Complaints

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:07/16/2025

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I have been purchasing firearms for 40 years this year. I have never had the miserable experience that I have had with Bud’s Gun Shop. I ordered a T******* **** TC9 1873 9mm single action revolver on June 12, 2025. It arrived at my FFL on June 18, 2025. However, I was not able to pick it up until July 8, 2025. The firearm’s inner packaging looked like it had been dropped out of an airplane upon delivery. Furthermore, the little screw that retains the manual safety was burred on the edges like it had been worked on more that a few times. It was obviously a used firearm, as there was powder residue on the face of the cylinder. I decided to return the firearm. I returned it on Ju;y 8, 2025, the same day I picked it up. Buds advertises a “Buy it and Try it” program. Don’t fall for this. It was advertised as being $15 and they stated that you had 30 days to shoot and evaluate the firearm. It’s a false advertising ploy. When I purchased my firearm, there was absolutely nowhere to sign up for this program. So I thought that maybe you were charged when you requested a return. This is not the case. They are charging me 10% restocking fee + $25 to ship into back to them. Worse than that, my FFL dealer has been sitting on the firearm for over a week now, claiming that they can’t find the return label. It’s been over a month since this miserable experience began. I don’t know how long it will be before I’m refunded from this grand rip-off. I have contacted Bud’s several times regarding this. They refuse to help me get this firearm returned. Bud’s stated that they have sent another label. I asked how long the FFL can sit on it. They replied that as long as they are in communication it is all good. They have zero intention of performing any kind of customer service after the sale. My advice to you is to purchase ANYWHERE else. There are MANY options out there and this should never happen to anyone. I gave them one star, only because there is no option to give ZERO.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 07/16/2025

  We are very sorry to hear that the customer was not happy with the firearm they received.   The customer is correct that, at the time this order was placed, they did not have the option to select the "Buy it and Try it" option for their order because it was not yet implemented.  This order was placed and shipped before the program became available, as it was placed on 6/12 and shipped on 6/16.  We did not implement the "Buy and Try" program until 6/17.   We have verified that this firearm was factory new and had not been previously owned, as all firearms can be tracked by their serial numbers.   That is why we are generally unable to accept a return of a firearm once it has been transferred, as it is considered a used firearm at that point.  This is the case with any of our Buy and Try returns, as they are treated as used firearms and marked as such.   We were notified on 7/2 that the customer wanted to return the firearm due to the foam being damaged, but we were not notified of any issues with the firearm itself.   Based on the photo included, it does appear that the firearm was in factory new condition.  It is very normal to see powder markings on a factory new firearm, as they are all test fired by the manufacturer before they are sent out, and they are not cleaned before being shipped.  The restocking fee and the return shipping fees would apply for this return since the firearm is not defective or damaged.  We have reached out to the FFL as of today to confirm a second time that they do have the label and that they will be sending the firearm back to us so that we can process the return for the customer.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 07/20/2025

  
  
  Complaint* ********
  
  
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  When the firearm was shipped to me, it arrived within three days of being shipped. It arrived within six days of my initial ordering. The funds were taken from my account instantly. This process could all work in reverse. But for some reason both the parties involved (Bud’s Gun Shop & ******* ****** *****) seem to be offended when you inquire/ask about the progress of the return. Today is one day shy of two weeks since I dropped this firearm off for return. I feel that one or both of the parties are being spiteful for whatever reason. It would seem to me that if your going to charge me a $25 return shipping fee, that you could return ship it in a timely manner. Two weeks is not a timely manner.

  Sincerely,
  
  
  
  ***** *****

• Initial Complaint

  Date:07/09/2025

  Type:Customer Service Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  On June 23, 2025 I placed an order online for an ****** **** * *******. This item was listed listed as in stock. I was provided with a tracking number shortly after the order was placed. A couple days later later I called to inquire why the item was listed as shipped, but the order online was not filled yet. I have had to make 4 calls to inquire about this purchase over the last 2 weeks with NO follow up from the company. Every time I would call they stated they would look into and get back with me, which never happened. Today, July 8, 2025, I called again and was finally told the item was not in stock. I have wasted 2 weeks waiting on this item and the follow up with this company is terrible. I don’t not recommend this company and will not order from them anymore.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 07/09/2025

  We are very sorry for the inconvenience and we understand the frustration.  This order was placed and a tracking number was generated for the item by the warehouse where the inventory was stored.  Unfortunately, in this case, this tracking number was generated only 1 hour after the order was placed.  This tracking was generated for the order once it was sent over to the warehouse in question before the item was processed.  Initially, it did not appear that there was an issue as the item would need to be picked and processed before it was shipped out.  As our standard order processing time frame is 3-7 business days we recommended giving the tracking a bit more time to show movement.  Later, as the tracking did not show movement, we did provide a coupon for the order having gone over that standard processing time frame, and our team reached out to the warehouse to inquire if there was an issue with the order.  This inquiry was sent out on 7/3, but with the holiday we did not receive the response until 7/8 and that was when we were informed that there was unfortunately an inventory error and the item was not available.  We have issued the coupon to the customer so that they can use it on a future order and will issue a full refund for the order as well.  We apologize again for the inconvenience.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 07/13/2025

