First, quit calling this a store. A store is where you have it your way to go in and purchase a commodity from someone who'd probably rather be working somewhere else. The Gun Exchange is staffed by people who know what they are doing and are willing to share their depth of experience to those who want to build a relationship......just like anywhere else. It is different than your going into BPS nearby and saying that you want a box of ammo for xx. They will ask what you're hunting, what distance you're expecting to shoot, where are you hunting and pick something that will suit you well......IF you've chatted with them as adults and they have a reason to believe that you might be a good guy/gal. I suppose that I shouldn't be surprised that people in the Bay Area might not know the difference between someone going out and shooting and those who join the community of hunters and shooters. Spend some time with the people who know stuff if you'd like to increase the depth of your enjoyment of the sport. Old hunters have seen amazing stuff. Ditto Jim Cox in Salinas.....if he thinks that you're a fool or that as the customer you think that things should be "your way", he will treat you as a buyer and not as someone in the circle. Both the guys in this shop smile. Saw it myself. Appreciate their time as you'd want your time appreciated. It will lead to a great experience. It's not a store. It's not Burger King either. read more

They advertise that they buy bb guns but didn't want any. They are not true to their advertising. A real waste of time.

I needed to have some firearms appraised for insurance purposes (FYI if you have firearms, INSURE THEM!). I took them to Gun Exchange and the owner took maybe 15 minutes total and charged me $10/firearm for the appraisal. My insurance accepted the appraisal document I was provided so everything is good. Overall it was a fast and easy visit. The owner is following COVID protocols, which is good although kind of weird handling firearms on the sidewalk. I was half convinced we were about to meet every cop in San Jose but I guess the location helps as it's in a strip mall away from street view. There's plenty of parking, they take credit cards, and the owner isn't price gouging ammo. It's a nice independent store and I would recommend everyone do their best to support places like this. Big 5 and Bass Pro Shops have lots of product lines to stay in business, shops like this need our help. If you're at all in the area stop by and support your local gun shop! read more

Gun Exchange - Staying socially distant - Guns & Ammo Near Me - San Jose, California

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Whoever answered the phone this morning was super rude Called and tried to get pricing on .223 ammo Guy said he has plenty in stock and to swing by I asked for current pricing and he said he wouldn't give pricing over the phone and that I need to come in to the store Told him that I live an hour away and it would be a total waste of time going to San Jose just to get pricing There are plenty of shops out there that'll let you call and get pricing over the phone! read more

Pretty great place overall, lots of cool stuff in stock. Unfortunately can't sell guns right now but lots of rare ammo in stock that's hard to find even online. read more

They currently doesn't have its FFL license. So you can't purchase firearms here. Owner is nice and their dog is friendly.

I like & appreciate the vast experience & knowledge that Michael has to offer whenever I have gun & ammo questions or anything else concerning our 2A. And he's a hunter & has provided me answers to many of my past hunting questions. We are really lucky here in San Jose to have an old timer like Michael in the gun & ammo business! read more

What a dump! Rude staff and don't even get me started on the prices. I don't know how this place is even still in business, especially will Bass Pro Shop just down the street. read more

Beware, Owner is price gouging on ammo. Owner was rude over no mask (even to a person with an apparent medical exemption) while service is all done outside. read more

Just called in to see if they do private party transfers. Because I'm new to the gun world, I didn't know exactly how to phrase it. I asked if they "do gun transfers"? I explained that my family member wanted to transfer a gun in my name. An older man rudely told me, "it's called a private party transfer" with a stink of annoyance in his voice. He clearly knew what I was talking about...As a beginner, the worst thing someone experienced can do is make someone feel like a dummy. Needless to say, I WONT be shopping here. Funny how I see multiple posts referencing "rudeness" at this business. Work on your customer service and attitude. read more

Went here for a PPT Came away with renewed respect. I recently went to The Gun Exchange to complete a private party transfer. The staff was professional, quick, and detailed for all aspects of the transfer. I was also able to local a find for a friend. A little gem of a Baby Browning that ended up being worth a lot more than they had it priced at. As for the selection of firearms, I think The Gun Exchange might be overlooked because of their location. Said because they have an good selection of new guns for sale where other shops seem to be out of items right now. If you can ignore the hunter-esque appearance of the place as well as the rampant male attitudes of the staff, I think you will find The Gun Exchange to be an great place address your firearms needs. I know I will be back again in the future. It's a damn fine shop! read more

