Whether you are an experienced shooter or a new one, the staff here are very patient, knowledgeable, and informative, compared to other gun stores in the metro. I also noticed gun and ammo prices here are more competitive than other places. They always have something on sale or clearance on their weekly ads. I purchased 2 guns here on two separate occasions. A very nice and knowledgeable gentleman by the name Laird, helped me with the purchase and everything went flawlessly. I went on a weekday and wait time was not bad. More time for viewing the huge selection. I remember weekends can be busier but that's expected but again it moves fast enough in timely manner. One thing I know, if you got a service number, you will be helped even if it was near close time. I like the fact that the staff make honest meaningful suggestions per your personal needs and your specific applications only, rather than trying to sell you the highest priced merchandise. That matters a lot especially for the novice customers. I highly recommend Vances, both locations this one and the gun range in Obetz, for unbeatable customer service and prices. read more

I purchased an IOP item via Vance's website and received an email my order was ready for pickup. I scheduled a pickup time which was confirmed. I've ordered several items this way from Vance's at the Hebron store and was always greeted by the CS person at the counter and taken right back to pick up my items. Upon arrival at the Cleveland Ave store, I informed the front desk I had an order ready for pickup and the lady referred me to Gayle, who is the IOP rep and should be familiar with the process. I informed Gayle I had an order ready for pickup and also had an appointment time scheduled. She told me to take a number. I kindly informed her again that I had an appointment time confirmed. She rudely said, "That's nice, but you need to take a number"and then proceeded to grab a number at the gun counter for me. She handed it to me and stormed off. After waiting about 20 min for my number to be called, Courteny called my number. While doing my paperwork, I asked her what the process was for order pickup with a confirmed appt time. She kindly informed me the front counter should have given me a buzzer and a light at the gun counter would flash and the buzzer would go off when my item was ready. I told her of the ordeal I had with Gayle and she again informed that is NOT the process for pickup in my situation. Courteny was a so kind and knowledgeable. If not for Courteny saving the day, I would have left zero stars for the way I was treated by Gayle. read more

Just picked up my new EDC from here. Worked with Jon, he was awesome. Helped answer all my questions, and if he wasn't 100% on something he would go and get the answer for me. They had the firearm and all the accessories I wanted, so it was a nice one stop shop at a really good price. read more

Vance Outdoors - Springfield Echelon 4.5 with an Aimpoint ACRO and Surefire X300-U - Sporting Goods Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

EVERYTIME we come here the people are rude and make you feel like its an inconvenience to them that you stepped foot in their store. They rush you and never have a smile. We wanted to return a item that was never used and purchased only 3 days ago. It was $25, in the box still with the receipt and it was a huge deal that they returned and was told "we'll do it just this once". They did refund but was not happy about it at all !! The bow service is okay, but thats only if you are helped by 1 guy specifically. Would not recommend going, taking the extra time to drive to Cabela's is WELL worth it !!!! read more

Perfect for picking up the best deals locally for ammo and being able to use your Glock blue label purchases. Why two stars? I recently went to sell a firearm that I had just been offered $450 from a different chain store. Unfortunately they didn't have what I wanted in stock and I was being impatient. Made my way down to Vance's who had the firearm. They came back with an offer of $180 dollars and told me it was what the current market was offering. Collected the firearms and headed to a great little shop in Sunbury who are always more than fair. Crazy enough they offered me $450 and had what I wanted! I didn't need the money and I guess that's what Vance's was banking on. I'll continue to pick up the cheap ammo and make blue label purchases from Vance's since they are the only game in town for Glock. That's about it, i'm moving on. Sellers beware, there are other buyers that will be happy to treat you fair and take your business. read more

I love the store but I made an online sale through gunbroker and it's been over a week since they've had my gun without shipping it out, cost me the business I had with the buyer read more

I purchased a firearm online at this store and waited over a week for a confirmation email that says your order is ready. I still haven't received that email so I have tried to contact them on the phone. First time I called it took a very long time till someone answered and they put me on hold and I never heard back from her. Then I called 3 more times on different days and no answer period. Needless to say...customer service is severely lacking there. read more

If you want good service go somewhere else. They will drag you around forever. Cabela's is my new go to, they will match vances price, and treat you like customer should be. read more

