Red Flags & Warning Signs
Recognize straw purchases, trafficking indicators, and protect your FFL
You Have the Right to Refuse
You can refuse ANY sale for ANY reason. If something feels wrong, trust your instincts. A lost sale is better than facilitating an illegal transfer.
Straw Purchase Indicators
Two People, One Decision
Buyer defers to companion on model, caliber, or features. Companion provides payment or seems to be directing the purchase.
Unfamiliar with Purchase
Buyer can’t answer basic questions about the firearm they’re purchasing. Seems coached or reads from notes.
Cash from Third Party
Companion hands buyer cash just before payment. Money clearly comes from someone other than the buyer.
Nervous or Rehearsed
Excessive nervousness, rehearsed-sounding answers, or unusual behavior during 4473 completion.
Immediate Handoff
Buyer immediately hands firearm to companion in parking lot or shows intention to give to someone else.
Multiple Same-Day Purchases
Especially handguns. While legal, multiple purchases of identical firearms raise questions.
Trafficking Indicators
Bulk Purchases
Large quantities of similar firearms, especially budget handguns. Buyer has no apparent reason for quantity.
Out-of-Area Buyers
Buyers traveling significant distances to your store, especially from states with stricter gun laws.
All Cash, No Questions
Buyer pays all cash, doesn’t ask about features, doesn’t care about price. Just wants to complete the purchase quickly.
Repeat Patterns
Same buyers returning frequently for similar purchases. May use different locations or companions.
Document Everything
If you refuse a sale, document the reason. If you proceed despite concerns, document why you felt comfortable. This protects you if questions arise later.