What is the purpose of the ATF 5320.4 form?

The ATF 5320.4 form, also known as the Application for Tax Exempt Transfer and Registration of Firearm, is specifically used to document the ownership of certain federally regulated firearms, particularly when a firearm is transferred or registered under the National Firearms Act (NFA). The form plays a crucial role in ensuring that the ownership and transfer of regulated items, such as machine guns, short-barreled rifles, and suppressors, are tracked and documented properly by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

This documentation serves multiple purposes: it helps in maintaining a registry of NFA firearms, assists in enforcing laws related to their ownership and transfer, and ensures compliance with federal regulations. By providing a clear record of ownership and transfers, the form is pivotal in the regulation of firearms that require additional scrutiny due to their potential for misuse or legal ramifications.