Firearms in the United States

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is a law enforcement organization within the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). ATF is dedicated to the reduction of violent crime, prevention of terrorism, and protection of our Nation. ATF investigates and prevents crimes that involve the unlawful manufacture, sale, possession, and use of firearms and explosives; acts of arson and bombings; and illegal trafficking of alcohol and tobacco products. ATF regulates the scope of firearms and explosives business activities-from manufacture and/or importation through retail sales; screens and licenses qualified entities that engage in commerce in these commodities; and specifies the form and content of their business records. ATF has established certain standards for the safe storage of explosive materials to which Federal explosive licensees and permittees must adhere.