Ordering handguns online?

[T3hK1w1]

Mods feel free to move this if it's in the wrong spot.
I am about to turn 21 and am considering purchasing several milsurp handguns from AIM when the magic date rolls around. I know that they only ship to an FFL, how does this work? Would I be able to buy multiple guns at the same time or is there a 1-only limit? If I can buy multiples, do they ship separately or together? Last question, does going through an FFL make this a private transaction, and therefore legal over 18 yrs of age? (long shot, but hey)

[Charles L. Cotton]

. . . I am about to turn 21 and am considering purchasing several milsurp handguns from AIM when the magic date rolls around. I know that they only ship to an FFL, how does this work?

You will have to find a dealer (FFL) who will send AIM a copy of their FFL and take delivery for you. You will then fill out a 4473 for each gun you buy. Typically, the FFL will want you to pay for the guns yourself, then he will charge you a fee for handling the tranfer. He should also only charge state sales tax on his fee, not the total price of the gun, since you wouldn't be buying the gun from him.

Would I be able to buy multiple guns at the same time or is there a 1-only limit? If I can buy multiples, do they ship separately or together?

Yes, you can buy as many as you like. If you buy more than one, the FFL will have to send a multiple handgun purchase report to the BATFE. (I recently had a call from a fellow that, on two different occasions, bought 2 pistols at one time. The BATFE came to his house and wanted to see the guns! Yeah, I won't get started on that one. ) I have no idea about the shipping, but I know of no reason why the entire order couldn't be shipped to the FFL in one box/shipment.

Last question, does going through an FFL make this a private transaction, and therefore legal over 18 yrs of age? (long shot, but hey)

No, that is not a private sale and the FFL won't be able to deliver the guns to you until you are 21. A "private" sale is between two people, neither of whom is an FFL.

Chas.

[Mike1951]

First off, you might want to see if the handguns you want are covered by a C&R license. If you see '03 FFL' or C&R eligible next to the gun you're looking at, then you can order it directly to your house by obtaining a Curios and Relics license. Right now, what is mainly available are CZ-52's, CZ-82's, and the Nagant revolvers.

The C&R license only runs $30/4yrs and gets you dealer discounts at Midway and others.

You can buy multiples. Up to three firearms can be on the same 4473, but I know of nothing that would prevent you from buying more. Multiple purchases are reported to BATFE. You would want them to ship together to minimize shipping charges. Whether C&R or using a transfer dealer, handguns will ship next day express.

The transfer dealer is charging you a flat fee to complete the 4473 and NICS check, if required. The transaction must comply with all regulations, including the age limit for handguns.

[KBCraig]

The shipping requirements are different for handguns versus long guns. The long guns will travel UPS ground, and the handguns will go via next day air (either UPS or FedEx), so if you order some of each, you'll get multiple shipping charges and different delivery dates.

As for the "how to"... first, find a dealer in your area who will accept the guns and conduct the 4473/NICS transfer to you. Most will do so, but fees range from $10 to $25 or even higher. That's per gun, by the way. Talk to the dealer and let them know what you're about to do, then call AIM (Century, SOG, etc., whomever), and tell them what you want, and where they need to send it. They'll probably already have the FFL on file; if not, they'll contact the dealer for a copy. Pay with your card up front, and be sure to get the tracking number(s).

Track the packages, then go fill out the paperwork and take home your guns!

Kevin

[T3hK1w1]

No, that is not a private sale and the FFL won't be able to deliver the guns to you until you are 21.

Would I be able to purchase the guns now and have the FFL hold them until I turn 21? (9/05/07). Subject to the FFL's agreement of course. I wouldn't be so concerned about the couple od months I have left except these are milsurp items(and therefore uncertain availability)

[Mike1951]

I suppose I would try to find a dealer that would be willing to order the items on a 90-day lay-a-way. Explain that you will be 21 when the guns are paid off and he'll probably keep any payments you've made if you don't complete the deal. I don't think the FFL would be in the wrong as long as you are 21 when the transaction is done.

Tell us what you're looking at and folks here will be able to give you a good idea of how difficult it may be to get in a couple of months.

[T3hK1w1]

Well Mike, you were right on when you mentioned the CZ-82, CZ-52, and the Nagant revolver I love the CZ design and I just can't pass up the opportunity to own such a historic wheelgun for under $100 Ideally, a japanese Type 94 would also be on the list but I can't really justify one at the prices they are currently going for.

[Mike1951]

Be sure and check the price of ammunition for the Nagant. MIdway gets about $40/50.

That was enough to discourage me. My fallback is always that I will reload for a caliber. RCBS dies are $150.

I already had one CZ-82 and I bought another very nice one as soon as they were declared C&R. It is possible that the nicest ones are already here, but I'm failry certain they will be on the market a while longer.

The CZ-52 is also likely to be available. Not sure what the numbers are, but I bought mine about ten years ago at the old Saxet show that used to be held in Spring.

The most practical CHL piece of the three is of course the CZ-82. I have been seeing them at the shows for between $230-$290. The best online deals are $199+next day shipping+transfer fee. You may do as well waiting and buying one in person.