Safety isn’t a slogan for firearm retailers; it’s the daily standard that keeps employees, customers, and communities safe. In recent years, that commitment has been paying off.
ATF data show a meaningful decline in crimes targeting Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs): burglaries dropped from 492 in 2020 to 331 in 2022—a 32% decrease—and robberies fell 15% between 2019 and 2022. Firearms stolen during robberies have decreased 66% since 2018. Those are encouraging trends, and the firearm industry is leaning in to keep them moving in the right direction.
That’s the spirit behind Operation Secure Store, an initiative launched by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) alongside the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in 2018. Operation Secure Store helps retailers deter thefts, strengthen store defenses, and speed investigations when crimes occur by:
- Matching ATF reward offers. When thefts occur, Operation Secure Store doubles the incentive for tips by matching ATF reward offers. This helps law enforcement gather leads more quickly and recover stolen firearms faster.
- Bringing security education to your door. NSSF and ATF co-host retailer security seminars that translate best practices into store-ready checklists. No jargon, just clear guidance on what works.
- Delivering tailored security assessments. NSSF offers in-depth, on-site audits to help FFLs evaluate their unique risks. Every store is different. Operation Secure Store respects that and provides layered options, not one-size-fits-all prescriptions.
- Offering product guidance and member discounts. From protective window film and smash-resistant display cases to improved gates and doors, Operation Secure Store highlights proven tools and provides member discounts through affinity partners.
Building Strong Layers of Protection
The best defense blends people, processes, and physical security. Here are some tips FFLs can use to prevent and deter criminals from targeting their stores:
- Inventory integrity: Complete a full firearms inventory at least annually, verify every serial number, and reconcile each entry against your A&D log. Use two-person checks and divide responsibilities (purchasing, 4473s, records) to reduce error and temptation.
- Alarms and monitoring: Choose a professionally monitored system with cellular backup, interior motion and glass-break detection, and an audible local alarm. Test regularly—trust, but verify.
- External deterrents: Video surveillance with motion detection and visible recording indicators, clear signage, reinforced doors/frames, fogging devices, concrete bollards, and secured roof/AC openings make “smash-and-grab” attempts both noisy and slow.
- Internal controls: Keep display cases locked, show one firearm at a time, secure all firearms after hours, and train every employee on policies, procedures, and situational awareness.
Remember: Prevention Pays
Security investments consistently cost less than the financial loss, legal exposure, and potential harm from a single successful theft. They also protect your team. Hire carefully, know your staff, and cultivate a culture that treats security like customer service: everyone owns it.
The Bottom Line
Operation Secure Store embodies the firearm industry’s commitment to creating safer communities. With smarter layers of security, trained people, and fast, coordinated reporting, FFLs are driving theft down and trust up. Keep evaluating your physical safeguards, refining your procedures, and leaning on Operation Secure Store’s resources. Together, we’ll continue reducing thefts and strengthening the safety of our stores and our communities.
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