An FFL transfer is the legal process required whenever you buy a firearm online or from a private seller who isn't a licensed dealer. Federal law requires that firearm to ship to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder — like Mansfield Sporting Arms — where you'll complete a background check before taking ownership. It's what keeps every purchase safe, legal, and traceable, no matter where the firearm was bought.

​

​

Here's how the process works, start to finish:

​

1. Buyer Purchases the Firearm — Whether you're buying online or from a private seller, the firearm must be shipped to a licensed FFL dealer.

2. The Firearm Is Delivered to the FFL Dealer — The seller ships the firearm to your chosen FFL dealer, who receives it on your behalf.

3. Buyer Completes a Background Check — When you pick up the firearm, the FFL dealer runs the required federal background check to confirm you're legally eligible to own it.

4. Transfer of Ownership — Once the background check clears, the dealer officially transfers the firearm into your possession.