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Firearms Insurance: What Shooters Need
Apr
Firearms Insurance: What Shooters Need
A stolen $3,000 custom 1911 or a flooded gun safe with 15 rifles – these aren’t hypotheticals. They’re actual claims we’ve seen settled (or denied) through firearms insurance policies. Here’s how to protect your collection properly.
Homeowners Policies Fall Short
Most standard homeowners insurance caps firearm coverage at $2,500 total – barely enough for one mid-range AR-15. Worse, they often exclude:
- Theft from vehicles (where 43% of gun thefts occur)
- Mysterious disappearances (range bag left at a match)
- Accidental damage during cleaning or modifications
We recommend documenting your collection with serial numbers and appraisals for custom work. This simplifies claims regardless of your insurer.
Specialized Firearms Insurance Options
Three providers dominate the market:
- CollectInsure: No itemized list required for collections under $100k. Covers theft, damage, and devaluation after repairs.
- Eastern Insurance: Offers $250k+ liability coverage for instructors. Includes legal defense for self-defense incidents.
- NRA Endorsed: Basic $1,000 per gun coverage included with membership. Upgrades available for rare collectibles.
Rates typically run $1.50-$3.00 per $100 insured annually. High-value items like precision rifles may require separate riders.
Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement Cost
This distinction matters most when filing claims:
| Type | Pays Out | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Actual Cash Value | Current market value minus depreciation | Budget-conscious collectors |
| Replacement Cost | What it takes to buy equivalent new | Modern tactical gear like optics-ready handguns |
Example: A 10-year-old Glock 19 might only get $300 ACV but $550 replacement cost.
Common Exclusions to Watch For
Even specialty policies won’t cover:
- Confiscation by law enforcement (even if later returned)
- Intentional damage during “testing” (e.g., shooting your own gun for YouTube)
- Losses during illegal activities (obviously)
Some policies add exclusions for firearms stored in certain types of safes not meeting UL burglary ratings.
Does concealed carry insurance count as firearms insurance?
No. CCW insurance like USCCA only covers legal defense after defensive use. It won’t replace stolen guns or damaged equipment.
Are antique firearms covered differently?
Yes. Most policies require scheduled coverage (individual appraisals) for guns made before 1899. Some exclude black powder entirely.
How does insurance work for NFA items?
Suppressors, SBRs, and machine guns require specific documentation in your policy. Some carriers charge higher premiums for Title II firearms.
Browse our firearms collection
Last updated: April 28, 2026
