The regs are absolutely convoluted and confusing. To the point where it is nearly impossible for IOI's and other field agents to reliably parse the difference between regulation and guidance. Add to the mix the various state and local regs and it turns into a MCF in a heart beat.

As to getting an FFL these days, my advice is always this: Make certain that you 1) are doing this as a money making enterprise (not a hobby), 2) love paperwork, 3) can deal with a constantly changing set of regulation interpretations and 4) actually *can* do it per the zoning/HOA/deed restrictions in your area.