What is an FFL?

FFL stands for Federal Firearms License. Established to implement the Federal Firearms Act of 1938, there are several types of FFLs, covering various aspects of firearm transaction. All firearm manufacturers and dealers who ship or receive guns require an FFL to conduct business.

What is the NICS background check?

The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is a system for determining if a prospective firearms buyer is eligible to legally make the purchase. After a prospective buyer completes the appropriate form, the holder of a Federal Firearms License (FFL) initiates the background check by phone or computer. Most results are determined within minutes.

What is a Permit to Purchase / Transfer?

Under MN law, handgun purchases from an FFL dealer require a Permit to Purchase. After you submit the application to your local law enforcement agency, they will conduct a background check to assure you meet eligibility requirements established in state law. Once those checks are complete, a one-year permit to purchase a handgun in Minnesota will be issued. If you possess a valid Minnesota permit to carry a handgun, that permit constitutes a permit to purchase for 5 years. You don't need to apply for a separate permit to purchase.

Is the private party sale of firearms legal?

Background checks are not required under federal law for intrastate firearm transfers between private parties. In Minnesota private sales of firearms are allowed and do not require an FFL. However, the safest manner to conduct any transfer is to go to a gun dealer/store/ FFL license holder and do a formal legal transfer. The use of the FFL transfer will remove possible criminal and civil liabilities from the seller. At a minimum, any such transfer should be documented on a bill of sale for your records.

What must I do if purchasing firearms from GunBroker.com or other websites?

In order to complete an online firearm purchase, the item must be shipped to an FFL holder for completion of the proper transfer paperwork.

What is a Permit To Carry?

Under Minnesota law, individuals must obtain a permit to carry a handgun in public. There is no stipulation in the law regarding whether that weapon must be concealed. A permit to carry constitutes a permit to purchase. To obtain this permit, fill out a Permit to Carry Application and submit it to the sheriff’s office in the county where you reside. Once received, the office has 30 days to process the application. Minnesota Statutes, section 624.714, subd. 2a requires permit to carry applicants to present evidence of having received and completed training in the safe and proper use of a handgun from a certified instructor. A permit to carry is valid for five years and authorizes unlimited purchases within that time period. 

Metro Pawn & Gun follows the letter of the law when it comes to firearm transactions. This ensures that your sale or purchase of any firearm is compliant with current state and federal legislation.