What is an FFL Transfer?

If you’ve ever purchased a gun online, you have probably heard of Federal Firearm Licensee (FFL) transfers. This is a necessary process to receive a firearm after an online purchase. It’s important to understand how this process works so you know what to expect.

Note that this article is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice. If you have any legal questions regarding an FFL transfer, consult with an attorney.

What is an FFL?

To understand what FFL transfers are, you’ll need to know what FFLs are. This acronym stands for Federal Firearm Licensee in the context of transfers, but can also stand for Federal Firearm License. This is required for a business to sell and ship guns in the United States, and there are various types of licenses that allow the sale and shipment of different types of weapons, such as National Firearms Act (NFA) regulated items.

Why are FFL Transfers Necessary?

In the United States, guns can only ship between FFLs. This is because there are specific requirements for background checks and identification when purchasing a firearm. If a gun were simply shipped from an online retailer to your door, it wouldn’t be possible to complete this verification. It would also leave the weapon vulnerable to being stolen. An FFL transfer ensures the gun is secure and all legal requirements for the transfer are met.

How to Complete an FFL Transfer

If you purchase a gun online and need to transfer it, your first step is to contact an FFL. It’s important to arrange the process ahead of time so no one is surprised or confused by a purchase showing up.

Next, the FFL you are shipping to will need to fax or email a copy of their license to the party you purchased the gun from.

When the gun shows up at the FFL’s shop, they will log it into their inventory and inform you when the item is ready for you to pick up. At this time, you’ll need to come in and complete all necessary background check paperwork, just as you would if you purchased the firearm in person. You will also need to pay the transfer fee and any applicable state fees or taxes.

What About NFA Items?

Since NFA items are more regulated than a typical firearm, you need to be aware of the rules for FFL transfers involving them. First and foremost, you’ll need to make sure you complete the transfer through a dealer who is licensed for NFA items. This is known as a Class 3 License. You’ll also need to fill out additional paperwork and pay the tax stamp to receive the item. Most FFLs will charge more for these types of transfers since there is more paperwork on their side.

FFL Transfers at The Hub

If you need to transfer a firearm you purchased online through a licensed dealer, The Hub can help. All of our locations offer FFL transfers, and you can start the process online in just a few simple steps. If you don’t want to go through the process of a transfer, we also have an extensive selection of firearms at our stores, including NFA items.

Contact us today to learn more about FFL transfers in Phoenix, Lakeside, or Tucson, Arizona.

What is Self-Defense Liability Insurance?

Having a firearm may help you protect yourself in the worst-case scenario. Hopefully, you’ll never have to actually use your gun to defend yourself, but if you do, it’s important to be prepared. Even if it seems like the situation was a straightforward case of self-defense, you may face criminal charges after using your firearm.

Having a skilled attorney to defend you and help you during the process of clearing your name is highly valuable. However, it’s also likely to be expensive. This is where self-defense liability insurance, also called concealed carry insurance, comes in. These policies can help cover the costs of legal representation if you use your gun to defend yourself or your loved ones. They also often cover defense and damages in civil court, as well as other expenses.

Note that this article is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice.

What Self-Defense Liability Insurance Covers

Coverage varies depending on the provider and policy you choose for your concealed carry insurance.

Some of the expenses a policy may cover include:

  • Civil Defense & Damages: In addition to facing criminal charges, you may face a suit in civil court for damages due to firing your gun in self-defense. Many policies offer coverage for defense against civil suits and for coverage of damages.
  • Criminal Defense: If you’re charged with a crime (such as aggravated assault or homicide) due to a self-defense incident, you’ll likely want to hire a criminal defense attorney. Some policies offer money toward a retainer or legal fees in criminal court.
  • Bail Bond: Your concealed carry insurance may offer assistance with covering a bail bond, if necessary.
  • Compensation For Time In Court: Even if your legal expenses are covered, you’ll likely have to take time off work to defend yourself in court, which can put a strain on your finances. Some self-defense liability insurance policies offer reimbursement for time spent in court.

Depending on the policy, you may be reimbursed after the fact or get these funds during the legal process. It’s generally best to find a policy that helps you during your defense rather than after, as many people do not have the resources available to fund a legal battle without assistance.

Situations Not Covered by Concealed Carry Insurance

It’s important to be aware that self-defense liability insurance does not protect anyone who has committed a crime. This means that the incident in which a firearm was used must actually be self-defense. If the court determines that it was not, coverage will cease.

Is Self-Defense Liability Insurance Worth It?

Concealed carry insurance is a great way to protect yourself legally and financially if the worst-case scenario occurs and you need to use your firearm for self-defense. You should be sure to read the policy you are interested in to determine what its limitations are, but for the most part, this type of insurance is a great investment.

USCCA

The Hub is a proud partner of the United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA). They offer self-defense training as well as liability insurance for responsible gun owners.

To learn more about USCCA’s self-defense liability insurance, visit their website.