FFL Guides & Resources
Plain-English guides to buying a gun online, FFL transfers, background checks and your state's rules. Written for first-time buyers, and useful for everyone else.
First time buying online? Read these in order.
About 27 minutes, start to finish.
Buying and transfers
What an FFL is, how a transfer works, what it costs, and what the paperwork asks.
What Is an FFL? The Complete Guide for Online Gun Buyers
An FFL (Federal Firearms License) is a license issued by the ATF that authorizes a business or individual to sell and transfer firearms. Learn everything you need to know about FFLs.
Complete guide6 min readUpdated
How to Buy a Gun Online: Step-by-Step Guide
Buying a gun online opens up access to better prices and a much wider selection. Here's exactly how to do it legally, from start to finish.
8 min readUpdated
The FFL Transfer Process Explained: What to Expect
Whether you're buying a gun online or from a private seller, you'll need to complete an FFL transfer. Here's exactly what happens and what you need to bring.
7 min readUpdated
FFL Transfer Fees: What to Expect in 2026
When you buy a gun online, your FFL dealer charges a transfer fee for their service. Learn what to expect and how to find the best rates.
6 min readUpdated
Understanding NICS Background Checks for Gun Purchases
Every time you buy a firearm from a licensed dealer, you'll go through a NICS background check. Here's how the system works and what to expect.
7 min readUpdated
ATF Form 4473: Complete Guide to the Firearms Transaction Record
ATF Form 4473 is required for every firearm purchase from a licensed dealer. Learn what the form asks, how to fill it out correctly, and what happens if you make a mistake.
9 min readUpdated
Where to buy and sell
Which national chains sell guns, what Walmart actually stocks, and how to sell one you own.
Which Major Retailers Sell Guns? Complete 2026 Guide
Major retailers operate over 5,500 licensed gun counters across the United States. Here's a complete breakdown of which retailers sell guns, what they offer, and how to find locations near you.
12 min readUpdated
Does Walmart Sell Guns? Complete 2026 Policy Guide
Yes, Walmart still sells guns—but only hunting rifles and shotguns in select stores. Learn about their current firearm policies, what they sell, and where to find locations.
12 min readUpdated
How to Sell a Gun: Your Options, the Law, and Getting a Fair Price
Selling a firearm is legal and straightforward when you do it right. Here are your five main options, what each typically pays, and the paperwork that keeps the sale lawful.
8 min readUpdated
Laws and ownership
State rules that change what you can buy, the 2026 suppressor ruling, and storing a gun safely.
State Gun Laws: Waiting Periods, Permits & Purchase Requirements
Federal law establishes the baseline for firearm purchases, but your state may have additional requirements. Know your state's laws before buying.
8 min readUpdated
Are Suppressors Still on the NFA? The 2026 Tax Change and Court Ruling
The tax reduction and the August injunction are separate developments. Read what the court decided, the limits of its ruling, and why state law still matters.
4 min readUpdated
Safe Firearm Storage: A Guide for First-Time Owners
Prepare secure storage before your first firearm comes home. Understand locking devices, household access, ammunition storage, and vehicle precautions.
3 min readUpdated
The dealer side
Getting your own licence, and where the nation's dealers actually are.
How to Get an FFL: Federal Firearms License Application Guide
Want to become a licensed firearms dealer? Here's the complete FFL application process: who qualifies, what each license type costs, how ATF Form 7 works, and what to expect from the ATF interview.
9 min readUpdated
FFL Statistics: Gun Store Density Across America
Explore Federal Firearms License data on gun store density, state rankings, license types, and what the numbers reveal about the firearms industry.
8 min readUpdated
Ready to find a dealer?
Every ATF-licensed dealer in the United States, by state, city and retailer. Call the dealer to confirm before you visit.
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