Used to be great they've gone way down hill. I pulled a ticket and waited then got called in, told them I actually wanted a gun safe not a firearm. They told me to go to the front counter, I got there and stood there for 20 plus minutes while he dealt with one customer. I will gladly take my money elsewhere since that is the service y'all give now. read more

Anyone who knows firearms knows Vance Outdoors is the best gun shop in OH. Some feedback on other reviews. Buying a firearm is not like walking into a gas station and buying a candy bar, it takes some time. You're buying a highly regulated item. The wait is long for a reason, they have the best prices in the state. Don't expect staff to spend hours waiting for you decide on a Hi-Point, Keltec or Taurus. Those that said they won't come back will, once they learn prices are $50-$100 more elsewhere. When going through the process keep in mind this industry is in the news everyday fighting the anti 2nd amendment clowns. read more

Excellent service and prices on 2 purchases. The company quickly shipped my rifles to the FFL and other purchases to my home.

Always busy. Good selection of firearms and hunting supplies as you know ammo is in shortage and is overpriced anywhere you go. Parking can be a challenge at times well most of the time lines are always long but you know that going in besides vans pretty much controls the firearm ammo hunting market in this area read more

The service from A. Sanchez was amazing. He gave clarity on my AR-15 with suppressor concerns that saved both time and money. I'll be back to do more business with V/O, thanks Angel! read more

Went to Lebanon Ohio location to buy a handgun. Not a smile nor friendly service in gun department. Management needs to make employees at least sw like they enjoy serving potential customers read more

Troy was available and patient, understanding my goal even with the multitude of firearm options and opinions that make it tough to decide. He did a great job listening, answering my questions, and helping me feel confident in my purchase. I never felt pressured or confused. After a few conversations, his advice was very valuable, and I'd prefer to work with him again. It was a great experience overall. read more

A very established and venerable retail outfit. Service is outstanding as well as inventory. Always a secure facility to shop in. Great service, selection and value. read more

Exceedingly poor service. I visited the Hebron Store from 245 pm to 315pm. My number was 71. I was there for 30 minutes and the count went from 54 to 56. With all the non gun staff just milling around. I was with one guy wanting to buy an AR pistol ($2200); another friend wanted to buy a Kimber 1911($ 1700) and I was there for their Keltec sub 2000 ($400). We all left without buying any guns. Whoever owns Vance need to get their staff up to speed. You lost $4300 in sales in a 30 span. read more

Ryan was more than helpful and went above and beyond helping me. This a first time walking into a gun store and had no idea what to expect. During the time I was there, I learned a lot and was never felt pressured and I'm glad I went. read more

I have always had great experience with vance today I got a phone call I won a giveaway from them how freaking awesome I never win anything great service and I won customer for life read more

Hadn't been here for a while but nothing's changed. Service reps still rush you, get irritated if you ask too many questions, assume you know everything there is to know about firearms. Their only plus is that they have everything, they are the Walmart of guns. Know what you need before you go & dont expect good customer service. I'll pay a few dollars more somewhere else for a better experience. read more

Great all around Gun and Ammo store. The issue is their staff is arrogant, slow, and doesn't know what customer service. They are doing you a favor to spend your money there. It's a shame, because I have been coming here for over 20 years and it used to be great place with knowledgeable and friendly employees. Now, it's the complete opposite. I went in there to buy some ammo and waiting in an hour line to check out. Simply not worth going there. Plenty of other places that are nicer and better. I guess they have a captive audience, but I refuse to spend my money there any longer. read more

I have purchased firearms in the past at the Columbus store and have found them to be very personable and knowledgeable. During the 2020-2021 season their customer support has been dismal and lacking any assemblage of quality for their customers. If you like waiting for hours and treated as a number then this is the place for you. If you doubt me just call the Columbus store and the phone will keep ringing without anyone answering it. They don't want to talk to you; just show up and give us your money. I guess when you have a large amount of business you can mistreat your customers. As for me and my wallet I will take a little drive elsewhere and be respectfully treated and appreciated for bringing them business. Save your time and go elsewhere. read more

In a world where KNOWLEDGEABLE AND FRIENDLY customer service is a lost art, I was pleasantly surprised with Adam's service. Even though they were packed, I did not feel rushed to make a decision. This was an important purchase and I must admit, I tried to do my homework before getting there, there was still alot I didn't know. Luckily, Adam was patient and made sure all of my questions were answered before completing the purchase. I am happy to report that I am confidently locked and loaded thanks to Adam! Will definitely be back to see him again for my next purchase! read more

