Firearms ecommerce operates under federal and state regulations that directly affect how merchants must configure their stores and what payment processors require for approval. Understanding the compliance landscape helps firearms retailers maintain stable payment processing and avoid the sudden account holds that come from compliance surprises.
FFL Requirements and Payment Processing
The Federal Firearms License (FFL) is the foundation of legal firearms retail in the US. For ecommerce:
- Complete firearm transfers: All firearm transfers to end consumers must go through a licensed FFL dealer. Online retailers cannot ship complete firearms directly to consumers — they ship to a local FFL dealer who completes the transfer and performs the background check.
- Receiver (serialized) sales: Lower receivers, frames, and any serialized component follow the same FFL transfer rules as complete firearms.
- Parts and accessories: Non-serialized parts and accessories (stocks, barrels, grips, optics, ammunition) can typically ship directly to consumers without FFL transfer requirements.
Payment processors differentiate between these categories — most processors are comfortable with parts and accessories but require FFL documentation for merchants selling transferable firearms.
Age Verification Requirements
Federal law prohibits FFLs from transferring firearms to buyers under 21 (for handguns) or under 18 (for long guns). Online merchants must have age verification in place that prevents underage buyers from initiating a transaction. This typically involves: age confirmation at checkout, and the FFL transferee completing age verification at the physical transfer.
Restricted Items and Payment Processor Policies
- Assault weapon components in restricted jurisdictions: Products that are legal in some states but restricted in others require checkout-level geographic restrictions
- High-capacity magazines: Subject to state restrictions; checkout must block restricted states
- Suppressor accessories: Subject to NFA rules; processors may require evidence of compliance
Product Description Compliance
Accurate product descriptions are essential for firearms compliance. Avoid descriptions that could be interpreted as marketing for prohibited modifications. Don’t describe legal parts in ways that imply illegal uses. Maintain accurate state-by-state restriction notices.
Hosting and Payment for Firearms Ecommerce
Convesio’s WooCommerce hosting and ConvesioPay payment processing provide a vertically integrated commerce stack for firearms accessories and compliant firearms retailers. For merchants selling parts, accessories, and ammunition — or firearms through proper FFL transfer processes — ConvesioPay provides dedicated underwriting review. Pricing: 2.9% + $0.30, no monthly fees.
Ready to get started? Learn more about ConvesioPay or view pricing.