How To Sell A Gun Online

Posted on April 18, 2025April 18, 2025 by Spectrum Marketing

How To Sell A Gun Online

Selling Your Guns With SSL Firearms

Selling a firearm online should not be taken lightly – there are many precautions and actions that need to be taken in order to ensure that you are selling your firearm legally and correctly! Working with a licensed dealer is by far the simplest, safest, and most efficient way to sell your firearm online. SSL Firearms is a federally licensed firearms dealer that complies with all of the state and federal regulations, so you can be sure that you are in good hands when you are selling with us. We offer both auction sales as well as direct sale options for you.

The first step to selling your firearm with SSL is to register an account with us if you don’t already have one! To register your account, you’ll have to visit our auction site and click “Register” in the top right corner. The registration process takes place in 3 simple steps! In the first step of registration you will choose a username, password, a security question and enter your email address – be sure to choose a password that is safe and reliable, try to include an uppercase, lowercase, number, and special character into it. Next up, you will enter in your personal information like your name, address, and phone number. Last step will be to enter in your payment information – Then you will be all set with your account registration, it really is that simple! Once you have a registered account with us you are able to both buy firearms online in our auctions and direct sales, as well as sell your firearms with us as well!

The next step to selling your firearms with SSL is going to be to schedule an appointment with our team. In order to schedule an appoint please call our team at 616-432-6640 or fill out the contact form on our contact us page. Any information that you give us is helpful such as what firearms you’d like to sell, as well as what makes and models they are! We will reach back out to you and get an appointment scheduled to move forward!

After your appointment is scheduled you will have to bring the firearms you are going to sell into our location on the date of your appointment along with valid form of identification such as a drivers license, or passport. If you have questions regarding what forms of ID are acceptable, please contact us today.

When you come in for your appointment we will have a contract ready for you to sign so that we can get started! After the contract is signed there is nothing else for you to do! There is no upfront fee for selling your firearm with SSL.
Next, as the seller you will just need to wait for the auction to happen. Once the auction takes place you will just need to collect your proceeds to finish out the selling process. All commission and fees will be deducted from your net proceeds from the auction. After the auction takes place, your check will be placed in the mail generally two weeks after the auction ends.

If you are interested in exploring different options with direct sales or have other questions about selling with SSL Firearms, please contact us today! Our team is more than happy to help you in anyway that we can.
To take a look at some of our high quality firearms by checking out our existing and current running auctions by clicking here

If you would like to buy a gun directly without going through the auction process, take a look at our direct sale listings by clicking here!

Gun Cleaning and Maintenance: Essential Tips

Posted on August 8, 2023July 15, 2024 by Amanda Bowers Dan Dykstra

Gun Cleaning and Maintenance: Essential Tips for Keeping Your Firearms in Top Condition

Owning firearms comes with a responsibility beyond just safe handling and usage – proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity and performance of your firearms. At SSLFirearms, we understand the importance of keeping your guns in top condition. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through essential tips for effective gun cleaning and maintenance, helping you preserve your investments and ensure safe operation. Continue reading: Gun Cleaning and Maintenance: Essential Tips for Keeping Your Firearms in Top Condition.

1. Choose the Right Cleaning Kit

Before you embark on the journey of firearm maintenance, make sure you have the right tools. Invest in a high-quality gun cleaning kit that includes brushes, patches, cleaning rods, solvents, and lubricants. At SSLFirearms, we frequently sell a range of cleaning kits designed to cater to different types of firearms. Visit our website to see what we have available.

2. Safety First

Safety should always be your top priority. Before starting any cleaning or maintenance tasks, ensure your firearm is unloaded and the magazine is removed. Double-check the chamber to ensure there is no ammunition present. This prevents accidental discharge and ensures your safety while working on your firearm.

3. Regular Cleaning Schedule

Establish a regular cleaning schedule based on your firearm usage. If you’re an avid shooter, consider cleaning your guns after every session. For occasional shooters, a thorough cleaning every few months should suffice. Regular cleaning prevents buildup of dirt, debris, and moisture that can negatively affect performance.

4. Disassembly and Cleaning

Disassembling your firearm is a crucial step in thorough cleaning. Refer to your firearm’s manual for instructions on proper disassembly. Clean each part separately using the appropriate brushes, patches, and solvents. Pay special attention to the bore, breech, and firing pin areas, as these are particularly prone to fouling.

