Federal Firearms License (FFL) requirements apply to individuals and entities engaged in the business of manufacturing, importing, or dealing in firearms, including ammunition sales. This encompasses activities like gunsmithing for profit, regularly buying and selling firearms with the intention of earning a profit, and dealing in National Firearms Act (NFA) items like silencers and machine guns. For instance, a person operating a gun store or manufacturing firearms for sale would require an FFL.
Maintaining appropriate licensure ensures compliance with federal gun laws and contributes to public safety by regulating the flow of firearms in commerce. This regulatory framework has evolved over time, reflecting societal concerns and technological advancements in firearms. A historical perspective reveals how licensure has adapted to address changing landscapes in gun ownership and commerce.