Legality of Bullet Casting Business

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bjs1187

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Hi Everyone, I would like some info advice. I am considering starting a business that would basically be casting lead bullets. I'm aware of the fact I need to get a class 6 ffl, and I need to pay taxes. I prefer to stay out of jail, and to not loose my house. What else should I/do I need to do? Insurance, and if so how much? Any special type? What about the EPA? What about OSHA? I assume that doesn't apply if I'm the one doing the work? Zoning? I realize I probably need to call a lawyer, but thought I would start here because I am pretty sure a few of you folks are class 6 manufactures do to some older posts I have read, and thought I might get some good info.

Thanks,
Ben
 
Why would you need an FFL to sell cast bullets?
__________________


Type 6 as you are a component manufacturer.
 
Well, that's certainly interesting. So it would be illegal for an FFL to sell bullets used to reload pistol ammo to a person under the age of 21. Yet stores like Sportsman's Warehouse never ask if the bullets are going to be used for a pistol or rifle, or for age verification, that I know of.
 
Unless you live in a rural, basically unregulated area--and even then, County regulations may be the relevant ones--the single biggest issue for you would probably be the health and safety laws governing emissions.

You might try looking over MBC's site for any historical commentary on getting running that Brad may offer.

A more realistic problem is that of finding an appropriate (as in cheaper--cheaper than the competition) source for your components, and the related problem of quantities, etc., to get the desirable price.

Finally, from what I have read about the bullet-casting business, it is also one in which there is no shortage of other entrepreneurs who are always willing to work for less than you are. So, gather your information, and I would recommend you start with the emissions controls issues.

Jim H.
 
I would recommend if you do not already have a business background, to start there, THEN investigate the nuances associated with the particular type you want to open
 
bj... after all the licenses, etc. One more thing to consider, and I'd do some research on it. Lead is bad stuff, lead fumes are bad as well. Make a point of learning how to work with the stuff in quantity day after day to keep from being a casualty of your own business. The effects won't show up until years have passed but when they do you'll be needing medical services.

Working with lead as an occupation is a lot different than casting your own bullets, in my opinion. There's probably some on this site who know more about it than me. What little I know is about the luremaking business doing lead casting....
 
So it would be illegal for an FFL to sell bullets used to reload pistol ammo to a person under the age of 21.

Where did you get this?

It is not illegal for someone under 21 to manufacture pistol ammunition or possess it.
Just for an FFL to sell it to them.
 
I would be more worried about the EPA. Lead is a toxic substance and lead particles from smoke and other emissions are heavily regulated by the US government.
 
brickeyee said:
NavyLCDR said:
So it would be illegal for an FFL to sell bullets used to reload pistol ammo to a person under the age of 21.

Where did you get this?

It is not illegal for someone under 21 to manufacture pistol ammunition or possess it.
Just for an FFL to sell it to them.

From the exact same place that requires an FFL to manufacture cast lead bullets for sale as a business. Read carefully:

18 USC 922 (b)(1):
§ 922. Unlawful acts
(b) It shall be unlawful for any licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, licensed dealer, or licensed collector to sell or deliver—
(1) any firearm or ammunition to any individual who the licensee knows or has reasonable cause to believe is less than eighteen years of age, and, if the firearm, or ammunition is other than a shotgun or rifle, or ammunition for a shotgun or rifle, to any individual who the licensee knows or has reasonable cause to believe is less than twenty-one years of age;

18 USC 921 (a)(17)(A)
§ 921. Definitions
(a) As used in this chapter—
(17)
(A) The term “ammunition” means ammunition or cartridge cases, primers, bullets, or propellent powder designed for use in any firearm.

Therefore it is illegal for an FFL to sell bullets to a person under 21 years old knowing that the <21 year old person is going to reload pistol ammunition with it, just like it is illegal for the FFL to sell ammunition to the person under 21 years old knowing they are going to use it in a pistol.

The definition of ammunition in 18 USC 921 is what requires an FFL to manufacture bullets as a business.

Questions?
 
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