How to Sell a Firearm Safely and Legally

Are you beginning the process of selling your firearm? Or just in need of some extra cash, and have a firearm you could sell? If so, you are in the right place! Selling a firearm can be a great way to make some extra money, but it's important to do so safely and legally. There are several steps you should take to ensure that the sale is legal and that the firearm doesn't end up in the wrong hands. In this blog, we'll discuss how to sell a firearm safely and legally.

Know the Laws in Your State

The first step in selling a firearm safely and legally is to know the laws in your state. These laws vary from state to state, so it's important to do your research. In some states, for example, you may need a background check or a permit to sell a firearm. Make sure you understand the laws in your state before you begin the selling process. Violating the laws surrounding the buying and selling of a firearm is extremely illegal, and can result in jail time. Please check out this website to ensure you know everything about your states’ laws and regulations!

Check the Buyer's Credentials

Before selling a firearm, it's important to check the credentials of the buyer. This includes verifying their age, residency, and any permits or licenses they may need to own a firearm. You should also ask for identification and make sure it matches the information on any permits or licenses. This can be done through your local law enforcement, or through a third party background check agency. This is vital to the sale of your firearm, because you are responsible for ensuring your firearm is only used by the individual you are intending to sell it to, and no one else.

Keep a Record of the Sale

After you have successfully reviewed the laws in your state, checked out your buyer, and completed the transaction, it's equally as important to keep a record of the sale of the firearm. This includes documenting the buyer's credentials, the make and model of the firearm, the serial number, and the sale price. Keeping a record of the sale can protect you in case the firearm is later used in a crime. Without a record of the sale, the firearm could potentially be traced back to you (the previous owner) and without proof of sale, you will be responsible for the actions of your firearm.

Use a Licensed Dealer as an Intermediary

Selling and buying firearms second hand can be a very daunting process, especially considering the severity of the consequences if a sale is not conducted properly. So, if you're not comfortable selling the firearm directly to the buyer, you can use a licensed dealer as an intermediary! The dealer can perform a background check on the buyer and handle the transfer of the firearm. This can give you peace of mind that the sale is legal and that the firearm is going to a responsible buyer. But, because licensed dealers take so much of the stress out of the process, they may also charge a fee to the seller, which is also important to take into consideration.

Consider Selling to a Licensed Dealer

Another option for selling a firearm safely and legally is to sell it to a licensed dealer. The dealer will handle the transfer of the firearm and ensure that the sale is safe and legal. However, like when you use a licensed dealer as an intermediary, you may get less money for your firearm using this option.However, selling to a licensed dealer can give you peace of mind that the firearm won't end up in the wrong hands, and take out much of the stress involved in the process.

In conclusion, selling a firearm safely and legally requires some extra effort, but it's worth it to ensure that the firearm doesn't end up in the wrong hands. Know the laws in your state, check the buyer's credentials, keep a record of the sale, and consider using a licensed dealer as an intermediary, or selling directly to them. By taking these steps, you can sell your firearm with confidence and peace of mind.