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How to Purchase a Gun From a Private Seller From One State to Another

In 1938, Congress passed the Federal Firearms Act, which set up a system of authorized firearm dealers. Those who obtained a Federal Firearm License became known as FFLs. In 1968, Congress, through the Gun Control Act, prohibited individuals from privately purchasing firearms across state lines. An FFL in the buyer's home state must handle the transfer from the owner to the buyer.

Instructions

- 1
  Contact a Federal Firearms License dealer. Make arrangements for the FFL to receive the firearm from the seller. The FFL decides whether or not to accept the firearm and how much he will charge the buyer for doing so. If he chooses to accept the firearm, the FFL provides the seller with a copy of his federal license.
- 2
  Transfer the firearm to the FFL. This is the responsibility of the out-of-state owner after he negotiates with the FFL the method of receiving payment for the firearm. Shipping might be overnight with major carriers, or personally transported if distance allows. The FFL logs the firearm into his books.
- 3
  Fill out Federal Form 4473 at the gun store. This form attests that you are not a criminal and have nothing in your background that should keep you from owning a firearm.
- 4
  Pay fees. The FFL needs to be paid for the cost of the firearm, tax and any transfer fee.

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