What is the state’s guidance and when does the clock start on the 72-hour waiting period?

A seller may not knowingly deliver a firearm to a buyer within 72 hours of the agreement. The time period begins when the buyer and seller have entered into an agreement to purchase and sell a specifically identified firearm. For transfer only transactions, It is critical that we are notified as soon as you complete your purchase so we can start the 72 hour hour timer. We will ask that you email us a copy of your invoice showing the purchase as proof of the agreement timing. Items bought directly from us will already be logged in our system and calculated accordingly.

who can pick up the firearm?

The person on the order paperwork must match the person who arrives to pick up the firearm. All ATF paperwork and NICS checks must be completed for the person who placed the firearm order.

How old do i need to be in order to purchase a firearm?

For rifles and shotguns – 18 years old
For handguns – 21 years old
NFA Items – 21 years old

Do I have to provide my social security number?

No. However, providing your SSN on the form can sometimes assist in the background check process. We store all documents securely after NICS processing and value your privacy.

What should every customer know before doing business with Cedar Lane Firearms?

Our hours are BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.

We typically operate on customer transfers and online orders, so we rarely maintain in-house inventory. Please ensure your firearm is legally eligible for transfer in Maine before initiating an order. We are licensed to handle all firearms and NFA items.

What happens if the firearm arrives damaged/incorrect, or my NICS check is denied?

We will do everything we can to return the firearm to the online dealer from whom it was purchased, but any charges incurred from the online dealer will be the buyer’s responsibility. The transfer fee will be charged for the first item but will be waived for the replacement if ordered. If Cedar Lane Firearms placed a direct order through one of our distributors, we will handle all returns and exchanges at no charge.

Do I need to bring anything with me for the transfer?

Yes. Please bring a valid, unexpired, government-issued photo ID showing your current physical address (no PO boxes). If your government-issued ID does not display your current physical address, you must bring a second government-issued document (such as a tax bill, vehicle registration, or Maine State University document) that shows your name and current address. 

Is there anything about the firearm transfer or online order process that often confuses people?

A common point of confusion is the timing of the background check. The background check (NICS) is initiated when you come to pick up your firearm, after filling out the necessary paperwork. It is not done prior to the firearm arriving at our location. Also, ensure the name on your online order matches the name on your government-issued ID exactly to avoid delays.