Florida has kicked off a historic tax holiday that—for the first time—includes firearms and ammunition. Beginning September 8 and running through the end of the year, residents can buy a wide range of outdoor and sporting goods, from rifles to fishing rods, without paying sales tax.
State economists project the move will save Floridians $44.8 million in 2025 alone. The exemption covers camping, fishing, and hunting supplies, but the big news is that firearms and ammo are finally part of the package.
Boost for Gun Owners & Hunters
Shops across the state are gearing up for heavier traffic. Talon Tactical Outfitters near Tallahassee expanded inventory in anticipation. Co-owner JD Johnson told local media that the holiday could shift buying decisions upward:
“I think you will probably see people that were planning on buying a new hunting shotgun or a new hunting rifle will probably take advantage of it and step up the level of what they were going to spend, to buy a better rifle,” Johnson said.
He added that firearms purchases rarely happen in isolation:
“Most of the time, you’re not just buying a gun. You are buying ammunition. You are buying a case to put it in. You are buying a safe for maybe at home to lock it up in.”
The tax break applies to pistols, rifles, and shotguns, as well as accessories like holsters, charging handles, stocks, optics, and cleaning kits. Ammunition is also included under Florida Statute 790.001(1).
Live Inventory Price Checker
|
Pick Your 9mm 124 Grain Full Metal Jacket Ammunition 1000 Rounds + Military Ammo Can | Bereli | $ 260.00 |
|
|
|
Blazer Brass 9mm 124 Gr FMJ 1000 Rounds with Heavy Duty Ammo Can | Ammunition Depot | $ 305.79 $ 244.99 |
|
|
|
Remington UMC Rifle 55 gr FMJ .223 Remington Ammunition, 1000 Rounds - 23895 | Palmetto State Armory | $ 855.99 $ 777.99 |
|
|
Remington UMC Rifle 55 gr FMJ .223 Remington Ammunition, 1000 Rounds - 23895 | Palmetto State Armory | $ 835.99 $ 617.99 |
|
What Else Qualifies
While firearms draw the most attention, the holiday also exempts many outdoor staples:
- Camping supplies: tents up to $200, sleeping bags, lanterns, stoves, and hammocks.
- Fishing gear: bait, tackle, rods up to $75, and reels up to $75 (or $150 if sold in sets).
- Archery and crossbows: bows, arrows, bolts, quivers, and accessories.
These limits are meant to keep the savings accessible across a wide range of budgets.
Live Inventory Price Checker
|
TenPoint Crossbows TenPoint TRX 515 XERO Vektra Crossbow w/ACUslide MAXX & Garmin XERO X1I Scope CB24001-7879 | EuroOptic.com | $ 5049.99 $ 4999.99 |
|
|
|
Ravin Crossbows R29X XK7 29" Crossbow Kit, XK7 Camouflage | Palmetto State Armory | $ 2613.99 $ 2375.99 |
|
|
|
Ravin Crossbows Orange Black Soft Padded Case for Crossbow Gear | Ammunition Depot | $ 99.49 |
|
|
|
New, Black ESS Crossbow Replacement Frame | Army Navy Outdoors | Army Navy Outdoors | $ 9.95 |
|
A Political Statement Too
Governor Ron DeSantis signed the measure earlier this year, framing it as a Second Amendment Summer initiative. Gun-rights advocates are celebrating the decision as proof that Florida continues to position itself as one of the strongest pro-2A states in the country.
The inclusion of firearms and ammunition has also stirred debate, with critics raising the tired, usual concerns about “gun safety.” But for Florida’s gun owners, this holiday is less about politics and more about tangible savings—and a chance to invest in quality gear without the state taking a cut.
As Johnson put it, this holiday is an opportunity for families to make the most of their outdoor traditions. From hunters upgrading their rifles to campers picking up a new tent, the sales tax break is already being seen as a win for sportsmen and gun owners alike.
Those things essential to survival, food, shelter, medical, should not be taxed.
Why not include arms & ammo in the list?