Firearms Facts Episode 2: Legal Lengths of Shotguns and Rifles

Published on June 29, 2012
Duration: 6:29

This video from Iraqveteran8888's Firearms Facts series, featuring Eric and Barry from Moss Pawn, provides essential guidance on legal barrel and overall lengths for shotguns and rifles in the US. They detail the 18-inch barrel and 26-inch overall length minimum for shotguns, and 16-inch barrel and 26-inch overall length for rifles to avoid NFA classification. The experts demonstrate proper measurement techniques and discuss manufacturer practices for compliance.

Quick Summary

To avoid NFA regulations for shotguns, ensure a minimum barrel length of 18 inches and an overall length of 26 inches. For rifles, the minimums are 16 inches for the barrel and 26 inches overall. Proper measurement involves closing the action and measuring to the bolt face.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to SBR/SBS Laws
  2. 00:51Legal Lengths for Shotguns
  3. 01:23How to Measure Barrel Length
  4. 02:08Factory Standards & Safety Margins
  5. 03:01The Dime Trick for Chokes
  6. 03:39Rifle Lengths & Kel-Tec SU-16
  7. 05:32Practicality of Tax Stamps

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the minimum legal lengths for a shotgun to not be considered an NFA item?

To be classified as a legal shotgun that does not require NFA registration, it must have a minimum barrel length of 18 inches and a minimum overall length of 26 inches. Exceeding these minimums ensures compliance with federal regulations.

How do you properly measure the barrel length of a rifle or shotgun?

To accurately measure barrel length, ensure the firearm is unloaded. Close the bolt or action, then insert a measuring rod or tape measure down the barrel until it touches the face of the closed bolt or breech. Read the measurement at the muzzle.

Why do manufacturers often make barrels slightly longer than the legal minimum?

Manufacturers like Mossberg often produce barrels slightly longer than the minimum legal requirement (e.g., 18.5 inches for shotguns) to create a safety margin. This accounts for minor variations in measurement tools or manufacturing tolerances, preventing accidental non-compliance.

What is the cost associated with registering a Short Barreled Rifle (SBR) or Short Barreled Shotgun (SBS)?

Registering an SBR or SBS with the ATF requires a tax stamp, which currently costs $200. This cost can sometimes be prohibitive, especially for less expensive firearms where the tax stamp value exceeds the firearm's price.

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