Buying A Firearm Online - A Beginners Guide
A complete beginner guide to making your online firearm purchase.Entering the world of buying a firearm online requires a few careful steps and following the law. In this guide, we'll go through a simple process with five important steps to make getting a firearm online easy and safe. Whether you're new to this or have some experience, it's important to know how to pick the right firearm, handle the details of Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs), and make sure the transfer is legal. From choosing a firearm to understanding FFLs, this guide is here to help you understand and follow the steps for buying a firearm online.
STEP 1 : Choose Your FFL
Before shopping, identify a Federal Firearms Licencee (FFL) in your local area who is willing to assist you in the transfer process. Concact them in advance, let them know of your upcoming purchase from Arm or Ally, verify their willingness to accept transfers and their shipping address. You'll need this information during checkout.
If you need assistance in locating a FFL in your local area, these 3rd party sites are a great resource: FFL Scope or FFL Registry.
This is also a good time to ensure there are no unforseen issues during the purchase and transfer process by becoming familiar with the reasons you might fail the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) with the FBI.
STEP 2 : Go Shopping
Shop Arm or Ally's large selection of firearms and components using our search function or browsing our categories. Once you've found your desired items, add them to your shopping cart. If you're unsure what you're looking for, we're just an e-mail away!
Note: You must be 21 to purchase a stripped lower receiver or frame.
STEP 3 : Checkout
We have made our FFL checkout very simple for our customers. Simply enter your contact information and billing address, followed by your FFL's name and shipping address. Select your desired method of shipment and complete your purchase using your credit or debit card.
After successfully checking out, you'll be taken to the order confirmation page, and receive an email with the details of your order.
STEP 4 : Validation & Shipping
Upon receiving your order, Arm or Ally reviews and validates your designated FFL's license and shipping address with the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (BATFE). During this stage, Arm or Ally handles any required communication with your FFL.
Upon validation, Arm or Ally warehouse staff meticulously prepares and packages your order for dispatch to your designated FFL. Once the carrier has your item, look for an email with tracking information.
STEP 5 : Picking Up Your Firearm
Upon notification from the shipping carrier regarding the arrival of your firearm, promptly contact your chosen FFL to confirm. When you arrive at the FFL, adhere to the following protocol:
- Complete the ATF Form 4473 - Firearms Transaction Record.
- The FFL conducts an instantaneous background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) with the FBI.
- Upon successful completion of the background check, remit the FFL's transfer fee and take lawful possession of your newly acquired firearm.
For additional information, please see our FAQ: How do I order an FFL item, and Shipping Timelines and as always, if you need assistance, we're just an email away.
