tips requested for obtaining home based FFL

[bdykd0]

I've been kicking around the idea of getting an FFL for some time now.

Just for my own use ( to purchase ) and save money spent on using an independent FFL to ship/handle/transfer my online purchases ...

I know there are lots of restrictions and it's almost impossible to obtain for home based FFL operators.

I've researched the internet nad have come to the conclusion that most of the FFL " kits " offered are scams to get your money .

I've also read that getting a Gunsmith certificate thru an accredited school would help immensely in getting the type of FFL I want..

Does anyone have any experience in this matter?

Is the basic Gunsmith certification the right way to begin ?

If so, what schools ( online ) would you reccomend ?

Any feedback will be appreciated.

Like I said in the beginning,

this would only be for my personal use to further my collection of firearms.

No relling or obtaining guns for anyone else.

[Guest Knightsr25]

During the Clinton years the Brady law was used to raise the license cost by approx. 650% . the intent was to prevent anyone that did not intend to actively pursue a living dealing in firearms from being able to acquire a license . You are very unlikely to meet the requirements to acquire a license due to the federal requirement that all state laws be adhered to. I believe that the state will require a Business address with a specific amount of open hours and days open during the week . If so they may well require a certain number of available parking spaces as well as a host of other requirements . Good luck .

[BimmerFreak]

I've been kicking around the idea of getting an FFL for some time now.

Just for my own use ( to purchase ) and save money spent on using an independent FFL to ship/handle/transfer my online purchases ...

You sir, are a no-go.

You WILL NOT be approved for a FFL if you let the ATF Inspector know during the site interview that this is the reason for your wanting an FFL.

Edited June 15, 2010 by BimmerFreak

[Jasongar8]

As Joe stated you will not get approved. Also you will save money in the long run if you just develop a relationship with a local dealer. Once they know who you are you can get some good deals.

[bdykd0]

Sounds like this is not such a good idea ....

I will not circumvent any laws just to save a few bucks.

Will continue to shop for guns online and deal thru my local gunshop .

I was just inquiring if it was possible .

thanks

[kb4ns]

As far as the "home FFL kits", I purchased one about 4 years ago in the hopes to get my 01 FFL. I intended to do some selling (maybe gunbroker style) and also hoped to use it to acquire some guns for myself at a bargain price. The "kit" basically gives you ideas on how to circumvent the regulations that are now in place to prevent "kitchen table" FFLs. Pretty much a rip-off.

Like was stated in a previous post, the ATF will expect business hours, a business license, etc. Even if you can skirt by on most of the regulations, I believe the ATF requires your licensed premises to be zoned commercial (eliminating most - or all - homes).

Become friends with a local FFL and get your C&R to enjoy some benefits.

[Guest mwentllc]

I got my FFL about 18 months ago. I says right on the FFL application that if this is for personal use or for gun shows "DO NOT APPLY". You have to list hours of operation that you are going to be open to the public and it cannot be by appointment only. The ATF will also require proof you are not violating any zoning laws, have a local business license, are registered with the Tennessee Secretary of State for having a business charter, filed the necesary paperwork with the Tennessee Dept. of Revenue for a resellers certificate, and last but not least have an IRS employer ID number for tax purposes. It is a lot to go through.

[Guest mwentllc]

I did not buy a kit, I just contacted the ATF and they sent me the paperwork and it was pretty self explainatory. The only things you will need to buy would be an A&D book and your sale invoices plus business cards if you want them.

[DaveTN]

The ATF will also require proof you are not violating any zoning laws, have a local business license, are registered with the Tennessee Secretary of State for having a business charter, filed the necesary paperwork with the Tennessee Dept. of Revenue for a resellers certificate, and last but not least have an IRS employer ID number for tax purposes.

That’s what keeps me from getting one. Murfreesboro won’t allow a business in a residential area anymore.

[R1100R]

I had a friend that had one a few years ago. It also allowed the ATF to inspect

your entire home when they wanted, if the business is based out of it.

[bdykd0]

I'm not going to pursue this avenue of home based FFL ....

have a pretty good relationship with the local gun dealer ....

have done several transactions with him

he's down to $25 each transaction for me now ....

may go lower as time goes on

have less than 5 years to go for full retirement benifits from the postal service

may try and see about helping out at his shop on Saturdays and such till I retire

maybe get my license there??? ....

(he runs an ATV repair / gun and ammo sales business