  
  
  Complaint: ********
  
  
  
  I am rejecting this response because:
  
  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  
  
  ***** ********

• Initial Complaint

  Date:07/07/2025

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  On June 18th 2025 I purchased a firearm, from Bud's Gun Shop online, for $1,333.49. The order number for this purchase is ******** The description of what I purchased specifically stated that I was purchasing a *********** ******* with an optic and five magazines. What I received was a *********** ******* with an optic and two magazines. Buds Gun Shop specifically states if the customer believes the "firearm" is defective to not transfer it their name. I had inspected the firearm and found no defects, so I transferred the firearm into my name which cost me $60. Later I realized the three missing magazines a value of $120. I immediately contacted them. They admit the description was wrong but they suggested I contact *********** ******** for a resolution. *********** said they do offer the firearm package with the optic and 5 magazines but that was not what Bud's had ordered with them therefore it was not an error by their company so it is Bud's responsibility to remedy the issue. I sent the messages from *********** to Bud's so they offered three remedies. I can have a $30 coupon, or they could contact *********** on my behalf, even though *********** already denied to do so, or I could return the firearm and they would reimburse the cost of the firearm but would not reimburse the cost of the transfer fee. I requested the three magazines but have been denied. Bud's support team is instant they are not responsible for the transfer fee as it doesn't relate to them. I couldn't agree more with this statement. As per Bud's terms and conditions I am to return the firearm only if I had reason to believe it was defective. As a former Gunsmith I determined the firearm was not defective, making the firearm moot at this point. Leaving the issue Bud's remedy for giving me the $120 worth of magazines, as advertised, is to give me a $30 gift card. I have copies of all conversations proving what I stated above please contact me for further information.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 07/07/2025

  We are very sorry for the issues with this purchase.  Unfortunately, there was an error in the description of this firearm, which listed it as having 5 magazines, but it comes with two.  We strive to ensure that our listings are as accurate as possible; however, there are instances where the information may be incorrect.  For example, a manufacturer could change the included accessories for a firearm without notice, or information could be linked to an incorrect model number when it was uploaded.  Whenever we become aware of an issue with a listing we will correct it for future purchases to ensure that the listing is correct.  It is for reasons like this that we advise our customers to fully inspect all firearms before transfer and not to take possession of the firearm if there are any issues.  This applies to all issues not just defects, as the email we send to customers says, "Once at your FFL dealer, please inspect the firearm before accepting the transfer. Should you have any questions or concerns about the item, please do not accept the transfer. Instead, leave the item(s) with your FFL dealer and contact Customer Service".  
  
  Normally, we are unable to take a return on a firearm after transfer, but when there was a listing error we will of course make an exception.  We have offered to bring the firearm back and then we can cancel the financing contract so that nothing would be owed on the firearm, or we can provide the stated coupon if the customer wanted to keep the firearm as it was received.  We would not be able to provide the magazines as all of our inventory is priced based solely on our cost, so the price that this firearm sold for was the correct price for what was received.  We of course understand if that was not what the customer wanted and that is why we would be happy to provide the option for return.
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 07/08/2025

  
  
  Complaint: ********
  
  
  
  I am rejecting this response because: This was not an error due to the manufacturer changing the listed accessories. As shown in the attached picture the manufacturer stated,

  "That one is a different model than the ones that came the extra mags and bags. That one did have the same sight but obviously more gear. They sent you the wrong firearm."

  This is Buds listing a better package that is indeed offered by the the manufacturer then switching it for a different lower cost package. 

  As for the firearm I did exactly what you what Bud's policy says and reiterated in your response, I inspected the firearm and there was and still is nothing wrong with the firearm it's the accessories.

  While the return from the initial purchase would be returned I am still out money due to the transfer fee which is required by federally.

  I have reviewed several other reviews and complaints stating the same which Buds listed a more expensive item then sent an item of lesser value then told the customer they would need to pay more for that initial item. This directly falls under Bait Advertising.

