What License is Needed to Own a Fully Automatic Rifle?
In the United States, owning a fully automatic rifle is heavily regulated and requires a significant amount of documentation and background checks. Due to the NFA (National Firearms Act) and the Gun Control Act (GCA) of 1968, owning a fully automatic weapon is restricted to certain individuals and entities.
The Basics of Fully Automatic Firearms
A fully automatic rifle is designed to fire multiple rounds with a single pull of the trigger, as long as the trigger is held down. This is in contrast to semi-automatic rifles, which fire a single round with each trigger pull. Fully automatic weapons were originally developed for military use, but they are also popular among collectors and recreational shooters.
What is the Definition of a Fully Automatic Firearm?
The BATFE (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives) defines a fully automatic firearm as any firearm that "fires, is designed to fire, or can be readily converted to fire" more than one shot without manual reloading by a single function of the trigger.
The Two Types of Fully Automatic Firearm Licenses
There are two types of licenses required to own a fully automatic rifle: a National Firearms Act (NFA) transfer tax stamp and a Machine Gun Registration with the ATF.
NFA Transfer Tax Stamp
The NFA transfer tax stamp is required for all fully automatic firearms, including rifles, shotguns, and pistols. The transfer tax stamp is a tax paid by the buyer when purchasing a fully automatic weapon from a licensed dealer or private individual. The transfer tax is currently set at $200 per firearm. The process of obtaining a transfer tax stamp typically takes several weeks to several months.
Machine Gun Registration with the ATF
The Machine Gun Registration with the ATF is required for all fully automatic rifles, including machine guns, submachine guns, and other fully automatic firearms. The registration process involves filling out a form and providing detailed information about the firearm, including the make, model, caliber, and serial number.
Eligibility Requirements for NFA and Machine Gun Registration
To be eligible for an NFA transfer tax stamp and Machine Gun Registration, you must meet certain requirements:
• Age: You must be at least 21 years old to purchase or own a fully automatic rifle.
• Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen to purchase or own a fully automatic rifle.
• Background Check: You must pass a background check conducted by the FBI.
• Not Convicted of a Felony: You must not have been convicted of a felony or other serious crimes.
• Not Under a Restraining Order: You must not be subject to a restraining order that prohibits you from possessing firearms.
Application Process for NFA Transfer Tax Stamp and Machine Gun Registration
The application process for an NFA transfer tax stamp and Machine Gun Registration is as follows:
- Fill Out the Form: Fill out the form 4, which is the application form for an NFA transfer tax stamp and Machine Gun Registration.
- Provide Supporting Documents: Provide supporting documents, including proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of address.
- Background Check: Pass a background check conducted by the FBI.
- ATF Inspection: Pass an inspection by the ATF to ensure that the firearm is not modified to fire more rounds than originally intended.
- Payment of the Transfer Tax: Pay the transfer tax, which is currently set at $200 per firearm.
- Waiting Period: Wait for the transfer tax stamp to be issued, which can take several weeks to several months.
Table: NFA Transfer Tax Stamp and Machine Gun Registration Process
| Step | Description | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Fill Out the Form | Fill out the form 4 | 1-2 weeks |
| Provide Supporting Documents | Provide proof of identity, citizenship, and address | 1-2 weeks |
| Background Check | Pass a background check conducted by the FBI | 3-10 days |
| ATF Inspection | Pass an inspection by the ATF | 1-2 weeks |
| Payment of the Transfer Tax | Pay the transfer tax, which is currently set at $200 per firearm | 1-2 weeks |
| Waiting Period | Wait for the transfer tax stamp to be issued | 6-24 weeks |
Conclusion
In conclusion, owning a fully automatic rifle in the United States is heavily regulated and requires a significant amount of documentation and background checks. The two types of licenses required are an NFA transfer tax stamp and a Machine Gun Registration with the ATF. The eligibility requirements, application process, and timeframe for obtaining these licenses are outlined in this article.
