Yes, FFLs are required to keep paperwork for 20 years (at which point it may then be destroyed) but the BATFE may come in and “inspect” the paperwork at any time, including by making copies of anything and everything. Needless to say, the BATFE is pushing towards electronic 4473s, meaning, a database of purchases (make, model, serial number, + name, address, SSN), meaning, de facto registration.
sure does look like we’re half way down the slippery slope, doesn’t it! If the gummit were serious about finding out how criminals get weapons, they’d be recruiting us law-abiding types to help, not wacking us upside our heads....not that I’ve ever watched a criminal getting a weapon! Closest I came was seeing my (God rest his soul) old boss the day after he’d been pistol whipped by his own gun in his house...perp took gun and a car. Pretty sure the police report had as much info as a 4473 original purchase! Until a weapon is stolen that 4473 looks like so much toilet paper to me! Guess I’m thick headed!