How to Sell an NFA Class III Firearm

Sell An NFA Class III Firearm Now

If you're wondering how to sell an NFA gun, you are in the right place.
Selling an NFA Class III firearm can be a complex process, especially since these weapons are highly regulated by the National Firearms Act.

If you're looking to sell your NFA weapon, it's crucial to understand the legal requirements and follow the proper steps.

In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive guide on how to sell an NFA Class III firearm, covering topics like confirming your eligibility to sell, submitting the necessary forms to the ATF, finding an NFA Class III dealer, and facilitating your sale legally.

Written by:
Isaiah Miller
03/23/2023
6 minutes read

What is an NFA Class 3 Weapon?

First, it's important to understand what constitutes an NFA Class III weapon.

This category includes items like machine guns, suppressors, and short-barreled rifles (SBRs), which are subject to strict regulation. In fact, recent changes to ATF final rule 2021R-08F mean that more firearms may now fall under this category. Therefore, if you're selling a firearm, it's essential to confirm whether it's now considered an NFA Class III device.

Confirming That You Have a Tax Stamp

Before proceeding with your sale, you must confirm that you have a tax stamp for the NFA firearm. This stamp serves as proof of legal ownership and confirms that you've paid the $200 tax required by the ATF.
If you're unsure whether you have a tax stamp or can't locate it, it's crucial to address this issue immediately. Selling an NFA Class III firearm without a tax stamp is illegal and could result in severe penalties.

To determine whether you have a tax stamp, review any documents you received when you purchased the firearm. Typically, the tax stamp will be affixed to your approved ATF Form 4 (5320.4). If you can't locate your tax stamp or it's lost, contact the ATF's NFA Branch for guidance on obtaining a replacement.
Once you've confirmed that you have a tax stamp, the next step is to submit the proper forms to the ATF.

Want to skip the hard parts?

If you'd rather save yourself some time and get a free cash offer for your collection from Cash for Arms, click “Get my Cash Offer” to get started.

Get my Cash Offer

Submitting the Proper Forms to the ATF's NFA Branch

If you're selling an NFA Class III firearm, you'll need to submit the proper forms to the ATF's NFA Branch. The specific form you'll need to complete will depend on who your buyer is.

Selling to another private citizen

If you're selling your firearm to another private citizen, you'll need to complete ATF Form 4 (5320.4) for a private individual. This form is used to request approval from the ATF to transfer and register the firearm to the new owner. It includes information about the firearm, the current owner (transferor), and the intended new owner (transferee).

**Disclaimer, the current processing time for Form 4 when selling to another individual is approximately 250 to 370 days, so if you do decide to sell to another private citizen, it will not be a quick process.

Selling directly to an FFL/SOT

Alternatively, if you're selling your NFA weapon directly to an FFL/SOT, like Cash for Arms, the process will be much faster.

In this case, you'll need to complete ATF Form 4, but indicate that you are selling to an SOT/FFL dealer. When you sell to a dealer, the typical time for approval is between 2 and 3 weeks.

Cash for Arms is an FFL/SOT dealer that specializes in buying machine guns, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), and suppressors.

We offer a legal and straightforward process for selling your NFA Class III firearms and cover all shipping costs. Plus, we pay the same day we receive your item, so there is no waiting. You will be responsible for the transfer fees to us, if applicable.

ATF Form 3 is used to transfer NFA items between FFL/SOT dealers without incurring the $200 transfer tax, but Form 4 is used when a private individual is selling (to either a private citizen or a dealer). But when selling to a dealer, your application is approved much faster.

Want to skip the hard parts?

Cash for Arms will do the heavy lifting for you, and make you a no obligation cash offer for your guns.

Get my Cash Offer

Selling to an individual in another state

f you're selling an NFA Class III firearm to an individual in another state, there may be additional steps required due to varying state laws and regulations.

In such cases, the firearm will need to be transferred to an FFL/SOT dealer in the recipient's state first, using Form 4, before being transferred to the final recipient according to state laws and regulations, using another Form 4 (but with longer processing time).

It's crucial to comply with all federal, state, and local laws governing NFA firearms during the transfer process and work closely with the Class 3 dealer involved in the transaction.

Submitting your application

To submit your application, you will either complete and submit ATF Form 4 using ATF e-Forms or by printing and mailing the form. The ATF will review the application, conduct background checks, and verify all necessary information before approving the transfer. If you're selling to an FFL/SOT buyer like Cash for Arms, the processing time will be much shorter than if you're selling to an individual, with a waiting period of only 14-21 days.

