03 FFL Disposal Question

[JAA]

I received my C&R 03 in the mail the other day. I have not gotten the information pack yet, I did some searching but no solid answers. I have stumbled accross a deal I am seriously considering. I have an opportunity to trade up three guns for one. I collect 1st Gen Colt SAA's so we are talking about a sizable amount of money, thats why I would be trading 3 lesser condition SAA's for one high condition SAA. The gun is currently in an out of state gunshop, so I am wondering if this is acceptable to do trades to upgrade my collection. I certainly do not want to do anything wrong being a licscened collector. If anyone has some insight I would appreciate it. Thanks in advance!

[ke6guj]

You are allowed to buy and sell in order to improve your collection. I don't see any difference between selling and trading off a handgun.

this is how ATF explains it,

Q: Does a license as a collector of curio or relic firearms authorize the collector to engage in the business of dealing in curios or relics?
No. A collector’s license only enables the collector to transport, ship, receive, and acquire curios and relics in interstate or foreign commerce, and to make disposition of curios and relics in interstate or foreign commerce, to any other licensee, for the period stated on the license. A collector’s license does not authorize the collector to engage in a business required to be licensed under the Act. Therefore, if the acquisitions and dispositions of curios and relics by a collector brings the collector within the definition of a manufacturer, importer, or dealer, he shall qualify as such. A dealer’s license must be obtained to engage in the business of dealing in any firearms, including curios or relics.

[18 U.S.C. 922(a) and 923(a)(1), 27 CFR 478.41(c)(d)]

[EOD Guy]

When were these Colts made? If it was before 1899, your 03 FFL won't come into play since they would be antiques. There would be no need to go through a dealer or to log into or out of your bound book.