Tactical Edge Arms Battles for Survival After FFL Revocation
Clarksville, TN – A veteran-owned gun shop in Clarksville is grappling with significant operational challenges following the revocation of its Federal Firearms License (FFL) by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Tactical Edge Arms, a staple in the community for 13 years, was impacted by this decision, which the owners claim resulted from minor clerical mistakes.
Background on FFL Revocation
In 2023, the ATF revoked the FFL of Tactical Edge Arms, citing approximately 10 clerical errors out of nearly 2,500 forms submitted. Owners William Boswell and Robert Snyder contend that the errors, while regrettable, were not significant enough to warrant such a drastic action. This license revocation is part of a larger trend influenced by a previously enacted “zero tolerance” policy during the Biden administration, now repealed.
“We’ve made similar mistakes in the past, fixed them, and moved on,” said Snyder. “This time, they didn’t give us a chance. It cost us almost $100,000 in legal fees trying to fight it.”
Impact on Business Operations
Without their FFL, Tactical Edge Arms lost the capability to sell firearms or manufacture related parts, severely hindering their primary revenue stream. This situation necessitated the closure of their manufacturing facility and a pivot towards selling accessories and gear instead. Despite their proximity to Fort Campbell and a focus on military customers, the loss of the FFL has had a profound effect on business operations.
“We’ve just been trying to hang on,” Boswell added. “It’s not the same without the license.”
Pleas for Legal Reassessments
The plight of Tactical Edge Arms is not an isolated case; numerous gun dealers across the U.S. encountered similar challenges under the stringent enforcement of the “zero tolerance” policy. However, change may be on the horizon. In April 2025, the Trump administration repealed this policy, leading to calls for a reassessment of revoked licenses.
U.S. Representative Mark Green (R-TN) has taken proactive measures, advocating for a comprehensive review of FFL revocations under the prior administration’s directive. He described the ATF’s enforcement actions as “egregious and predatory,” urging for a reconsideration of past decisions.
“It is time to make this right,” Green stated.
Future Prospects
The ATF has announced that it is formulating a new national policy regarding GCA violations, a potential opportunity for Tactical Edge Arms to restore its operations. Yet, the recovery process remains daunting.
“We were growing steadily,” Snyder reflected. “Now, it’ll take us 10 years just to get back to where we were.”
As the discussions in Washington continue, businesses like Tactical Edge Arms await critical changes that could offer them the chance to rebuild and thrive once more.