  
  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  
  
  **** *****

  

  Business Response

  Date: 07/09/2025

  We apologize if there was any confusion.  We were not insinuating that this specific error was caused by a change from the manufacturer; the two examples we provided were to show reasons that a listing could be incorrect and why we state that we cannot guarantee that all of our listings are 100% error free.  For that reason, and because issues could happen during transit, we strongly suggest that customers inspect their firearms thoroughly at the FFL before taking possession and paying the transfer fee.  This inspection does include accessories, as per the email, we do not want customers to take possession of the firearm if they have any concerns, and that would extend to missing accessories.  By not taking possession of the firearm where there is any issue, we can provide more options for assistance, and the customer would not have to pay to put the firearm into their name.  The transfer process does make the firearm a used gun, even if it had not been fired at any point by the customer.  Normally, once the transfer is processed we cannot offer the option to return a firearm for a full refund once it has been transferred, but in the event of a listing error like this, we do make an exception and will offer that option to the customer.  Unfortunately, we would not have any way of crediting the customer for the transfer fee, as we are not paid that fee, and we state that we are unable to credit transfer fees in our return terms.  We apologize again for the inconvenience and understand the frustration that this listing error has caused.   We will be happy to provide the coupon if the customer would like to keep the firearm as it was received, as the price that was paid was and still is the correct price for the package the customer received.  Or we can offer a return if they do not want to keep the firearm without the magazines.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 07/17/2025

  
  
  Complaint: ********
  
  
  
  I am rejecting this response because: 

  There is absolutely no confusion Buds listed 5 magazines a red dot and the pistol. I only received 2 magazines.

  I received that except two magazines. 

  The Federal definition of a Firearm is:

  Federal Law (18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3))

  A firearm is defined as:

  Any weapon that can expel a projectile using an explosive.

  The frame or receiver of any such weapon.

  Any firearm muffler or silencer.

  Any destructive device.

  So no, a magazine is not part of a firearm. But again that is moot the biggest issue is I paid for 5 magazines a red dot and a pistol exactly as advertised. Despite even if I was to return it and you reimbursed the fact I would have to pay more for the 3 mags that you advertised was already included directly violates Kentucky State law 517.040 as described below.

  517.040 Bait advertising.

  (1) A person is guilty of bait advertising when in any manner, including advertising or other means of communication, he offers to the public or a substantial number of persons property or services as part of a scheme or plan with the intent not to sell or provide the advertised property or services:

  (a) At the price at which he offered them; or At all.

  (b) In a quantity sufficient to meet the reasonably expected public demand, unless the quantity is specifically stated in the advertisement; or

  (c) At all

  A cure for this issue is to receive the 3 missing magazines or money that equals the amount of them.
  
  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  
  
  **** *****

  

  Business Response

  Date: 07/25/2025

  We apologize again for the listing error and understand the frustration it has caused.  Regarding the firearm definition, we disagree that the included accessories are not considered firearm parts.   Many firearm parts would not fall under that definition, which, if missing, would be a reason to return the firearm.  For example, the firearm that was ordered has a thumb safety, iron sights, trigger, and many internal parts that make up the firearm.   If any parts are missing from the item, we suggest leaving the firearm with the FFL dealer so that no transfer fee is assessed and we can retrieve the item to process a replacement, if available, or a full refund if not.  As mentioned before, all of our items are priced based on our cost, so that means that the price that was advertised and paid was the correct price for the firearm with the two magazines that was received. That is why we would not be able to provide additional magazines.  We have offered the coupon if the customer wishes to keep the firearm due to the listing error, and if they do not wish to keep the firearm we can bring it back for a full refund.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 07/28/2025

  
  
  Complaint: ********
   
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  A trigger, thumb safety and iron sights are considered part of the firearm, if they are “fixed” to the firearm. So if the magazine was not detachable and fixed to the firearm it would be a part of it. But again these are not my definitions. These are definitions set by lawmakers. If you disagree with them then you should address them with state legislatiors.

  As far what your cost for the items you sell is irrelevant. The fact is your company advertised the firearm, the sight and 5 magazines for $1333.49 and that was what I ordered. I then notified you of the discrepancy, meaning you knew, and then your cure was I return the firearm for a refund or for me to pay more for the package deal that included the five magazines, meaning you have the intent not to sell the advertised property or services at the price at which was offered or in a quantity sufficient to meet the reasonably expected.

  In summation you are arguing what that your definition of a firearm is different set fourth by the federal government and your company does not intend to give me the quantity for which was advertised that paid for which your state claims is Bait Advertising.

  Your company’s definitions and policies do not supersede the law. Again the only cure for this is to give me the remaining magazines so the quantity matches the advertisement.
  
  
  
  
  Sincerely,

  
  **** *****

  

  Business Response

  Date: 07/29/2025

  Our analogy was not to state that magazines are firearms, but that they are part of a firearm and were included with this firearm.  As we have stated, we ask customers to inspect the firearm at the FFL dealer and if there are any concerns whatsoever, not to take possession of the firearm and to leave it with the FFL dealer so that no transfer fee is assessed and the firearm is not transferred to the customer's possession.  We do advise that to also include any and all accessories packaged with the firearm, as if anything were to be missing, we suggest not taking possession of the firearm.  Had the firearm not been transferred, we would have been able to bring the firearm back for a full refund, and there would not have been a transfer fee that was assessed to the customer.   This issue was caused by a listing error on the website, and we apologize for the frustration.  The model the customer received and the price that was paid were for the model that came with two magazines.  We understand that was not what the customer intended, and if that was not what they wanted, we are happy to bring the firearm back for a full refund with no cost for return shipping, as laid out in our terms and conditions, which was agreed to during the checkout process, which states:

  If an item's description contains an error such as incorrect price and a customer orders one, we will not process the order without first contacting the customer. If the order is mistakenly shipped, we may advise the customer to return the item in an unopened condition and we will not bill the customer.
  
