Time's Up. Here Are Your 4 Options for ATF's Pistol Brace Rule (+ One More . . . )

Published on May 31, 2023
Duration: 8:41

This guide, presented by William Kirk, President of Washington Gun Law, outlines the critical options for complying with the ATF's Pistol Brace Rule (Final Rule 2021R-08F) by the May 31st deadline. It details four primary compliance paths: destroying the firearm, surrendering it to the ATF, reconfiguring it to no longer fall under the rule (e.g., by increasing barrel length or removing the brace), or registering it as a Short-Barreled Rifle (SBR) via the eForm 1 amnesty. The guide also warns of the severe penalties associated with non-compliance, including significant prison time and fines, and references relevant state laws like RCW 9.41.190.

Quick Summary

Complying with the ATF Pistol Brace Rule by May 31st involves several options: destroy the firearm, surrender it to the ATF, reconfigure it (e.g., 16+ inch barrel or removed brace), or register it as an SBR via the tax-free eForm 1 amnesty. Non-compliance risks up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Pistol Brace Deadline
  2. 01:30Lack of Injunctions
  3. 01:55Option 1: Destroy Firearm
  4. 02:07Option 2: Surrender to ATF
  5. 02:27Option 3: Reconfigure Firearm
  6. 02:58Option 3: Remove Pistol Brace
  7. 04:18Option 4: Form 1 Amnesty Registration
  8. 06:10Option 5: Non-Compliance & Penalties
  9. 07:43Low Compliance & Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main options for complying with the ATF's Pistol Brace Rule by the May 31st deadline?

The primary options include destroying the firearm, surrendering it to the ATF, reconfiguring it to no longer fall under the rule (e.g., by increasing barrel length to 16+ inches or permanently removing the brace), or registering it as a Short-Barreled Rifle (SBR) via the tax-free eForm 1 amnesty.

What are the penalties for non-compliance with the ATF Pistol Brace Rule?

Federally, non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Washington state law also carries potential felony charges for non-compliant SBR possession.

How can one reconfigure a firearm to avoid the ATF Pistol Brace Rule?

Reconfiguration can involve increasing the barrel length to 16 inches or more, effectively making it a rifle, or permanently removing the pistol brace. The ATF has not clearly defined 'permanently removed'.

What is the eForm 1 amnesty registration for the Pistol Brace Rule?

It's a tax-free process allowing individuals to legally register their braced firearms as Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs) before the compliance deadline, enabling them to attach stocks and forward grips.

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