Buying or Leasing Large equipment

[Strategic Outfitters]

The (smart) shops that won't touch making gun parts are likely basing their decision on ITAR as opposed to ATF FFL laws/regulations. Even if the part is not considered a firearm by ATF, ITAR registration is required with the State Department (minimum $2,250 registration fee & tons of government regulations)—REGARDLESS if you ever intend to export anything or not.

There's some revised ITAR regulations pending, but a (D) in Congress just stalled them.