How to Buy a Transferable Machine Gun: A Step-by-Step Guide for Collectors

How to Buy a Transferable Machine Gun: A Step-by-Step Guide for Collectors

Owning a transferable machine gun is a unique privilege for American collectors. At MyFullAuto.com, we specialize in guiding our clients through the process—making it as smooth, legal, and transparent as possible. Whether you’re adding to a well-established collection or purchasing your very first NFA firearm, here’s what you need to know.

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1. Understand What “Transferable” Means

A “transferable” machine gun is one that was registered with the ATF before May 19, 1986, under the Hughes Amendment to the Firearm Owners Protection Act. These are the only machine guns that can be legally owned by civilians in the United States (where allowed by state law). Because supply is fixed, they tend to appreciate in value over time.

In fact, over the last several decades, transferable machine guns have consistently outperformed the S&P 500 in percentage gains, making them not just collectible, but one of the most reliable niche investments in the firearms world.

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2. Choose the Right Firearm

Your decision may be based on:

   •   Historical significance (e.g., WWII-era MG42, Vietnam-era M60)

   •   Caliber and shooting experience (from 9mm subguns to .308 battle rifles)

   •   Investment potential (rarity, condition, and provenance matter)

At MyFullAuto.com, our inventory is curated for serious collectors, ensuring that every gun we sell is properly registered and in excellent condition.

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3. Confirm State and Local Legality

While transferable machine guns are legal under federal law, state and local restrictions vary. Some states prohibit civilian ownership entirely, while others allow it with certain conditions. We can help you check your local laws before you commit.

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4. Agree on the Purchase and Start the Paperwork

Once you select your firearm:

   •   We prepare the ATF Form 4 transfer paperwork.

   •   You’ll need two sets of fingerprint cards, passport-style photos, and (if applicable) notification to your local chief law enforcement officer.

   •   The firearm stays with us until ATF approval is complete.

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5. Pay the Transfer Tax

Every transfer of an NFA firearm requires a $200 transfer tax—the same tax that’s been in place since 1934. This is paid to the ATF when the Form 4 is submitted.

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6. Wait for ATF Approval

The ATF approval process can take several months. During this time:

   •   We securely store your firearm.

   •   You’ll receive updates on the status of your transfer.

   •   Once approved, we arrange for you to take possession—either in person or through your local dealer (if you’re out of state).

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7. Enjoy Your New Machine Gun

Once your Form 4 is approved and you have the firearm in hand, it’s yours to enjoy, shoot (in safe, legal settings), and maintain as a piece of history. Many of our clients also find that their transferable firearms appreciate in value over time, making them both a passion and an investment.

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We Also Buy Transferable Machine Guns

If you’re a collector looking to sell, upgrade, or downsize your collection, MyFullAuto.com buys transferable machine guns. We offer fair market pricing, handle all ATF paperwork, and ensure a smooth, secure transaction. Whether it’s one firearm or an entire collection, we’re always interested in acquiring quality, registered NFA firearms.

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Why Buy from MyFullAuto.com?

   •   Expert guidance through every step of the ATF process.

   •   Fully vetted inventory of authentic, transferable NFA firearms.

   •   We buy transferable machine guns—giving collectors a trusted way to sell.

   •   Discreet, professional service for serious collectors.

Whether you’re looking for a compact submachine gun, a belt-fed classic, or a rare historical piece, we’re here to help you make it a reality—legally, safely, and with confidence.

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📞 Ready to start your journey—or sell your machine gun?

Contact us today to see our current inventory, begin your purchase, or get an offer on your transferable machine gun.

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If you’d like, I can now make a second version of this blog post written in a faster, punchier style for use on GunBroker, forums, or Facebook, so you can reach both buyers and sellers at the same time. That would make this article work double-duty for lead generation. Want me to do that?