Do Muzzleloaders have to go through an FFL?

[Guyon]

Been looking at some traditional sidelock muzzleloaders on gunbroker, and I remembered that when I bought my inline, I was told that I could actually return it as long as it had never been shot. Also, there was no 4473 to fill out.

So does this mean that if I buy a muzzleloader online, I can have it shipped directly to me?

 

[Dave Markowitz]

Guyon,

Under Federal law, muzzleloaders, as well as breechloaders not firing fixed ammunition (1) are not considered firearms, and are not subject to the restrictions of the Gun Control Act of 1968. Therefore, under Federal law, anyone can buy one in person or through the mail.

Note, however that some states may have more restrictive laws regarding muzzleloaders. You can research your state's gun laws at:

http://www.nraila.org/GunLaws.asp?FormMode=state



(1) E.g., a percussion Sharps.

 

[4v50 Gary]

Yes. However, some states (like CA) still regard them as firearms. That didn't stop me when I was 18 from buying a Ruger Old Army from Gil Hebard.

 

[Covey Rise]

Arkansas, No

In Arkansas you just walk in plop down some cash and walk out.

 

[PATH]

Here in NY, with the exception of pistols, they are considered antiques and you buy and walk with no 4473. Actually you can buy the pistol but you had better not have the powder for them.