  We again apologize for the inconvenience, and we stand by the offer to bring the item back for a full refund if the customer does not want the item in the configuration they received, or if they wish to keep the firearm, we can offer the $30 coupon toward a future purchase.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 07/29/2025

  Complaint: ********

  I am rejecting this response because;

  Absolutely nowhere under your "New Firearm Return Policy" makes mention of accessories and even through your own words it doesn’t mention “parts of the firearm”. It only mentions not transferring the firearm it a name if the firearm is defective. Upon inspection there was no defect with the firearm and nor is there, hence why I transferred it into my name.

        There wasn’t an error in the description. What was listed is in fact an actual package offered by *********** which they confirmed themselves but what you sent was a cheaper package that contained the same firearm, the same optic but fewer quantity of magazines. I am not going to accept a $30 coupon when the difference for what I paid for is $128.

       This is an example of what the FTC lists on their website as a “bait and switch violation”; “Promising a specific service or product feature in an advertisement, then delivering something different or of lower quality.” Which again, your policies, terms and conditions do not supersede. I am only anticipating receiving exactly what you advertised, at the price you advertised it at, that I have already paid for.
  
  
  
  Sincerely,

  
  
  
  **** *****

• Initial Complaint

  Date:06/23/2025

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I’m filing this complaint to report a firearm dealer’s improper and possibly illegal use of a third-party data scraper (******* to deny me service despite my clean background and legal compliance. I am an active-duty **** ****** with investigative training, and I’ve legally purchased multiple firearms after passing **** background checks.
  
  After changing my address, I placed an order with Buds Gun Shop, which was unexpectedly denied. Internal communication revealed they relied on ****** to vet me based on my “digital footprint,” not any criminal record. This is a clear misuse of consumer data, especially without my consent. It’s illegal to use ****** or similar tools to vet employees or clients, as even ****** warns that its data cannot be used for employment, housing, or ****-regulated purposes.
  
  Every time I’ve picked up a firearm, I’ve been asked for explicit consent for a federal **** background check. There is no legal or logical reason a scraped database like ****** should override a federal system. Penalizing customers for having a clean or minimal digital presence is discriminatory and dangerous.
  
  I request that BBB investigate this matter, ensure the business ceases this practice, and help raise awareness of this growing form of digital discrimination against lawful, privacy-conscious citizens — especially military, cybersecurity professionals, and victims of abuse who actively limit their online exposure. There is no legal or logical justification for any company to substitute that federal check with a third-party aggregator that uses scraped or outdated internet data. ****** itself warns against using its service for employment, tenant screening, or any ****-regulated activity — yet it was used to screen me, a lawful customer.
  
  I am ready to provide supporting documentation.
  
  Sincerely,
  **** **** *******

  

  Business Response

  Date: 06/23/2025

  We are very sorry for any confusion.  We notified this customer that we could not proceed with this order, but it was due to the order having 3 different addresses linked to 3 different states/territories.  When an order is flagged as such we will confirm as much information as possible with the customer and other sources to ensure we can confirm that someone is not using the customer's information without their knowledge.  Since we were informed that the billing address is an old address and no longer linked to the customer we advised the customer to update that so that we can ensure that the order shows current information for the customer.  This is all especially important for orders of handguns which have regulations that they cannot be transferred to customers if they are not a resident of the state that it is being picked up in.  This information was provided to the customer and we will be happy to process an order once the information is up to date.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 06/23/2025

  
  
  Complaint: ********
   
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  
  
  This was not a simple misunderstanding—it was a conclusion based on my background in investigative training. I recognized that ******, a public data-scraping website, appeared directly in the employee log linked to my canceled order.
  
  
  Here is the exact line from the log:
  
  
  ****: "Someone with the same last name ******s there but it isn't him. We have to cancel it."
  
  
  
  
  This confirms that ****** was actively used to look up my name, and that the decision to cancel was based on its results. ****** is not a reliable or legally permissible source for vetting customers—it’s a data-scrapper designed for marketing and casual lookups, not for any official business or compliance purpose.
  
  
  Despite having three addresses listed in my account (which is common for service members or people who’ve moved), I was asked to call for clarification. I did. I was put on hold after providing my information, the call was disconnected, and shortly afterward, I received an email stating my order had been canceled.
  
  
  Since then, I have updated my billing address to the actual state where I am residing now, and I have tried to place another order without success.
  
