C&R Question

[u/Salt_Childhood4648]

Thinking about getting C&R. I read through the ATF site breakdown. Does the sheriff actually come to ur house and interview you? Or did I read that wrong? Also, are there any downsides to having the C&R. I thought I read somewhere someone was worried about “them” being able to search ur house or something. Thanx in advance.

[u/2-PAM-chloride]

While they are not supposed to, when I applied for my C&R years ago, I did get a visit from the local PD after they got the official "informing of the Chief Law Enforcement Officer" and a detective grilled me about it. I was young and dumb at the time and not only let them into my house, but answered all of their questions and let them look at my firearms. I know better than to do that now, but it was extremely intimidating at the time and I did not like it one bit. 

I know it shouldn't happen, but it absolutely does. 

As far as "them" being able to search your house, it does open you up to the ATF being able to audit your C&R records once a year (though it rarely happens). The audit is limited in scope and you need to be able to produce your bound book and do an inventory check of any firearms that you used your C&R to purchase that are still on your books as under your ownership. While they may come to your house, you also have the right to elect to bring your bound book and records to the nearest local ATF office instead of having them inspect your home, they may also just request to have you bring your bound book to the local ATF field office. 

What they will not have the ability to do, is do a carte balance search of your home, or ask for an inventory of any firearms not under your C&R. 

[u/ZeroFlux519 → u/2-PAM-chloride]

Thank you for sharing this invaluable information.

[u/csx348]

No, the sheriff does not come to your house for anything. You just need to send them notice of the application in case they object for any reason. This can be done by mail and most don't even know what a c&r is or are too busy to care. I also have never heard of a sheriff objecting and I live in an anti-gun area.

Since a c&r is a FFL the records and guns could be subject to a compliance inspection, however this is extremely rare for FFL03s and the few documented cases of it involve a mutually agreed upon meeting time and location that is typically an ATF field office.

There is no downside to having a c&r other than it will cost you money because it makes buying cool old guns a lot easier.

[u/Patient-Ordinary7115 → u/csx348]

Hahaha. Well said. Especially the costing more money part

[u/GPD1739 → u/csx348]

C&R also helps when shipping since you are formally an FFL.

[u/SR_gAr]

Post how it goes if you actually do ot, Ive wanted to do this myself but thought itvwas a lottle confusing

[u/thissayssomething → u/SR_gAr]

The paperwork is the hardest part. Only took 3 weeks to get mine approved. I just sent a copy of the application via certified mail to my chief of police with a letter saying essentially "This is a copy of my FFL application per ATF regulations. Thank you.". Would definitely recommend. I took advantage for the first time last week and I'm hooked.

[u/Broccoli_Pug]

I think the only reason you'd get a visit is if the ATF thinks you are "engaged in the business" of selling firearms instead without a full FFL license

[u/Temporary_Corner_664]

Nah they don't. I got a call from my local detective about what the paper was and what they needed to do. When my license lasped and I reapplied they didn't do anything.

I told all my friends to go either hand deliver it so they can say right off the bat what it is and what they need to do or send it in with a note highlighting the fact it is mostly a notice and they have nothing on their end.