Tax Stamps Help

[Dimis]

i know what you need them for (SBRs SBSs Suppressors AOWs etc...)
but what do you do to get them?
do you apply for the stamp and then buy the item and hope it goes through?
is the stamp specific i.e. will it be serial numbered to the exact item you purchase or can you apply for an SBR stamp and then shop around for an SBR?
do you have to carry the stamp with you when you use your newly stamped item at a range? (provided the range has no rules against its use in the first place)
or should i just lock the paperwork up in the gun safe and not worry about it unless i need to prove that i have it in court?

 

[TexasRifleman]

Depends on if you are building from scratch or buying, but the general process is the same.

Fill out a form to build/transfer an NFA item. This DOES tie the tax stamp to the specific item so you cannot use the tax stamp later for something else.
If you are buying you usually pay for the item first, get the serial number from the dealer, and send the form in. Dealer holds your item.

The form requires a photo, some basic info on you and the firearm, and a signature from the Chief LE officer in your area, usually a police chief or sheriff.

Send the form, photos, fingerprints and check to ATF and wait.

Once you get the form back it will have the tax stamp attached. Then and only then can you build or pick up whatever you bought.

That form is the only thing that proves you legally own the item so it's like GOLD. Make several copies and stick it in a very safe place. You could go back to ATF if you lost it but people have had problems with the NFA database accuracy.

Keep photocopies with the gun on the off chance you have to prove to someone it's legit.

You cannot (generally) cross state lines with the item unless you file a form notifying ATF where you're going.

 

[General Geoff]

tax stamp is for a specific serial numbered item. You must apply for a new stamp BEFORE constructing a new NFA item. You must apply for the transfer of an existing registered NFA item before you can take possession.

It's highly recommended to keep the original tax stamp (as sent to you) in a secure location such as a safe deposit box, and keep a photocopy with you when you take the weapon out to the range.

 

[Dimis]

thanks for all the great info

now whats the first step?
how do i apply?
more specificly where do i get the forms i need to send to the ATF

oh and one more thing what if i want two NFA items say like an SBR with suppressor can that be one stamp or does it need to be two?

sorry for all the questions but i want to make sure i do it 100% right

 

[Sam1911]

Easiest way is to go see the Class 3 dealer who will be transferring the item for you. They'll have all the info and the forms and can walk you through the process. It's what they do.

If you're building something from scratch (heck, even if you aren't) start with this:

http://www.atf.gov/firearms/nfa/nfa_handbook/index.htm

-Sam