Executive Summary:
What is an FFL Transfer? It is the legal process of shipping a firearm from a seller (like MCM Tactical) to a local dealer (Federal Firearms Licensee) who runs your background check. You cannot ship a gun directly to your home.
The Golden Rule: Always contact your local receiving FFL before or immediately after placing an online order to alert them.
The Cost: Expect a transfer fee from the local shop ($25–$50 average) plus a state background check fee (e.g., $15.00 in Colorado as of March 2025).
Buying Online Doesn’t Have to Be Intimidating
At MCM Tactical, we know that for many—especially women and first-time buyers—walking into a gun shop can feel like entering a secret club where everyone speaks a different language.
As a woman-owned business, we are dismantling that barrier. Buying online is actually one of the most convenient ways to shop, giving you access to inventory that local shelves just can’t match. The process is federally regulated, completely legal, and surprisingly simple once you know the steps.
Here is the “No-Judgment” walkthrough of exactly how an FFL transfer works, from our website to your hands in Elizabeth, CO (or wherever you call home).
Step 1: The Purchase (Shopping from Home)
You browse our online inventory, select your firearm, and head to checkout. This part feels just like buying anything else online, with one major difference: The Shipping Address.
Federal law prohibits us from shipping a firearm directly to your doorstep. Instead, we must ship it to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder near you.
Action Item: During checkout, you will select a local dealer. If you are in Elizabeth, CO, you might choose a local shop. If you are out of state, you find a reputable gun store, pawn shop, or home-based FFL in your town.
Step 2: The “Handshake” (Connecting the Dealers)
Once you pay, we need a copy of your local dealer’s license to verify they are legitimate.
If they are in our database: You are good to go.
If they are new to us: You simply ask them to email a copy of their license to us.
Pro Tip: Always call your local dealer to let them know a package is coming from MCM Tactical. It’s polite and ensures they don’t refuse the delivery.
Step 3: The Arrival & Paperwork (Form 4473)
When the firearm arrives at your local shop, they will log it into their “Bound Book” (a federal requirement). They will call you when it is ready. Do not just show up because the tracking number says “Delivered”—they need time to process it.
When you arrive, you will fill out ATF Form 4473. This is the standard background check form asking about your criminal history, residency, and drug use.
What to Bring:
Valid Government-issued Photo ID (Driver’s License).
Your current physical address must match what is on the ID. (If it doesn’t, bring a government-issued proof of residency, like a vehicle registration or voter ID card).
Step 4: The Background Check & Waiting Period
Your local dealer will submit your data to NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System) or the state bureau.
For our Colorado Neighbors (2025 Update):
If you are picking up here in Colorado, the CBI (Colorado Bureau of Investigation) runs the check.
The Fee: As of March 1, 2025, the CBI fee is $15.00.
The Wait: Colorado law (HB 23-1219) requires a mandatory 3-day waiting period. This clock starts when the background check is returned. Even if you pass instantly, you must wait 72 hours before taking possession.
Comparison: Online vs. In-Store Buying
| Feature | Buying Online (MCM Tactical) | Buying In-Store (Local Shelf) |
|---|---|---|
| Inventory Selection | Massive. Access to thousands of SKUs, niche calibers, and specific colors. | Limited. Restricted to what fits in their glass display case. |
| Pricing | Often lower, even with shipping/transfer fees included. | Usually higher to cover overhead of a physical showroom. |
| The “Vibe” | Shop in pajamas. No pressure. Take your time researching. | Can feel rushed or intimidating. “Counter pressure” to buy. |
| Paperwork | Same (Form 4473 at pickup). | Same (Form 4473 at counter). |
| Total Time | 3-7 Days (Shipping + Transfer). | Immediate (Subject to state waiting periods). |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What happens if I fail the background check?
A: You cannot take possession of the firearm. Generally, the shop will return the gun to us (the seller). You will typically be refunded the cost of the gun minus a restocking fee and shipping costs. The transfer fee to the local dealer is usually non-refundable.
Q: How much does an FFL transfer cost?
A: This varies by shop. “Kitchen Table” (home-based) FFLs often charge $20–$30, while large retail stores may charge $50–$75. Always ask before you ship the gun there.
Q: Can I buy ammo online and have it shipped to my house?
A: In most states (including Colorado), YES. Ammunition does not require an FFL transfer and can be shipped directly to your door. (Exceptions apply in states like CA, NY, MA).
Compliance Notice: All firearm sales are subject to federal, state, and local laws. MCM Tactical strictly adheres to all ATF regulations. It is the buyer’s responsibility to ensure the firearm they are purchasing is legal to own in their specific jurisdiction (e.g., magazine capacity limits in CO, CA, etc.).
