Brian Nussbaum & Associates - Burlingame, CA

See my review of Peninsula Guns to understand the story.

With a seller flying in for one day I sent him an email about 10 days in advance based on the contact info on his website. He never replied. It appeared the times I needed were booked on his calendar so I called hoping he would find a way to squeeze me in given my special circumstances and needs. He came across a bit snooty and uncaring in telling me he's booked. So I asked for a local recommendation. Nope, he wouldn't refer anyone. I left the call feeling a bit off put.

Great guy to work with, does take longer than other stores for PPT. One man shop. Charges $100 for PPT.

Brian is personable as always and it seems like he has wide availability (appointments only FFL) these days.

PPT fee update: He charges $100 flat for the transaction. Did not question why or how he structures it, but it has been well known that he is more expensive than other FFLs.

In 2023 I went to Brian Nussbaum to buy my first firearm.

He works via reservation system, which is great when you are a new gun owner as it is nice to be able to ask and questions you may have and also have his focus.

He showed me every pistol he had in stock that fit my criteria, I settled on a G19.3 (Original, I know.)

Took the test, bought the pistol and went on my way. Pick up was nice and easy also.

After though, I realized that firearms are one of those things where prices do differ quite a bit depending on where you go. I didn't realize that I paid on the high end for my G19.3 I paid $639.99. Funny thing is, I later realized the G19.3 was actually a bit cheaper on his website than in stores.

Oh well, I figured the services was great, especially as a new gun owner who had a million questions.

Haven't done transfers through him, but they do seem pricey also.

I've bought a few guns from Brian. This is a solo operation, and he's a nice enough guy. He's very transparent with his pricing - will show you what he can get a gun for from his distributor, shows you his markup, and calculates the fees in front of you. He's by appointment only, and is only open until 6 most days, so it's hard to visit after work if you're not close to him.

He's not a speed demon by any means, and likes to talk. If you want a 10-minute, in-and-out transaction, he's not your guy. But it's certainly a much more pleasant experience than waiting at Bass Pro for 2hrs.

His transfer fees for ammo and guns not ordered through him are very high. https://www.bnaffl.com/services.php shows his fee is almost $200 for a weapon under $1000, and 10% for purchases above $1000. Similarly, $110 for a 1000 round case of ammo. Additional fee of $2 per SKU, so don't buy a bunch of small batches with him.

Charges additional fees over state-mandated PPT pricing.

Brian is a "one man shop" but don't let that fool you. He's been in the business for a long time and can source anything you're looking for. He'll even go as far as to show you his wholesalers' sites, availability, wholesale cost, and how much he will charge you.

I've done a few FFL transfers here and he's an extremely knowledgeable guy. He also offers FSC exams, which he helped my wife pass on her first try.

Unfortunately, he's by appointment only as he is a "one man shop". Think of it as a concierge type service, where he is focused on addressing your needs.

For PPTs - both parties need to be present at the appointment time (preferably before the appointment time) and he will let you in.