  
  All I am requesting is this:
  
  
   That my account be unflagged and reinstated so I can continue making purchases as a regular customer.
  I have updated all necessary information and clarified it over the phone. There is no legitimate reason to continue blocking my account. I’ve been a loyal customer and simply want to continue shopping without unjust barriers or the use of unreliable digital profiling tools.
  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  
  
  **** **** *******

  

  Business Response

  Date: 06/24/2025

  We apologize again if there was any confusion.  This order was flagged due to the issue of having multiple states on the order and being a purchase for a handgun.   As stated we do check several sources when we are confirming information and one source was ****** when we are confirming order information.  This is all done to provide the best level of customer protection that we can.   We have received the second order that the customer has placed. We have attempted to reach out to the customer by phone, and have sent an email as we do need to confirm that the transfer can be completed in the state the firearm is being sent to, as without making that confirmation the firearm could have to be returned due to being unable to be transferred which could result in fees for the returned firearm.  The account has not been closed or flagged in any way, this is just a confirmation that we need to ensure that there would not be any issues with the transfer and then the submitted order can continue to be processed.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 06/26/2025

  
  
  Complaint: ********
  
  
  
  I am willing to agree to close this case if my proposed SOPs for ID and address change verification are accepted and implemented, replacing the use of unreliable tools for tasks they’re not designed for. I’m not asking to eliminate tools like ******—I only ask they be used for what they do best, like reconnecting with past clients or aiding lawful summons, not identity verification or firearm purchase screening.
  This proposal is made in good faith. I’ve taken time to apply my investigative training to design a legal, safe, and effective process that avoids false negatives and unnecessary complications for both staff and clients. I’ve never had an issue showing ID in person and have no issue doing so online. If that means scheduling a secure ****** **** call, I’m more than willing to comply.
  ****** is flawed for fraud prevention. It pulls from outdated, incomplete, or merged marketing data—not reliable for high-risk decisions like firearm sales. In a real identity theft case, a hacker might use a victim’s billing address but ship elsewhere. A basic video ID check, followed by address verification, resolves this smoothly and efficiently—without turning away legitimate buyers. And if something ever goes wrong, it shows Buds Gun Shop took proper steps and acted in good faith to prevent a fraudulent or suspicious transaction.
  Most people don’t know what ****** is. If they see it in a support log, then later in a ******* *** and search their name, they may find overly personal—or inaccurate—info. That creates mistrust, especially among military members, abuse survivors, or privacy-minded clients.  Even for investigators information from ****** requires on the ground confirmation, since it can be used as a short cut but not fully reliable.
  ****** has value when used correctly and verified manually. That’s why I built a verified, human-reviewed SOP—simple, lawful, and trust-focused.
  Sincerely,
  **** **** *******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:06/02/2025

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  On Friday May 23rd I ordered a firearm: Savage 110 Apex Storm XP bolt action rifle chambered in .270 winchester from Buds Gun Shop for the amount of $545.82 after tax. On May 29th I received notice from my local FFL that it had arrived, however upon opening the box I sadly realized that it was the incorrect firearm. I refused transfer from the FFL and contacted Buds Gun Shop customer service to inform them that the wrong firearm was sent. They said they'd send a return slip to the FFL and that I'd be refunded upon them received the incorrect firearm back. I asked Buds Gun Shop if they had a replacement rifle to send for my order to which they stated they didn't. I looked on their website again today and it shows the exact firearm I had ordered in stock, but listed for $729 instead! It seems to me they do not want to honor their advertised price and lied about not having a replacement available. I believe they should honor the price that they had advertised and were willing to sell to me in the first place. Attached is picture of my order confirmation that is found on my Buds Gun Shop account vs the packing slip that was sent with the incorrect firearm.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 06/02/2025

  We are very sorry for the inconvenience.  We were notified that the customer received the incorrect item and found that the cause of the issue was an inventory error.  This error caused the incorrect model number to be linked to this listing.  Since our system took the incorrect inventory information it listed the product at the price for the model that the customer received.  Once we became aware of the issue we fixed that listing error, which caused the item to update to the correct price for the model the customer was originally viewing.  Since our inventory is priced based on our cost the price that the customer paid was for the item that they originally received, which was not the item they wanted to purchase.   We have issued a label to bring the item back and issue a full refund since that was not the correct firearm.  We would not be able to offer the other firearm for the same price as the one that was received since the price listed was for the model that was shipped.  We apologize again for the frustration.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 06/03/2025

  
  
  Complaint: ********
  
  
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  You're reason is false advertising. You advertised the description for a product, accepted payment, processed the order and went into shipping for what was expected to be the correct item per my order confirmation. Buds should honor the prices they advertise to their customers.
  
