The Advantages of Having an FFL
A Federal Firearms License (FFL) is a license given by the government certifying an individual as an authorized dealer of guns. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) is the agency in charge of these firearm licenses. The ATF designed the FFL license program to lower incidents of illegal gun sales and help regulate the industry.
Relic Ownership
A Federal Firearms License (FFL) allows individuals to own certain firearms that are restricted or rare. These types of firearms are called "relics." Government regulations define relic firearms as being of interest to collectors beyond normal sporting or defensive purposes.
Common examples of relic firearms include guns more than 50 years old and arms used in historic museum displays. Any firearms that is valued higher than other similar weapons, such as a rifle that was used in a historic battle, is considered a relic and requires an FFL license in order to be sold.
Firearm Sales
ATF regulations also require an FFL to sell firearms and become a dealer. This requirement applies any time an individual sells a weapon, either as a full-time business or part-time pastime. If a person is interested in offering firearms for sale at gun shows, a valid FFL is needed.
Additionally, a firearms license removes restrictions on the number of firearms that can be bought and sold. The number of guns that an FFL holder is permitted to purchase, and the frequency of the purchases, is not limited.
Wholesale Pricing
An FFL license allows a person to purchase firearms at wholesale prices. Often, firearms manufacturers will not deal directly with an individual unless they hold the proper license. Access to this wholesale pricing means that license holders can save 30 percent or more on gun purchases, whether for resale or personal use.
Because firearms dealers buy and sell many guns frequently, this wholesale pricing can make a significant financial difference. By eliminating a middleman dealer, an FFL license also allows sales to be made in less time.
