A lot of people have no idea that you can legally own a select fire machine gun in the Untied States that was produced & registered before 1986 with out any special permits or a Federal Firearms License of some type.

The process is more difficult then purchasing a Title 1 firearm (regular rifle or pistol) but with the help of a local “Class III” dealer its not to much of a hassle.

To purchase a “transferable” (nickname given to pre 1986 register Title II (NFA) guns civilians can own) you must meet the following requirements:

1. Live in a state that allows NFA possession, most states do, some do not (such as California)
2. Be 21 years of age
3. You must be free of any felonies

If you meet these requirements then the usual procedure is as follows:

1. Find the gun you would like to purchase. It must be a legal “transferable”. For it to be a “transferable” it must have been produced and registered with the NFA database on or before 1986. Domestic production of civilian Title II guns was banned in 1986 so the pool of firearms that civilians can own is fixed. “Transferables” for sale are usually described as being on a “Form 4”, these are the ones you want. Guns labeled as “post samples” or “pre-may samples” require additional permits and licensing. A good place to look for “transferable” guns for sale is on the NFA market board at www.subguns.com or visit a local “Class III” dealer to see if they have any in stock you can take a look at.

2. Once you have found a gun you would like purchase it is a good idea to find a “Class III” dealer to assist you with the transfer if you have not already. At this point you will need to complete some paper work.
A . You must fill out two copies of a “Application for Tax Paid Transfer And Registration Of Firearm” aka “Form 4” and get them signed by the Chief Law Enforcement Office (CLEO) of your area.
B . You must be printed on two finger print cards. This must be done by a place that is certified. Most people have this done at the police / sheriff office while waiting for the CLEO signature.
C . You must have two passport sized photos taken

3. Once you have done all this you must then submit the 2 copies of the “Form 4”, 2 finger print cards, & 2 passport photos along with a $200 check to the ATF. The address to submit this stuff to can be found on the “Form 4”. Remember a decent “Class III” dealer should have helped you do this.

4. Now you wait a couple of months while the transfer is processed and the FBI does a extensive background check.

5. Once your dealer receives the paperwork back with the approved tax stamp (yes its an actual stamp!) you can then take possession of the firearm.