5. Use Quality Solvents

Choosing the right cleaning solvents is crucial. Quality solvents effectively dissolve carbon, copper, and lead fouling without damaging your firearm’s finish. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could cause corrosion or harm to the gun’s components.

6. Brushing and Patching

Use soft brushes to scrub away carbon buildup in hard-to-reach areas. After brushing, run clean patches through the bore until they come out clean. This indicates that you’ve effectively removed residue and fouling from the barrel.

7. Lubrication

Applying the right lubrication ensures smooth operation and protects against friction and wear. Use gun-specific lubricants on moving parts, rails, and contact points. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess oil can attract dirt and debris.

8. Exterior Cleaning

Don’t forget to clean the exterior surfaces of your firearm. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the frame, slide, and grips. For wooden grips, consider using a wood-specific cleaner and conditioner to maintain their appearance and prevent drying out.

9. Rust Prevention

To prevent rust, apply a thin layer of rust-preventive oil to the metal surfaces of your firearm. This is especially important if you live in a humid environment or store your firearms for extended periods.

10. Inspection and Function Test

After cleaning and reassembly, perform a function test to ensure everything is working as it should. Rack the slide, engage the safety, and check the trigger pull. This step confirms that your firearm is safe and ready for use.

11. Storage Considerations

Proper storage is key to maintaining your firearm’s condition. Store your firearms in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures and humidity. Consider using gun safes or cases to protect them from dust, moisture, and unauthorized access.

12. Seek Professional Assistance

If you’re unsure about any aspect of gun cleaning or encounter a complex issue, it’s wise to seek professional help.

In conclusion, proper gun cleaning and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the reliability, safety, and longevity of your firearms. By following these essential tips, you’ll be well-equipped to keep your firearms in top condition and enjoy years of trouble-free operation. Remember, a well-maintained firearm is a safe and reliable one. Explore SSLFirearms’ range of cleaning kits, firearms and accessories by visiting our online auctions or our direct sales website. Your firearms deserve the best care you can provide – start with regular cleaning, maintenance and purchases from SSLFirearms.

Understanding Firearm Laws: Navigating Regulations and Requirements

Posted on July 25, 2023August 13, 2024 by Amanda Bowers Dan Dykstra

Understanding Firearm Laws: Navigating Regulations and Requirements

Welcome to the SSLFirearms blog! Today, we delve into a critical topic that concerns firearm enthusiasts, collectors, and prospective buyers alike: Understanding Firearm Laws: Navigating Regulations and Requirement. Navigating the complex web of regulations and requirements can be overwhelming, especially for those new to the world of firearms. As a responsible online auction company, SSLFirearms is committed to promoting firearm safety and compliance with the law. In this blog post, we will guide you through the essential aspects of firearm laws, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions.

Comprehending Federal Firearm Laws

The first step in understanding firearm laws is to familiarize yourself with federal regulations, as these laws lay the foundation for state and local legislation. The Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) and the National Firearms Act (NFA) are two essential federal laws that govern firearm sales, ownership, and transfer.

The GCA established several key requirements, including background checks for firearms purchases from licensed dealers, restrictions on certain categories of individuals (such as convicted felons, minors, and individuals with mental health issues), and the prohibition of fully automatic firearms for civilian ownership.

On the other hand, the NFA heavily regulates certain firearms, such as machine guns, short-barreled rifles/shotguns, and suppressors, by requiring additional paperwork, background checks, and a tax stamp for ownership. Understanding these federal laws is crucial for staying compliant and avoiding potential legal drawbacks.

Navigating State and Local Firearm Laws

In addition to federal laws, each state has its own set of firearm regulations. These laws can vary significantly from one state to another, impacting aspects such as concealed carry permits, magazine capacity restrictions, and requirements for private sales. Therefore, it is essential to research and understand the firearm laws specific to your state of residence or any state you plan to visit with firearms.

As an online auction company, SSLFirearms is well-versed in the intricacies of state firearm laws, and we take great care to ensure that our auctions are conducted within the legal boundaries of each state’s regulations. Our priority is to foster a safe and legal environment for both buyers and sellers.

