I just signed up for trade discounts from MidwayUSA and Brownells, which should more than pay for the 30 dollar cost of the C&R FFL. Even though having a type 3 FFL increases your risk of a government anal probing, I think it’s well worth it for the discount, and being able to order C&R eligible firearms direct, at lower prices than you’d get from your corner gun store.
It’s one of the few beneficial upsides to these crappy laws: the C&R is a useful signaling mechanism to retailers that you take your hobby and sport seriously, and are likely to be a frequent customer. I certainly will start patronizing Midway and Brownells more than I have in the past, so it’s a good deal for all parties, I think.
Is there any place that describes the different FFLs in a nice understandable language? And what does C&R mean?
I believe it means Curio & Relic.
Here’s a good reference site for getting your C&R license.
http://www.surplusrifle.com/shooting2005/howtogetyourcurionrelicffl03/index.asp