Selling Firearms: How to Sell a Gun Privately

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• Why Should I Consider Privately Selling my Gun?
• 3 Steps to Legally Selling your Gun

If you’re a seasoned firearm owner, you may have thought about selling your rifle or handgun to a private party. Changes to state and federal laws have created confusion over who can and cannot sell firearms. These changes can make it difficult to determine if you can sell or purchase from a private party.

Is it Legal to Sell a Gun Privately?

The short answer is yes, but there can be several or few rules to abide by depending on where you live, where your buyer lives, what kind of firearm you are trying to sell and if you have an FFL. 

Consider State Regulations for Selling Guns

Your state of residence makes a significant difference when it comes to the ease of privately purchasing or selling a firearm. Some states have more stringent rules than others. More restrictive states may implement regulations like:

• You have to transfer through a licensed firearms dealer.
• All transfers require a ten-day waiting period.
• All parties have to be present at the dealer’s place of business during the transaction.

It’s essential to check around to see what your state’s policies are regarding legal firearm transfer. 

Why Would Someone Want to Sell Privately?

Private sales are a great option if you want:

• The maximum return on your sale: If you sell to a pawn shop or online gun retailer, you won’t get the gun's total value because they need to turn around and sell it for a profit. If you sell privately or through a dealer with a Federal-Firearm License (FFL), you get maximum return. 
• Freedom to negotiate with the buyer: Much like the earlier point, you can work with the buyer to come to terms that work better for both parties. It’s challenging to meet in the middle with a pawn shop or a large firearm sales company.

3 Steps to Legally Selling your Gun

Whether you are selling online, in-person or through an FFL, there are a few steps you will need to take when selling your firearm. 

1. Check your state’s laws about firearm sales.

As we mentioned earlier, you need to check your state’s policies on selling firearms first before moving towards any of your selling options. 

2. Review your selling options.

Do you know someone you want to sell to, or do you need to expand your search? If you are selling to someone within your state, this will simplify the transaction as you only have to abide by one state’s regulations. If you sell to someone online, you must go through a dealer with an FFL.

3. Find an FFL (Federal Firearms License) Agent.

Once you connect with a potential buyer, find an FFL who can facilitate the transaction. You can find transfer agents in your area with a quick search online. Many online firearm marketplaces offer a transfer agent search on their site to ensure you meet the state's requirements. 

Even if you don’t sell online, it’s a good idea to use an FFL for a background check if you don't know the buyer. You should have peace-of-mind once you make your exchange.

Legally Practice Safety when Storing Purchased Guns

Regardless if you are buying or selling firearms, you should always use safe storage methods to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. 

If you’re looking for a secure, low-profile way to store your firearm, check out Liberty Home Concealment’s array of concealment flags, wall art, decor and furniture. Have questions? Contact us today to see how we can solve your storage needs today.