NFA Item Guide
Any Other Weapons (AOW)
The NFA's catch-all category with a unique $5 transfer tax. Learn what qualifies as an AOW and how to own one legally.
What is a Any Other Weapons (AOW)?
Any Other Weapon (AOW) is a catch-all category under the National Firearms Act for weapons that do not fit neatly into other NFA classifications. AOWs include pen guns, cane guns, umbrella guns, smooth-bore pistols (like the Serbu Super Shorty), wallet holster guns, and firearms disguised as everyday objects. As of 2025, the OBBB Act eliminated the tax for AOWs, making both transfer and making taxes $0.
NFA Classification
AOWs are defined in 26 U.S.C. 5845(e) as any weapon or device capable of being concealed on the person from which a shot can be discharged through the energy of an explosive, that is not a pistol, revolver, or traditional firearm. As of 2025, the OBBB Act eliminated all NFA taxes for AOWs — both transfer (previously $5) and making (previously $200) are now $0.
Legal Requirements
- $0 tax stamp (eliminated by OBBB Act)
- ATF Form 4 (transfer) or Form 1 (manufacture)
- FBI background check on all responsible persons
- Legal in your state of residence
- Must be 21 years old for dealer purchases
- CLEO notification required
- Some AOW types may be restricted by state even if federally legal
Why Use a Trust?
How to Acquire
- 1
Set Up Your Gun Trust
Establish your NFA gun trust. AOWs are often the first NFA item people acquire due to the low $5 transfer tax.
- 2
Identify the AOW You Want
AOWs come in many forms: smooth-bore pistols (Serbu Super Shorty), pen guns, cane guns, or firearms with vertical foregrips added to pistols. Verify the item is classified as an AOW by the ATF.
- 3
Purchase from a Class 3 Dealer
Find a licensed dealer with AOW inventory. The dealer will initiate the Form 4 transfer to your trust.
- 4
Complete ATF Form 4 and Pay $5 Tax
File Form 4 with your trust as transferee. The transfer tax is only $5 for AOWs — the cheapest NFA transfer. Include all responsible person documentation.
- 5
Wait for ATF Approval
AOW Form 4 wait times are the same as other NFA items: 4-12 months. The $5 tax does not speed up processing.
- 6
Take Possession
Pick up your AOW from the dealer after approval. Complete the 4473 and NICS check. Keep your approved Form 4 with the AOW.
State Legality
Any Other Weapons (AOW) are legal in 48 of 51 states/territories. Check your state in detail.
Popular Models
- Serbu Super Shorty — 12ga smooth-bore pistol-grip shotgun, ultra-compact
- Pen guns — single-shot firearms disguised as writing instruments
- Cane guns — walking canes with concealed firing mechanism
- Pistols with vertical foregrips — adding a VFG to a pistol creates an AOW
- Wallet holsters — holsters that allow firing without removing the gun
- Ithaca Auto & Burglar — classic collectible double-barrel AOW
Typical Price Range
$200 - $1,500+
Plus $200 tax stamp ($5 for AOW transfers)
Average Wait Time
4-12 months (Form 4)
ATF processing times vary by volume
Ready to Get Started?
The Liberty Preservation Trust is a comprehensive 50-state NFA gun trust that covers any other weapons (aow) and all other NFA items. Set up your trust today and start the acquisition process.
Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. NFA laws are complex and subject to change at the federal, state, and local level. Gun Trust Experts LLC is not a law firm. Always verify current laws with a licensed attorney in your state before purchasing, possessing, or transferring NFA items. Data reflects known laws as of 2026.