How You Can Buy a Machine Gun (Legally)

Published on June 27, 2025
Duration: 16:34

This guide outlines the legal pathways for civilians to acquire machine guns in the United States, as explained by firearms instructor Brandon Herrera. It details the acquisition of pre-1986 transferable machine guns, the requirements for FFL/SOT holders to possess post-1986 dealer samples, and the availability of no-letter and keeper machine guns. The information emphasizes compliance with the National Firearms Act and relevant amendments.

Quick Summary

Legally owning a machine gun in the US primarily involves acquiring 'transferable machine guns' registered before May 19, 1986, which requires a $200 tax stamp and background check. For post-1986 firearms, individuals in the firearms industry with an FFL/SOT can acquire 'dealer samples,' including more affordable 'no-letter' variants, subject to industry regulations and ATF compliance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Legal Machine Gun Ownership
  2. 00:39Machine Gun Legality and ATF Statistics
  3. 01:20National Firearms Act and Video Updates
  4. 02:15Transferable Machine Guns (Pre-1986)
  5. 02:56Pros and Cons of Transferable Machine Guns
  6. 04:04Personal Transferable Collection Examples
  7. 04:29Dealer Samples: FFL and SOT Explained
  8. 06:49Hughes Amendment and Firearm Owners Protection Act
  9. 08:04Converting Semi-Auto to Full-Auto with SOT
  10. 08:24FFL/SOT Costs and Operational Overhead
  11. 09:23Dealer Samples Pros and Cons
  12. 10:14Law Letters and Their Challenges
  13. 11:00No-Letter Machine Guns Explained
  14. 11:55No-Letter Machine Gun Pricing Examples
  15. 12:34Keeper Machine Guns (Pre-1986 Dealer Samples)
  16. 14:39Summary and FFL123.com Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary law governing machine gun ownership in the US?

The primary federal law governing machine gun ownership in the United States is the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934. This act regulates the transfer and possession of machine guns, suppressors, and other specific firearm types, requiring registration and a tax stamp for legal ownership.

How can a civilian legally own a machine gun manufactured after 1986?

Civilians generally cannot own machine guns manufactured after May 19, 1986, due to the Hughes Amendment. However, individuals in the firearms industry with an FFL (07 manufacturer) and SOT can possess and manufacture these under specific regulations, including 'dealer samples' and 'no-letter' machine guns.

What are 'transferable machine guns' and how are they acquired?

'Transferable machine guns' are those legally registered before May 19, 1986. Any eligible civilian can acquire them by passing a background check and paying a $200 NFA tax stamp. They are often very expensive due to their limited supply.

What are 'no-letter machine guns' and why are they significant?

'No-letter machine guns' are post-1986 dealer samples that can be transferred between SOT holders without requiring a law enforcement letter. This exemption makes them significantly more affordable than transferable machine guns, offering a cost-effective way for SOTs to acquire post-1986 automatic firearms.

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