ATF Interview for FFL, what it's really like

What is the ATF Interview for FFL really like. Well not as bad as most folks seem to think.! Getting your FFL will take time, about 3 to 4 months total. So don't think it's going to happen overnight!
That being said, it's not as bad as most folks on the internet make it out to be. The interview with the ATF Agent was an absolute pleasure. It's very informative, they want you to be successful and stay out of trouble. Now they do take this seriously so don't think you can skirt the laws, nor should you even try that unless you like jail and fines. But if you simply follow the laws and take in the information they provide, you'll be just fine. Remember, they aren't out to get you!
If you need some editing or videography done, this is the place!
Madrona Video Link.
www.madronavideo.com
Record keeping kit
www.brownells.com/gunsmith-to...

[@PilotMcbride]

Great stuff mate, very informative. Your FFL carries the same weight as our Dealers/Armourers/Gunsmiths license(s) here in Oz. A good mate of mine decided to get his dealers license and I was his "Devil's Advocate" as well as assisting him getting his license. 4 or 5 separate authorities had to be convinced, including our Attorney General departments at both State and Federal levels, various safework authorities and local authorities. Yes, pages and pages of forms and procedures to follow etc etc. He got it with no problems, pretty much because if we were confused at some of their requirements we asked, and that was a big plus. When the various officers turned up for their inspections they even had transcripts of our conversations with their authority and went through them with us. Things like security storage, alarms etc, which we basically doubled their requirements, and the local cops love it because now they have local dealer for storage of confiscated weapons, lol. Over here our firearms legislation is draconian, any demerit can cost a shooter his/her license, even a discharged (spent) 22 case accidentally dropped in your safe storage area is enough, and it has happened to a couple of fellows we know, but they argued with the inspecting officer instead of the old "yes sir, no sir, 3 bags full sir". I've been shooting for well over 50 years (reloading 40yrs) - farm shooting (vermin), military, back to vermin and now mostly range but also a bit of vermin eradication. I truly enjoy watching your videos, never too old or experienced to learn new things or to reinforce known information. Many, many thanks for your work mate, truly enjoyable and informative. Cheers from downunder

[@ChevTecGroup]

The spent brass infraction is crazy to imagine for me. My shop has brass in all the nooks and crannies.

[@PKPK-rr3rs]

ATF: Do you have any pets? Me: I do. ATF: What kind? Me: *sweats umm... a Siberian -Husky- Turtle

[@jasonjackson329]

Lmfao

[@divineorder7695]

LOL 😅😂🤣❗

[@Anonymous12465]

"All for the Second Amendment" means that ATF agent would be trying to take it down from the inside.

[@joshbrock2663]

" well that depends on what the definition of "is" is. "

[@yoshireikerson771]

I guess no one remembers slick willy

[@TROLOLOLOLOL818]

If your dog isn't full of holes the ATF didn't come to your house.

[@rdsmith334]

But did your dog survive?

[@lindsayraines1060]

underrated comment!

[@lanedeabay9411]

🤣🤣

[@davidbrunner4413]

It was a close call, but he decided it wouldn't make a good 1st impression to make you want to play the game instead of saying "2A is my FFL"

[@ndavid120]

Actually did my interview today. Amazing experience. The agent was very helpful and flat out said call him first if there is any question or I am unsure about before doing it. Even this much time later, my interview went exactly as yours did

[@CS_Highlights]

My interview is this coming week. You calmed my brain. I was wondering about what it would be like. Thanks. Also thanks for the heads up on the record keeping kit.

[@robertmelendez3132]

So how did it go? Did you get it?

[@homesteadishdad]

Thank you for making this video. After searching lots of them, your's seemed to be the only one made in the last 5 years. So thank you!

[@fitdadexperiment-3eight797]

Awesome video. I’m currently in the waiting process for my first suppressor and researching a form 1 process application along with it. Came across a company who helps folks understand how to apply for the various types of applications and various types of FFL’s. I’ve been on the fence to apply for an FFL for a bit now. Glad I found your channel. Definitely a lot of info learned just from hearing your experience. I have a couple buddies who’ve gotten their FFL’s too. One has a pawn shop and the other has an FFL allowing him to purchase at dealer cost and sell for market value. Subscribed to your channel.