  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  
  
  **** *********

  

  Business Response

  Date: 06/04/2025

  We apologize again for the inventory error and we understand the frustration.  All of our prices are based only on our cost, which means that the price paid for this firearm was correct for the firearm that was shipped and received.  We fully understand that it was not the firearm that was intended to be ordered and we want to ensure that we can resolve that issue both by taking the incorrect firearm back and by correcting the issue that caused the error in the first place.  Due to the issue, we could not provide the other model at the same price, but we will provide a full refund for the purchase.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:05/14/2025

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I have been a loyal customer of BudsGunShop.com for the past two years and have successfully purchased over 12 firearms without any issues. Recently, I placed a firearm on layaway and made a 15% down payment, followed by additional payments totaling $625. Without any notice or prior warning, I received an email stating the order was cancelled and no refund would be issued.
  When I attempted to contact customer service to understand what happened, I was met with unprofessional and unhelpful behavior. I was not given any reason for the cancellation or why my money was being withheld.
  I am requesting a full refund of the $625 I paid toward this canceled order. This is a matter of fair business practices, and I hope for a swift and professional resolution.
  Thank you.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 05/14/2025

  We are very sorry if there is any confusion.  Upon checking the payment information for the customer's cancelled order it does not appear that any payments were completed after the original deposit was made.  The total amount of payment that we received was $181.69.  We do show that there were a large number of attempted payments made in the months that followed but were unable to clear through the payment processor.  In most cases declined transactions are due to the billing address on the order not matching the address on file with the payment method, however, this is not the only reason a payment may be declined.  With a layaway should it be cancelled at any point during the layaway the 15% deposit would not be able to be transferred to a new order or refunded.  If a layaway does end up getting cancelled due to going over the 90 day period our terms and conditions do state that no payments would be refunded in that event.  In this case, only the deposit was made on the order and it did go over the 90 day period as the order was originally placed on 1/30/25.  We held the order for over 90 days and sent the customer a notice that the layaway was pending cancellation on 5/02 stating, "As we have not received payment in full for your layaway order within the 90 day time limit, per the Layaway Agreement, we will need for you to contact us as soon as possible to arrange final payment. This order will be cancelled if payment is not received within 3 business days and all previous payment(s) made to this point will be forfeited."

  As the order was not paid off, it was cancelled as of 5/07, and the deposit was not refunded. If the customer has any questions, we are always happy to assist either by phone or through our live chat program on our website.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:05/12/2025

  Type:Delivery Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I ordered a new Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro Comp from Buds Guns online website. The gun I ordered was supposed to come with the Viridian RFX Green Dot, the Gun came in with with a Crimson Trace Red Dot instead. After contacting customer service, they told me that it was a listing error and all they could do was give me a $25 dollar coupon. I also found out that the extended warranty i purchased for an extra $35 bucks isn't any good either due to the manufacturer having a lifetime warranty. I have a email of my order and also screenshots of my order, and my conversation with them. They are trying to be slick now buy changing my order description in my order history. Very disappointed in this company. That the only reason I order this firearm through buds was for the Viridian RFX Green Dot Optic. The package is received i could have order through another company for almost $100 dollars cheaper.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 05/12/2025

  We are very sorry for the listing error with this firearm.  We understand the frustration and have tried to offer options to the customer to resolve the issue.  We did offer the option of a $50 coupon if the customer wished to keep the firearm as is, or we could provide a pre-paid shipping label and bring the item back, even if transferred, for a full refund.  Unfortunately, the customer stated they did not want either option and ended the phone call.  We explained that we are unable to provide the optic as we price all of our items based only on our cost, which means that the price listed for the item was correct for what the customer received.  We also advised the customer that our warranty is still quite good.  It is a supplemental warranty and would go into effect once it is no longer covered by the manufacturer.  With the manufacturer having a lifetime warranty that does mean that it would go into effect if the manufacturer is no longer in business or no longer holds the warranty, which has happened with other manufacturers, but if he does not want the warranty we would be able to remove it for a refund.  Due to the way the call ended, we did not get confirmation if the customer wished to remove the warranty, but we are still willing to extend the coupon, offer for return, and/or the warranty refund should they wish to do so.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 05/12/2025

  
  
  Complaint: ********
  
  
  
  I am rejecting this response because: i want the product that I assumed I was purchasing from the original posting on their website before they went and changed it. What makes them think offering a coupon for a future purchase will satisfy a customer,  if they couldn't get the first purchase right what makes them think I trust them to have any other listing correct?  They will more than likely pull the same stunt, send something completely different than I ordered.  
  
