Ultimate Guide to 80% Lower Receivers - The Legal Brief!

Published on July 28, 2016
Duration: 9:45

This expert guide clarifies the legal status of 80% lower receivers, emphasizing they are unregulated 'hunks of metal' federally until machined. Attorney Adam Kraut explains the Gun Control Act's definition of a firearm and details the 2015 ATF ruling regarding manufacturing assistance. The guide covers personal use manufacturing legality and NFA engraving requirements, concluding that 80% lowers are not firearms federally and can be passed to heirs.

Quick Summary

On a federal level, 80% lower receivers are unregulated 'hunks of metal' and are legal to acquire for personal use. They are not considered firearms until they are machined to a functional state, specifically when the fire control group cavity is completed.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 80% Receivers
  2. 00:46Defining the 80% Receiver
  3. 02:25GCA Firearm Definition
  4. 03:03Why They Aren't Firearms
  5. 04:44Federal Legality and Ownership
  6. 05:09Building and Manufacturing Laws
  7. 05:422015 ATF Ruling Details
  8. 07:01Engraving and Marking Requirements
  9. 08:33Summary of Legal Status

Frequently Asked Questions

Are 80% lower receivers legal to own?

Yes, on a federal level, 80% lower receivers are unregulated 'hunks of metal' and are legal to acquire for personal use. They are not considered firearms until they are machined to a functional state.

Can I build my own AR-15 from an 80% lower?

It is legal to build your own firearm, such as an AR-15, from an 80% lower receiver for personal use. However, you cannot build firearms for sale without obtaining a Federal Firearms License (FFL).

What is the ATF's stance on 80% lower receivers?

The ATF does not officially recognize '80% receiver' as a designation. They classify an item as either a firearm or not. An un-machined 80% lower is not a firearm because the fire control group cavity is solid.

Do I need a license to machine an 80% lower?

You do not need a license to machine an 80% lower receiver for your own personal use. However, a 2015 ATF ruling prohibits businesses from allowing customers to use their equipment to manufacture firearms from 80% lowers without an FFL.

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