How To Sell A Gun In Detroit

Highlights

• All private gun sales in Detroit, Michigan, must undergo a background check.
• Here’s a summary of the selling process to a private individual:
  1. Find a prospective buyer online and arrange to meet at a safe location, preferably a gun shop (with prior permission).
  2. Verify the buyer's CPL or purchase permit. They must match the buyer's ID.
  3. Go through an FFL dealer for a background check if the buyer has a CPL. No additional check is needed for those with a purchase permit.
  4. Complete the necessary paperwork (Firearm Sales Record form or purchase permit). If required, submit it to local authorities. Then, transfer the gun and receive payment.
• You can always skip the hassle of keeping track of the legal framework by selling to Cash for Arms.

How to Legally Sell a Gun in Detroit

Preemption Laws

Michigan has preemption laws. This means that Detroit can’t impose stricter gun laws than the state. Detroit follows the state law.

Purchase Permit

Before buying a gun, buyers must have a purchase permit known as the License to Purchase (LTP). If a buyer has a Concealed Pistol License (CPL), there’s no need for an LTP; the CPL will act as a purchase permit.

Residency Requirement

Only Michigan residents are allowed to purchase handguns in the state. This applies to both private sales and purchases from federally licensed dealers.

Background Check

All private sales must undergo a background check.

Buyers with an LTP don’t need to undergo another background check since the application already includes one.

However, CPL holders must still undergo a background check from an FFL dealer. Effective March 3, 2020, the ATF ruled that the CPL is no longer a valid alternative to the NICS check.

Gun Registration

Only handguns in Detroit are registered with law enforcement under state law. Long guns are excluded from being reported but still require a purchase permit.

Buyers With CPL

• Handguns. Private sellers, like you, must complete the Firearm Sales Record or Form RI-060. Submit it to a local police department within 10 days of the sale.
• Long Guns. You must still complete Form RI-060. However, you don’t need to submit it to the police. It’ll serve as proof of the transaction, much like a bill of sale.

Buyers Without a CPL

• Handguns. Buyers without a CPL must first apply for a License to Purchase (LTP). Once obtained, they present the LTP to you, the seller. Complete the necessary paperwork and submit the LTP to the local police department within 10 days.
• Long Guns. You must complete the buyer’s LTP and give a copy to the buyer. No need to submit it to a local police department.

You and the buyer can keep a copy of the form.

Failure to do this can get you fined up to $250.00 for state civil infraction.

Age Requirement

State law requires buyers to be at least 18 to get a purchase permit if they want to buy a handgun from a private seller. The age requirement to buy a handgun from an FFL dealer is 21 per federal law.

The age requirement for buying a long gun is 18 years old, regardless of whether the buyer buys from a private seller or an FFL dealer.

ID Requirement

A valid Michigan Driver's License or Michigan State Identification Card is required. The ID must reflect the buyer’s current address as well.

Red Flag Laws

Last May 2023, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a red flag law in Michigan. This means that the government can confiscate a gun from an individual at risk of harming themselves or others.

As a private seller, you should avoid selling guns to individuals who may be subject to an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO). Luckily enough, background checks are mandated for all gun sales, so you can rest easy knowing that the system will do this for you.

Waiting Period

As of this writing, Michigan doesn’t have a waiting period for buying guns, which is also reflected in Detroit. Once background checks and paperwork are completed, buyers can immediately take possession of the gun.

Transaction Limit

There are no limits on gun purchases in Detroit, Michigan.

Safety Device

Michigan law requires FFL dealers to include a trigger lock, gun case, or other safety device with every gun sale. Since private sales go through FFL dealers, you might also benefit from this.

Where to Sell a Gun in Detroit

There are other methods of selling your gun in Detroit, Michigan, other than selling to a private buyer.

Cash for Arms

You can sell your gun to Cash for Arms from home in Detroit. We offer competitive prices and handle all necessary paperwork. As an FFL dealer, our team ensures compliance with all state and federal regulations.

Selling guns to us only takes three easy steps:

1. Submit your gun details to our website.
2. Accept our offer and ship your gun to us for free.
3. Get paid in 24 hours once your gun passes our inspection.

Pro Tip: If you get a higher offer somewhere else, you can give it to us and we will beat it!

Detroit Gun Shops

Local gun shops often have deep roots in the community and a loyal customer base. Many specialize in certain guns, so it's worth researching which ones align best with the type of gun you're selling.

One major advantage of local shops is their expertise. The staff can often provide valuable insights into your gun’s market value. As an FFL dealer, they also handle all the paperwork, which can be a significant relief for sellers unfamiliar with the process.

Pro Tip: Build relationships with local shop owners. Even if you don't sell to them this time, they can be valuable sources of information and potential future buyers.

Gun Shows

Gun shows in Detroit can be gatherings of enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals. The city hosts shows annually, like the Original Gun & Knife Show.

These events can be goldmines for sellers, especially those with unique or collectible guns. They can often command prices higher than those local shops offer, particularly for in-demand models or rare finds.

Pro Tip: Networking is key at gun shows. You can connect with potential buyers or other sellers even if you don't sell. They may be interested in future transactions.

Detroit Pawn Shops

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Pawn shops in Detroit offer a quick and easy option for selling guns, but this convenience often comes at a cost. They typically offer between 40-60% of a gun’s retail value.

However, they can be a good option if you’re only after quick cash or have a gun that might be difficult to sell through other channels. Some pawn shops in Detroit have developed reputations as fair dealers in guns, so it's worth shopping around.

Pro Tip: Always make pawn shops your last resort. Other selling methods offer much higher rates.

Tips on Selling a Gun Successfully in Detroit

• Understand the law. Stay informed about current regulations to ensure all transactions are legal and compliant. If you don’t follow the law thoroughly, you might get hefty fines. The worst-case scenario could be jail time.
• Know your gun’s value. Research recent sales of similar models to set a fair and competitive price. Online marketplaces can be a good start. Cash for Arms offers free appraisals if you choose to sell to us.
• Prepare documentation. Have the gun's original paperwork, receipts, and maintenance records ready for buyers.
• Clean and maintain your gun. A well-maintained gun often commands a higher price and attracts more buyers.
• Be patient. Waiting for the right buyer often results in a better price than settling for a quick sale.
• Prioritize safety. Always follow proper safety protocols when handling and showing guns to potential buyers. How you handle your gun can also impact the buyer’s buying decision.

Conclusion

Selling a gun in Detroit requires attention to detail and knowledge of the laws. The task may seem daunting at first, but proper preparation and knowledge can ensure a smooth, compliant, and profitable deal.

If you find the process overwhelming or time-consuming, consider the Cash for Arms option. You can always contact us at (904) 977-5477.

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