Filing ATF Form 1 for DIY Suppressors & SBRs

2026-01-29T16:54:49Z

172.71.190.227: /* Option A: Open Source (Free / Technical) */ Codebase temporarily obsolete

The ATF eForms system allows individuals to file a '''[[Form 1]]''' ("Application to Make and Register a Firearm") electronically. This process is generally faster than the legacy paper method. This guide outlines the steps for legally making your own NFA item, such as a suppressor or a Short Barreled Rifle (SBR).

== Step 1: Create an eForms Account ==
Create an account at [https://eforms.atf.gov eforms.atf.gov]<blockquote>'''Note''': This website is not optimized for mobile devices; a desktop or laptop computer is recommended.</blockquote>

== Step 2: Determine Item Type ==
For most DIY projects, you will be filing for one of two items:
* '''Suppressor''': For 3D printed projects (ex. OP9, FTN4) or solvent trap kits. You are considered the manufacturer.
* '''Short Barreled Rifle (SBR)''': For converting a pistol (ex. AR-15 pistol, MP5 clone) into a rifle, legally allowing you to put a stock on it. In the eyes of the ATF, you are "making" a new firearm (the SBR) from the existing one.

== Step 3: Fingerprints & Photos ==
You will need a digital passport-style photo and a digital fingerprint file (.EFT).

=== The Photo ===
A standard passport-style photo is required. This can be taken at home against a plain white background with good lighting. The subject should have no headwear or glasses.

=== The Fingerprints (.EFT File) ===
The eForms system accepts digital fingerprint files in the '''.EFT''' format. This eliminates the need to mail physical fingerprint cards. There are three primary methods to obtain this file:

==== Option A: Open Source (Free / Technical) ====
'''(ATTENTION AS OF JANUARY 1, 2026, THIS CODEBASE IS OBSOLETE. The "One Big Beautiful Bill" (OBBB Act) and the resulting ATF eForms system overhaul have fundamentally changed validation rules for EFT files.'''

'''The current Docker/Python build will likely result in a GUARANTEED DENIAL of your application. Currently in the middle of a ground-up C++ Rewrite to meet the new federal standards.)'''

<s>For technically inclined users, open-source tools exist to generate EFT files at home.</s>
* <s>'''Tools:''' [https://github.com/NoahGWood/OpenEFT OpenEFT] (and various community forks)</s>
* <s>'''Pros:''' Free, private, and open-source</s>
* <s>'''Cons:''' Requires technical knowledge (often command line or Docker) to set up and run. Requires a decent scanner and careful adherence to instructions to ensure the file is valid</s>

==== Option B: Web-Based Generators (Paid / Easy) ====
Web-based tools that simplify the process for a fee.
* '''Tools:''' [https://www.openpewproject.org/form-1 OpenPew's EFT Tool], maintained by a contributor to the FOSSCAD community (dev of the OP9)
* '''Pros:''' Fast, user-friendly, no appointments required
* '''Cons:''' Paid, 3rd party service

==== Option C: Physical Services (Retail) ====
Services like PrintScan (often located inside UPS Stores) can scan fingerprints and email the file.
* '''Pros:''' Professional scanning hardware
* '''Cons:''' Most expensive option, requires an appointment, requires travel

== Step 4: Filling Out Form 1 ==
Select "Form 1" on the eForms portal. The application is organized into several screens (sometimes called "train stops").

* '''Applicant:''' Select "No FFL"
* '''Application Type:''' Select "Tax Paid" ($200). Note: The $200 fee applies to certain NFA items; suppressors and SBRs are now exempt from this fee so you won't pay anything.
* '''Individual or Trust:''' Select "Individual" for a simpler, faster process. Trusts are typically used for sharing access with family members or for estate planning purposes.
* '''Responsible Persons:''' This screen is where you upload your passport-style photo and EFT fingerprint file.
* '''CLEO:''' Enter details for your local Chief Law Enforcement Officer (Sheriff/Police Chief)

=== Line Item Details ===
The information entered here depends on what you are making:

