So You Wanna Be Rambo in the Peach State? A (Slightly Tongue-in-Cheek) Guide to Owning a Machine Gun in Georgia
Ah, the allure of the fully automatic firearm. The pew-pew-pew symphony, the lead-filled ballet – it's enough to make any red-blooded American with a healthy appreciation for firepower yearn for a machine gun. But hold on there, trigger-happy hero, before you go emptying your bank account on a minigun, there's a reality check bouncing down the range. Owning a full-auto beauty in Georgia ain't exactly like picking up pecans in the fall.
How To Get A Full Auto License In Georgia |
First Things First: You're Dealing with Bureaucracy, Not Butterfingers
Obtaining a full-auto license, technically called a Special Occupational Tax (SOT) license from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), is like wading through molasses uphill. Be prepared for a lengthy application process, background checks that would make your grandma blush, and enough paperwork to wallpaper a bunker.
And the fees? Let's just say they could buy you a small mountain of those aforementioned Butterfingers (nut allergies not included).
Not All Machine Guns Are Created Equal (Especially When It Comes to Age)
Here's the kicker: you can only own a machine gun manufactured BEFORE 1986. Yep, you read that right. Anything newer is off-limits for us civilians, thanks to a federal law passed in that very year. So, unless you have a time machine or a really deep connection to Al Capone's estate sale, you're looking at vintage firepower.
QuickTip: Compare this post with what you already know.
And because these pre-ban beauties are rare collectibles, expect to pay a small fortune. We're talking about "investment in a vacation home" kind of fortune.
So You Think You Can Handle a Full-Auto?
Let's be honest, these aren't your grandpappy's squirrel rifles. Full-auto firearms require respect, training, and a healthy dose of common sense. Think Rambo, not Rambo wannabe who accidentally mows down his prize pumpkin patch. There are ranges that offer full-auto experiences, so maybe test the waters (and your trigger control) before you dive headfirst into ownership.
Remember: with great firepower comes great responsibility (and a hefty ammo bill).
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
FAQ: Full-Auto Fun in Georgia
How to get a full-auto license in Georgia?
You don't get a license specifically for Georgia. You'll need a Special Occupational Tax (SOT) license from the ATF.
How much does a full-auto license cost?
QuickTip: Don’t skim too fast — depth matters.
The SOT license itself isn't too expensive, but expect to pay additional fees and taxes.
How much does a pre-ban machine gun cost?
A LOT. Think tens of thousands of dollars or more.
Tip: Absorb, don’t just glance.
Can I own a machine gun made after 1986?
No, not as a civilian. Only certain licensed entities can own post-1986 machine guns.
Where can I try out a full-auto firearm?
Some shooting ranges offer full-auto experiences. Check with ranges in your area!