The Role of Background Checks

Background checks are a crucial component of firearm sales, designed to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands. Federal law mandates background checks for all sales made through licensed dealers. These checks involve screening potential buyers through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to determine eligibility. As an online auction platform, SSLFirearms requires background checks for anyone purchasing a firearm but it is not required for people selling through our auction platform. We believe that adhering to these regulations helps ensure responsible firearm ownership and enhances the safety of our communities.

Understanding Private Sales

While federal law mandates background checks for sales conducted by licensed dealers, private sales between individuals may not always require such checks. However, many states have implemented their own regulations regarding private sales, which may include background check mandates or other registration requirements.

SSLFirearms encourages responsible private sales by promoting voluntary background checks and verification processes. We believe that taking these extra steps contributes to a safer environment for both buyers and sellers.

NFA Items and Compliance

The ownership of NFA items, including machine guns, short-barreled rifles/shotguns, and suppressors, requires additional compliance with federal regulations. The process involves an extensive application, fingerprinting, background check, and the payment of a tax stamp.

As an online auction company, SSLFirearms takes additional measures to ensure the legality of NFA items listed on our platform. We carefully verify the proper registration and compliance of these items before allowing them to be auctioned, promoting responsible ownership and adherence to the law.

Understanding firearm laws is crucial for anyone involved in the world of firearms, from seasoned collectors to first-time buyers. By Understanding Firearm Laws: Navigating Regulations and Requirement of federal, state, and local regulations, individuals can enjoy their passion for firearms while contributing to the safety of their communities. As an online auction company, SSLFirearms remains committed to fostering a secure and compliant environment for all firearm enthusiasts. By adhering to required policies and promoting responsible firearm ownership, we strive to be a positive force in the firearm community.

Remember, with knowledge comes responsibility. Let us work together to ensure that firearm laws are respected and firearms are kept out of the wrong hands, ultimately making our communities safer for everyone. Happy bidding and safe shooting! Looking to add to your firearm collections or looking to sell? Look no further, click here for upcoming auctions as well as direct sale purchase opportunities.

Introduction to Firearms: A Beginner’s Guide

Posted on July 11, 2023April 26, 2024 by Amanda Bowers Dan Dykstra

Introduction to Firearms: A Beginner's Guide

Firearms have long played a significant role in personal protection, sporting activities, and even historical contexts. If you’re new to the world of firearms, understanding gun safety principles and basic knowledge is essential. SSLFirearms.com, a trusted online platform for firearms and accessories, is committed to promoting responsible gun ownership. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive Introduction to Firearms: A Beginner’s Guide, covering essential aspects such as gun safety, firearm types, basic terminology, and important considerations for new gun owners. With this knowledge, you can embark on your firearm journey with confidence and a commitment to safety.

Gun Safety

Gun safety is of utmost importance for both experienced and novice firearm owners. Understanding and adhering to proper safety protocols is the foundation of responsible gun ownership. Some key principles to keep in mind include:

Always treat firearms as if they are loaded, even when they are not.
Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
Point the muzzle in a safe direction at all times.
Be aware of your target and what is beyond it.

Furthermore, secure storage of firearms in lockable cases or safes is crucial to prevent unauthorized access, especially when firearms are not in use. Educating yourself and others in your household about gun safety practices is essential to create a safe environment.

Firearm Types

Firearms come in various types, each designed for specific purposes. The three main categories are pistols, rifles, and shotguns.

Pistols: These handguns are designed for being gripped with both hands for proper use, however, in certain situations, most hand guns can be fired one-handed. They come in different styles such as semi-automatic, revolver, and single shot. Pistols are popular for self-defense and concealed carry purposes as well as a secondary defense option while hunting.

Rifles: Rifles are long-barreled firearms with shoulder stocks. They are typically used for target shooting, hunting, and sporting activities. The most popular categories most rifles fall into are, bolt-action, semi-automatic, pump action, or lever-action types.

Shotguns: Shotguns are versatile firearms that fire shells containing either single projectiles called slugs or multiple projectiles known as shot. They are commonly used for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. Shotguns come in various configurations, including pump-action, semi-automatic, bolt action, and break-action.

Basic Terminology

Familiarizing yourself with basic firearm terminology is crucial for effective communication and understanding. Some fundamental terms include:

Barrel: The metal tube through which the bullet travels.
Caliber: The diameter of the bullet or the internal diameter of the barrel.
Magazine: A detachable or internal device that holds ammunition for feeding into the firearm.
Safety: A mechanism that prevents the firearm from discharging accidentally.
Sight: The device used for aiming the firearm, which can include front and rear sights or optical scopes.

