I've had an FFL for 17 years and have always worked out of my home and at gun shows...never had a store front, never had to prove whether I was a stocking dealer or not, don't have a seperate entrance and the ATF has only contacted me one time, over the phone, to trace one rifle. The only liability insurance I carry additional to my homeowner's policy is a business clause that protects me if someone is injured on my property while there to purchase a firearm..it also covers my firearms when they are out of my home, such as at a gun show. It cost's me an extra eighty-five bucks a year. I let my llicense expire once but when I reapplied I had no problem geting another. I've moved three or four times and have applied for amended licenses and have received them in a timely manner with no problem whatsoever. I've always found the local ATF agents to very helpful when I've called them with a question about transferring a firearm. Having an FFL doesn't equate to "waiving your rights"...you are simply agreeing to allow an ATF inspector to review your records and inventory if they request to do so. If you are truthful on your application, comply with the requirements, keep good acurate records, and conduct your business in a LEGAL and responsible fasihon, there's no reason you should fear having an FFL if that's what you want to do. As has been noted, you must be engaged in the business of buying and selling firearms, not simply to enhance your own personal collection, although you may certainly purchase firearms for yourself with your FFL and transfer them into your personal collection. Just my experience...your milage may vary.