FBI Form FD-258 Fingerprint Card Requirements

FBI Form FD-258 Requirements when transferring to another individual

When transferring an NFA item to another individual, you'll need to submit it in duplicate along with two copies of FBI Form FD-258 (fingerprint cards) for the buyer and two passport-sized photos of the buyer. The buyer must also complete ATF Form 5330.20 certifying their U.S. citizenship. Ensure that the $200 tax payment is included with the submission in the form of a check or money order.

FBI Form FD-258 Requirements when Transferring to A FFL/SOT.

If you're transferring an NFA item to an FFL/SOT dealer using ATF Form 4, you won't need to submit FBI Form FD-258 or photographs, as the background check requirements for FFL/SOT were already met.

Want to skip the hard parts?

Cash for Arms will do the heavy lifting for you, and make you a no obligation cash offer for your guns.

Get my Cash Offer

Facilitating the Sale Legally

It's important to maintain open communication with your NFA Class 3 dealer and the buyer while waiting for ATF approval. Once the transfer is approved, coordinate with your NFA Class 3 dealer to finalize the transaction, ensuring all federal, state, and local laws are adhered to during the transfer.

After the Sale: Staying Compliant

After the sale is complete, it's crucial to maintain records of the transaction and stay informed about changes to firearms laws and regulations.

Keeping a copy of the approved ATF Form and any other relevant documents will help you demonstrate compliance with all regulations should any questions arise.

Selling an NFA Item to Cash for Arms

Selling an NFA Class III firearm can be complex and time-consuming, but Cash for Arms offers a convenient option for those looking to sell their NFA gun. As an FFL holder and SOT, Cash for Arms can handle the transfer process and assist with the necessary paperwork.

The Steps to Sell Your NFA Device to Cash for Arms

To sell your NFA device to Cash for Arms, follow these steps:


  1. Contact Cash for Arms and provide information about your NFA firearm.
  2. Cash for Arms will assess the firearm and make an offer.
  3. If you accept the offer, you and Cash for Arms will complete the required ATF forms for the transfer.
  4. Once the transfer is approved, Cash for Arms will finalize the transaction and issue payment according to the agreed-upon terms.

Cash for Arms Buys Machine Guns

Soldier firing an automatic gun

As a SOT and Federal Firearms License holder, Cash for Arms is authorized to buy, sell, and transfer NFA items, including machine guns. If you have a machine gun that you want to sell, contact Cash for Arms to discuss the details and receive a purchase offer.

Cash for Arms is a SOT and a Federal Firearms License Holder

Being both a SOT and an FFL holder, Cash for Arms has the necessary licenses and qualifications to buy, sell, and transfer NFA Class III firearms.
They are experienced in handling these transactions and can provide guidance and support throughout the process.

We are a National Gun Buyer

We buy guns from ALL THE STATES! Whether you are from Rhode Island, Utah, Nevada, Montana or even Minnesota, we've got your back!

Consigning Your NFA Item with Cash for Arms' Help

Helping people sell their guns.

If you prefer consigning your NFA firearm rather than selling it outright, Cash for Arms can help with that too. Consigning your NFA item with Cash for Arms involves:

  1. Contacting Cash for Arms to discuss consignment terms and conditions.
  2. Providing information about your NFA firearm, including photos and any relevant documentation.
  3. Agreeing on a consignment fee and sales strategy.
  4. Cash for Arms will market your NFA item, find a buyer, and facilitate the transfer process.
  5. Once the sale is complete, Cash for Arms will issue payment to you, minus the agreed-upon consignment fee.

Selling your NFA Class III firearm to Cash for Arms can be a straightforward and hassle-free process, allowing you to get a fair price for your firearm while ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about selling your NFA Class III firearm to Cash for Arms, don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We are always happy to help and can provide you with the guidance and support you need throughout the process.

Due to texting laws, please confirm your birth date below to enable phone support. If you prefer not to submit your birth date, you may continue without providing your phone number.

We value your interest in our services. Due to regulatory requirements, we can only accept contact information from individuals 21 years of age or older. However, individuals aged 18 and above are eligible to sell firearms through our platform. If you are between 18 to 21 years old, please exit this pop-up and refrain from providing your phone number. Those under 18 should leave the website. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to these guidelines.

X symbol, exit image

Please verify your age by inputting your birthdate in the calendar below.

We value your interest in our services. Due to regulatory requirements, we can only accept contact information from individuals 21 years of age or older. However, individuals aged 18 and above are eligible to sell firearms through our platform. If you are between 18 to 21 years old, please exit this pop-up and refrain from providing your phone number. Those under 18 should leave the website. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to these guidelines.

X symbol, exit image
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.