How to Purchase NFA Title II (‘Class 3’) Items from Adventure Gear South
General Information for NFA Firearms & Suppressors
At Adventure Gear South, we’re all about helping you explore your Second Amendment rights, and that includes owning some of the most specialized firearms available. National Firearms Act (NFA), Title II (Class III) items include machine guns manufactured before May 19, 1986, short-barreled rifles and shotguns, suppressors (commonly known as silencers), and other unique firearms like Any Other Weapons (AOW). While “Destructive Devices” also fall under NFA, they’re not commonly found for sale.
Why NFA?
Owning an NFA item isn’t just about expanding your collection—it’s about pride, history, and having a little fun at the range. Whether you’re looking to shoot a full-auto machine gun, a short-barreled rifle, or test out a suppressor, these items offer a unique experience. So, why not take the next step? We’re here to help guide you through the process.
Who Can Purchase NFA Items?
In places where it’s allowed, individuals, corporations, and trusts can all purchase NFA firearms and suppressors. It’s important to decide the best route for you—whether as an individual or through a trust or corporation. We recommend consulting with a knowledgeable attorney to ensure your choice aligns with NFA laws, especially if you’re considering using a trust. The repercussions of violating NFA regulations can be significant, so getting expert advice is key.
What’s the Cost?
When you purchase an NFA item, there’s more than just the price of the item to consider. For most NFA items (excluding AOWs), you’ll also need to pay a one-time $200 transfer tax to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The AOW firearms transfer tax is just $5.00. Remember, if you decide to transfer the item to someone else later, they’ll also need to pay the applicable transfer tax.
Filing the Forms
Your transferring FFL will typically help you with the paperwork, but here’s what you need to know:
- For Individuals: You’ll need three completed and signed copies of ATF Form 4. Two copies go to the ATF, and one goes to your local Chief Law Enforcement Officer (CLEO) as a notification. You’ll also need two fingerprint cards, two passport-sized photos, and a check or money order for the $200 transfer tax (or $5.00 for AOWs). This process must be repeated for each NFA item you purchase.
- For Trusts or Corporations: The process is similar, but you’ll also need to submit Responsible Person forms (ATF Form 5320.23) for each person named in the trust or corporation, along with their fingerprint cards and passport photos. A copy of the trust or articles of incorporation is also required. As with individual purchases, the transfer tax must be paid for each item.
How Long Will It Take?
The wait time for ATF approval of Form 4s can be around 12 months, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. Patience is key when it comes to NFA items, but the end result is worth it.
Age Requirement
You must be 21 years old to purchase and own an NFA item.
How Adventure Gear South Fits In
If you’re local to Ohio, we’d be happy to assist you with your Form 4 at our shop in Hocking Hills. For those of you outside the state, we can ship your NFA item to a local FFL dealer, who will then help you complete the necessary paperwork and transfer the item to you. Just keep in mind that it could take 2-3 months for your NFA item to reach your dealer, as we need ATF approval to send it from us to them via a Form 3.
How to Order an NFA Item from Adventure Gear South
Purchasing an NFA firearm or suppressor from us is straightforward. Here’s what you need:
- Payment: Pay in full at the time of purchase. Unfortunately, layaway isn’t available for NFA items.
- Your Dealer’s FFL: We’ll need a copy of your dealer’s Federal Firearms License (FFL).
- Your Dealer’s SOT: We’ll also need a copy of your dealer’s Special Occupational Tax License (SOT). These documents can be emailed, faxed, or mailed to us.
Smooth the Process
To make things go smoothly, pick an FFL dealer that’s already on file with us, or ensure your dealer sends us their FFL and SOT. When your NFA item arrives at the dealer, inspect it thoroughly. If there are any defects, let us know before filling out Form 4, and we’ll arrange for a return. Once the Form 4 is signed, the firearm or suppressor is considered used and must be returned directly to the manufacturer for any warranty issues.
Final Tips
We confirm all Class III orders before processing, and cancellations after confirmation will incur a 20% fee. Similarly, there may be a 20% restocking fee if the item is illegal in your state or if you’re prohibited from owning an NFA item. So please, double-check the laws in your area before placing an order.
Remember, this guide is for reference only and isn’t legal advice. NFA laws vary by state, so for specific questions, contact your local ATF office