C&R or FFL

C&R or FFL: A Comprehensive Guide to Firearms Licensing

So, you've decided to buy your first firearm, congratulations! A common hurdle many first-time firearms buyers face is understanding what an FFL is, and which kind they need to utilize (or acquire) to legally take possession of their purchase. This will be a brief guide over the different firearms licenses available to assist you in deciding whether you should utilize a business or obtain a private collector's license to acquire your firearm (C&R).

The first question to ask yourself is, what is my reason for purchasing a firearm. Typically, most purchases fall into two categories.

General enthusiast – this category is very broad and would encompass all styles of firearms. If you fall into this category, then a firearm would obtain the firearm via a 4473 through a local gun shop, gun show dealer, pawn shop, or retail chain outdoor supplier. Note: Collectible firearms can also be purchased this way. This method also does not require you to maintain an acquisition and disposition bound book.
Collector’s License – This license is typically obtained by those interested in the historical use of the firearm and all the variations manufactured during a specific period time in history. This license allows the holder to ship a firearm (that fall under the official C&R list) directly to their home or sold to them as a license holder. This license requires a bound book for the acquisition and distribution of the firearm and allows the ATF to perform unannounced inspections.

Curio & Relic (C&R) License

What is a C&R License?

A Curio & Relic (C&R) License is a specialized type of FFL designed for collectors of antique and historically significant firearms. A C&R license permits the purchase and sale of “curio and relic” firearms—typically those over 50 years old. This license is especially popular among collectors and museums.

For more details on this unique license, check out the ATF Curio & Relic Firearms License.

Key Benefits of a C&R License:

Collector-Focused: Access to a broader range of historical firearms.
Lower Costs: Generally, the requirements and fees are less than a full FFL.
Specialized Market: Ideal for collectors and those interested in preserving firearm history.

C&R Requirements:

Similar background check as an FFL
Demonstrated interest in collecting antique firearms
Compliance with specific recordkeeping for curio & relic transactions

https://www.atf.gov/firearms/curios-relics

Federal Firearms License (FFL)

What is an FFL?

A Federal Firearms License (FFL) is issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and allows individuals or businesses to engage in the manufacturing, importing, or selling of firearms.

An FFL is essential for:

Firearms dealers
Gun manufacturers
Importers of firearms and ammunition

There are various forms of FFLs which permit varying levels of action. The FFL type along with its location, expiration, and more are located directly in its unique license number.

This number is a unique set of 14 numbers and 1 letter provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to identify each FFL dealer. Examine the example below to see a breakdown of this number. All FFL license numbers follow the following format:

1-11-111-11-1A-11111

Region - District - FIPS Code (Where FFL is stored) - FFL Type - Expiration - FFL's unique number

Legitimate Business Operation: Legally engage in the firearms trade.
Access to Inventory: Purchase and sell firearms, parts, and accessories.
Regulatory Compliance:> Meet federal requirements to avoid legal issues.

FFL Requirements:

A thorough background check
Proof of business premises (if applicable)
Adherence to strict recordkeeping and reporting standards
Payment of application fees

For detailed federal guidelines, consult theATF FFL Handbook

Which FFL to use?

While you may not be specifically interested in where the FFL is located or where it's stored, it's critical to ensure the dealer can transfer your firearm. There are nine different FFLs, but the most common by far is the Type 1 FFL. This FFL allows the holder to buy and sell firearms as a gun dealer or to work in gunsmithing. To verify your FFL can transfer or sell you a firearm look for this "Type 1" in their license number: X-XX-XXX-01-XX. It's important to note that if the firearm you're trying to purchase is an NFA weapon such as a machine-gun, short-barreled rifle, etc. you'll need to transfer it to an FFL with at least a Class 1 SOT (Special Occupation Taxpayer).

The second-most prolific FFL is Type 7, which is the same as a Type 1. However, the dealer may also manufacture firearms and ammunition. These are much less common than Type 1 FFLs, but if you're looking for a builder to turn a parts-kit into a complete firearm or you want specific ammunition from a dealer who can also buy/sell firearms, then they'll need a Type 7 license. This leads us to our third and perhaps most unique type: A Type 3:

Which License is Right for You?

Key Differences Between C&R and FFL Licenses

Feature	FFL	C&R License
Purpose	Dealership, manufacturing, import/export	Collecting antique/historic firearms
Market Focus	Commercial firearms trade	Firearms collectors and museums
Requirements	Strict regulatory & recordkeeping	Focused on collectors; lower fees
Cost & Complexity	Higher fees and complex processes	Lower fees and simpler requirements

For any additional questions about firearms licensing, the ATF Firearms FAQs is a great resource.

Understanding whether you need an FFL or a C&R license is critical for success and compliance in the firearms industry. By choosing the right license for your business or collection, you ensure smooth operations and adherence to federal regulations.

If you find yourself occasionally buying firearms, focusing on more modern or altered guns, or don't want to pay for a C&R license, a conventional FFL location like a gun shop or pawnbroker would be best for you. There is a small transfer fee when transferring firearms at an FFL as well, but if you're not buying them frequently, the convenience of shipping your firearm to any licensed location may outweigh those fees.

Alternatively, if you frequently collect mostly older antique firearms that are 50 years or older, a C&R would be much preferable. You would spend less overall, skipping the transfer fees along with the convenience of it shipping right to your door. It is important to note that C&R firearms can only be shipped to the address provided on your license and nowhere else.

There is also the option of pursuing both avenues if you're a frequent firearm collector or shooter that enjoys antique as well as modern pieces. You always have the option of spending the low fee for a C&R license to ship your antiques to, while using your local dealer for any non-C&R qualifying firearms. At the end of the day, they're both excellent options and it just comes down to your personal taste in firearms along with how frequently you purchase them to sway you towards one or the other.

If you have any questions or need guidance on obtaining your FFL or C&R license, explore the resources above or contact an industry expert today!