By Bart Sheridan

• Posted in Auction
• JANUARY 28, 2026
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Buying a Firearm at Auction: What You Should Know Before You Bid

Firearms auctions are a little different than your typical auction day — and that’s by design. As a federally licensed firearms dealer (FFL), SHERIDANS conducts every firearms auction in full compliance with all applicable federal and state laws. The process is straightforward, but there are a few important things every bidder should understand before raising their hand.

Here’s a high-level look at what to expect when purchasing a firearm at a SHERIDANS auction.

Checking In & Registering to Bid

All firearm purchasers must register before bidding. At check-in, you’ll be asked to present a valid, unexpired, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID.

Your ID must clearly show:

• Your full legal name
• Your date of birth
• Your current physical residence address
• A valid expiration date

The information on your ID must match what you later enter on required federal paperwork. Expired IDs or IDs with outdated addresses cannot be accepted.

Age requirements are set by law:

• You must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun
• You must be at least 18 years old to purchase a long gun

Residency rules also apply, and certain purchases by out-of-state buyers may require the firearm to be shipped to a licensed dealer in the buyer’s home state.

During the Auction

Firearms are available for inspection prior to bidding, and all items are sold as-is, where-is. Once the auction begins, firearms are presented individually and secured immediately after sale. Sold firearms are moved to a controlled disposition area and are not released until all legal requirements are completed.

Payment, Paperwork & Background Check

If you are the successful bidder, payment is completed first. From there, federal law requires additional steps before any firearm can be transferred.

All firearm purchasers must complete ATF Form 4473, the Firearms Transaction Record. This form verifies your identity and confirms that you are legally eligible to possess a firearm. SHERIDANS staff will review the form alongside your photo ID to ensure everything is accurate and complete.

A National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check is then conducted, as required by federal law. Depending on the response, the transaction may be approved immediately, delayed for further review, or denied. Firearms are released only when the background check is complete and SHERIDANS receives the authority to proceed with the transfer.

A Final Word

Firearms auctions involve more steps than a standard auction, but they exist for a reason — safety, accountability, and compliance. Our team is experienced, professional, and committed to making the process as smooth as possible while following the law to the letter.

If you have questions before auction day, we encourage you to ask. Being prepared makes for a better auction experience — and a successful one. We look forward to seeing you at our next Sportsman (or Firearm) auction.

This summary is intended for general guidance only; full federal firearms laws and regulations are available through the ATF at www.atf.gov.