  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  
  
  ******* ******

  

  Business Response

  Date: 05/12/2025

  We apologize again for the listing error and are happy to do what we can to assist the customer.  The coupon was being offered as an apology for the listing error if the customer wanted to keep the item as it was.  However, if the customer does not wish to keep the item due to wanting the other optic instead we are happy to help with sending a label so that the firearm could be sent back to us at no cost to the customer so that we can provide a full refund.  We also changed the listing on the website to ensure that it is correct for future purchases.  We will always ensure that we update any incorrect listings that we are aware of, and notify any existing orders of the issue.  Due to the sheer number of listings we have and the potential for human error we cannot guarantee that every listing is 100% error free, but we will always do what we can to assist in the event of a listing error.  This is outlined in our terms and conditions which are agreed to during checkout:

  "Our online inventory changes every day. Occasionally an item may appear on the site by mistake or the item's description may contain a typographical error. We do not guarantee that titles, descriptions or pictures on our site are error-free. We reserve the right to refuse any order including but not limited to orders for items with errors in the description or price. In the event that we cancel an order we will not charge the customer's credit card or we will return the money.
  
  If an item's description contains an error such as incorrect price and a customer orders one, we will not process the order without first contacting the customer. If the order is mistakenly shipped, we may advise the customer to return the item in an unopened condition and we will not bill the customer. By placing an order, the customer agrees that budsgunshop.com will be the final arbiter of discrepancies in the online catalog."

  Customer Answer

  Date: 05/12/2025

  
  
  Complaint: ********
  
  
  
  I am rejecting this response because:
  
  Im not going through the hassle of sending a firearm back because it was their fault the listed/sent the wrong item,  spending my time/gas doing so. I will never purchase or recommend buds guns online to anyone anymore since this is how they treat their customers.  I could have purchased this same set up firearm with the same optic from 2 other website for cheaper, palmetto state armory or grab a gun, but instead I seen were this company was selling it at a higher price with a better optic so I chose to order from them for the better optic. Not at all happy with the way their trying to handle this or their how they treat their customers. Im not the one who made the mistake.  Guess they figure the purchaser wouldn't have caught on to their scam. 
  
  Sincerely,
  
  
  
  ******* ******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/19/2025

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  If you are reading this than you looking at complaints or you got scam by bud's gun shop on your item, the order you were expect the item wasn't the right one or didn't match what on their website. So, mine was I order the pistol and the pictures they had it on with description didn't match after receiving from FFL I called buds customer explain and they wanted me to send pictures I send everything even the picture that shows what I order pictures and pictures what I received. They came back said that the manufactory sent the right pistol that shows the descriptions but not the one picture on website BUDS. So now they are misleading and false advertising for pictures and descriptions of their website are not matching what I received and they will not take responsible and do right thing so all the complaints we see in BBB site we need to spread the word and all the complaints on social media to make sure everyone is aware what kind of business they dealing with we need start somewhere and stand up to business that treat their customer wrong . Put them out business because these people are scammers and just want your money no quality service. So, make sure you don't order any firearms from this company because you will be taken a chance on getting the wrong item. They will not fix or exchange the firearm, so you stuck with it so be aware don't spend too much on the item.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/19/2025

  We are very sorry to hear that the customer was unhappy with their firearm.  We are always happy to assist whenever there is an issue with a firearm, so long as the firearm has not been transferred and it is left with the FFL dealer.  With every order we will always advise customers to inspect the firearm at the FFL before accepting the transfer and if there are any questions or concerns to not accept the transfer and leave the item with the dealer and contact us for assistance.  The reason we advise this is because once the transfer is processed the firearm becomes used, even if it has not been fired, which can limit what options we have to assist.  In this case, we reached out to the FFL to confirm that our listing was correct but that they have two versions of this firearm and that they have all the same identifying information, so we would not be able to separate the items in our inventory.  When speaking to the manufacturer, they also informed us that they would be happy to see what options they would have to help the customer with the item.  At this time we are waiting for the follow-up to let us, and the customer, know what options are available so that we can provide further assistance.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/18/2025

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I made two purchases from this company on 3/1/25 and 3/2/25, for a total of $3060. I was informed on 3/3/25 that they did not have the items they sold me. However, they still completed my ACH payment for $3060 and it was taken from my account/processed on 3/4/28. Today has been two full weeks since then, and they still will not refund my $3060. Their staff told me it would only take 5 business days after my payment cleared for them to refund me. We are on day 10 now! Where is my refund?! Why are you selling items you do not have and not refunding your customers?!

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/18/2025

  We apologize for any inconvenience.  For electronic check payments, or ACH, it takes 5 business days for the fund transfer to complete.  The payment process started when the order was first submitted, which is why we were unable to void the payment once we became aware of the listing error.  Once the funds cleared into our account, which happened on 3/10, the order went to our financing department and we issued a full refund on 3/11 and emailed the customer that the refund was processed.  Today, 3/18, would be the 5th business day since the refund was issued, so the funds should be showing up in the customer's account very soon, depending on how their bank processes the refund.  The process for us issuing the refund is the same as for us processing the payment as the funds have been processed and have left our account, but the transfer of funds would not be completed until the 5th business day.  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/17/2025

  Type:Customer Service Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I appreciate higher quality shotguns and have collected for 30 years. I recently ordered a new ******** ***** ********* over/ over shotgun for $2,000 plus change. No one wouldn't expect a "supposed reputable" gun store" not to disclose, divulge that gun it was selling was new 15 year old new stock MANUFACTURED IN 2010?!?!?! That’s a really big oh by the way omission.
  