Understanding these terms will help you comprehend discussions, product descriptions, and user manuals associated with firearms.

Important Considerations for New Gun Owners

As a new gun owner, there are important considerations beyond gun safety and basic knowledge. Some key factors to keep in mind include:

Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations regarding firearm ownership, possession, and transportation.
Seek proper training from certified instructors to develop proper handling skills and marksmanship.
Consider joining a gun club or participating in shooting competitions to further enhance your skills and knowledge.
Practice regular maintenance and cleaning of your firearm to ensure its reliability and longevity.
Invest in appropriate safety gear, such as eye and ear protection, to safeguard yourself during shooting activities.

When entering the world of firearms, it is crucial to prioritize gun safety and develop a solid foundation of knowledge. This beginner’s guide has provided an introduction to gun safety principles, basic firearm types, essential terminology, and important considerations for new gun owners. Remember, responsible gun ownership requires ongoing education, practice, and adherence to safety protocols. SSLFirearms.com is your trusted resource for firearms, accessories, and further guidance on responsible gun ownership. Embrace your firearm journey with the commitment to safety, respect, and continuous learning. Are you looking to buy or sell firearms and/or accessories? We can help – Click here for all of our upcoming sales.

Safe Storage & Background Checks for Firearms in Michigan

Posted on June 14, 2023April 26, 2024 by Amanda Bowers Dan Dykstra

Safe Storage for Firearms and Background Checks for Firearms in Michigan

In a move to address the issue of gun violence, Democratic Governor, Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, signed legislation on April 13, 2023 at Michigan State University, requiring the safe storage of firearms and corresponding ammunition around minors. The urgency to implement this law was fueled by a tragic incident that occurred two months earlier at the same university, where three students lost their lives and five others were injured in a mass shooting.

Under the new legislation, it is now mandatory for individuals to lock up their firearms in the presence of minors, defined as individuals under the age of 18. Failure to do so can result in misdemeanor charges, punishable by up to 93 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both. If a minor gains access to an improperly stored firearm and causes harm to another person, the individual responsible for the firearm could face felony charges. These charges carry a penalty of up to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. In the tragic event that a minor uses an obtained firearm to kill another person or themselves, the fines increase significantly to a potential 15-year prison sentence, up to $7,500 in fines, or both.

It is important to note that the safe storage laws do not apply to certain situations, such as ranching or farming activities, target practices, hunting, or instruction in the safe use of a firearm. Additionally, employed minors who need to possess a firearm for their job are exempt from the requirements of safe storage.

To encourage responsible gun ownership and compliance with safe storage practices, Governor Whitmer signed additional bills exempting “firearm safety devices” from the state’s sales and use tax until December 31, 2024. This incentive aims to make it easier for firearm owners to secure their weapons appropriately and protect children from accessing them.

In addition to safe storage laws, Michigan has also taken steps to enhance background checks for firearms. Previously, only pistol licenses required a background check in the state. However, the recent legislation now mandates background checks for any firearm purchase, requiring individuals to undergo a background check to obtain a license.

The legislation also includes provisions regarding military members. Military personnel on leave or discharged from active duty are required to obtain a license for their firearms within 30 days of arriving in Michigan. The new law does not affect firearms acquired before its implementation, and it does not apply to pistols handed down through a will. However, any firearms passed down through a will must be licensed within 30 days of changing ownership.

To obtain a license through a background check, individuals must meet several qualifications, including age requirements. The purchaser must be at least 18 years old, while the seller must be at least 21 years old. Additionally, the individual must not have any pending felony charges and must be a legal resident of the state, demonstrated by possessing a valid Michigan driver’s license, personal identification card, or being lawfully able to vote, among other requirements.

The implementation of safe storage laws and the expansion of background checks for firearms in Michigan are significant steps toward promoting responsible gun ownership and enhancing public safety. By enacting these measures, the state aims to prevent unauthorized access to firearms by minors and ensure that thorough background checks are conducted for all firearm purchases. It is crucial for communities to prioritize the safety of children and take proactive measures to reduce the risks associated with firearm-related incidents.

