Principles for a
Responsible Civilian Firearms Industry

Responsible Firearm Practices

Responsible retailers use technology to promote safety and facilitate record keeping.

Responsible retailers support, advance and integrate the development of technology designed to make civilian firearms safer, more secure, and easier to trace. This includes data systems designed to; track firearms inventory throughout the supply chain to ensure shipments arrive complete and intact from the factory to warehousing and delivery; properly document sales transactions; and recognize irregularities at the point of sale, including, simultaneous sales of multiple firearms and purchases by individuals who have been previously denied criminal clearance.

Responsible retailers ensure consumer training and education.

Responsible retailers ensure consumers receive firearms training and education that focuses on safe handling and home storage practices and emphasizes safety for children and other vulnerable populations. Each firearms purchase includes a firearms safety lock.

Responsible retailers complete background checks.

Responsible retailers complete a firearms transaction only after receiving a passing background check for the purchaser.

Responsible retailers ensure employee training and education.

Responsible retailers ensure employees who conduct sales of firearms complete a criminal background check and receive training specifically designed to promote safety and recognize irregularities at the point of sale.

Responsible retailers develop measures and metrics to gauge their progress on the responsible sale and handling of firearms.

Responsible retailers develop and publicly display best practices which demonstrate a commitment to public safety and proactively support law enforcement in their efforts to safeguard communities. They are transparent with investors and stakeholders in their progress to comply with the Firearms Principles and these practices.