Can you mail gun parts through usps

The legality of mailing gun parts through the United States Postal Service (USPS) is a complex and regulated topic. Here's a breakdown of the current laws and regulations:

Federal Law: The Federal Gun Control Act of 1968 and the Undetectable Firearms Act of 1988 prohibit the mailing of firearms and certain firearm parts across state lines. Specifically, 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(5) states that it is illegal to ship or transport in interstate commerce any firearm or ammunition that is not in compliance with federal and state laws.

USPS Regulations: The USPS has its own regulations regarding the mailing of firearms and ammunition. According to the USPS Domestic Mail Manual, Section 604.1.1, firearms and ammunition are prohibited from being mailed through the USPS, except for certain exceptions, such as:

  1. Firearms and ammunition that are properly packaged and labeled as "Fragile" or "Handle with Care" may be mailed within the same state.
  2. Firearms and ammunition that are being returned to the manufacturer or a licensed dealer for repair or maintenance may be mailed through the USPS.

State Laws: Some states have their own laws and regulations regarding the mailing of firearms and parts. For example, California, Connecticut, and New York have laws that prohibit the mailing of certain types of firearms and parts, including high-capacity magazines and certain types of ammunition.

Private Carriers: While the USPS has restrictions on mailing firearms and parts, private carriers like UPS and FedEx may have different policies and regulations. However, it's still important to check with each carrier to ensure compliance with federal and state laws.

Best Practices: If you need to mail gun parts, it's recommended to:

  1. Check with the recipient's state laws and regulations to ensure compliance.
  2. Use a private carrier that allows the mailing of firearms and parts.
  3. Properly package and label the parts as "Fragile" or "Handle with Care."
  4. Ensure that the parts are in compliance with federal and state laws.
  5. Consider using a licensed dealer or manufacturer to handle the mailing of the parts.

In summary, while it may be possible to mail gun parts through the USPS under certain circumstances, it's essential to check with federal and state laws, as well as USPS regulations, to ensure compliance. It's also recommended to use a private carrier and follow best practices to avoid any legal issues.