Gearfire has become a trusted platform for many FFLs, offering powerful tools for eCommerce, inventory management, and distributor integrations. For many businesses, it serves as the foundation of their online presence and daily operations.

Gearfire also offers an in-house payment processing option, providing a streamlined and convenient way to accept payments directly within the platform.

At the same time, many FFLs choose to work with an independent payment provider like EPIC Merchant Systems while continuing to use Gearfire for their website and operations. This approach allows merchants to keep their payments flexible, portable, and supported by a personal service model.

This article explains why FFLs take that path and how independent payment processing works alongside Gearfire.

Gearfire and Payment Processing: Two Valid Approaches

When accepting payments through Gearfire, FFLs generally have two options.

One option is to use Gearfire’s in-house payment processing. This offers simplicity and a single, integrated experience.

The other option is to use an independent merchant account that integrates with Gearfire. This allows Gearfire to handle the website and operational tools while a separate provider manages payment processing.

Both approaches work within the Gearfire ecosystem. The difference lies in service structure, rate flexibility, and what happens as your business grows or changes.

The Value of Independent Processing With EPIC Merchant Systems

EPIC Merchant Systems is built around a simple principle. Your payment processing relationship should support your business long term, regardless of what website platform you use.

Here is what that means in practice.

Personal, Direct Service

At EPIC, clients work with real people who know their business. There are no generic queues, rotating account representatives, or ticket-only support structures.

When you have a question or need help, you speak with someone who understands your setup and can act on your behalf. For many FFLs, that personal relationship is just as important as rates or technology.

Competitive Rates and Multiple Programs

In-house payment models typically offer a standardized rate structure.

EPIC Merchant Systems offers multiple processing programs designed to fit different business models, transaction volumes, and sales channels. As your business evolves, your pricing options can evolve with it.

This flexibility allows FFLs to align their payment processing with how they actually operate, rather than forcing their business into a single pricing model.

Platform Independence

Many FFLs start with one website provider and later decide to make changes. This can include building a custom website, moving to another platform, adding new sales channels, or expanding operations.

When payment processing is tied to a specific platform, changing websites often means starting over with a new merchant account.

With EPIC Merchant Systems, your merchant account stays with you. If you change website providers or expand your online presence, your service, rates, and support remain consistent.

Continuity and Stability

EPIC’s role is to be your payment partner, not your platform provider. That separation allows for clearer communication, consistent expectations, and long-term account stability.

For FFLs thinking beyond the short term, continuity in payment processing helps reduce disruption as the business grows and changes.

Using Gearfire With EPIC Merchant Systems

EPIC Merchant Systems works with FFLs who actively use Gearfire every day.

We ensure that the merchant account is properly approved, the integration aligns with Gearfire workflows, and transactions are structured correctly from the start. Gearfire continues to handle what it does best, while EPIC focuses on payment processing and support.

Each partner stays in their lane, creating a clean and reliable setup for the merchant.

Gearfire Payment Processing for Growing FFL Businesses

As FFL businesses grow, payment processing needs often become more complex. What works well for a single location or early-stage operation may not always be the best fit once transaction volume increases or operations expand.

Many growing FFLs using Gearfire begin to think beyond their current website and focus on long-term flexibility. This may include launching a custom website, adding additional sales channels, or preparing for future platform changes. In these cases, having a merchant account that is independent of any single website provider can make transitions smoother.

Multi-location FFLs often benefit from consistent payment processing across all locations. Working with EPIC Merchant Systems allows businesses to maintain the same rates, reporting structure, and service model as they add locations, rather than reworking their payment setup each time they grow.

Long-term relationships and consistent service also become more important as businesses mature. EPIC Merchant Systems is built to support FFLs over the long haul, providing continuity, personal service, and reliable payment processing regardless of how the business evolves.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Gearfire’s in-house payment processing may be a fit if you value a fully integrated, all-in-one solution and do not anticipate changing platforms in the future.

EPIC Merchant Systems may be a better fit if you value personal service, want access to multiple pricing programs, or want your merchant account to follow your business even if your website changes.

Both options work. The right choice depends on how much flexibility and continuity you want over time.

Gearfire Payment Processing Questions FFLs Ask Most

Can I use Gearfire without using Gearfire’s in-house payment processing?

Yes. Gearfire allows FFLs to use independent merchant accounts that integrate with the platform. Many dealers choose this option so their payment processing relationship remains separate from their website provider.

Does using EPIC Merchant Systems mean I have to leave Gearfire?

No. EPIC Merchant Systems works with FFLs who actively use Gearfire. Gearfire continues to handle your website, inventory, and operational tools while EPIC provides the merchant account and payment processing.

Will my rates change if I switch to EPIC Merchant Systems?

Every business is different. EPIC evaluates your transaction volume, business model, and sales channels to offer competitive pricing options that fit your operation.

What happens to my merchant account if I change website platforms in the future?

With EPIC Merchant Systems, your merchant account stays with you. If you move to a different website provider or build a custom site, your service and rates remain intact.

Is independent payment processing more complicated to manage?

No. EPIC handles the setup and integration so payments function smoothly within Gearfire. Day-to-day payment operations remain simple for the merchant.

Who do I contact if I have a payment question or issue?

With EPIC Merchant Systems, you work directly with a real support team that knows your account. There is no corporate call queue or rotating support structure.

Final Thoughts

Gearfire provides powerful tools for FFLs, and payment processing is an important part of that ecosystem. For merchants who want personal service, pricing flexibility, and the ability to keep the same payment relationship no matter where their website lives, EPIC Merchant Systems offers an independent option that integrates seamlessly with Gearfire.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

If you are using Gearfire and want to explore independent payment processing without changing your website, EPIC Merchant Systems can review your setup and walk you through the available options.

Talk to EPIC Merchant Systems and choose a payment partner that grows with your business.