[@natemiller3936]

Great video very informative thanks for sharing and good luck with your business. I started reloading a few months ago after reading several books on reloading over the last few years and have always been fascinated by the engineering and processes to make firearms and really want to learn gunsmithing.

[@GorillasGuns]

Thanks for that.. I've been deliberating getting an ffl.. now I feel alot better about it. . And you got a new sub...

[@gunsnmammons]

Loved the video, very informative. I am considering applying for an FFL SOT. I appreciate the content!

[@Slinky108]

I am in the process for my class 7 now. Thanks for the insight! Good luck and best wishes. New subscriber now.

[@planeiac]

Very well done, I just applied and have been a little nervous about what to expect. Thank you.

[@gpracer270]

Thank you for the time you took to pass on this information I found it very helpful.

[@TheWaterman1000]

When I had my shop/store years ago. I was one of the trail blazers that incorporate a computer an IBM XT. Wrote the pos system that incorporated the logs that where required. A couple of agents came in conducting a trace on a stolen firearm that was recovered. Typed in the serial number hit the key info popped up and printed it out. They both looked at each other. Pulled the printed log. They opened it. Said very interesting. I also pulled out the standard bound book also. Gave a demo at a dealers meeting. Those where the days.

[@jamesalvarez8581]

Well spoken sir. As an aspiring gunsmith, this was quite informative as I'm thinking about getting my C&R license which I know is a far cry from a home based FFL, but it's a start. Thanks for the video.

[@802tactical7]

Great video very helpful. I'm trying to start the process on getting my home base ffl.

[@DE20brent06]

definitely liking the new intro. keep up the awesome videos!

[@vaughnprecision]

DE20brent06 that’s awesome, thanks for the feedback ..!

[@darthluke655]

I really appreciate this video. Planning on starting the process for myself soon. The interview was the part worrying me the most. Thank you and good luck with your business!

[@Thumbogreen]

Brennan how’s it going?

[@darthluke655]

Turn 21 in a couple months... waiting game right now.

[@itsirish9582]

How did it end up going?

[@itsirish9582]

@@darthluke655 did you get ur ffl

[@aubreyholmes1235]

Great information. Appreciate it greatly.

[@stevesmith2782]

Mine was a 2 hour dissertation on how to make money with my FFL. Never saw them again.

[@LoadsofBacon]

That intro was great, but it could have used a little more cowbell...

I loved this comment ahhh 😌 it brought me back lol.

[@517ray]

Looking to get my FFL in MI. Found this video extremely helpful. Thank you!

[@vaughnprecision]

Glad it was helpful!

[@divineorder7695]

I'd like to try for IL/IN, if possible. IJS

[@camas77721]

Hey wait a minute....”360”?!?!? That’s my neck of the woods (Normally)! Hey neighbor! Great video! Researching as much information as possible because I’d like to obtain an FFL When I move back to the area (or across the River in 530).

[@ricjohns545]

I'll never need a FFL but thanks for this vid'. I found it very interesting.

[@stillnupey02]

You check you out with the snazzy production! I've been following since you recommended that Bushnell spotting scope. Great product, I still use it. Now SWFA has a set of binos that are a similar value.

[@divineorder7695]

This is great 😊❗ Thanks for sharing.

[@ericism4796]

Great video. He has the right attitude to succeed.

[@jaynct]

I have heard the IOI interview can be long. I just got my FFL too. My IOI emailed me all the regs about an hour before he showed up. He came over basically told me to review it. He was my resource if I have any questions. I had a couple right then and there he answered for me. He has been an excellent resource afterwards, but he was literally in and out of my house in less then 30 minutes.

[@patrioticimmigrant8817]

Great video thanks. The 2nd amendment means no licenses period. Its the same as a business or marriage or concealment license. It's nobody's business but yours.

[@skm9420]

I believe in the same interpretation but the government doesn't.

[@divineorder7695]

I like that 😊❗ "Nobody's business ". Thanks

[@joerosa6045]

Awesome info.... best of luck

[@rayjohnsoniii3133]

Very informative.....thanks alot for doin this vid....

[@wayneclu91]

Great video I did my ATF interview about 18 months ago the agent could not been more helpful since I live in CA we need to have CDF Lic & city license & apply for (COE) Certificate of Eligibly plus if you plan on carrying inventory you will need a gun safe. My interview lasted about 80 Minutes & we spent about 15 minutes BSing about the scary AR-15 :) We both laugh about it a deer rifle or 22 with kill you just as easy.

