Can You Really Own a Tank? Understanding the Legalities and Processes

In the United States, owning a tank can indeed be a possibility, provided you meet specific legal and regulatory requirements. This article explores the feasibility of purchasing a tank, the necessary procedures, and the ongoing responsibilities involved in such an endeavor.

Is Tank Ownership Legally Permitted?

Yes, tank ownership is allowed in the United States, and there are a substantial number of private tank owners. The U.S. government permits the possession of tanks with disabled main artillery guns, which renders them non-lethal and therefore legal. Approximately several hundred to a thousand private tank owners exist in the country, highlighting the scope and potential for this unique hobby.

Note: Operating a tank on private land is generally unrestricted, but it is advisable to check state and local regulations to ensure compliance.

The Process of Purchasing a Tank

With sufficient financial resources, acquiring a tank is definitely achievable. Older tanks, often retired from active service, are typically stored by countries due to the high costs of safe storage. Procuring a surplus tank requires the proper licensing, as the government often sells these vehicles to private individuals.

Retired and Surplus Tanks

Tanks deemed suitable for sale are usually disarmed, ensuring safety for potential owners. However, the initial cost of these tanks can be high. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) occasionally sells off used tanks, often in a de-milled condition (non-functional weaponry).

Transporting a tank involves complex logistics. The tank must be moved on a Heavy Equipment Transport (HET) vehicle, and the necessary permits and road clearances must be arranged. Many bridges cannot withstand the weight of a tank and a HET, which complicates the process. Owners typically have only a few days to transport and offload the tank from the location of purchase.

These vehicles are sold “as is as seen,” with no warranty or guarantee, adding to the risks and costs associated with acquiring a tank.

Tank Ownership and Regulatory Requirements

Several key regulatory bodies and requirements come into play when owning a tank. The ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) is particularly important in this context.

ATF Requirements

Weapons on a tank, including the main gun and machine guns, must be classified as destructive devices and be subject to the ATF Transfer Fee. The fee for each weapon is $200. The tank owner must comply with federal firearms regulations, which include a waiting period and ATF approval for the transfer before taking possession of the tank.

Each round of ammunition for the main gun must also be classified as a destructive device and subject to the same $200 transfer fee. This means that the cost to acquire or own a tank extends beyond just the initial purchase.

Additionally, fuel consumption is a significant ongoing cost. Tanks are notorious for their excessively high fuel consumption, often measuring miles per gallon instead of miles per liter. Driving a tank a single mile might cost around $20 in fuel alone, making the maintenance and operation of a tank a substantial financial commitment.

Where to Find Tanks for Sale

There are instances where tanks are available for purchase at military surplus stores. For instance, a couple of tanks have been spotted at a military surplus store in Fruitland, Idaho. However, due to the nature of tanks, they typically need to adhere to the ATF regulations and procedures mentioned earlier.

For more extensive searches, online platforms and dedicated forums may provide leads. Familiarity with the local and state regulations, as well as the proper procedures for purchasing and transporting military surplus vehicles, are crucial steps for prospective tank owners.

Conclusion

While owning a tank is possible in the United States, it is a complex process that involves significant financial, legal, and regulatory considerations. Safety, logistics, and the ongoing costs associated with maintaining such a vehicle must be taken into account. If you are intrigued by the prospect of owning a tank, thorough research, compliance with regulations, and financial preparedness are essential steps to take.