Can I Buy a Gun Online and Ship It to Arkansas?
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 firearms online and ship them to Arkansas, but they must go through a licensed FFL dealer for the background check and transfer. You cannot have firearms shipped directly to your home address.
What This Means for You
Online firearm purchases follow federal regulations requiring transfer through a Federal Firearms License holder. This applies to all states including Arkansas, where the FFL conducts the background check and handles the legal transfer. Understanding this process is crucial for anyone planning to purchase components or complete firearms online.
The Detail
When you purchase a firearm online, whether from a major retailer or private seller, federal law requires the firearm to be shipped to a licensed FFL dealer in your state. The seller ships the firearm directly to your chosen FFL, never to your personal address. You then visit the FFL dealer to complete ATF Form 4473 and undergo the required background check through NICS before taking possession.
Arkansas follows standard federal requirements for firearm transfers without additional state-level restrictions on online purchases. You must be legally eligible to purchase firearms, which includes being at least 18 for long guns or 21 for handguns, passing the background check, and meeting all federal and state eligibility requirements. The FFL dealer will verify your identity and residency before completing the transfer.
The process typically involves selecting an FFL dealer near you, providing their information to the online seller, and paying any transfer fees the dealer charges. Transfer fees vary by dealer but commonly range from $20 to $50 per firearm. Some dealers may charge additional fees for handling or storage if you don't pick up the firearm promptly.
Ammunition purchases online face different regulations. Many online retailers will ship ammunition directly to Arkansas residents without requiring FFL involvement, though some retailers have their own policies restricting direct shipment. Always verify current shipping policies with the specific retailer and confirm compliance with local ordinances in your area.
Build Impact
This process adds time and cost to online purchases since you need to coordinate with an FFL dealer and pay transfer fees. Factor in FFL costs when comparing online prices to local dealers, and establish a relationship with a reliable FFL if you plan frequent online purchases.