[@trenttimmons5949]

Awesome information brotha.

[@woodstrekker6345]

Thanks for this.

[@ktms1188]

Down side is they now have 24/7 access to your house with no warrant needed if you residence is the same physical addressed location as your FFL.

[@555slam]

This is 6-months later, FWIW their rules say only during the office hours you gave them in your application. And you can amend that to say by appointment only.

[@jasoncentore1830]

That's basically getting raided by the SWAT team at 3:00AM.

[@Ki113rTofu]

@@jasoncentore1830 lol

[@vegas2528]

Thank you for the video Sr good information 😎😎😎

[@geraldbondoc5974]

Congrats! 👏👍

[@vaughnprecision]

Your emojis crack me up every time I see them!

[@HectorGarcia-gj1kf]

Thumbs up on the new intro.

[@jh5869]

Cool! Congratulations Brother!

[@jh5869]

Your intro is very professional.

[@vaughnprecision]

JH 586SW that’s awesome, thank you..!

[@ptriq]

Congrats, likin the new intro.

[@vaughnprecision]

ptriq hey thanks for the feedback..! Appreciate it..!

[@AreeyaKKC]

Excellent video and congrats on this milestone...reminds me of aviation. Everyone portrays the FAA as the bad guys but they are like your ATF agent and just want safety and having fun. Keep up the great work.

[@SD-gt5kc]

Congrats on getting your ffl

[@josephcarr2742]

Wish you the best good luck

[@billnwa2250]

Thanks for the info.

[@Alejo__]

Abolish the ATF.

[@borntrucker8032]

Thanks for the information

[@stillnupey02]

love the logo too!

[@ninja5672]

"They are not out there to make you fail, or make life harder." Literally requiring mountains of red tape, licenses, expense, and record keeping to exercise God-given, constitutionally protected rights. Supposedly, so they can have the ability to violate the rights of someone who's ex-gf/wife claims he punched her. Abolish the ATF.

[@EnFuegoDuo]

Exactly. The very existence of the ATF is the epitome of "out there to make you fail, or make life harder". It's amazing the mental gymnastics people go through to avoid the stark truth that totalitarianism has been here for a while, and everyone bent over and took it with a smile.

[@oofking8390]

Yesss ssssir

[@robby_skaz2167]

he is OBVI saying this on a personal level of the agent he interviewed with. I agree with the point your making but this is a rly dumb way to get it across.

[@itmann6338]

Very informative. I would like to know if during the interviewing process were you asked any technical questions or law questions? If so can you recall what they were?

[@javiercorcino1126]

Great information

[@vaughnprecision]

Thanks for watching, I hope this information helped

[@0penthaughtz]

Even though firearm businesses are basically forced to comply with the ATF, both they and firearms owners should still actively be trying to abolish them.

[@shermdog6969]

Can you record the interview? Then you can go back to it.

[@jordanestrin505]

Riight

[@GRockBlues]

I concur with your story

[@mediicfusion2297]

“They want to help you” fed moment.

[@carlmoeller56]

I was issued my FFL last week. It was a long process because I needed to get a permit from my town first. Getting the permit from my town took 3 meetings, zoning, planning then back to zoning. The process took 6 weeks. The ATF will not give you an FFL UNTIL you have a business permit form your town. Once you get that they are very accommodating. My interview was about as described by this gentleman. Tons of info. The paperwork is not that bad, just be accurate. Also, check your State regarding collecting taxes. If you name your business you will need to get a certificate from your town. Finally, you will need to establish contact with your States SLFU for backgrounds checks. Your State runs the background check, not the Feds.

[@PracticalPostMan_FLA]

A permit from your town? Even for a internet based home business?

[@carlmoeller56]

@@PracticalPostMan_FLA CT Law

[@TomFox1]

atf (AFT) is not pro 2A, do you see what’s currently going on??

[@user-oh4ko6ks6k]

Thanks for video

[@nativejuicevapors]

Can you record the interview?

[@saintsfan7991]

This is such great info, better than any other video I have seen, thank you! I have a question, do you need to notify your homeowner's insurance? Can they cancel your policy if you have a firearms business at home?