Our experienced staff here at SSLFirearms is dedicated on staying up to date and well versed in all things pertaining to the laws relating to firearms throughout the country, not just here in Michigan. If you have any questions relating to purchasing or selling firearms, please contact us here.

What Is The National Firearms Act

Posted on November 15, 2022August 13, 2024 by Spectrum Marketing

What Is The National Firearms Act

Everything You Need To Know About NFA History

Throughout American history, there have been many laws, rules, and regulations concerning firearms, some have stuck around, while others have run their course and been phased out as time goes on. The very first reference to the control of firearms actually goes way back to 1791 when the Bill of Rights was ratified and within them was stated that “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” (https://billofrightsinstitute.org/founding-documents/bill-of-rights/) This allowed for the right to keep firearms as an individual which was the beginning of the laws to follow gun control and firearms laws. Over 140 years passed before the next direct address to firearms regulation was recorded and this was when the National Firearms Act (NFA) was born. In 1934 the NFA was initially put in place as a result of the up rise in gun related crimes. Franklin D Roosevelt was president at the time and his push for the National Firearms Act was a part of his “New Deal for Crime”

The NFA placed a $200 tax on the transaction and sale of firearms. The goal of putting this tax in place was to not only show the authority of Congress, but more importantly to lessen if not eradicate the sale and transfer of firearms. A $200 firearm transfer tax was a steep price to pay in that time. In addition to the tax, the NFA also required that a person register a firearm if not done already – if someone was found to be in possession of an unregistered firearm punishment by the State could follow. This NFA seemed to be sound until a popular Supreme Court case took place in 1968 regarding a convicted felon named Miles Haynes. Haynes, being a convicted felon was not allowed to posses a firearm, and because of that, he did not register the gun to the Secretary of the Treasury to protect himself. Let’s break this down to understand the laws a little bit better – with the NFA in place, Haynes was violating the law if he did not register the firearm, but also had he registered the firearm, he would have been voluntarily incriminating himself for being a convicted felon in possession of a gun to begin with. The Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution prohibits self-incrimination creating a loophole for Haynes that the Supreme Court was at that time forced to deal with. After the case was finished and the loophole was recognized in regards to the government’s ability to put away convicted criminals, Title II of the Gun Control Act was put into place in 1968 changing the NFA forever. Title II of the Gun Control Act of 1968 amended the NFA in order to adjust the lawn and address the now obvious flaw that was brought to light in the 1968 Haynes case. Title II changes were slight but effectively changed the way that the NFA was carried out, the changes removed the requirement for a current firearm owner/possessor to register an unregistered gun. In addition, any information discovered through a NFA application or registration could not be used against the applicant or registrar in a criminal case from before or happening during the filing of the application or registration. These adjustments seemed to improve the NFA while addressing the original flaw going forward. Title II also addressed a few smaller items such as redefining firearm to include the term “destructive devices” and also clarifying the definition of “machinegun”. After some time in 1986 the Firearm Owners’ Protection Act was also put into place. This Act adjusted the definition of gun silencers as well as banned the transfer of machineguns. Of course there were exceptions made in the case of government agencies as well as with other lawful situations.
All of the above laws and regulations are monitored by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives or the ATF. We are thankful for all of the hard work and dedication that our government has put into keeping us safe through the laws and regulations that are put in place. If you want to read more about the National Firearms Act, click here to read more from the AFT.

Are you looking to add to your firearms collection? Check out our firearms auctions and direct sale listings by clicking the link below!

How to Know if an Online Firearm Dealer is a Scam

Posted on March 15, 2022August 9, 2024 by SSL Firearms Team

How to Know if an Online Firearm Dealer is a Scam

It’s no surprise that we need to take a few minutes to talk about the various scams that are out in the internet realm and the firearm industry is no different. We have been contacted by several of our buyers that there are multiple websites taking our information and scamming people into buying from their websites.

First, we want our buyers to know that we do not give out any bidder or buyer identification or information. That information is carefully secured in our database, we do not sell that information and would not sell that information to another party. Second, even though we do not sell that information, unfortunately, there are scammers out there that will copy, and replicate based off other legitimate companies and websites, which we are seeing a large uptick in these types of scams.