  ******* ******** models well they have made two runs of ***** ********* models the first being circa 2010 and a second run being in 2018 Shot Show Special. Both are discontinued which anyone can look up on **********
  
  With my initial order I sent a picture of the 2018 bottom receiver to make sure that was what I would received. The picture shown was of a 2010 but deceptively two review videos below are of the 2018. While difficult to speak to a person at Bud's, the thread from customer service got contentious, I get a voicemail from "*****" the assistant manager, we go round and round with silly semantics being his position. Bear in mind I sent a very specific picture clearly showing there is no way the two guns could be mistaken. Again the gun was made in 2010. It's not a couple of year old new stock, it's not even 5 year old new stock. IT'S 15 YEAR OLD NEW STOCK.
  
  WERE AT AN IMPASS, HE WON'T PUT IT IN WRITING THAT I WILL BE REFUNDED IN FULL- SAYS HE WILL. AT FIRST INSISTED EITHER 25 or 30% RESTOCK FREE PLUS FREIGHT. ONCE THEY HAVE THE GUN BACK ALL I HAVE NO GUARANTEES THEY WILL REFUND MY CARD. His extremely obstinate behavior and attitude leads me to believe it’s going to be a fight, don’t need one.
  
  Sad part is I have bought at least a half a dozen or more firearms over the years. I would have bet a dollar to a hundred dollars they would have made this right from previous transactions. Paying todays MSRP for a 15 year old gun is not acceptable,

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/17/2025

  We are very sorry if there was any confusion with this firearm.  The date listed in the photo is not the date of manufacture; it is model information.  We confirmed with ******** that the firearm the customer received was made in 2024, and we did not receive the firearm until March 2025.  This was verified using the serial number for the firearm, with ******** confirming that the letters in the serial number denote the year of manufacture with 'YW' meaning 2024.  We also do apologize if there was any confusion regarding the firearm itself.  The customer did send a photo asking if the firearm would match that and we did advise the customer that the firearm would not have the same engraving as in the photo he sent and that it would match the photo on our listing.  The customer did receive the firearm and take transfer of the firearm so there would normally be a 20% restocking fee for us to be able to bring that item back, as it would now be considered a used firearm, even if it had not been fired.  We did reach out to the customer to try to explain this but we were unable to reach an understanding.  We did offer the customer the option to return the firearm for a full refund and sent a label the customer could use to return the firearm.   Once the firearm is returned our financing department will be able to process the refund and the customer will receive the refund information via email at that time.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 03/18/2025

  
  
  Complaint: ********
  
  
  
  I am rejecting this response because:
  
  After calling ******** I do agree with the year of manufacture as 2024. 
  

  BUT what you supplied without disclosing is the gun provided was a Citori ***** ********* “Special Edition”. Not the standard production ***** *********. By omission of “Special Edition” in the description I was expecting model number ********* but rather got ********* which is a price point greatly cheapened gun. Grade II/III wood, no mid bead, with invector plus chocks. The standard ***** ********* has III/IV grade wood, Midas chocks, mid bead, and the new style recoil pad. Advertising the standard grade and send the cheapened grade. 
  

  Go to ********s 2024 catalog, it’s extremely obvious, unethical, and other things I’ll keep to myself .

  Sincerely,
  
  
  
  **** ****

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/18/2025

  We are again very sorry if there was any confusion.  The firearm was advertised as model ********* and did not list any of the features.  Our listing notes that it does have Grade II/II wood, Invector-Plus chokes, and it does not have a mid bead   We apologize again that the item was not what the customer wanted, but the item shipped was exactly as it was advertised.  As noted previously we have agreed to make an exception and take a return on the firearm for a full refund once it has been received.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 03/20/2025

  
  
  Complaint: ********
  
  
  Just close this case.
  Both the communication with the BBA and Bud’s Guns has been both a time and effort waste for me, so be it. Not surprising that of 472 reviews on Yelp Bud’s achieved a whopping 2.1 out of 5 which is a 58% DISAPPROVAL RATE, that’s surprisingly impressive high based on my experience. The actual gun I wanted is now out of stock, discontinued, and gone. 
  

  Had Bud’s simply said upfront, I’m sorry, we could have done a much better job of being clear of what I was getting and I had the choice to say yes or no a lot of hard feelings could have been avoided  This was supposed to be a present for my Godson returning from the Middle East and out of the Army, He got a cheapened version of what I wanted for him, he’s gotten nothing from this country he served with honor.  Hell if a minimal credit were offered I would have ordered him stuff to go along with it  He has the gun, just not the one I know he wanted  Thanks for all the semantics *****, you represented Bud’s so well  

   

   

   

  
  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  
  
  **** ****