OK, I am an amatuer machinist with a bit of experience working on my own firearms. I have been thinking about becoming a part-time gunsmith to make some extra cash to support my shooting hobby.

 

Federally, I know I need an FFL. Anyone have any experience with this in NJ? Since my machine shop is in my home, that's where I want the FFL for.

 

Are there any extra NJ requirements beyond the Federal requirements for getting your FFL/becoming a gunsmith in NJ?

 

You can find just about any info you want on the web, but when it comes to getting your FFL, there is very little out there besides the "FFL kits" you can buy. I'm chalking it up to most 'smiths being old-school guys that don't spend much time on the web. Maybe it's a conspiracy :shhh:

 

Anyway, any help or experience would be appreciated. TIA-Greg

I deleted your post in gunsmithing as I didn't see the need for two threads.

 

Good luck with your quest

 

M

I don't know much about this subject, but I would bet money on it that it starts at the local level and works it's way up to federal like a 01 FFL.

 

I bet you have to have you house zoned as commercial, then probably have to have the security measures to satisfy the NJSP, and then do the process for the Feds.

 

But as I said, I don't know much about this subject, so I could be wrong.

 

BTW: Welcome to the forum!

I dont know where you are located but it might be a better idea to get a gunsmith certifcation and try to get a job working for a gun shop as a gunsmith. If you are good you will get paid good. It has been said to be a good gunsmith one must first be a good machinist. IMO,I think with all of the costs associated in opening your own setup, it wont make it worth your effort. You would probably be required to follow all the rules and regs of a regular 01 dealer and endure all of the expenses of it.

Federally, I know I need an FFL

 

The level depends on what you intend on doing. Simple repairs require a lower standard on the FFL. A smith who also manufactures by building complete firearms requires a much more intensive FFL. A friend gave his up due to the requirements and costs. He now only works on firearms or receivers supplied by the customer.

The level depends on what you intend on doing. Simple repairs require a lower standard on the FFL. A smith who also manufactures by building complete firearms requires a much more intensive FFL.

 

Agreed. Manufacturing is a whole different ball game. I'm not intereseted in manufacturing. But a smith needs the same FFL as a dealer, even for simple repairs. I don't think the Feds make a formal distinction between dealer and smith. Not sure how NJ views it.

Local zoning laws can have a huge impact on it as well.