Opening a gun store and Shooting range in Pa

[defender2000]

I have often wondered what would it take to open up a gun store and shooting range in Pa. My basic Idea would be to start off small at first, somewhere near the outskirts of Phila, and to later on grow the business to be a kind of super center of sorts where it will cater to shooters of all levels, Law enforcement, private security, and civilians. However we all have to start off somewhere. I know that you must have a FFL before you can become a gun dealer, but I am in the dark about how go about getting a FFL, and also other issues like zoning, additional licensing in regards to becoming an instructor of various firearms related disciplines, hand to hand combat techniques, non lethal uses of force, etc, business and personal liability Insurance, potential start up cost etc. Right now I am just seeking to not only to increase my knowledge base, and personal skill set, but also a little bit of guidance in the various areas mentioned above. Any guidance you all can offer will be greatly appreciated.

[Skooter]

I know that you must have a FFL before you can become a gun dealer, but I am in the dark about how go about getting a FFL.

Start with these guys.
http://www.atf.gov/firearms/faq/licensing.html

[ExFlyinguy]

Defender here is a good thread to start with:

http://forum.pafoa.org/nfa-class-3-t...l-license.html

[jkm]

Find a local college with a small business curriculum. They'll assist in all kinds of ways. Phone surveys, business plans, etc...Good luck

[ForeverPA]

Try working at a gun shop first. There is so much to learn.

[forby]

I suspect that money and paperwork for the ATF will be the easiest part.

Zoning and the environmental will surly be the hardest and most expensive part.

Insurance....... I think that with enough money you can insure anything from anything.

[GeneCC]

Try working at a gun shop first. There is so much to learn.

Very good advice.

There are regulations, there is fine print and then there are those "metaskills" that help you to succeed in some businesses.