Understanding the ATF Form 4473

The ATF Form 4473 is a document required for all firearm purchases. It's designed to gather information about the buyer for a background check. In recent years, the ATF has updated this form, retracting from its simply formatted questions to a more purposefully verbose version to intentionally confuse signees of the form into accidentally answering the questions wrong, even though they believe that they are answering truthfully. Besides the fact that the ATF and the form itself are unconstitutional, this is predatory and despicable. Here's a simplified breakdown of the form:

Disclaimer: This guide is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearms laws are complex and vary by jurisdiction. Always consult with an attorney or local law enforcement for advice regarding firearm purchases and ownership.

Section A: Your Information

• Basic Information: Your full legal name, date of birth, social security number, height, weight, and contact information.

• Residence: Your current address, how long you've lived there, and whether you rent or own.

• Citizenship: Your citizenship status. Dual citizenships and births abroad included.

• Race and Ethnicity: You'll be asked to identify your race and ethnicity.

• Identification: You'll need to provide identification, such as a driver's license or passport.

Section B: Eligibility and Restrictions Questions

The ATF Form 4473 asks several questions to determine if you are legally allowed to purchase a firearm. Here's a breakdown of the questions in simpler terms:

• Are you buying the gun for yourself? This question makes sure you're the actual buyer and not buying the gun for someone else.

• Do you plan to use this gun to commit a crime? This question asks if you intend to use the gun for illegal activities like drug trafficking or terrorism.

• Have you been charged with a serious crime? This includes felonies and some misdemeanors.

• Have you been convicted of a serious crime? This includes felonies and some misdemeanors, even if you served your time or were on probation.

• Are you a wanted criminal? This asks if you're running away from the law.

• Do you use illegal drugs? This includes marijuana, even if it's legal in your state.

• Have you been declared mentally unfit? This asks if you've been found mentally incapable of taking care of yourself or others.

• Were you dishonorably discharged from the military? This asks if you were kicked out of the military for bad behavior.

• Do you have a court order to stay away from someone? This includes orders related to domestic violence or child abuse.

• Have you been convicted of a domestic violence crime? This includes hitting, threatening, or harming a family member or intimate partner.

• Have you given up your U.S. citizenship? This asks if you are no longer a U.S. citizen.

• Are you in the U.S. illegally? This asks if you are living in the U.S. without legal permission.

• Are you a foreign visitor? This asks if you are in the U.S. on a temporary visa.

• Do you plan to sell or give this gun to someone who shouldn't have one? This asks if you intend to sell or give the gun to someone who is prohibited from owning a gun.

Section C: Certification

• Truthfulness: You'll certify that the information you provided is true and correct.

• Understanding: You'll certify that you understand the information on the form and the consequences of providing false information.

Section C: Certification

• Truthfulness: You'll certify that the information you provided is true and correct.

• Understanding: You'll certify that you understand the information on the form and the consequences of providing false information.

Additional Notes:

• Be Honest: It's crucial to answer all questions truthfully and completely. False information can lead to legal consequences.

• Read Carefully: Take your time to read each question carefully before answering.

• Seek Clarification: If you don't understand a question, ask the FFL dealer for clarification.

Remember, the FFL dealer is required to conduct a background check on you. This information will be used to determine if you are legally eligible to purchase a firearm.

https://www.atf.gov/firearms/docs/4473-part-1-firearms-transaction-record-over-counter-atf-form-53009/download