General FAQ
The modern pawn shop is a unique institution in today’s business world. It is a place where you can get a quick loan for items of value, or quick cash for items you wish to sell. You can also shop a robust and varied inventory of merchandise at remarkable prices. We have compiled a list of some of the most frequent inquiries regarding Metro Pawn & Gun below. If you have a question that is not addressed here, please contact our team so we can provide the information you seek.
How does the pawn process work?
Bring in item(s) of value as collateral to receive a pawn loan for an agreed amount, and then retrieve your item(s) upon repayment of the pawn amount plus interest within a specified period of time. If you cannot repay your pawn loan in full, including any applicable interest, you may be eligible for an extension or renewal. These options can provide you with extra time to repay the loan and get your item(s) back. You may also elect to forfeit your collateral as payment in full. If the loan is not repaid with the specified term, including extensions or renewals, the merchandise is relinquished at that time. For clients not interested in a loan, we do also purchase items of value outright.
How is the loan amount determined for an item?
The loan amount is based on the value of your item, as well as its condition and our ability to sell it, should that become necessary. How this is determined varies between different types of merchandise. We have many research tools at our disposal to determine an item’s value to get you the most money we can.
For items that are mechanical or electronic in nature, this includes a visual inspection, plugging an item in and turning it on, and noting if any necessary accessories (such as remote controls) and manuals are included. For items such as jewelry or precious metals, we have the ability to determine weight, gold karat, gem clarity, and other attributes that are a determining factor in the value of the item.
Is my merchandise safe while in pawn?
Yes, it is our responsibility to keep all items safe and in good condition, since they are technically still yours while in pawn. All merchandise is kept in a secure area, and we are fully insured for the loan value of all items we take in.
How long do I have to repay a loan?
The loan period for a pawned item is 60 days. Then you would pay 25% of the loan or there is an extension fee and your item is held for another 30 days
What is the interest rate on my loan?
The interest rate is 3%, then storage and service fee is 22% combined, equalling 25%.
Do you carry bicycles?
Yes. We typically have a good assortment of bicycles ranging from child to adult models.
Do you carry lawn mowers?
Yes. We pawn, buy and sell lawn mowers and other outdoor maintenance equipment.
Do you provide loans on guns?
Yes. Firearms are one of our most popular categories!
What defines a firearm as “antique”?
Under federal law, an antique firearm is any firearm produced before 1898.
What types of firearms do you carry?
We have a wide assortment of rifles, handguns, shotguns, collectible firearms, air guns, ammunition, and accessories.
Do I need a permit to purchase firearms at Metro Pawn & Gun?
A Permit to Purchase or a Permit to Carry, which also acts as a purchasing permit, is only required for handguns and any firearm defined in MN as an 'assault rifle'. However, all firearm sales/transfers require a federal NICS check.
How do you determine the value of precious metals?
24-hour online spot pricing for all precious metals markets makes it possible for us to make fair and accurate offers whether you wish to buy, sell, or pawn said precious metals in virtually any form, including jewelry, coins, and bullion bars.
How do I know jewelry and gems are real?
We test precious metals and gem stones to verify they are genuine.
Do you take in artwork?
Possibly—depending on whether the value of the piece can be established. You would either require specific provenance to accompany the item, or have it be otherwise verifiable in terms of origin, artist, manufacturer etc.
Do you accept kitchen appliances?
Anything used in food preparation is generally not accepted. Brand new, factory sealed items may be among certain exceptions.
Why buy things at a Pawn Shop?
Pawn stores buy new and used merchandise and offer it for sale at a significant discount. Likewise, items that may not have been retrieved from pawn also become available for purchase. You can find great deals and a wide variety of merchandise that you can’t find anywhere else, with items often selling at significantly less than retail prices.
How do you ensure stolen goods are not processed through your Pawn Shop?
All of the items we take in are checked against a law enforcement database of reported thefts, and we also use common sense in noticing any red flags that may arise during a transaction. If you are a criminal and are trying to sell stolen merchandise to a pawn shop, you are not the brightest bulb in the ceiling because you WILL get caught.