What is the National Firearms Act (NFA)?
What Is the National Firearms Act (NFA)?
The National Firearms Act (NFA) is a federal law originally enacted in 1934 that regulates certain types of firearms and firearm-related devices in the United States. These items are commonly referred to as NFA items and are subject to additional registration and approval requirements beyond those required for standard firearms.
Under the NFA, certain items must be registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and require federal approval before they can be transferred to an individual.
Common examples of NFA-regulated items include:
- Suppressors (Silencers)
- Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs)
- Short-Barreled Shotguns (SBSs)
- Machine Guns (with limited civilian availability)
- Any Other Weapons (AOWs) as defined by federal law
Purchasing an NFA-regulated item typically involves submitting an application to the ATF, completing fingerprinting and photographs, and receiving federal approval before the item can be transferred to the buyer. Additional federal requirements may apply depending on the type of item being purchased.
While the process involves additional steps and waiting periods, the team at USA Liberty Arms can help guide customers through the process and ensure all required paperwork is completed correctly.