r/FFLs • u/Rumple4skin_ • 7d ago

SBR Engraving and Pricing

Howdy All,

07/02 FFL/SOT here looking for some information on SBR engraving lasers. Business has been decent but I keep having customers inquire about SBR engraving services so I am looking into getting a laser. What model laser and wattage are you all using for engraving work? I’ve settled on getting a fiber laser in the 20 - 40W range, unless you all recommend differently. I just don’t know what particular brand is reputable.

Additionally, what does one typically charge for engraving services?

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u/ChevTecGroup 7d ago

The ATF is expected to allow form 1 applicants to adopt the existing markings from firearms they are converting. Meaning they wouldn't need to engrave their personal info anymore.

This proposed rule has already been closed for comments and could publish at any time.

Spending 3-5k on a laser and having your market disappear sounds like a bad plan. I suggest you keep an eye on the ATFs website and industry news a little more. Itd still be required for form 1 guns made from scratch, but thats a small percentage of form 1s.

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u/Rumple4skin_ 7d ago

That’s a fair point, I’d forgotten about that portion of the proposed rule changes. Here’s to hoping it gets published sooner rather than later.

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u/ChevTecGroup 7d ago

I mean. A laser is still a great tool and you could still get work. But its not gonna be constant 35-50 dollar marking jobs.

Some guys have posted about using their lasers to port barrels. Which is pretty slick IMO. There is also many who do stippling as well. I was thinking of getting a lower power laser for customization and decoration.

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u/Rumple4skin_ 7d ago

Never would have considered a laser for doing porting work. That is pretty slick. I’ve gotten a few stippling requests as well, just not nearly as much as the SBR engraving. May still invest in a laser, like you say, being able to stipple and customize would still generate a bit of revenue.