HOW TO PURCHASE AND OWN A CLASS 3 WEAPON

Owning a class 3 weapon (SBR, SBS, machine gun / suppressor) is really quite simple. There are several rules and regulations that individuals must comply with to puchase. They are very simple and one should not be intimidated by paperwork. We can help you with the paperwork.

You may only own a machine gun that was manufactured and registered with the BATF before May 19, 1986. Weapons manufactured after that date are restricted for Military and Law Enforcement use only. This is what makes these weapons so costly, there is more demand for them than available.

An individual purchasing a “ National Firearms Act Weapon “, NFA weapon or class 3 weapon is required to pay a onetime, $200 Federal Excise Tax fee. This fee has been the same, since 1934. It has never changed nor has the simple requirement for owning a NFA weapon. These rules and regulation were set forth in 1934.

To obtain an NFA weapon, you must first purchase one. The reason is, forms are required to transfer the weapon from seller to buyer, requiring specific information such as serial numbers. There are several types of forms to accommodate these transfers. A form “3”, accommodates dealer to dealer transfers (Class 3, in or out of state). A form “4”, accommodates dealer to individual transfers, within the state. Unlicensed individuals may not transfer class 3 weapons directly into their state. An active Class 3 license is required to execute the transfer. If you hold an active standard FFL, you may transfer the weapon in directly, however the law enforcement signature, photographs, and fingerprint cards are still required, as well as the $200 FET. We will be happy to help you in the selection of a reputable Class 3 dealer in the state that you live in.

The form “4” is quite simple. It will be filled out in duplicate by your Class 3 dealer, showing the current owner of the weapon and address, your name and address, description of the weapon and serial number, etc. You will be given the forms, along with a set of fingerprint cards. On the back of the form is a place for your photograph and your local law enforcement official’s signature. If you are transferring the NFA weapon to your corporation (TRUST) this Law Enforcement signature is not required. Call us if you have questions regarding a TRUST. The required signature may come from a multitude of sources. The Chief of Police, the Sheriff, District Attorney, a Federal judge, State Chief of Police, etc.. Typically the person signing this form “4”, will unless they know you personally, conduct a background check on you, insuring that you are a person in good standing, within your community.

After you have obtained an official signature, return the forms along with your photographs (taped to the back) your fingerprint cards, and your check for $200, (payable to The Department of the Treasury) to your dealer. NOTE, if you come by our store we will fingerprint you and take your picture here, thus saving you from having to run around different places to get it done. All of this information, along with the FET fee, will be forwarded to the BATF and they will begin the process of transferring the ownership of the weapon to your name or corporation.

Please feel free to contact us with any question, it really is easier than most people think to own a Suppressor, Short Barreled Rifle or Shotgun or Machinegun.