[cashflyer]

I used to be a home based FFL licensee. Some rules have changed, so don't take my word as current gospel.

>>>Is it true that I have to be a certified gunsmith before getting a home-based FFL?
No.

>>>Does BATF pay visits to inspect paperwork and safes for the home-based guys?
Yes. In fact, they can be very unpleasant to deal with because they have a very biased view against home based dealers. My first BATF visit was unpleasant enough that I moved my operation into a detached garage. Part of having an FFL is that you must agree to allow BATF to inspect the business premises (IE: your home).

Also, the BATF requires you to "be in business". In other words, you must have some public sales each year. You can't just be buying stuff for your own collection. You must also have proper business licenses.

I'm not sure how enforceable this is, but my FFL friends say you should also have a business phone and other typical stuff that "proves" you are in business. He said you should also place an ad in the local paper once in a while. That way, even if your sales are very low volume, you can at least look like you are trying to get more sales in.