Here is an example from one of our customers who brought this scam alert to our attention and one of several red flags that this “firearm dealer” was not legit (Loaded-Firearms.com): They only accepted payment via cash-app or Zelle. BIG RED FLAG! As we are creating this blog, we have noticed that this website is no longer active, thankfully, but who knows how much money they have scammed people out of.

AmmoLand.com created a great article with tips on how to know if the firearm dealer you are buying from is legit or if it’s a scam. Please keep in mind these are only a few red flags, we know there are more and that is why it’s important to do your own research when purchasing anything online. Here is the link to the article from AmmoLand.com, we think it gives a good idea of what to look out for and some other websites that have been reported as “Scam Alerts” in the Firearm Industry.

Direct Link to Ammo Land Article:

Here is a statement from the owners on this matter:

“SSL Firearms is not affiliated with any other dealers or Federal Firearm Licensees and will only sell firearms and firearm related equipment from our secure location in Byron Center, MI. We encourage customers to call or email us directly if you see our name listed on any other “dealer” websites so we can continue reporting any fraudulent websites to the FTC / law enforcement. We will never ask customers to pay for items using zelle, cash-app, venmo, paypal or any other mobile payment services. We also want to make it clear that these fraudulent websites are not using any private information, but simply using our name, address, and other information listed publicly on our website to appear credible.” – Austin Miedema

SSL Firearms

Did You Know We Offer Direct Gun Sales?

Posted on February 27, 2020July 12, 2024 by Spectrum Marketing

Did You Know We Offer Direct Gun Sales?

Check Out Our Direct Firearm Sale Information Below!

Did you know that SSL Firearms is not just a firearms auction website? SSL Firearms is a federally licensed firearms dealer located in the state of Michigan in the city of Byron Center. We specialize in the sale of firearms and firearm accessories. We regularly host online auctions that are full of great, quality firearms that are available for purchase by the general public. In order to enter one of our auction, you must register an account to get started bidding, and please note that all buyers will undergo a background check before they are allowed to make a purchase.

But that’s not all we do. SSL Corperation / SSL Firearms also offers direct gun sales! That’s right! Do you want to skip the bidding and watching of auction lots? You can! We regularly have multiple direct sale firearm lots available on our website so that you can buy without needing to bid! This is a great way to purchase a new firearm without having to go through outbidding another potential buyer.

If you are interested in taking a look at all of the direct sale listings we have going on currently, please click here or click the link below!

Many of our direct gun sale items are brand new firearms and have no wear and tear to consider. If you are not ready to purchase a firearm yet, be sure to check back often as our inventory is constantly changing. To read more about SSL Firearms Direct Gun Sales!

If you have questions about our auctions, firearm sales, or direct sale listings, please be sure to reach out, our experienced team will be happy to help you with anything you might need.

Tips For Getting Your Rifles and Guns Appraised

Posted on January 3, 2020August 13, 2024 by Spectrum Marketing

Tips For Getting Your Rifles and Guns Appraised

It doesn’t matter if you are a new or old gun owner, a season expert in firearms, or the recipient of a family heirloom gun, everyone can benefit understanding and knowing the value of their firearm. By knowing the value of your firearm, it can help you immensely in the process of buying or selling a gun, as well as just simply help you understand one of your assets a little bit better. Some people will go to the lengths of even having their firearms appraised to find the true market value.
If you have a firearm that you would like to know the value of, there are a few things that you should look into for your specific gun or firearm. The value of a firearm is primarily made up of the following variables, make and model, the type of gun that is owned, the action and caliber of the firearm, how rare it is, and the condition of the gun! These are all things that with some research can give you a fairly accurate idea of how valuable your firearm is. Let’s break each of these variables down so that we can understand each one a little bit better.

Make and Model:

The make and model of your gun can play a large part in how much it is worth, whether it is a rifle, pistol, long gun or anything else, the gun itself will reflect how much was spent on producing the firearm as a whole. Some popular firearm brands that have stood the test of time include Smith & Wesson, Remington, Sturm, Ruger & Co., SIG Sauer, and more. These are brands that are well known for producing high quality, accurate, reliable firearms for use.

Type of Firearm:

The type of firearm that you own can also affect the value of your firearm. It’s possible that in whatever brand gun you have that a rifle is going to be of more value than a handgun, or vice versa! Depending on all of the other variables such as make, year, action and caliber, the type of firearm also can make a difference in the value.

