Can You Own a Thompson Machine Gun in the US?
The short answer is: yes, but with significant restrictions. Owning a Thompson submachine gun in the United States is legal, but it's far from a simple process. Strict regulations govern their ownership, stemming from the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934 and subsequent legislation. Understanding these regulations is crucial before even considering purchasing one.
What are the Restrictions on Owning a Thompson Submachine Gun?
The NFA classifies Thompson machine guns as "machine guns," subjecting them to a complex legal framework. Here's a breakdown of the key restrictions:
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Registration: All machine guns, including Thompsons, must be registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This involves a thorough background check and a lengthy application process.
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Tax Stamp: A substantial tax stamp is required for registration, currently set at $200. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether your application is approved or denied.
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Background Check: The ATF conducts a rigorous background check to determine your eligibility. Certain criminal convictions, drug offenses, and other factors can disqualify you.
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Waiting Period: There's a significant waiting period for the ATF to process your application and approve your registration. This process can take several months, or even longer, depending on the ATF's current workload.
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State Laws: Federal law is just the beginning. Many states have additional restrictions on machine gun ownership, potentially including bans or stricter permitting requirements. It's vital to research your state's specific laws before attempting to acquire a Thompson.
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Transfer Restrictions: Transferring a registered machine gun is also heavily regulated and involves another ATF application and tax stamp.
How Can I Legally Obtain a Thompson Machine Gun?
The process is lengthy and requires considerable patience, resources, and adherence to the law. Here’s what's involved:
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Find a Licensed Dealer: You must purchase your Thompson submachine gun from a licensed firearms dealer who is authorized to sell NFA items.
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Complete the ATF Form 4: This is the application for tax-paid transfer and registration of a machine gun. You’ll need to provide extensive personal information and undergo a thorough background check.
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Pay the Tax Stamp: The $200 tax stamp must be included with your Form 4.
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Await ATF Approval: Be prepared for a considerable waiting period—months, if not longer—while the ATF processes your application.
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Compliance with State Laws: Thoroughly investigate and comply with your state's specific laws and regulations regarding machine gun ownership.
What if I Find a Thompson That’s Already Registered?
If you find a Thompson that's already registered with the ATF, the process is somewhat simplified. However, you’ll still need to complete an ATF Form 4 and undergo the background check and waiting period. The tax stamp fee still applies.
What About Pre-1986 Machine Guns?
The rules surrounding pre-1986 machine guns are different. These are generally considered "grandfathered" and can be legally transferred under certain conditions, still requiring ATF approval and following the established regulations.
Are There Any Alternatives?
For those interested in the historical significance and mechanical operation of a Thompson without the complexities of NFA regulations, consider purchasing a deactivated or non-firing replica. These are readily available and avoid the stringent legal hurdles.
In conclusion, owning a Thompson machine gun in the US is possible but requires meticulous attention to detail, a significant financial commitment, and strict adherence to federal and state regulations. Always consult with legal counsel and the ATF to ensure full compliance with all applicable laws before attempting to purchase or transfer a machine gun.