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Guy inside was nice (not the owner, he said) and helped me look for black powder. The problem was they only had smokeless powder, which he insisted would work for muzzle loading firearms. It doesn't. The gun would explode in your hand. If I didn't know that I could be injured following his advice. read more

Got the ammo I need, store owner was awesome. Enjoyed looking around as well. He has lots of neat stuff for people like history too. Will be coming back! Also to the people who posted low reviews, maybe grow thicker skin or just shop somewhere else? Sucks if you had a bad experience, and I wasn't there so can't judge too hard, but my guess is this store just might not be for you. Go to Bass Pro and you will be more comfortable. Win win. read more

Within the first 3 minutes of another customer walking in he's talking about calling ICE on an older customer who stated he's been in the states for 5 decades and still has his green card but can't get his citizenship. (He was interested in buying ammo) The gentlemen didn't even get a chance to say what he wanted, just walked out.. and I agree with him.. so as I did so myself. I get it, times are tough so raise the price on ammo.. but god d*mn they gouge prices. Place is a dump They're rude over the phone, and worse in person.. just a couple of unhappy guys ‍ read more

This is a store that sells antique guns, ammunition and other add ons. Clearly, you can see that California democrat rules are slowly taking our liberties away from us. They are making it harder for businesses like this to keep afloat. It seems that these are older folks that are trying to keep the second amendment from disappearing. One way to squash liberty is to make the people jump through hoops and/or tax the things that they want. When it becomes to much work or cost for the people to get what they want, they will quit. I applaude stores like this, and wish them the best. If you can, help keep liberty alive, support this store. read more

Rude and I feel as if they are a little racist. Came in for ammo, I called first, giving me two different prices from phone and person, even charging me different prices for background check. I'd give negative stars if I could. Will never get my business ever again. Place looks like a dump also, messy and unorganized. read more

The staff that helped me was very poor at communicating and tried to rip me off. They told me a box of 20 45/70 lever evolution ammo costed 100$. When I walked away they offered me a fair price. Very disrespectful. read more

I felt like walked in the store which has froze in time. Lots of random stuff, laying around not in any particular order. No price tags anywhere. I guess you can haggle over the price if that something you like to do. The choices were limited due to all spread panic. No guns, no ammo but some interesting vintage stuff. read more

Gun Exchange - Guns & Ammo Near Me - San Jose, California

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Extremely rude individuals working there. Very disorganized and poor communication between associates. I understand the demand for ammo has gone up but they charge significantly more than most other places. I would honestly just take your business elsewhere. Not worth the time and disrespect read more

This place literally has just about everything and the guys running the floor are all friendly and knowledgable. I've picked up quite a bit of ammunition and accessories from them, ranging from AR15 parts to ammo, and the staff is always honest. I think one of the greatest attributes to the store is the fact that they never try and up-sell you. They give you the facts and show you multiple options. I recently picked up some supplies, including a sling and Angled Fore Grip, and they showed me a few varieties. The staff allowed me to hold each grip (priced equally) and gave me tips on which one would work for me. With the sling, they showed me one out of the container and gave an in-depth description of pros and cons. I'll always come to these guys for accessories and ammo. As far as firearms, they do have some long rifles and shotguns but I'll stick to them just being my supply of ammo, etc... I'll definitely keep coming back!! read more

Gun Exchange - The Magpul angled fore grip and sling I recently purchased from Gun Exchange. - Guns & Ammo Near Me - San Jose, California

Needed to find some ammo and being that it's scarce and overpriced these days, I was able to find some at this spot. Older gentleman has a table set up at the door due to Covid rules. Price was reasonable considering the market these days. read more

0 star, Terrible service, over priced ammo (almost double), not surprised why this place is the worst reviewed gun store in Bay Area, but I'm surprised they are still operating. Owner is is an old rude, pathetic and racist guy, refused to provide me service when I was trying to purchase hunting ammo, initially asked for my ID and then threw it back at me and stated somebody else will need that ammo. Wow! Just see all the other recent reviews or better yet go and see for yourself if you want to ruin your day. read more

Great service. Good place to buy a gun See Tony or Arthur good guys. I have bought guns and ammunition from these. Guys. All fair prices. Arthur is awesome. read more

