I Inherited a Gun: What to Do (A Step-by-Step Guide)
Inheriting a firearm can be unexpected and a little daunting—especially if you're not a "gun person." Maybe it's a grandfather's hunting rifle or a relative's handgun, and you're unsure what's legal, whether you can keep it, or how to sell it. This guide walks through it calmly, step by step.
Step 1: Make It Safe First
Before anything else, treat the firearm as loaded:
- Keep it pointed in a safe direction and your finger off the trigger.
- If you know how, safely confirm it's unloaded. If you don't, don't force it—ask a knowledgeable friend, a local gun shop, or an FFL for help.
- Store it securely, away from children and anyone who can't legally possess it, until you decide what to do.
There's no rush to make decisions. Secure it, then take your time.
Step 2: Confirm You Can Legally Possess It
Possession depends on who you are and where you live:
- You generally cannot possess a firearm if you're a "prohibited person" under federal law (certain convictions, etc.).
- State and local laws vary—some require registration, permits, or have restrictions on specific models or magazine capacities.
- Inherited firearms can usually be transferred to a lawful heir, including across state lines through the estate, but the transfer must comply with the laws of the heir's state. When in doubt, route it through an FFL.
If you're unsure, a licensed dealer or an attorney familiar with your state's firearm laws can confirm where you stand.
Step 3: Watch for NFA Items (Important)
Some firearms and accessories are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA)—suppressors, short-barreled rifles/shotguns, and machine guns. These have special transfer rules: an inherited NFA item is typically transferred to the lawful heir on an ATF Form 5 (tax-exempt for the heir), and it must be done before you take possession.
If you suspect an item is NFA-regulated, do not transfer or move it casually—consult the executor and an NFA-knowledgeable FFL or attorney first.
Step 4: Identify What You Have
To make any decision—keep, transfer, or sell—you need to know what it is:
- Note the manufacturer, model, caliber, and serial number (usually stamped on the frame/receiver).
- Gather any box, paperwork, or accessories.
- A local gun shop can help identify an unfamiliar firearm.
Step 5: Decide—Keep, Transfer, or Sell
You have options:
| Option | When it makes sense |
|---|---|
| Keep it | You can legally own it and want to—get training and secure storage |
| Transfer to family | Another lawful relative wants it (follow your state's transfer law) |
| Sell it | You don't want it and prefer cash—see below |
| Surrender it | You don't want it in your home; many police departments accept firearms |
If you keep it, treat it like any firearm: safe storage and training. New to this? Start with our beginner guides.
Step 6: If You Sell—Do It Legally and for Fair Value
Selling an inherited gun is common and completely legal when done right:
- Find out what it's worth. Sentimental value aside, see how much is my gun worth—and don't over-clean a collectible, which can lower value.
- Choose where to sell based on speed vs. money—see where to sell a gun for the most money.
- Follow transfer law. Interstate sales and most online sales go through an FFL. See how to sell a gun online and how to ship a gun legally.
A marketplace gets you the most money and handles the compliant transfer, so you don't have to navigate it alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to inherit a gun? Generally yes, if you're not a prohibited person and you comply with your state's laws. Inherited firearms can usually be transferred to a lawful heir, sometimes across state lines through the estate.
Do I need to register an inherited firearm? It depends on your state—some require registration or permits, many don't. Check your local law.
What if I don't want the gun? You can transfer it to a lawful family member, sell it, or surrender it. Selling through a marketplace or FFL keeps it legal and gets you fair value.
What about an inherited suppressor or short-barreled rifle? Those are NFA items with special rules—transfer to the heir is usually done on an ATF Form 5. Consult an NFA-knowledgeable FFL or attorney before moving it.
How do I know what an inherited gun is worth? Identify the make, model, and condition, then compare to current market prices. A professional appraisal is wise for collectible or estate purposes.
The Bottom Line
Secure it, confirm you can legally own it, watch for NFA items, identify it, then decide. If you choose to sell, you can do it legally and for fair value. Curious what it's worth? Compare current pre-owned prices on BallisticBid.
This article is general information, not legal, financial, or appraisal advice. Inheritance and firearm laws vary by state and can be complex—consult a qualified attorney or FFL for your situation.
