FAQs
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Getting started
What is Gunwise?
Gunwise is a firearms compliance and education platform. We help FFLs and responsible gun owners stay compliant with federal and state rules through training and tools.
Who is Gunwise for?
We are mainly for FFLs ,and individual gun owners who want clear, up to date guidance.
Is Gunwise a law firm or does it provide legal advice?
No. Our content and tools are informational only. Always verify requirements with official sources or a qualified attorney.
Is Gunwise Free?
Yes our content is free and will always remain free. We offer ad free memberships to help offset the cost of running the website.
Account/Profile
Do I need an account?
Creating an account lets you enroll in courses, track certificates, save firearms to your Vault, and access other member features.
Can I remove ads?
Yes, use the “Go Ad Free” option shown on the site.
How to edit my profile?
Once you sign up for the website, you can click on your login and from the drop down you can select settings, or you can get there from your account dashboard.
Can i add an avatar?
Yes. You can add an avatar by editing your profile.
Courses and Certification
What kinds of courses do you offer?
Popular topics include Form 4473 essentials, ATF bound book practices, and storage/recordkeeping, designed to promote compliance with ATF and NFA regulations
Are the courses free?
All courses are free and are updated to reflect current regulations and best practices.
Do I get a certificate?
Yes. Completing a course awards a certificate you can download/print.
How do you ensure quality in the training?
Courses include quizzes and a learner dashboard to help reinforce and track progress.
Restricted Firearms Database
What is the Firearm Lookup tool?
A database that helps you check whether a specific make/model is restricted in a chosen state aimed at keeping owners and FFLs compliant with state-level rules.
How do I search?
Enter a UPC or MPN, select a state, and (optionally) apply filters like type, caliber, manufacturer, or status.
What does “No status” mean?
The firearm exists in our database but hasn’t been classified for that jurisdiction yet.
How do I request a classification or correction?
Click the Report button next to “No status” entries, or use the linked form if the firearm isn’t in our database.
What is the Vault?
A personal list of your firearms so you can receive updates if a status changes in your state; it also powers a travel planner to preview restrictions along your route.
Why might a firearm be allowed in my state but banned in my county (or vice-versa)?
We classify at the state level. Some localities impose additional rules, always check local ordinances.
State Gun Laws Map
What does the map show?
A state-by-state overview with a legend (e.g., strict vs. relaxed) to give you a quick compliance snapshot before you dig deeper
Is the map legal advice?
No, use it as a starting point and confirm details with official state authorities.
Shipping Restrictions
Who is the shipping tool for?
Primarily FFLs that ship to customers or other FFLs and need a quick way to check state specific shipping limitations.
How do I use it?
Click your state to view any listed restrictions. For example, California has detailed firearm and ammo limits (e.g., CFLC requirements, no off-roster handguns, magazine capacity limits, etc.).
Do you guarantee completeness?
We strive for accuracy but cannot guarantee completeness; always confirm with official sources.