General Firearms Information for Arizona
Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Arizona?
No. Arizona does not require a permit to purchase rifles, shotguns, or handguns. However, buyers must pass a federal background check (unless exempt, such as with a valid Arizona CCW permit).
Do I need a background check to buy a firearm?
Yes. Federal law requires a background check through NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System) for most purchases from licensed dealers. Exceptions exist for Arizona CCW holders.
Can I carry a concealed weapon without a permit?
Yes. Arizona is a “constitutional carry” state. Anyone 21+ can carry concealed without a permit, provided they’re legally allowed to possess a firearm.
Can I open carry a firearm in Arizona?
Yes. Open carry is legal for individuals 18 or older who are legally allowed to possess a firearm.
What are the age requirements to buy a firearm?
- Handguns: 21+ (from an FFL dealer)
- Rifles/Shotguns: 18+
Do you sell to out-of-state residents?
Yes, but only for long guns (rifles/shotguns), and the sale must comply with both Arizona and the buyer’s home state laws. Handguns must be shipped to an FFL in the buyer’s home state.
What do I need to bring to buy a gun?
- A valid government-issued photo ID with a current Arizona address.
- If using an Arizona CCW permit to bypass the background check, bring that too.
Do you handle firearm transfers?
Yes. Many shops facilitate FFL transfers for guns purchased online. A transfer fee and 4473 form and background check will apply.
Fees:
- Regular firearms (rifle, pistol or shotgun) $60 without AZ CWP, $40 with valid AZ CWP
- NFA items from a 3rd Party FFL – $150 per item (not including the $200 tax stamp payable to BATFE)
- NFA Items purchased through Silencer Shop – We are a Silencer Shop PowerBy dealer and any items purchased through SIlencerShop already have a pre-negotiated transfer fee covered by SilencerShop. The customer will still need to pay the $200 tax stamp to BATFE.
Do you offer layaway or financing options?
LRK Mechanical does NOT offer financing. However, many on-line transfer FFL’s do offer layaway or partner with financing companies (like Credova or Sezzle). Terms vary by retailer.
Can I buy ammunition without a background check?
Yes. Arizona does not require a background check to purchase ammunition, and there are no special ID or permit requirements for ammo purchases.
FAQs for NFA/Class 3 Firearms in Arizona
What are NFA or Class 3 firearms?
These are firearms and devices regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA), including:
- Suppressors (silencers)
- Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs)
- Short-Barreled Shotguns (SBSs)
- Machine guns
- Destructive devices
- “Any Other Weapons” (AOWs)
Can civilians legally own NFA items in Arizona?
Yes. Arizona allows civilian ownership of NFA items, as long as they comply with federal regulations (ATF Form 4, tax stamp, background check, etc.).
What is a tax stamp and how much does it cost?
A tax stamp is required for each NFA item and costs $200 (except for AOWs, which are $5). It’s a one-time fee paid to the ATF during the registration process.
How long does it take to get approved for an NFA item?
As of 2025, approval times vary:
- eForms (electronic filing): 10 – 60 days on average
- Paper forms: 3 months or more
Processing times can vary by item type and ATF backlog.
What paperwork is required to buy an NFA item?
- ATF Form 4
- Fingerprints
- Passport-style photo
- Responsible persons questionnaire (for trusts/entities)
- $200 payment (tax stamp)
- Background check by the ATF
- Note, we process all of our NFA transfers through Silencer Shop Kiosk eFile
Should I register as an individual, trust, or corporation?
- Individual: Simplest process; one person owns the item.
- Trust: Allows multiple people to legally possess/use the item.
- Corporation/LLC: Legal entities can own items but must maintain active status.
A gun trust is often recommended for estate planning and shared use scenarios.
Can I use a suppressor or SBR while I’m waiting for approval?
No. You cannot take possession or use an NFA item until the ATF returns an approved Form 4 with the tax stamp.
Can I travel with NFA items?
- Suppressors and SBRs: Legal to transport within Arizona, but check laws in other states.
- Machine guns, SBSs, and DDs: You must notify the ATF before transporting them across state lines (ATF Form 5320.20).
Can I build my own SBR or suppressor?
Yes, but you must first submit ATF Form 1, pay the $200 tax, and wait for approval before building or modifying the firearm.
What happens to my NFA items when I die?
If owned as an individual, your heirs must file an ATF Form 5 for tax-free transfer. This only applies to NAMED heirs. If owned in a trust, the successor trustee can manage and transfer them according to the trust terms.