Frost said:
1. I can create a SBS or SBR without the help of a Dealer.
2. I will need the CLEO to approve then must file, pay tax and wait.
3. If I create a SBS or SBR I must engrave my name and address on the receiver.
My primary questions are
1. Where must the engraving be?
2. Can the engraving be small and unobtrusive?
3. Would a SBS or SBR created and labeled by a dealer have a higher resale value than one I did myself?
4. Will I be limited to a single length barrel?
5. What is the typical cost of engraving.
6. Where would one get the engraving done around the Chas area?
Engraving must be name and city and state of "manufacturer"... if you use your first and last name on your Form 1 then that is what you must list. If you use an LLC or any other corporate name then you must list that.
1. Must be on the receiver of the weapon, as that is the actual "firearm."
2. Must be legible. Size is irrelevant. I would advise against using non-standard script. I.E. use regular font, such as Arial or Tahoma and stay away from Gothic or Cursive.
3. Resale value would be identical unless it was a gun that you actually constructed yourself. For example, an AK SBR would be worth more if assembled from Red Jacket or InRange rather than you doing it yourself in your garage. Due to the hassle of NFA transfers don't expect to be able to resell your gun for what you paid or it unless you have something special, like an SLR-107UR, that can't be imported anymore.
4. Barrel length is irrelevant. Once the weapon is NFA titled it isn't bound by the regular barrel or overall length requirements. A Short Barrel Shotgun can wear any length barrel you want. ( Extra information: If you put a 18" barrel on it then it is no longer an NFA shotgun for the purposes of transporting it across state lines and you won't require a permission slip from the ATF to take it hunting abroad. Same thing with a Short Barrel Rifle. If you have a 7" barreled upper receiver on it all year long but decide to go deer hunting in Colorado you can put a 16" barreled upper receiver on it and fly to Colorado without filing "temporary export of NFA firearm" paperwork with the ATF-NFA Branch. Contact the ATF for clarification if you need more information or would like them to send you a letter.)
5. Gunshops generally charge more for engraving a firearm than a jeweler.
6. Call all jewelry shops and pawn shops and price check them against each other. There are no special requirements for an engraver other than being able to engrave metal.