up the shot gun after background check. The person that helped me was knowledgeable and didn't look down on me for not knowing a thing about shotguns. Made some great recommendations You can also take your gun safety exam here as well. Thanks guys for the great service. Look forward to purchasing more from the shop. read more

Elite Armory - Guns & Ammo Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Always try to support local business as much possible. Elite Armory staff are very helpful and know their stuff. I appreciate in these uncertain times, their email response is excellent and very prompt. They were able to offer helpful info and check inventory both in-store and distributor. Keep up the good work Owen! Their price are reasonable, on the high side, but not to the point of price gouging. Also like their posts in social media both fun and announce what they have in-stock. We will always come to Elite Armory for our firearm needs. Thanks guys! read more

My first time purchasing a firearm and they made it very easy. Staff was very helpful informative and friendly. They have many options and whatever they don't have they will try to get your order for you. I will definitely come back for any firearm needs. Thanks guys. read more

Elite Armory - Glock 17 - Guns & Ammo Near Me - Castro Valley, California

PROS: -DROS process is quick (15min). They do electronic DROS as well -workers are very friendly with the exception of the older heavy set white male (he's alright lol) -Elite Armory recognizes BSIS guard card + firearm permit as exempt to HSC - fine selection of the more popular and common pistols *see list below* -handful of shot guns, semi and bolt action rifles in stock mounted on their wall display -they also sell accessories and ammunition (cleaning supplies, long gun cases, grips, targets , etc) -clean and well organized store front -they have a pitbull dog with a huge head that looks vicious but is super friendly lol CONS: -they don't do price quotes over the phone which can be inconvenient if you live far. (Their polymer handgun prices are fairly good being slightly below MSRP) -the store is pretty small so it can get cramped with 10 or more people inside -11 day waiting period oppose to 10 days. This seems to be common practice from all gun stores though Other info: Internet transfer fee is $75, DROS $25, PPT $35, HSC test $25, HSC study book .50c. (FYI: I paid $70 to PPT two handguns at the same time, through two different sellers) Some handguns I saw on my last visit (11/29): Glock: 17/19/22/23/21SF/30SF/36 (all Gen 3/black) Sig Sauer: various 'P' series in 9mm/.40/.45, SP2022, 1911, Mosquito Smith & Wesson: M&P 9/40/45 w/external safety/.22/Shield), 1911, various revolvers (including a sweet 10 shot .22lr) Ruger: SR9/40, 22/45(?) Beretta: 92fs, M9, INOX variant Heckler & Koch: USP, HK45 Rock Island Armory: full size and compact 1911 GI/ Tactical and I believe I saw a .38 super CZ: SP-01, 97(?) Also saw a pistol grip Mossberg 500(?), 590 and several other pump action shotguns. About 10 bolt action rifles and 2 Smith & Wesson MP15's ('sport' variant and original models). 50 rounds Lawman 45acp FMJ for $30, PMC Bronze JHP $36 (50 rounds), and Lawman .40sw FMJ going for $26. No 9mm in stock on my last visit (11/29). Plenty of JHP and they do have .22lr/44mag in stock. Overall a very nice little shop close to home. Will definitely return. 4.5/5 read more

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Came here a few days ago...store was pretty empty, I can't say limited but empty of most hands guns. This is very understandable seeing as we are in a pandemic and everyone wants to stay safe. Dropping this review for a heads up Incase you go store doesn't have much to offer at the moment. Staff was very friendly and what they did have left they gave me the game on and also where to purchase since they were out. So again, heads up before you go store doesn't have much currently!!! read more