What is a Class 3?
"Class 3 dealer" is a commonly used term, but it is somewhat of a misnomer. The correct term is "Class 3 Special Occupational Taxpayer" (SOT). The term "Class 3" specifically refers to the type of Firearms dealer who is a class 3 SOT. A class 3 SOT allows dealers to sell Suppressors and Short Barreled Rifles.
We are not a Class 3 dealer. You might be thinking, “If you’re not a Class 3 dealer, are you even real? Do you actually sell suppressors?” The answer is a resounding yes—we’re definitely real, and suppressors are our specialty. But here’s the twist: we’re a Class 2 SOT, which gives us some extra perks.
While a Class 3 SOT can only sell NFA items, we can do that and a whole lot more. As a Class 2 SOT, we’re also set up to manufacture and customize NFA items, giving you access to unique builds and modifications that other dealers can’t offer.
So, if you’re curious about what a Class 2 SOT means for you, keep reading. We’re here to show you why our extra capabilities make all the difference.
What Is a Class 2 SOT?
A Class 2 SOT license allows us to do more than simply sell NFA items like suppressors, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), and fully automatic weapons. It grants us the ability to manufacture and deal in these highly regulated items. In other words, we can build custom firearms to your exact specifications, repair or modify your existing NFA items, and, of course, help you purchase new ones.
How Does a Class 2 SOT Compare to a Class 3 SOT?
You might have heard the term "Class 3" before, which refers to a dealer who is licensed to sell NFA items. While a Class 3 SOT can certainly handle the sale and transfer of suppressors, SBRs, and other NFA items, their capabilities are more limited compared to a Class 2 SOT like Black Creek.
As a Class 3 SOT, a dealer can only sell NFA items—they cannot manufacture or repair them. This means that if you're looking for custom-built firearms, specialized modifications, or repairs on your NFA items, a Class 3 SOT dealer wouldn't be able to assist you. That's where we come in.
With our Class 2 SOT license, we offer a full suite of services that go beyond what a typical Class 3 SOT can provide. For example, if you wanted to combine a suppressor with a short-barreled rifle (SBR) and buy it as one complete unit, that would be considered manufacturing. A Class 3 SOT cannot legally perform this action—doing so would be outside their legal scope. However, as a Class 2 SOT, we are fully authorized to manufacture and sell such a configuration, giving you more flexibility and options when choosing the right setup for your needs.
Black Creek Private Client: Elite Builds at Better Prices
At Black Creek Firearms, we take our capabilities a step further with the Black Creek Private Client program. Our Private Client program allows us to offer preassembled units—like suppressed SBRs with optics—ready to go right out of the box.
What's even better? We can get these to you at a lower price point than if you bought each item individually. Why? Because we assemble these units as a "build," which allows us to manage our margins more effectively, offering you a better deal than a dealer who can only sell each item separately could. Whether it's a custom build or a preassembled package, our Private Client program ensures that you get the best value without compromising on quality. In fact we can put elite products in your hands at a better price point than anyone else.
Custom Manufacturing: Tailored to Your Needs
One of the most significant benefits of working with a Class 2 SOT like Black Creek Firearms is our ability to manufacture NFA items. Whether you need a specialized suppressor for your hunting rifle or a custom-built SBR for use, we can create it in-house to your exact specifications. Our manufacturing capabilities are designed to meet the demands of professionals, enthusiasts, and anyone who values precision and performance.
Dealing in NFA Items: A Seamless Process
As a Class 2 SOT, we’re also authorized to deal in NFA items. That means we can handle all aspects of your purchase, from guiding you through the paperwork to ensuring you get the exact product you need. We’re familiar with the intricacies of the ATF's eForms system, and we offer services like digitized fingerprinting to make the process as smooth as possible.
Repairs and Modifications: Expertise You Can Trust
Have an existing NFA item that needs repair or modification? Our Class 2 SOT status means we can handle that too. We’re equipped to take care of everything from routine maintenance to major modifications, ensuring your firearm performs at its best.
Why Choose Black Creek Firearms?
Choosing Black Creek Firearms as your go-to source for NFA items means you’re working with experts who have the legal authority and technical know-how to provide a full range of services the majority of dealers can not provide. We’re not just a retailer; we’re manufacturers and dealers who are committed to delivering the highest level of service and quality.
Whether you're a law enforcement officer, a tactical professional, or an avid shooter, Black Creek Firearms has the expertise to meet your needs. Our Class 2 SOT status is more than just a license—it's your guarantee that you're getting the best possible products and services in the world of NFA items.
Get Started Today
Ready to take advantage of everything Black Creek can offer? Contact us today to discuss your needs, whether it's custom manufacturing, purchasing a new NFA item, or servicing an existing one. We’re here to ensure you have the best experience possible, from start to finish. Our goal is to make NFA items ubiquitous throughout Middle Tennessee and across the nation, and eventually to see the full repeal of the NFA. We aim to reach a point where NFA items are in "common use" so much so that the infringement can no longer be justified in the courts.
"The general rule of decision embraced in Heller is that arms “in common use” are protected by the Second Amendment and cannot be banned. That is the legal test in a Second Amendment challenge to an arms ban."
What part of “in common use” don’t you understand?: How courts have defied Heller in arms-ban cases-again – Mark W. Smith. Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy.
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