[@vaughnprecision]

Not that I’m aware of but that might be dependent on who you have as an insurer

[@saintsfan7991]

@@vaughnprecision Thanks for the reply buddy, I appreciate it. I just found your channel this morning and I instantly subbed, you seem to have a lot of great content and a good variety of topics. I'm looking forward to checking out your other videos. I'm interested in getting into reloading and see that you have a lot of content about that also, good to know. Thanks again!

[@DreadnoughtHvor]

I wonder if the process is slightly less hassle if you already have another type of FFL

[@BishezicespiceFAN]

Thank you very much . Where do I go to learn gunsmithing??

[@progmanmike]

If you were to ask him if you could record the conversation on your phone for future reference what do you think his answer would have been?

[@halfdollar86]

Congrats.

[@starfortin96]

We just went through ours for an 07 license just as you described. Told us the same thing. Fire hose is correct. In the mail now.

[@GREENGMCENVOY03]

Before interview; should i read up on the 27 CFR so when agent comes im not barraged with new info?

[@bobkarstien1248]

Can you share the link for Brownells FFL kit... Thanks

[@shanetabb9203]

Did you get a Type 07? I would like to talk with you if you did. Thanks Shane

[@lonecrapshooter6197]

How long from start to finish ? From when you mailed in your application was the interview ?

[@johnschwindt3049]

Now this is the IOI correct? Not the rank and file guy who would should up with the warrant. Not sure if it means anything, just curious.

[@OneKoolDude]

I sent in my FFL application two weeks ago, is there a way to check / follow the status of my FFL application ??

[@redraiderreloading7612]

Would it be best to buy a gun safe etc before applying for a ffl.

[@Kay_G]

I live in Snohomish County (everett) and in a condo. I just want to do transfers and build guns to sell. Will I need to be in a house? And how much does it cost? Also I heard you need barred windows security cameras and a certain size safe....? I appreciate all the info in this video THANK YOU. I'm going to go check out your company now

[@eriklorentzen6510]

Much respect for making this video. The gun community is dangerously ingrown and opposed to moderate views, so this is a much needed dialog. Im an experienced FFL manager, and have dealt with our local FFL agencies over issues from retail, shipping, manufacturing, class 3, importing firearms, etc. And my experience, including going through an ATF audit, triggered by an employee's illegal actions (that i discovered and corrected shortly after taking the job) were always cordial. they gave me their business cards, and were adamant that i could not ask them enough questions. they were always at my disposal, and were even less twitchy about things than I myself was. A great example, was a RPK we received, someones project firearm, but it included the full auto fire control group in a bag. we contacted the local ATF branch to make sure it was legal to transfer. they came by, verified the replacement receiver didnt have the third hole, and green lighted the transfer. no big deal. illegal unregistered SBR's and full autos that would occasionally just had to be surrendered by the owner, but no charges were filed for honest mistakes. (its amazing how many people build an SBR without any idea what they are doing). Every ATF agent ive ever had the pleasure of working with has been pro 2A and just out to catch bad guys. - cue the boot licker and accusations of being a government bot or troll - lol

[@venomea]

I’m a firearm instructor with llc do I still need a business license?

[@stevemiller.]

Only thing keeping me from a c&r.... I dont do interviews at all.

[@markjohnson3815]

Thanks

[@Caadran]

What type FFL did you go for?

[@GTA_500]

so from what I understood from here is that doing FFL paperwork is really a registration not just a so-called background check

[@vaughnprecision]

No, it's not the background check. It's all the information and paperwork.

[@hillbilly4christ638]

I worked for the government for 32 years. The government can take some of the most simple objectives and turn it into a complete and utter mess. None of the people have ever been in business, they do not know what it takes to make money in business and they do not understand that their job depends on taxpayers. Many of these people honestly believe they know what is better for you than you do. Bottom line, they are not your friend and may become your enemy at some point. At the time of this writing, they displayed that they are not interested in your constitutional rights. Beware.

[@dhpuls]

Great FFL info... How long did it take from start to finish to get your license? Thanks

[@vaughnprecision]

David H. Puls about 90 days total

[@divineorder7695]

90 days isn't bad at all. That sounds about the going rate. I wasn't expecting the "interview " part. Thanks for the info 😊.

