Understanding Missouri Gun Transfer Laws for Estates

1. Missouri’s Basic Firearm Transfer Rules

Missouri is known for permissive firearm laws, but that doesn’t mean anything goes:

• No state permit is required to buy, own, or sell most firearms.

• Private sales are legal between Missouri residents who can legally possess firearms.

• Federal law still applies, certain transfers must go through a licensed FFL dealer, especially if the recipient lives outside Missouri.

 

🔗 See also: Private Firearm Sales – What Professionals Should Know About Legal Transfers

 

2. Transfers Within an Estate

In Missouri, firearms in an estate are treated as personal property. The executor or personal representative is responsible for ensuring that all transfers follow the law.

 

Options for Transfer:

• Direct inheritance to an eligible Missouri resident.

• Gift to a family member or beneficiary (if legally eligible to own firearms).

• Sale to a private buyer in Missouri (both parties must be Missouri residents).

• Sale or transfer through a licensed FFL (required for out-of-state buyers).

 

Important: Even if a firearm is being gifted, the recipient must not be prohibited from owning firearms under federal law (e.g., felons, certain restraining orders, mental health adjudications).

 

3. Federal Law Considerations

Federal law can override Missouri law in certain cases:

• Interstate transfers must go through an FFL.

• NFA / Title II firearms, such as suppressors, SBRs, SBSs, and machine guns, require ATF paperwork and a tax-free transfer via ATF Form 5 when inherited.

• Straw purchases (buying for someone prohibited) are a federal crime.

 

🔗 See also: Missouri NFA Inheritance – Rules & Process

 

4. How Probate Affects Transfers

In probate, firearms must be listed as part of the estate inventory. Judges may require proof that any sale or transfer is legal and documented. This is where a licensed FFL can help ensure proper records and compliance.

 

Probate courts in Missouri can:

• Approve or reject a proposed firearm transfer.

• Require an FFL sale if ownership eligibility is uncertain.

• Delay estate closure if documentation is missing.

 

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Selling to an out-of-state buyer without using an FFL
❌ Failing to document private sales, even though Missouri law does not require it, documentation protects you legally
❌ Transferring to a prohibited person without a background check
❌ Ignoring NFA rules when a suppressor or short-barreled firearm is involved

 

6. How MDRF Enterprises Can Help

• Licensed Transfers – All ATF and Missouri transfer paperwork handled.

• Certified Appraisals – USPAP-compliant with PPGS grading for accuracy.

• Secure Removal – We can pick up and store firearms safely until transfer.

• Guidance for Executors – Clear steps to prevent delays and disputes.

​

Related Missouri Firearm Guides

• Inherited Firearms in Missouri – Complete Guide

• How to Sell Guns from an Estate in St. Louis – Step-by-Step

• Missouri NFA Inheritance – Rules & Process

​

Final Word

Understanding Missouri’s firearm transfer laws is about more than avoiding penalties, it’s about protecting the estate, honoring the decedent’s wishes, and ensuring firearms are handled responsibly.

 

Whether you’re an executor, attorney, or family member, working with MDRF Enterprises ensures every transfer is legal, documented, and stress-free.

 

📍 visit us at: 6414A Hampton Ave, Suite #11, Saint Louis, MO 63109
📞 Call us 

📩 Email