Can I Buy a Gun Online and Ship It to Arizona?
Woody's answers are based on published federal and state law. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
Yes, you can buy guns online and ship them to Arizona, but they must go through a licensed FFL dealer for the background check and transfer before you can take possession.
What This Means for You
Online gun purchases are completely legal in Arizona and follow federal regulations requiring FFL transfers. This opens up access to a much wider selection of firearms than what's available locally, which is particularly valuable for builders seeking specific models or hard-to-find components.
The Detail
When you purchase a firearm online, the seller ships it directly to a Federal Firearms License holder in Arizona that you designate. You cannot have the firearm shipped to your home address. The FFL dealer receives the firearm, logs it into their bound book, and then conducts the background check when you come to pick it up.
Arizona has relatively permissive gun laws and does not impose additional state-level restrictions beyond federal requirements for online purchases. You still need to pass the federal background check and meet all eligibility requirements. Private party transfers between Arizona residents can occur without going through an FFL, but online purchases from out-of-state sellers or licensed dealers must go through the FFL transfer process.
The FFL transfer fee varies by dealer, typically ranging from $15 to $50 per transfer. Some dealers charge additional fees for receiving and storing firearms. You'll need to provide valid identification and complete ATF Form 4473. Arizona does not require permits to purchase firearms or impose waiting periods, so you can typically complete the transfer and take possession the same day assuming you pass the background check.
You should verify current Arizona firearms laws through official state resources, as regulations can change. The Arizona Department of Public Safety maintains information on state firearms laws, and you can always consult with local FFLs about their specific transfer procedures.
Build Impact
Online purchasing dramatically expands your options for finding specific receivers, barrels, or complete firearms that might not be available locally. Just factor in the FFL transfer fee when comparing online prices to local shops, and establish a relationship with a local FFL dealer who offers reasonable transfer rates.