Firearms - Random Questions

10 Questions

Describe the NTN validator program

The sequencing of the NICS numbers can be verified through the NTN Validator. It is a software tool that currently allows ATF investigators to test the validity of NTNs maintain by the FFL.

What is a source area?

A source area is where illegal firearms traffickers have easy access to firearms that they can readily acquire and transport to other locations for unlawful, resale and transfer to the criminal element/prohibited persons and juveniles.

What is a market area?

A market area is where firearms acquired in a source area are unlawfully marketed and transferred to the criminal element, prohibited person and juveniles.

Tell the importance of the illicit secondary market.

The secondary market contains illicit firearms built up from illegal firearms trafficking. Gun shows and flea markets often facilitate the inventory for a secondary market of firearms.

What is firearms trafficking?

Firearms trafficking is the illegal diversion of firearms out of LAWFUL COMMERCE and into the hands of criminals and juveniles for the purpose of the three Ps - PROFIT, PRESTIGE & POWER!

Where on the ATF form 4473 can you find trafficking indicators?

Be aware of trafficking indicators, such as types of identification used corrections in item 19 or 21 differing handwriting style or ink on the ATF form 4473.

What is diversion?

Diversion is the movement of firearms from the legal to the illegal marketplace through an illegal method or for an illegal purpose.

What is lying and buying?

Lying and buying often involves the use of false ID. Schemes are frequently used to falsify place of residence.

What is passive commerce?

Passive commerce means the firearm crossed a state line sometime in its history anytime after it was made.

What is active commerce?

Active commerce means the person actually moved the firearm across state lines.

Study Notes

NTN Validator Program

The NTN (National Tracing Center) Validator Program is a crucial tool for law enforcement agencies to identify and trace firearms involved in criminal activities.

Source Area

A source area refers to a region or location where illegal firearms originate or are initially recovered.

Market Area

A market area is a region or location where illegal firearms are sold, traded, or distributed.

Illicit Secondary Market

The illicit secondary market plays a significant role in firearms trafficking, as it provides a platform for illegal firearms to be sold, traded, or distributed.
The illicit secondary market is a major contributor to the proliferation of illegal firearms, often resulting in violent crimes and threatening public safety.

Firearms Trafficking

Firearms trafficking involves the illegal movement of firearms from one location to another, often across state or national borders.
This illegal activity is often linked to organized crime, gang activity, and terrorism.

ATF Form 4473

Trafficking indicators can be found on the ATF Form 4473, which is used to record the sale of firearms.
The form includes questions and flags that help identify potential trafficking activities.

Diversion

Diversion refers to the illegal redirection of legally purchased firearms into the illegal market.

Lying and Buying

Lying and buying involves an individual purchasing firearms on behalf of another person, often with the intent to conceal the true identity of the buyer.
This practice is illegal and contributes to the illegal secondary market.

Passive Commerce

Passive commerce involves an individual selling or transferring firearms without taking deliberate action to prevent their illegal use or diversion.

Active Commerce

Active commerce involves an individual actively engaging in the illegal sale or transfer of firearms, often through fraudulent or deceptive means.