Gun-Friendly Credit Card Processing for FFLs: What You Need to Know

Running a firearms business is challenging enough.

You’ve got ATF regulations to follow. Inventory to manage. Customers to serve. And if you’re like most FFLs, you’ve also hit a frustrating wall when trying to accept credit card payments.

Here’s the reality:

Most mainstream payment processors (like PayPal, Stripe, and Square) won’t work with gun businesses. They flat-out prohibit firearm transactions — and sometimes even block accessory sales.

That means you can’t rely on the usual options. But you can still accept credit cards — you just need the right processor.

This guide walks you through:

• Why most processors block gun sales
• Which providers are actually firearm-friendly
• How to set up payment processing the right way
• What pitfalls to avoid

Let’s break it down.

Why FFLs Struggle to Accept Credit Cards

Big-name processors label gun-related sales as “high risk.” They don’t want the legal complexity, so they play it safe — often at your expense.

Here’s what their terms say:

• PayPal: Bans transactions involving firearms, ammo, or related accessories (read PayPal’s terms here)
• Square: Prohibits firearm parts, hardware, and ammunition (read Square’s terms here)
• Stripe: Blocks all “weapons and munitions” sales (read Stripe’s terms here)

Even if you’re selling something as innocuous as a holster or a gun safe, you might get flagged. And if you slip past their filters? Your account could be shut down with zero warning — and your funds frozen.

Some processors go even further, shutting down businesses that only sell shooting accessories or optics.

This isn’t just inconvenient. It’s a business risk. You need a payment solution that won’t pull the rug out from under you.

Our Top Recommendation: Payroc

If you want a processor that understands the firearms industry and actively supports it, we recommend Payroc.

We’ve tested a bunch of providers over the years. Payroc stands out for three key reasons:

1. Excellent Customer Support

Our team — and many of our readers — have worked with Payroc directly. The feedback is consistent: they actually care. From onboarding to troubleshooting, they walk you through everything and make the process painless.

They don’t treat you like a liability. They treat you like a business partner.

2. Flexible Pricing Options

Whether you’re running a small home-based FFL or a high-volume gun shop, Payroc offers plans that scale with you.

• Simple flat-rate pricing for smaller shops
• Custom rates based on volume for larger operations

They’ll help you choose what fits your business best. And if you grow? Your plan can grow with you.

3. Integrates With FFLSafe

Here’s possibly the best reason of all:

Payroc integrates with FFLSafe, our top recommendation for free ATF compliance software for FFLs.

Why Other Processors Fall Short

Let’s be blunt: if a processor explicitly prohibits firearm transactions in their terms, walk away.

You’re not just risking your ability to make sales. You’re risking having funds withheld, customers frustrated, and your reputation damaged.

A Word About Fortis Pay

One provider we don’t recommend is Fortis Pay.

Here’s what we’ve seen:

• Pushy sales reps calling multiple times per day
• Reports of hidden fees and fine print surprises
• Negative user reviews (70+ one-star reviews on Trustpilot)
• Unresponsive customer service from some RocketFFL students who previously used their services

There are better options. Don’t settle for less just because a company “says” they support the firearms industry.

What Makes a Processor “Gun Friendly”

It’s not just about saying the right things in a sales pitch. A truly gun-friendly processor will:

• Explicitly allow firearms, ammo, and accessory sales
• Understand ATF regulations and ecommerce limitations
• Help you stay compliant with PCI and banking rules
• Offer support for both in-person and online transactions

And just as important: they should help you grow.

Whether you’re just getting started or scaling up, you want a payment partner that doesn’t just “allow” your business — they get your business.

Understanding the Payment Stack

Getting set up isn’t as simple as choosing a processor and swiping cards.

There are multiple layers involved in credit card transactions. Here’s a breakdown:

Payment Processor

This is your main account. They handle the actual credit card transaction and ensure the funds make it to your bank.

Payroc is a processor. They set up your merchant account and give you the tools to accept payments.

Payment Gateway

If you’re selling online or using a point-of-sale system, you’ll need a gateway to securely transmit the card data.

Gateways connect your website or terminal to the payment processor. Think of them as the bridge.

One of the most popular is Authorize.net, but your processor will help match you with the right fit.

Business Bank Account

You need a bank that allows firearms-related businesses. Many large banks quietly restrict accounts for “high-risk” industries.

Start with a local or regional bank that supports small businesses. Be transparent about what you do.

PCI Compliance

PCI stands for Payment Card Industry. These are security standards that ensure customer data is handled safely.

Your processor should help walk you through PCI compliance. It might sound technical, but it’s just a checklist to protect your customers (and yourself).

Chargebacks

When a customer disputes a transaction, you get hit with a chargeback. Too many chargebacks can cost you money or even lead to account suspension.

Pro tip: always provide tracking info, collect customer signatures when possible, and document your sales clearly.

Accepting Payments In-Person vs. Online

Whether you’re at a gun show, running a storefront, or selling online, your payment setup will look slightly different.

For In-Person Sales

• Card reader or POS system
• Gateway not always required (depends on your POS)
• Flat-rate or volume-based fees based on your processor

For Online Sales

• Ecommerce platform (like WooCommerce, AmmoReady, or Shopify with gun-friendly plugins)
• Payment gateway (e.g., Authorize.net)
• Integration with your processor (like Payroc)
• PCI compliance and SSL certificates

Online setups require more steps, but they open your business to a much wider audience.

Step-by-Step: How to Accept Credit Cards as an FFL

Here’s a simple roadmap to get started:

Step 1: Get Your FFL

No license, no sales. If you don’t have your FFL yet, check out RocketFFL’s Get Your FFL Course. It makes the process clear and easy.

Step 2: Choose a Gun-Friendly Processor

Again, we recommend Payroc. They understand your industry and provide tailored support.

Step 3: Set Up Your Bank and Gateway

Choose a bank that supports firearms businesses, and set up the payment gateway recommended by your processor.

Step 4: Connect Your Storefront or Ecommerce Site

Use a gun-friendly platform. Make sure everything integrates smoothly with your gateway and processor.

Step 5: Ensure PCI Compliance

Your processor will help you complete any necessary forms or scans to stay compliant.

Other Tools to Consider

Point-of-Sale Systems

Need to ring up sales in-store or on the go? Look for POS systems that:

• Work offline
• Support inventory tracking
• Sync with your payment processor

Mobile Payments

If you attend gun shows or events, mobile readers (like the Payroc app or Clover Go) can help you accept payments on your phone or tablet.

Recurring Billing

If you offer training or memberships, consider tools that support subscriptions and auto-billing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using a general processor without reading the fine print. If they don’t support firearms, you risk being shut down.
• Skipping PCI compliance. It’s easy to do with the right help, but costly to ignore.
• Not confirming your bank’s firearm policy. Don’t assume they’re okay with your business — ask.
• Overpaying for “high-risk” services. Some processors charge outrageous fees just because you’re in the firearms space. You don’t need to accept that.

Final Thoughts

The firearms industry has enough red tape. Accepting payments shouldn’t be another headache.

With the right processor, you can take credit cards securely, stay compliant, and focus on growing your business.

We recommend Payroc because they consistently support FFLs and provide great service — but no matter who you choose, make sure they’re truly gun friendly.

And if you’re just getting started with your FFL? RocketFFL has helped thousands of people navigate the process. Learn more about its course at the link below:???? Get Your Federal Firearms License