Contemplating first FA purchase

[bsims]

This doesn't relate to AK's, but I am contemplating my first FA purchase, and I would like to get a feel for the usual purchase proceedures.

Do you have to submit a form 4 for a specific firearm, or is it just a generic form that I can get pre-approved before purchasing a firearm (better yet, can I get a copy it on the internet?). If not, I assume that most sellers will want you to pay for the firearm before the form 4 is approved. If so, does the seller usually hold the firearm, or are there any third parties that can do this? I guess I'm worried that I will agree to purchase a firearm and that during the many moons it will take to get approval, the seller would continue to use it, possibly causing more wear and tear than when I agreed to buy it.

TIA,
Brian

[DaveL111]

Yes, you have to submit a Form 4 for the particular firearm you are buying. And you have to pay for it up front. Most Class 3 dealers are very honest, but you can ask for the names of some other customers to check. If you buy a M11 or other Cobray gun (cheapest fun) you can always call Harvey at Cobray.com. He knows most of the reputable M11 dealers. I can recommend the SWD M11, its spits out 9mm at 1200 rounds per minute rate and is a lot of fun. cost around $1000. Next best would be a Vector UZI $2800 to $3000. Probably go with the UZI if you can afford it.

If you are incorporated I have found you can get a transfer in about a month, versus 3-6 months for an individual.

[Niko]

Get yourself a nice Powder Springs Mac 10 in .45 ACP or a nice Vector Arms Uzi in 9mm. Both guns are increasing in value and in a year or 2 trade it up to something like an AK or M16. That's what I did and it turned out to be a really good decision. I was able to learn all about the world of class 3, get used to shooting FA with an inexpensive and reliable gun, then traded up to the piece that I really wanted.