What is a destructive device under NFA?

Destructive devices include: firearms with bore over 0.50 caliber (with sporting exemptions), explosive devices like grenades and bombs, grenade launchers, and certain large-caliber weapons. Common examples include 40mm grenade launchers, anti-tank rifles, and 20mm+ firearms.

What fingerprints do I need for a destructive device?

Same as other NFA items - FD-258 cards converted to EFT format for eForms. Destructive devices use Form 4 for transfers and Form 1 for making, identical to suppressors and SBRs.

Can civilians own grenade launchers?

Yes, the launcher itself is a destructive device requiring Form 4 transfer with $200 tax. However, explosive ammunition (actual grenades) requires additional ATF licensing. Many DD launchers are fired with chalk rounds, flares, or specialty ammo.

Destructive Device Fingerprints: DD Form 4 Requirements

Updated January 2026 9 min read

Destructive devices are the most exotic NFA category. From grenade launchers to large-bore rifles, here's what you need to know about fingerprint requirements.

What is a Destructive Device?

The NFA defines destructive devices in two categories:

1. Large Bore Firearms

Firearms with bore over 0.50 caliber
Except shotguns with sporting purpose (12ga, etc.)
Except firearms with sporting exemption

2. Explosive Devices

Grenades, bombs, missiles
Explosive projectiles
Certain incendiary devices

Common Destructive Devices

Grenade Launchers

M203 - 40mm underbarrel launcher
M79 - Standalone 40mm "Blooper"
M32 - 40mm revolver launcher

Large Bore Rifles

Lahti L-39 - 20mm anti-tank rifle
Solothurn S-18/1000 - 20mm
PTRS/PTRD - 14.5mm (exempt as antique)

Other DDs

Certain shotguns without sporting purpose
Street sweeper-type shotguns (reclassified)
Specialty explosive devices (with additional licensing)

Fingerprint Requirements

Destructive device fingerprint requirements are identical to other NFA items:

FD-258 fingerprint card
Converted to EFT format for eForms
Same file as suppressors/SBRs
Trust: All responsible persons

Your existing EFT file works for DD transfers.

Transfer Process

Form 4 (Transfer)

Buying a destructive device from a dealer:

Find DD for sale from Class III dealer
Complete Form 4 on eForms
Upload EFT fingerprints
Pay $200 tax (per device)
Wait for approval
Take possession

Form 1 (Make)

Building/making a destructive device:

Very uncommon for most people
Same process as Form 1 SBR
Must understand what you're building
Explosive DDs have additional requirements

Ammunition Considerations

For Grenade Launchers

The launcher is one DD, but explosive ammunition is separate:

Launcher: One Form 4, $200 tax
HE grenades: Each is a DD (requires Form 4 each)
Chalk/practice rounds: Not DDs, no registration
Flares: Generally not DDs

Most DD launcher owners use non-explosive ammunition.

For Large Bore Rifles

Standard ammunition (AP, ball, tracer) is generally not regulated separately from the firearm. Explosive projectiles would each be DDs.

State Restrictions

Many states restrict or ban destructive devices:

California - Banned
New York - Banned
Many other states - Various restrictions

Always verify your state allows DDs before purchasing.

Ready for a Destructive Device?

Same EFT file works for all NFA categories.

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