Report: Gun Makers In Florida Surge 350 Percent Since 2009

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NAPLES (CBSMiami/AP) — Data from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives shows the number of  firearms manufacturers in Florida has surged by 350 percent since 2009.

The Naples Daily News reported Sunday that the increase has put a strain on ATF to keep pace.

The number of number of firearm manufacturing licenses in Florida more than quadrupled from 155 in 2009 to 691 in May, according to ATF data.

Texas tops the list at 1,103 licensed gun makers, a 404 percent increase over 2009.

The federal licenses allow the manufacturing of firearms and ammunition for sale or distribution. Established gun shop owners and firearms enthusiasts are using their licenses to obtain parts and assemble weapons for sale.

Experts say some license holders form clubs so people can build their own weapons.

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