Pennsylvania Firearm Bill of Sale - 18 Pa. C.S. § 6111 Form

1. Handgun Transfer Rules (18 Pa.C.S. § 6111)

All handgun, short-barreled rifle, and short-barreled shotgun transfers must go through a licensed FFL dealer or county sheriff’s office. A PICS background check and the state SP 4-113 form are mandatory. Direct private handgun transfers remain illegal in Pennsylvania. This Bill of Sale serves as important supplementary private documentation.

2. How ATF Trace Works in Pennsylvania

If a firearm you sold privately (especially a long gun) is later recovered in a crime, the ATF will trace it back to the last known seller — you. Because Pennsylvania does not have a full state registry for long guns, your detailed Bill of Sale with buyer’s full name, Pennsylvania ID details, date, price, and exact serial number becomes critical evidence of a proper transfer.

3. Local Enforcement & Preemption

Pennsylvania has strong statewide preemption under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6120. Cities like Philadelphia cannot create stricter local gun laws. Enforcement is generally consistent across the state, though urban areas (Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown) tend to scrutinize paperwork more closely during investigations. Always document transfers carefully regardless of location.

💡 Pennsylvania Handgun vs. Long Gun Statutory Splitting

Pennsylvania maintains strong statewide preemption under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6120, preventing cities like Philadelphia from enacting stricter local firearm rules. While long gun private sales remain relatively free, handgun transfers are heavily regulated. Under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6111, all handgun, short-barreled rifle, and short-barreled shotgun transfers must go through a licensed FFL dealer or county sheriff’s office for a PICS background check and completion of the SP 4-113 form. Direct private handgun transfers are illegal. Key points for responsible sellers: - Use this Bill of Sale as your private record for long guns - For handguns, ensure the FFL or sheriff completes the required PICS check and SP 4-113 - Pennsylvania’s PICS system checks state criminal, mental health, and Protection From Abuse records - Monitor HB 1891 closely — the proposed firearm registration bill remains active in the legislature

🚫 Critical Liability Pitfalls for Pennsylvania Private Sellers

• Attempting a direct private handgun sale — all handguns and short-barreled firearms must go through an FFL dealer or sheriff under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6111. Direct transfers are illegal.
• Forgetting the SP 4-113 form during handgun transfers — this state form is required in addition to the federal ATF Form 4473.
• Selling to someone with three or more DUIs in a five-year period — Pennsylvania’s three-DUI rule is stricter than federal law and prohibits possession.
• Selling any firearm to a person under 18 — the minimum age in Pennsylvania is 18 for all firearms.
• Assuming Philadelphia has different rules — Pennsylvania’s strong preemption law (18 Pa.C.S. § 6120) blocks most local ordinances.
• Ignoring legislative developments — HB 1891 (firearm registration bill) remains a threat and could significantly change Pennsylvania’s private sale landscape if passed.