1. Allow for multiple owners. Contrary to popular belief, an individual can purchase NFA firearms, so long as they go through the proper procedure. However, that individual is the only one allowed to possess that weapon. Possession, according to federal regulations, is very broadly defined as physical control. By handing someone an NFA Firearm, you are allowing them to possess it. The penalty for violating this rule can include up to 10 years in prison, and/or a fine of up to $250,000. Additionally, if you live with another person, a spouse, for example, and they have access to the NFA item, you both could be subject to penalties. A trust gets around this problem by allowing for multiple trustees over the NFA item.

2. Legal protection. An NFA gun trust clearly defines what an NFA firearm is, what the proper procedures are for transferring an NFA firearm, and who is allowed (and who never should be allowed) to handle NFA items. The rules surrounding NFA firearms are very stringent, and the penalties for violating these rules can be very high. Having an NFA gun trust in place can put much needed boundaries in place for the protection of everyone involved.

3. Privacy concerns. NFA items within a trust are purchased and owned by the trust, not the trustees. This adds an extra layer of protection for the trustees, as their names are not listed as direct owners. Trustees, however, must still submit to background checks upon the purchase of restricted items.

4. Estate planning benefits. With an NFA gun trust, it is simple to designate successor trustees who will take over the trust property when you are gone. Again, because the trust owns the property, and not the trustees, in the eyes of the law an change of ownership has not taken place. When the trust is eventually dissolved, any remaining assets within it will go to the beneficiaries named in the trust.