Lead Bunker
ATF Form 4473 — what to know before you buy
Every firearm purchase from a licensed dealer requires Form 4473. Here's what it is, what you need to bring, and how to come prepared so the process is quick and smooth.
Form 4473 in plain language
The ATF Form 4473 (Firearms Transaction Record) is the federal form every licensed firearm dealer (FFL) is required to fill out for every firearm purchase or transfer. It records who you are, what firearm you\'re buying or receiving, and confirms you legally qualify to own a firearm under federal law. It\'s also the document we keep on file to satisfy ATF audits.
You cannot fill the form out in advance and bring it in. Federal law requires the form to be completed in person, with our staff present, and signed at the time of transfer. There\'s no way around that — but you can absolutely come prepared so it only takes a few minutes.
What to bring
Required documents
- Valid government-issued photo ID with your current address. Driver\'s license, state ID, or passport (plus a utility bill or other proof of current address if your ID is out of date).
- If you\'re a Michigan CPL holder: bring your CPL card. It can streamline the NICS portion of the transfer.
- If your purchase is a transfer: bring the seller information you have, including any reference numbers you were given.
- For an out-of-state transfer to Lead Bunker: the shipping label / FedEx or UPS tracking confirmation. Most outside transfers arrive 3-5 business days after the sending FFL ships.
Information you\'ll be asked for
The form asks for personal information, plus a series of yes/no questions. Knowing what\'s coming makes the form fly by:
- Full legal name, current address, date of birth, height/weight, citizenship, and county of residence
- Social Security number (optional but reduces NICS delays)
- Race & ethnicity (federally required questions)
- Confirmation that you are the actual purchaser (not buying for someone else — known as a "straw purchase" if you are)
- A series of yes/no eligibility questions covering felony convictions, restraining orders, controlled substance use, mental health adjudications, citizenship status, and dishonorable discharge
Review the form ahead of time
Looking at the form before you arrive isn\'t required, but it\'s a smart move — especially if it\'s your first purchase. The ATF publishes the current form publicly.
ATF Form 4473 (PDF)
The official current ATF Form 4473. Download to review before you arrive — but remember, the form must be filled out in person at the FFL.
atf.gov →Who can purchase a firearm
The ATF\'s FAQ on federal eligibility. Worth reviewing if you have any uncertainty about whether you qualify.
atf.gov →About NICS
The National Instant Criminal Background Check System — what we run during the transfer. Most checks clear in minutes; some are delayed up to 3 business days.
fbi.gov →The process, start to finish
- You arrive and present your ID. We confirm your identity matches the firearm on file (for a transfer) or your reservation (for an in-store purchase).
- You fill out Form 4473 at the counter. Pencil/pen, in person, signed in our presence. Allow about 10 minutes.
- We run the NICS background check. Most of the time, you get an answer in 3-5 minutes. "Proceed" means you\'re cleared.
- If you get "Delayed": federal law allows up to 3 business days for NICS to respond. We\'ll hold the firearm and contact you when there\'s a decision.
- If "Denied": we cannot complete the transfer. You can appeal directly with the FBI — we cannot release the firearm regardless.
- Payment and pickup. Once cleared, the firearm and any included accessories transfer to you. You take it home in a case (we have cases available if you didn\'t bring one).
Questions specific to your situation? Get in touch — we\'d rather answer them up front than have you show up unsure.