Where do I go for answers?
Ever find yourself wondering, “Who can I ask about …?” as it relates to your firearms or explosives business? Or perhaps you want to know what the latest firearms industry compliance regulations or changes are. The answer to both of these may be on ATF.gov.
ATF.gov: Your First Stop for Industry Compliance
While ATF.gov can be frustrating in some cases, there is a great deal of information and insight that can guide you to gain understanding before investing a great deal of time and money in something that you can’t do. Make use of the drop-down filters and include a word or two in the search box to simplify your search.
Some of the topics you can find on ATF.gov include: Forms and Publications; Questions & Answers; Apply for a License; Current Licensees; Publication Library (Guides; Newsletters; Reports; & Industry Circulars) and more.
One of the areas I like to look at is What’s New. You can see what proposed regulations or form changes are out for public comment. The ATF has made many changes to forms and regulations based on the public comments. Some of these changes are clarifications to help you with your sales so that you have fewer questions to answer from your customers (4473 Firearms Transaction Record). Some are required by law (BiPartisan Safer Communities Act) and others are related to specific firearms or accessories. Bookmark this page and review it monthly to stay on top of the issues.
Perhaps you are looking for someone to whom you can send a firearm in another state. Check out Federal Firearms Listings | Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to find FFLs anywhere. You can get the whole list and download it to Excel or consider using it on your website to help your customers find an FFL near them. Just remember that you must verify the FFL and get a certified copy of the license before transferring the firearm.
Stay Updated with NSSF.org
We would be remiss if we didn’t discuss the must-visit resource, NSSF.org NSSF | The Firearm Industry Trade Association. NSSF is working hard to keep the firearms industry alive and well. Check out the website to find sections for Retailers; Ranges; Manufacturers and Media. You will find information and facts to counter any argument that may be thrown your way. You will also find useful information on managing your business; securing your building; consulting programs; industry trends; national promotions (First Shots Program; Don’t Lie for the Other Guy and more).
The Importance of Legal Counsel
Last, but not least, my first call, after looking at these resources to try to get my background information; is to call my attorney who specializes in firearms and explosives. Yes, there are attorneys who know the industry. It can be difficult to find one who understands the business of firearms so let me know if I can help you. This relationship is critical because the gray area is large and you don’t want to find yourself in an area that ends with a license revocation. I find that my attorney helps me expand my view of issues so I am considering the whole issue rather, than a small slice of the problem. Additionally, the contacts and knowledge of the ATF organizational structure, simplifies the process of getting a formal answer to more difficult firearms industry compliance questions.
There are resources available to help you with your ATF regulated business. Early access to these resources will save you time, money and may save your business. If you have any questions related to firearms industry compliance software, give us a call!