I went in there yesterday to buy a gun for my first time employees were nice and helpful with me help me decide which gun I should get told me what guns are used for what helped me choose a good gun for a good price wasn't rude with me wasn't disrespectful wasn't rushing me they have nice helpful staff is a good place to go to amazing prices also read more

The biggest selection in town, usually at the lowest prices. Pistols, rifles, shotguns, mace, safes, cases, ammo, bows - you name it, and Vance's has it - usually at the lowest price. It can get very crowded on Saturday. Come on Sunday instead. Always an interesting place to people watch... read more

They do enough business to not care about this review or any others. The shop is in a bad part of town, they have a DMV-esk feel, and they couldn't care less. A manager came over to my sales guy and chastised him for not being faster right in front of me...very awkward and unprofessional. I really don't like the place very much. There are a lot of shops in better areas that have just as good of prices. I definitely recommend any of them over this place. I am very surprised more people aren't robbed coming out of that store . It is a sleazy place. read more

I've been in Vances many times over the years but the only thing I've ever bought was ammo. But today would be different, I thought. I went down to look at the Kahr PM9 and the Glock 21, both 9mm pistols. This place does a land-office business. There hasn't been a time I've been in here that they haven't been busy and today was no exception. However my number got called pretty quickly and I got really good service from a fellow who's name I didn't get. Yes, shame on me! Anyway after looking at both pistols and meditating and ruminating, I walked out with nothing. What am I going to do with one anyway except blow my hand off. lol read more

See all

Been going here for years. Best prices and selection bar none. Do NOT waste your time at a gun show. You will get the best deal on a firearm unless somewhere else has a sale or special promotion, The only drawback is they are always crowded and sometimes you may have to wait 10-30 minutes for a sales associate to assist you with a purchase. read more

Vance Outdoors - Sporting Goods Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

See all

Vance outdoors is more worried about profit margins than customer service, this place is ran like a cattle farm bring them in process them and ship them out! I ordered a firearm almost 2 years ago paid a 600.00 deposit and 2 years later still no gun! I have been very patient they have held onto my money interest free for almost 2 years and all I get are excuses and not even good ones! read more

Anytime I've ever come to Vances outdoors at the Cleveland Avenue location I have left pleased or satisfied with my experience. I've purchased several guns of theirs over the years and have never had an issue. Not really sure why people are rating it low. They must not love cheap ammo and the best prices on guns in the state. read more

first time there in obetz, had the ammo i needed when all other places are out with everything that's going on. Went back 2 days later bought more ammo and picked up a 9mm. love that place.. will be back read more

This company failed business ethics...price gouging and dishonest sales practices appear to be the norm...Be prepared for the ambush at the front door where they demand to know if you are there to buy a gun, then be prepared for the shock of over priced gear. It doesn't help they stalk you around the store like the middle class criminal you must be! Oh and let's not forget about the ignorance of the gun counter...this is the quietest AR pistol on the market! What a joke ! read more

A little piece of gun heaven in weirdest spot! Don't go too fast on Cleveland ave otherwise you'll pass it right up! Straight forward approach to customer service and plenty of merchandise with selection to choose from here. Don't let the location or size fool ya, there's a wide variety of item's throughout the whole store. Talk about feeling secure while shopping, there was plenty of law enforcement pro's here doing some personal shopping too. These Guy's and Gal's are knowledgeable and spot on...I placed an online order to confirm my choice of handgun and everything went smoothly, got email with updates from Brenda and when I came to pick up my order Isaac was very helpful and streamlined the process along with getting me squared away with holster and more. The whole staff was engaging and professional but very homely atmosphere. I will definitely come back here and I will look into their LARGE 24 shooting lane capacity gun range in Obetz. read more

Vance Outdoors - Shooting for reflex n muscle memory! - Sporting Goods Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Professional and knowledgable. They are never pushy and try to make sure you get what you want/need. The ladies working the cash register act more like friends while you're checking out. Always nice and make sure you're happy with what you buy. read more