Year:

Year can also play a large part in determining the value of a gun. For instance Browning manufactured firearms in Belgium until the mid 70’s when they moved most of their operations to Japan. In today’s market, a Belgium made browning holds significantly more value than a Japanese made browning. Another example is the Colt 1911. These pistols have been in production since the early 1900’s but knowing the year the pistol was manufactured can tell a story about your firearm. If your pistol was manufactured in 1942 it is considered a World War II era gun which can increase the value by thousands of dollars. Many companies including Colt and Browning have online databases that can tell you the year of your gun based on the serial number alone.

Action and Caliber:

The action of a gun refers to the part of a firearm that you load as well as the area that ejects the empty bullet casing. This could refer to a lever action firearm, pump action, bolt action, and semi-automatic. The caliber of a firearm refers to the diameter of the “bore” this is generally measured in hundredths of an inch or in millimeters.

How Rare the Gun Is:

This may seem obvious, but how rare your firearm is plays a large role in how much your gun is worth! If hundreds of thousands of the gun you own are also out in circulation, anyone could buy one fairly easily and the value of your firearm isn’t going to be as much. In the opposite way, if you own a gun that does not exist in many other places, and there are not many others out being bought and sold, you have something that holds more value and the worth of your firearm will directly reflect that fact!

Condition:

A simple concept for most firearms owners, the better you take care of your gun and firearm, the more it will hold its value and worth. If you are reckless with your firearm, the body will show it, there might be more wear and tear than normal, or maybe the accuracy and dependability has been compromised. Another factor that plays into the condition is also how many times the gun has been shot. When your gun has been well used the wear will show, even if you take good care of your firearm, there will always be wear and tear that incurs.

So now that you know some of the various variables that directly relate to the value and market value of your firearm, what are some tips that you can be a part of to see the highest value for your firearm? Many of the different things that an appraiser will look at to accurately evaluate your firearm are things that are out of your control, but there is one thing that you can control, take good care of your guns. Taking care of your rifles and firearms will definitely help them hold value. Clean them regularly, polish them, and be sure to care for any scratches or nicks that might be present. If you are going to invest in a firearm, do your research, invest in a gun that is going to hold its value, that has been proven reliable through it’s brand.

We hope that you learned a little bit more about firearms and appraisals, if you are looking for a new opportunity to invest in some new firearms for your collection, check out our latest auctions – we have tons of great, high quality guns up for auction today!

Is It Legal To Buy Guns Online?

Posted on August 2, 2019December 13, 2024 by SSL Firearms Team

Is It Legal To Buy Guns Online?

Firearm Safety In Online Sales

Many times the question, “Is it safe and legal to buy guns online?” comes up surrounding online gun sales. That question can have many different answers, but when purchasing a firearm through SSL Firearms, buying a firearm is both safe and legal. SSL Firearms is a licensed FFL dealer that complies with all state and federal regulations both in handgun auctions and in the firearm transfer process. We are very adamant that all firearms that come to us are logged into our acquisition and disposition book and are only to be sold to buyers that are eligible to possess a firearm. Gun safety is one of our highest concerns. Read through the following replies to understand why the question “is it legal to buy guns online?” will always be YES with SSL.

Some of the popular questions that are asked when purchasing a firearm online are:

1.Can a gun be sent to my house?

No, all firearms must be sent to a FFL (federal firearms license) dealer.

2.Do I need to have a background check?

Yes, all firearms purchases require a federally mandated background check to be completed at the time the firearm is picked up

3.Can I have the background check done before buying a gun?

No, the background check must be completed at the time the firearm is transferred from SSL Firearms to you.

4.Do I need to have a concealed carry permit?

No, you do not need a carry permit to buy a gun online.

5.Why does the firearm need to be shipped to a FFL?

The Gun Control Act of 1968 outlined new rules for selling and transferring firearms. As a result, it is now federal law to have all firearms shipped to a FFL dealer so the person the firearm is being transferred to can fill out the proper paperwork and complete the required background check

Prior to bidding on any of our auctions, interested bidders are more than welcome to visit us and view the firearms in person. Many people will feel more comfortable with the bidding process when they are able to see in person what they are bidding on in one of our Michigan gun auctions.

If you have questions about the firearms you are bidding on our staff is ready to answer any questions you might have. Click here to contact us today. Check out some of our other frequently asked questions, or proceed to the online auctions!