Form 4473 contains the purchaser’s name, address, date of birth, government-issued photo ID, National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) background check transaction number, and a short affidavit stating that the purchaser is eligible to purchase firearms under federal law.
This form is designed to ensure that the buyer is legally eligible to purchase firearms in the U.S. and to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands.
The form has several sections, each requiring detailed information from the buyer and the seller.
Section A: Buyer’s Personal Information and Eligibility
The first section of the form collects the buyer’s personal information, including their full name, address, place of birth, height, weight, and other identifying details. It also includes questions about the buyer’s background and eligibility to own a firearm. Questions cover criminal history, drug use, mental health status, and other factors that could disqualify an individual from purchasing a firearm. For instance, the form asks if the buyer has ever been convicted of a felony, been adjudicated as a mental defective, or been dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces.
Section B: Firearm Information
This section is filled out by the FFL and includes details about the firearm being purchased, such as the manufacturer, model, serial number, and type of firearm. This information is crucial for maintaining accurate records of firearm transactions.
Section C: Certification and Signature
In this section, the buyer certifies that the information provided is correct and that they are not disqualified from purchasing a firearm under federal law. The buyer’s signature and the date of the transaction are also required here.
Section D: Declaration of Buyer’s Intent
New revisions to the form have added questions regarding the buyer’s intent with the firearm. These questions aim to identify any potential straw purchases, where someone buys a firearm on behalf of another person who may not be eligible to purchase one themselves.
Section E: Seller’s Record of Transaction
The seller must record details of the transaction, including the type of identification provided by the buyer and the results of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check. The seller also signs and dates this section.
Section F: Additional Questions for Compliance
Additional questions have been added to comply with recent legislative changes, such as the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA). These include inquiries about whether the buyer resides within city limits and whether they intend to sell or dispose of the firearm in connection with criminal activities.
The Importance of ATF Form 4473
The ATF Form 4473 serves as a vital tool in the effort to prevent gun violence and ensure responsible gun ownership. By meticulously recording each firearm transaction, the ATF and law enforcement agencies can trace firearms involved in crimes and enforce laws more effectively.
The ATF Form 4473 is more than just a formality; it’s a critical component of the United States’ gun control framework. The questions asked on the form are designed to vet potential firearm owners and maintain public safety. As gun laws evolve, so too does Form 4473, reflecting the ongoing commitment to preventing firearms trafficking and illegal possession.
