


The process for normal firearms is pretty simple: weld the action shut, weld the barrel to the action and fill the barrel with cement.

Certain unusual firearms require other methods to render the firearm permanently inoperable. An acceptable method of rendering most firearms permanently inoperable is to fusion weld the chamber closed and fusion weld the barrel solidly to the frame. The definition of “permanently inoperable” in 27 CFR § 478.11 is as follows:Ī firearm which is incapable of discharging a shot by means of an explosive and incapable of being readily restored to a firing condition. When is a gun no longer a gun? According to the ATF any firearm that has been made “permanently inoperable” is no longer a firearm, and no longer subject to firearms-related laws. “Deactivate” The Gun and Turn It Into Art Gun rights advocates have taken to setting-up purchase stalls outside these events, offering better prices for unwanted guns than the police and the chance of a new home for an old gun. The usually involving some sort of monetary incentive - like a cash card or store credit in return for your busted heater. These “no questions asked” events make the process of turning in your guns as quick and painless as possible. If you’re considering the surrender option, see if there’s a gun “buyback” scheduled in your town. If you’re not entirely sure of your firearm’s provenance, the subsequent encounter could get a little more interesting than you’d like. Also be aware that the police department may run the serial number of the firearm through their database to see if it’s been stolen.

Depending on the station they may even dispatch officers to your home to collect the firearm, ask you to schedule an appointment to bring it in, or simply ask you to walk in.īefore you make the call, make sure you are not a prohibited person and that you possess the firearm lawfully (check your local and state laws). They will usually be happy to walk you through the process. If you want to surrender an old gun, call your local police station’s non-emergency phone line and describe the situation. For sentimental pieces like the rifle your grandfather brought back from WWII or your first hunting rifle there are better options, but for guns that you don’t have any attachment to and just want to divest, surrendering it to the local police is the easiest solution. That said, walking into a police station and declaring you have a firearm might not be the best way to handle this situation.
