how to become a liscenced manufacturer?

[cpileri]

What is the process for one to become a liscenced (Class II, I believe) manufacturer?

Why?

Every once in a while, I see a post about how a dremel tool can effect some cool change in a firearm, magazine, or whatever. Unfortunately, alot of these 'simple' modifications are illegal unless you are liscenced to make new high-capacity magazines, or full autos, or other banned toys.

Once, I wondered if there was a more expeditious way to purchase a firearm. There is! And I soon had a C&R liscence.

So what is the process for becoming a manufacturer? is it easy like the C&R? or is it a major pain?
do you actually have to make anything, or can you just have it in case you decide to, i dunno, weld two AK's together to make a gatling gun (insert your own dumb example here.)

And note to any who care: I dont own an AK, not do i own welding equipment. I don't know how to weld. Truthfully, i dont even care too much to own an AK. All better.

thanks,
C-

 

[blades67]

It is a major pain. You can download the application from the atf web site. Read it and discover all of the pitfalls and fees. It isn't easy, or everybody would do it.

 

[Hkmp5sd]

Becoming a manufacturer is a very complex and expensive process. You cannot just get the license and then start tinkering with your guns. You have to actually HAVE a business, including local and state licenses, a business address, tax records, insurance and much, much more. You will most likely have to hire a lawyer to explain all of the legal requirements. One little boo-boo can land you in jail for a long time.

And even then, you cannot simply start converting your semiautos into machineguns.

 

[cpileri]

humph...

Well, that settles it: i just need to become fabulously rich so i can move to a more American state, then spend way too much on all the overpriced stuff that's currenty available.
Hey, it could happen.

 

[illuminatus99]

what about getting a license to manufacture semi-autos?

 

[Hkmp5sd]

You can manufacture non-regulated firearms for personal use without having any federal license or approval. Local and state laws may have some restrictions.

From ATF's FAQs.

QUESTION: (A7) Does the GCA prohibit anyone from making a handgun, shotgun or rifle?

ANSWER: With certain exceptions a firearm may be made by a nonlicensee provided it is not for sale and the maker is not prohibited from possessing firearms. However, a person is prohibited from making a semiautomatic assault weapon or assembling a nonsporting semiautomatic rifle or nonsporting shotgun from imported parts. In addition, the making of an NFA firearm requires a tax payment and approval by ATF. An application to make a machinegun will not be approved unless documentation is submitted showing that the firearm is being made for a Federal or State agency. [18 U.S.C. 922(o),(r), (v), and 923, 27 CFR 178.39, 178.40, 178.41 and 179.105]

http://www.atf.treas.gov/firearms/faq/faq2.htm#a7


You can make NFA firearms (other than machineguns) by filing an ATF Form 1, paying the appropriate tax and getting approval prior to beginning construction.