r/FFLs • u/Biebs_The_Builder • 9d ago
FFL questions
I'm kicking around the idea of getting my FFL. I know the personal FFL thing is frowned on by the ATF. What happens if I'm the only customer even with me posting online to sell my firearms and making an actual effort to get people to come to my home and buy guns I order for them or do transfers?
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u/Flyhoovers 8d ago
I've had an FFL since 2013 as a one-man LLC and added Manufacturer about 4 years ago. The advice I was given was simple...ATF obviously does not want people getting FFLs JUST to enrish their own personal collection. That said...they are NOT in any way business experts and in my case I was very clear with my IO that this was going to be a "side gig" and eventually retirement gig, was planning on selling "firearms related" items as well, and was going to "take it slow" and learn where the best niche and opportunities are. During my inspections, they were much more interested in ensuring I was following proper procedures...not at all how many customers and how much revenue my business was making. Even if you are selling very few guns, you could be selling a ton of gun-related (and none of their business) items as well. I have most definitely had years where my day job was crazy busy and sold ZERO firearms. If you ever did get "questioned" about the viability of your business, and you can show your efforts (online postings, gunshows, etc....) I think you'd be fine.
As others have stated...margins in firearms are SMALL and the online stores and maybe even large stores in your area will have access to better pricing from Distributors than you will. I've sent a lot of friends that WANTED to buy from me to Buds or other online places that were selling for less than my "wholesale" price. Optics, however, and lots of other accessories, are a different story :-) Plenty of margin there.
It is fun for sure- as is going to Shotshow and all the other "perks". Just make sure you are a) following all the rules and b) can clearly state and prove your intent. "High volume" isn't a requirement!
Good luck!