{| class="wikitable"
! Field !! Requirement for Suppressor !! Requirement for SBR
|-
| '''Manufacturer Code''' || FMI (Form 1 Registration) || Original Manufacturer Code (e.g., Glock, Anderson)
|-
| '''Manufacturer Name''' || FORM 1 REGISTRATION || Original Manufacturer Name
|-
| '''Model''' || Create your own, or select an existing model from the list. Note: Creating a custom model name may result in longer approval times. || Exact model from original receiver
|-
| '''Serial Number''' || Create a unique serial || Original Serial Number from receiver
|-
| '''Caliber''' || Specific (e.g., "9", "mm") || Specific (e.g., "5.56", "mm")
|-
| '''Overall Length''' || Total length of suppressor || Length with stock extended
|-
| '''Additional Description''' || Describe the build: materials, construction method, and tools. If materials are not yet acquired, state this. || N/A
|}

=== Suppressor Builds: Materials Documentation ===
After entering suppressor specifications, you will reach the '''Line Item – Electronic Documents''' screen. Upload the following:
* A sketch or diagram of the design
* Photos of raw materials (aluminum tubes, baffles, etc.)
* Screenshots from vendor websites showing materials to be purchased
<blockquote>'''Note''': If materials have not yet been acquired, stock photos from vendor sites are acceptable. Do not claim ownership of items not yet possessed.</blockquote>

== Step 5: Notify CLEO ==
Currently, applicants must send a copy of the submitted form to their CLEO (Chief Law Enforcement Officer). This is a notification only; no action or approval is required from them.<blockquote>'''Note''': The ATF has proposed eliminating this requirement, but as of right now, you are still required to populate this information into the form.</blockquote>

== Step 6: The Wait ==
After submission, wait times vary, but eForms applications are generally processed faster than paper submissions. Approval notification and Tax Stamp will be sent via email.
<blockquote>'''Note''': The confirmation email received after submission includes a cover letter that will instruct you to mail fingerprint cards. If the cover letter displays "REC'D" in the lower right corner, the EFT file was successfully received and no physical fingerprint cards need to be mailed.</blockquote>

== Step 7: Engraving ==
Once the Form 1 is approved, the item must be engraved before final assembly.
* '''Depth:''' Minimum 0.003 inches
* '''Height:''' Minimum 1/16 inch

'''Required Markings:'''
* Name (or Trust Name)
* City and State
* Serial Number
* Model
* Caliber

=== Engraving Methods ===
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
|-
! style="width: 33%;" | Method 1: DIY Punch
! style="width: 33%;" | Method 2: Printed Serial
! style="width: 33%;" | Method 3: Heat-Set Tag
|-
| style="vertical-align: top;" |
[[File:aluminum-punching.png|thumb|center|300px|alt=Punching aluminum strip]]
'''Low Liability & Private.''' Manually punch your info into an aluminum strip (like from a soda can) or washer and epoxy it to the tube. OP9 & FTN4 have jigs to help you do this.
* Cheap and amazon ships the punches fast.
* No PII shared with any vendor.
* Requires a punch set [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CDP1M5SV (amazon link)].

| style="vertical-align: top;" |[[File:3D Printed Serial Number.png|center|thumb|300x300px]]'''Fastest/Cheapest to implement.''' Print the serial number directly into the model itself. You must declare this method in the "Additional Description" on your Form 1 to reduce liability.
* No wait time for shipping anything.
* Requires Form 1 to have been filed with description of this method.
* For OpenPew cans, use the [https://www.openpewproject.org/customizer Can Customizer] to generate it.

| style="vertical-align: top;" |
[[File:maf-tag.png|thumb|center|300px|alt=MAF Serial Number Tag]]
'''Looks Pro & Low Liability.''' Use a professionally-made metal tag (like from MAF Arms) that you heat-set into the body.
* Very safe for legal compliance.
* Requires sharing PII with a vendor.
* Costs money and takes time to ship.
* [https://maf-arms.com/product/heat-set-serial-number-tag/ MAF Tag Link]
|}
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Filing ATF Form 1 for DIY Suppressors & SBRs