Stopped by for a few springs for my AR15 and ended up walking out with some extra tools and oil. Very knowledgeable and good prices. read more

Gun Exchange - Guns & Ammo Near Me - San Jose, California

Just gonna say that I've never had any problems buying ammo there. Started ammo shopping there since the pandemic started. So far the fellas always did a great job and they are fair and consistent. The prices are not much higher or some are the same as before the pandemic. Anyhow, the guys are straight shooters. They're gonna tell you like it is, so if you don't like it go elsewhere. Hint, call before showing up to see if they got what you need. read more

The gun exchange is a very poorly kept little mess of a store where you can expect to wander through the mostly obscured pathway without being greeted. The prices are higher than average, the selection leaves nearly everything to be desired, and the staff aren't the least bit friendly. Don't expect a normal retail experience, it's like being in some has-been hunter's dank basement. No modern handguns. Only a half dozen modern rifles. Some cool C&R stuff, but it's all beat to hell and judging by the layers of dust sediment, their hope of finding a new home has long been lost. Local businesses depend on support from consumers who want great service and will avoid internet deals to get it, but this store doesn't deserve anyone's business. You have to earn it. Maybe by dusting, or saying hello every once in a while. Fail. read more

Gun Exchange - Guns & Ammo Near Me - San Jose, California

Bought mag lock kits to make a rifle CA compliant and the prices were reasonable! I spent about $10 more buying it here versus online from the manufacturer so to me, that markup would've gone to shipping anyway. They don't give out prices over the phone which made it risky for me to make the drive, but I'm glad I did. Service wasn't extraordinary but I take it for what it is since the guy running it was in his golden years. I also knew what I wanted so that made the process easier. The place is a mess but I had fun browsing. Overall, I would come back and support the local business but only after verifying they have the product over the phone. The actual price of a product, you'd just have to be willing to take the risk and make the drive. read more

EXTREMELY RUDE! I just called to see if they sold "High Capacity magazines" because I read an article saying California now allowed. I was curious and wanted answers from a professional. I called dicks, and big 5, but they had no idea. What's a better place to find out than a "gun exchange" store. I called and asked, the person said "absolutely not" with a very bad attitude and immediately hung up then phone. Don't come here or call if you're looking for customer service. read more

Here's my experience with them over the phone today; Me: "Hi! Do you have any Colt 6920s in stock, and if so, how much are they?" GE: "We don't give pricing over the phone." Me: "Um, OK. Do you have any in stock?" GE: "We have one. You better hurry if you want it." Me: "Dude, I'd like to buy it. I'm in Sunnyvale (a 30 minute drive). How much are you asking for it? GE: "I don't care if you're in Sunnyvale, Australia. You want it, come get it. We don't give pricing over the phone." There's NO CHANCE I'd ever buy from these guys. I can only imagine what would happen if I had to return the Firearm or needed any kind of Customer Support. read more

Outstanding and excellent service. Mike helped me fix a problem with my firing pin that no one else would even look at. He is very knowledgeable and helpful. I would definitely recommend this pace if you are in need of anything. read more

I got my husband a side-by-side shotgun for Xmas '12 and it's been a headache since. After taking it to the clay shooting range, he discovered that the ejector spring & firing pin was worn out. When he brought it back to the Gun Exchange, they said it was because my husband didn't clean it properly. Side note: My hubby has been in the Army (sniper unit) for almost a decade...I think he has an idea of how to clean his gun. Anyway, he went and clean it...only to experience the SAME issue. Long story short: my hubby had to go back SEVERAL more times before they finally sent his gun to a gunsmith in Santa Cruz. It took MONTHS before he was able to pick it up. Customer service BEFORE you make a purchase: Good Customer service AFTER you make a purchase: Disrespectful & Horrific read more

I went in here looking for an SKS. The older gentleman behind the counter seemed really annoyed that he had to talk to me. His answers were mostly one word. He seemed contemptuous that I was even there. Very weird and i didn't like this place at all. He seemed to have no problem selling a small $50 handgun to the two mexican gangbangers there. That's reassuring. I will not be frequenting this place ever again. read more

