Posted: 6/17/2009 4:52:28 PM EDT
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I am thinking of switching over to computerized record keeping of my FFL A&D book. I had a compliance inspection today, and while I got some information from the ATF inspector on switching over, he however stopped short of recommending a software package.
As I see it these are the things that would be important... 1. Compliance with ATF 2. Reliable 3. Ease of Use 4. Inventory Control 5. Reasonable Cost Any software recommendations from FFLs who have already gone this route? Also any up or down sides you have seen from using this form of record keeping? |
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The good? ATF has a program like you describe available for free download. IIRC it does both the 4473's and A&D book. It's easy to use, almost customer-proof, and doesn't "phone home" with anything. Cheap laptop with a cheap USB hard drive for backup + cheap laser printer, and you're set. The bad? ATF basically stole it from a private developer with no compensation. I stand corrected. The E-4473 thingie has no A&D capability. Ignore me, I'm a lowly C&R with one gun on the books.  There are also Excel spreadsheet versions of the A&D book out there, although I haven't looked for them in quite some time. Honestly, if I were going to get a variance to do this, I'd make sure to have that computer running with an automated web-based nightly backup... because failure + lack of backup = prison. I found this, but haven't tried it myself. |
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Thanks for input, odd that he did not let me know that the ATF had a downloadable version.
He did however mention the available 4473s online. As far as backing up, that should not be and issue, I have a network for my other business with a first class up to date server with nightly back up. BTW A variance is no longer required. |