THINGS TO KNOW WHEN YOU SELL YOUR GUNS

It can also clear up misconceptions and make the entire transaction worry-free.

Federal laws and postal regulations are primarily concerned with the sale of weapons across state lines.  Rifle or shotgun sales between individuals 18 or older are legal, provided both persons are legally entitled to own firearms and live in the same state.  Handgun and handgun ammunition sales can only occur between persons at least 21 years of age.  If the transaction occurs across state lines, then the weapon must be sent to a person holding a federal firearms license (FFL) in the state where the buyer resides.  The sole exception to this law is when guns are sold or shipped to out-of-state law enforcement agencies.

There are exceptions to this, including the sale or purchase of antique firearms, legally defined as ones manufactured prior to 1899.  Guns with a matchlock, flintlock, or percussion ignition system are also exempted from the statute, as are also muzzle loaders and weapons designed for use with black powder.

Unloaded guns can be legally shipped within state lines from one individual to another, whether or not either has an FFL.  Individuals can mail or ship rifles and shotguns out of state, provided the recipient has an FFL.  Persons can legally ship long arms to “themselves” for hunting purposes in care of an individual in another state. 

All firearms shipments require that the sender issue a written declaration of contents to the common carrier.  There are exceptions to this rule for licensed firearms collectors, manufacturers, importers, and purchasers.  Ammunition shipped must be accompanied by a written declaration of contents as well.  Those shipping guns via the post office must also file a written affidavit with the local postmaster, certifying the name of the intended recipient and their legal eligibility to receive it.  The post office recommends but does not require that all firearms be sent via registered mail.  There can be no markings of any kind on the packaging that indicate its contents.

There are potential legal liabilities for individuals who sell firearms to other individuals that are later used in a crime.  To safeguard against this, the sale should be reported to local law enforcement at the time of transfer.

State laws concerning firearms transactions can vary widely.  For example, South Carolina has a law against selling guns to a member of a “subversive organization.”  In Connecticut, you cannot purchase a handgun at all unless you have a state-approved permit.  Other states have no permit or registration requirements whatsoever.  Colorado goes a step further by making it illegal to require any sort of gun registration within state lines.  The lesson here is to check with legal experts or law enforcement personnel in your state before you buy or sell your weapons, just to make sure you don’t end up in trouble.

When you do decide to sell your guns, you won’t go wrong by doing business with Dury’s.  We offer a variety of options, including outright purchases of weapons, selling them through consignment, and even putting them up for auction.  If you live near San Antonio, then drop by and talk to us.  If you’re further away, then you can call us at 210-531-2629.  We can assist distant sellers with determining a fair price and by providing UPS shipping boxes.  Also, if you have an extensive collection of firearms, we can even arrange to visit you in person.  So trust Dury’s to treat you with courtesy and fairness every time.