I would not recommend this place. They loose paperwork, Under-quote a price and when you get there it is twice that of any other gun store. I.E. magazines worth $13-15 they sale for $40. 308 Lower receivers are $799. I was quoted a price on a pistol and when I got there the price was more then what they quoted. They don't read email and don't have a tracking database so if you have something shipped to them to transfer to you, they will ship it back to place you bought it. Even though you sent them an email notifying them that it is coming. The kids that work there are rude and not professional. When you go into the store, the employees don't even lift their heads off their computers to welcome you or stop to ask if you need help. Stay away read more

1 star for carrying AR lowers. Unfortunately I would not recommend this place to anyone. I had to return 4 times to pickup my lower since they lost my paperwork. Yes the paperwork with all my personal information on it. I agreed to buy a stripped lower. Turns out they actually only had a built lower so I was forced to pay for gunsmithing which I didn't want or need. If you're looking for black rifles you'll get treated better at Valkyrie Arms in Milpitas. read more

Located in an old, random strip of Almaden Expressway off Capitol, the Gun Exchange has a huge selection of new, used, and collectible firearms and accessories. I've never seen so many guns in one place before. I have fun here. Granted, only been twice but both times my guy and I walked away satisfied. The guys that work here know their stuff (especially the owner and the red-headed guy...sorry, don't know their names) and they're more than happy to help you find whatever pistol, rifle, etc. will best fit your needs. They also tell great stories and readily give their personal opinion on various products if asked - which I appreciate. I usually stand around looking at things while trying not to look all the animals mounted on the wall in the eye. Lots of Bambis in here. The paperwork process is quick and painless and the prices are right. And one of the guys working here looks kinda like Opie from SOA, which seems appropriate. You know you're in the right place when there's a cop checking out the stuff that's off-limits to the general public - which occurred both times I've been here. Highly recommended. read more

This gun store is not for noobs for sure. It's a great store to get parts for your little black guns and I use it as my main resource for that. They are more expensive than online, but only slightly . By the time you factor in shipping, the prices come very close. But you should have an idea what you want before you go there. Its not really a great environment for browsing. I kinda like that they are abrupt because there are a lot of idiots in the bay area that need to be told. You just can't take anything personally. If you are buying from them, then you are a customer, otherwise you are just taking up space (which they don't have a lot of) If you are into rifles, they have a nice selection that you won't find anywhere else at their prices. Not so many pistols. You are probably better off going to Sportsman Supply in Campbell if you want to get advice on what gun you should buy or which end of the gun you should point down range. read more

Man is rude and service sucks. I don't think he wants to sell anything. Maybe more of a collector. Just close the doors already please do us all a favor. And no I'm not Hispanic. I'm native American but thanks for asking a$$h0I3... read more

I have had some very mixed experiences with Gun Stores in the Bay Area, and I would say that Gun Exchange was definitely better than many, though that is not saying much necessarily. First of all, I always come in to a store (regardless of the type) as if I know very little. I want them to tell me their opinions, what options there are, etc. I have found that by acting like I know everything, I get way less information. That tends to be a bad thing at gun stores, as the people get very stand-offish and rude. The gentlemen at Gun Exchange were actually really nice for the most part, if not a little conceited about how they were "the best around." I am looking for a Glock 22 and they have the highest price on this gun that I have seen. While they sell it in the complete "kit" which is nice, they were at about $599, compared to Sportsmens Supply which is $529 for the gun, two mags, and a locking carrying case. The store had a nice selection though was a bit cluttered. It was really kind of difficult to get around with other people in the store, we were constantly dancing around each other which is just a tad awkward in a store like that! read more

Rude staff, over priced ammo, don't even know why I bothered coming here when bullseye bishop or sportsman supply has ammo. Typical fudd gun shop. Also if you stop hiding behind the counter, the customers can see you!! read more

5 stars cause this place demands some respect. Other than a decent rifle/shotgun/handgun/airsoft collection, they have a fair amount of shooting accessories at internet costs (Blackhawk gear and other well-made names). And is one of the only places I know whre you can still buy a handgun (or get a FFL) in San Jose. There is even a gunsmith here that machines his own lowers, does builds and other rifle/gun work. I have been in there twice now, and thought the staff was not only helpful, but you can tell they like their job...dealing with and talking guns. ON top of that, great prices. Much unlike the folks at Reeds (ripoff; asking $300+ over MSRP). I will make sure to support these guys in the future (after I finally got he HSC after relo'ing from out of state). read more