[@phoenixrich149]

All I want to do is Laser cut Serial numbers and designs on guns....

[@jayboucher2310]

Im curious if the home based FFL are allowed in 1st class major cities.

[@mikeperry2561]

That's up to city ordinance.

[@placeboism]

Can a lawyer be at the interview?

[@jakearchambault8160]

What type of FFL did you get?

[@495500050192]

best video

[@user-mi1ol5ji1i]

Do they check to make sure you have all the right stuff set up, like a safe, security cameras, etc?

[@vaughnprecision]

Nope

[@H2OSensei]

Do they check to make sure you have all the right stuff in place, like safes, security systems, etc?

[@vaughnprecision]

No, not at that time. Who knows now

[@AAVIATOR481]

So, how long... from the time you decided to apply to getting the license is the typical process? Thanks!

[@vaughnprecision]

About 90 days

[@jankukura6744]

What if I want to just collect “full auto firearms” ? If I do have to have some kind of “business”,what is the easiest way to go as an business so i can just collect ?

[@m4rvinmartian]

Get a local LEO agency to hire you part-time, few hours a week.

[@truthfulconch7773]

@@m4rvinmartian I believe you are not to keep any class 3 weapons acquired while a law enforcement officer once you quit. If you do not have proper licence.

[@m4rvinmartian]

@@truthfulconch7773 Correct. Don't quit.

[@DreadnoughtHvor]

Transferable firearms are perfectly legal, as long as you pay the $200 tax stamp. They tend to run extremely expensive though.

[@HammondArmory]

Thanks for the info! I am currently going through the process of applying. Are you allowed to record the interview for future reference?

[@vaughnprecision]

I’m not sure but I don’t see why not

[@HammondArmory]

@@vaughnprecision thanks for the reply! I wasn't expecting it because video is a few years old. I really appreciated the information!

[@IrishPennant0311]

I’ve been in the industry for 10 years and have had several interactions with the ATF, including an audit. Every time they’ve been cordial and most of the time they’ve even been helpful. Definitely not the common perception the internet has of them. They want you to succeed and stay out of prison, period.

[@utvwerxoffroadfabdesign4172]

This is absolutely true! ATF IOI’s (industry operations investigators) are a super helpful resource. When I had both an FFL and FEL (for explosives) they told me on multiple occasions that they would rather have people call them and ask about what they would like to do BEFORE they do it, no matter how “sketchy” it may seem, than proceed, get caught and now not only is that person in a big mess but it’s also 10 times the work for the ATF. Their words not mine.

[@thomastran2432]

I’m looking to become a ffl. Do I have to have the office or storefront already? Before anything ? Do I have to have a office at home to do home based or just have a big safe. I know type 1 is a dealer to sell guns. I’m in California. What other ffl type should I also apply for? Gunsmitthjng one ? Is that type 3? How long was the paperwork process of sending in and operational

[@cozycare1655]

You may have to contact your agency/county. I’m in the process of starting to get my ffl license to sell. And first thing for me is to apply for a business license. This is in Hawaii and it’s a tough state on gun laws.

[@4150CHF]

Is your business based at home? If so, have you had any issues with random people knocking on your door before calling you?

[@vaughnprecision]

m hall not really. But it has happened.

[@agoristacregardens3787]

All for the 2nd, but....

[@eddiearchuleta615]

Is LLC a enough I’m opening up my firearm training business getting LLC will that suffice?

[@vaughnprecision]

Most likely but you really should talk to an attorney about it, things vary from state to state.

[@ryanspalding6252]

Excuse my ignorance, but is it possible to get an FFL if your intention is to collect firearms but not to start a firearms/dealor/gunsmith business?

[@vaughnprecision]

Ryan Spalding yes, but there are some stipulations to it. I would recommend researching the details on the ATF website, but I do know it’s possible.!

[@vaughnprecision]

Hyperborean Arms no you don’t have to do transfers. But it’s required to be a gunsmith

[@AreeyaKKC]

Look into the C&R licence for collecting guns over 50 years old. M16 and AK are in this category.

[@trevorjallen1]

Class 3 I believe

[@DreadnoughtHvor]

Yeah class threes are really easy and a good starter point.

[@patriotkieler9750]

How many years do you need to maintain the records?

[@SkiSkillsMontana]

20

[@jbell1166]

What getting an sot?