I asked for the inventory on a firearm and the sleek refused to check multiple times or have another worker check, I'm driving over 2 hours and wanted to make sure I'm not wasting my time the workers don't care about doing the simplest of tasks read more

My email to Vance Corporate : Never in my life have I encountered such miserable customer service in a retail store. My friend and I went into the Obetz store after calling on the Walther 9mm for $299. We travelled from Westerville as we were each intending to purchase one. Rick at the Obetz location told us they were all sold out (in 30 minutes from my calling they sold out ?) and to go to the Columbus store they had a stock of them. We arrived at the Columbus store at approximately 540PM (check your CCTV) I attempted to ask a female employee a question at the gun counter and she turned her back on me and my friend. There was only 2 customers there and we were completely ignored and stood around oblivious to your employees offering any assistance. At 555PM we departed never to return and never being offered assistance for the purchases we intended to make. Your employee on the phone did a great bait and hook to get us in the store and we even travelled to 2 different locations. NEVER AGAIN !!!!! read more

Left without buying anything! I waited for 30+ min outside the store just to get in. Was given a number ticket going in thinking that the number on the ticket meant something, like when you would get served. Wrong! The numbers mean nothing as there's another line inside, that I stood in for 30+ more minutes and didn't move one person! After an hour wait, I just left. Who knows how long it takes to actually make a purchase. read more

As a new shooter, I was a little apprehensive and worried about walking into a gun store to purchase my first firearm. I had already visited a few of the larger, corporate outdoor/hunting stores in the Columbus area. The sales staff at Vance was excellent and very patient with me as I explained my needs and answered all of my questions. They listened to me and made multiple suggestions. I never felt pressured or swayed one way or another towards a specific brand or type. Also, the prices at Vance were better than the other stores I had visited! I was taught how to properly clean my firearm and even talked out of buying some unnecessary cleaning products. I highly suggest making your firearm purchase at Vance Outdoors on Cleveland Ave. You cannot beat the prices and customer service! read more

I have no idea how I am just finding out about Vance's. Let's get this off the table....there isn't a place in Central Ohio where you will find cheaper ammo. I love BlackWing Shooting Center, but their sale prices on ammo is still 30-40% higher than Vance's everyday prices. Gun prices are pretty reasonable as well as accessories. I've purchased several magazines (clips), cleaning supplies, and shooting supplies...all the same as other gun stores, all cheaper here. The bad part...this place is never not packed...if you want to see a gun or get special ammo such as Hornady plugged hollowpoint Zombimax rounds...you have to get a ticket and wait until your number is called. Not too big of a concern, I usually just walk in and grab a ticket, then walk around and check out everything else until my number is called...I suggest you do that too. read more

I recently bought a Sig Sauer P238 from here. They were really busy (Saturday morning) and I had to take a number. I didn't see this as a problem because of two reasons: 1) I grabbed my number right away and then started to look around the store (a shooter's heaven). I was called before I was done looking, so I didn't notice the wait. 2) My salesman gave me personalized service. Chuck didn't rush me, and I felt like a valued customer. I looked at a few pistols before finally settling on one. After the background check he helped me pick out a holster and even some defensive ammo. I actually prefer this method. Other gun stores may have one or two clerks behind the counter who get distracted when more than two people are there. This was a big store with a huge selection of guns and accessories. I understand they have a larger Bass Pro style store in Hebron, but I was told the gun selection here was bigger because they didn't carry clothes and all the other stuff that the other store did. This meant more back room space to carry more guns. I have to be honest with you. I am a big gun nut, and have a sort of running list of the guns I want to get. There wasn't a gun I could think of that they didn't have. They had Sig 556 assault rifles, an FN Scar, M&P tactical carbine (22), and even the hard to find Sig Sauer P238. As far as price, they were hard to beat. I priced the P238 at Target World in Cincinnati for $699 (two tone). I got the same weapon at Vance's for $510 NIB. They offer discounts to law enforcement through their law enforcement stock. But even the regular price smoked target world at $579. The law enforcement stock is the same as civilian, it's just that they buy them from the manufacturer for the purpose of selling to law enforcement. So they have to designate that stock, and set it aside. They also offer military discounts (can buy same stock) if you have a valid military id (active or retired). The only reason why they didn't get five stars from me was because some of their stock isn't the latest edition or generation. So be careful what you buy as you may find out that you don't have the latest edition. read more