Your Essential Guide for Firearms Sales and Transfers in Texas
Knowing the legal requirements and best practices is vital whether you are buying or selling firearms in San Angelo, or anywhere else in Texas. This guide on firearms sales and transfers will enable you to confidently navigate the process, so guaranteeing your compliance with Texas and federal laws. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a long-time collector, this guide will cover everything from private sales to dealer transfers.
Legal Requirements for Firearms Sales and/or Transfers in Texas
Though Texas boasts some of the most gun-friendly laws in the nation, there are still basic guidelines to abide by. To officially buy a gun:
You Have to Meet the Age Requirements
18 years old for rifles and shotguns
21 years old for handguns
And while you can have a Tx LTC , legally own and carry a handgun at 18 years or older, you cannot purchase a handgun or handgun ammunition until you are at least 21 years of age due to federal regulation.
Background Checks Are Required for Dealer Sales
Federal law requires background checks for every purchase made using Federal Firearms Licensees (FFL). When you purchase a firearm from a gun store, or a home based FFL, you fill out a form 4473 and a NICS background check is performed. If you are a Texas resident and have a valid Texas License to Carry, your LTC may be used as your background check, saving you time (and getting a discounted transfer rate with us here at Guardians’ Arms).
Know Who You’re Selling To
If you are selling privately, you have to make sure the buyer is not prohibited from carrying a weapon according federal or state law. Maintaining a bill of sales give you some peace of mind.
Transfers of Firearms: How does it work?
A firearms transfer is the legal conveyance of firearm ownership from one individual, or entity, to another, frequently facilitated by an FFL dealer. Transfers help to ensure legal compliance and are accompanied by a background check.
Why Employ an FFL Dealer?
Using an FFL dealer streamlines things. Residents of San Angelo can find convenient firearms transfer services at Guardians’ Arms. Whether you are selling to a local buyer or purchasing online, we ensure a legally and properly handled transaction.
Dealer Sales versus Private Sales
Private Sales
Private sales let two people trade a gun without involving an FFL. Although quick, these exchanges could be dangerous if you fail to record the sale or confirm the buyer’s eligibility. If the buyer turns out to be a prohibited person, you could find yourself in a very tedious legal situation.
Dealer Sales
Purchases made through a licenced dealer include appropriate paperwork and background checks. This paperwork creates a legal chain of custody/ownership for a firearm.
How Guardians’ Arms Can Help
At Guardians’ Arms, we provide a host of firearms services. Here we offer:
Training:
- We offer Basic Pistol and Basic Rifle classes where you’ll learn about safe handling and shooting, proper care and basic marksmanship. Even if you don’t currently own a firearm, you can take these classes and get a feel for what you may want.
- Classes like our online Texas License to Carry class is a convenient and easy way to get your classroom portion of the LTC process done. It will enable you to take the first step towards getting your Texas LTC.
- Our CCW course is a far step better than the qualifications required for your Tx LTC. This class covers, in detail, holsters, concealed carrying of a firearm, drawing and firing from concealment, cover versus concealment, de-escalation and more.
Sales/Services:
- FFL Transfers– For firearms bought online or from private sales, smooth, compliant transfer services.
- Firearms Sales and Accessories– We have you covered for pistols, rifles and shotguns. We also have access to holsters, optics, and a wide range of parts, at competitive prices.
- Firearms cleaning services- We know that everyone has different levels of comfort and knowledge with firearms. But a properly cared for, and maintained firearm is more likely to function when needed and less likely to malfunction or fail. We will gladly show you how to clean and maintenance your firearm, or do it for you.
- Firearm finishing (coming soon)- we will be able to provide Duracoat finishes for firearms in the very near future.
- Basic armorer services (coming even sooner)- If you have an AR with stock furniture that you want replaced with something lighter, or more utilitarian, you need to replace an AR barrel or buffer tube with a new one we can help.
Best Practices for Safe Sales of Firearms
Always retain records.
Including private sales, keeping a bill of sale is wise. It protects both sides should unforeseen issues arise.
Check the eligibility of the buyer.
Selling to someone prohibited by law from possessing a gun is a major crime. Use an FFL dealer if unsure.
Seek Professional Guidance
Whether your transaction is buying, selling, or transferring, professionals like Guardians’ Arms can help you through it.
Questions Regarding San Angelo Gun Sales and Transfers
Can I sell a gun without working with an FFL dealer?
Private sales are legal in Texas, indeed, but carry some risks.
Does an LTC help me to purchase a gun in Texas?
Yes, your Tx LTC may be used as your FFL background check, saving you time since a NICS check does not need to be performed. And if you are having a transfer, or transfers, done with us at Guardians’ Arms, we offer a discount for the transfer services. Dealers are encouraged by the state to call in and ensure that a LTC is valid, so they may still opt in for calling in.
Knowing gun sales and transfers in San Angelo does not have to be scary. If you have questions regarding firearms sales, transfers, services or training, do not hesitate to contact us. You will find professional support at every level using Guardians’ Arms. Whether you’re buying, selling, or learning, contact us today to get started!