THIS IS THE START OF THE LESSONS FOR THE 4473 THAT MUST START BEING USED BY 02/01/2024
Section A
You, as the FFL, must fill out this section BEFORE the customer fills out Section B.
We recommend that you fill out this section (whether paper or electronic) with the firearm(s) in front of you so that you can take the information DIRECTLY from the firearm(s).
Then, after this section is complete, you can pass the Form 4473 over to the customer for them to start filling out Section B. Ensure that this is complete before giving it to the customer because once the customer signs and dates the 4473, you can NOT add any more firearms to this section (a new 4473 and a new NICS check, if applicable, would be required to add new firearms).
Here’s a sample of a properly completed sample Section A, followed by instructions for each part:
1. Manufacturer and Importer (if any). Be careful here to make sure you are listing the actual manufacturer and importer (as with everywhere else). This should match your A&D records, and the names of each should come from the actual markings on the firearm (not the firearm’s box!)
2. Model. As marked on firearm (should also match your A&D records).
3. Serial Number. Take this moment to confirm the serial number off of the firearm and match it to your A&D records. If you made a mistake earlier, you can catch it now. NEVER USE LABELS OR THE BOX. Manufacturers have been known to put the wrong gun in a box.
4. Type. The type of firearm. See chapter 5 if you need help here. Acceptable firearm types are (but not limited to) pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, receiver, frame, pistol grip firearm, machine gun, silencer, short-barreled shotgun, short-barreled rifle, destructive device, and “any other weapon.” Note, this does NOT include “action” therefore things like “bolt-action, pump-action, or semi-auto” are not included here.
5. Caliber or Gauge. Take this information straight from the firearm.
6. Total Number of Firearms Transferred. This is the total number of firearms being transferred on this 4473. You must write-out the number in text… do NOT use a numeral. (e.g. “one” instead “1”).
7. Check if part of pawn redemption.
8. Check if for private transfer.