What's the deal with Nitrocellulose? - The Legal Brief!

Published on September 14, 2016
Duration: 6:45

This video from The Gun Collective's 'The Legal Brief' series, hosted by Adam Kraut, Esq., clarifies misconceptions surrounding nitrocellulose and its classification by the ATF. Kraut explains that while nitrocellulose can be classified as a high explosive under certain conditions (12.6% nitrogen or greater), the ATF has not banned ammunition or gunpowder. The episode details the different types of smokeless powder, the role of the Department of Transportation in regulating wetted nitrocellulose, and the potential impact of broad ATF classifications on the firearms industry and consumers. Kraut also discusses his candidacy for the NRA Board of Directors.

Quick Summary

The ATF classifies nitrocellulose with 12.6% or greater nitrogen content as a high explosive, necessitating storage in specialized Type 1 or Type 2 magazines. Despite public panic fueled by a newsletter, the ATF has not banned ammunition or gunpowder, clarifying that existing regulations for wetted nitrocellulose remain in effect.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to The Legal Brief
  2. 00:23Sponsor Message
  3. 00:51NRA Board Candidacy
  4. 01:00Gemtech Shoutout
  5. 01:07Nitrocellulose Newsletter Misconceptions
  6. 01:31ATF Classification of Nitrocellulose
  7. 02:03DOT and Wetted Nitrocellulose
  8. 02:34Nitrocellulose in Ammunition
  9. 03:13Consequences of Broad Classification
  10. 03:47Recap of Public Reaction
  11. 03:57ATF's Addendum and Retreat
  12. 04:24Clarifying the Truth
  13. 05:04Future Outlook and Viewer Question
  14. 05:18Potential Industry Impact
  15. 05:40Contest Winner Announcement
  16. 06:10Call to Action
  17. 06:35Shirt Sponsor

Frequently Asked Questions

What is nitrocellulose and how is it classified by the ATF?

Nitrocellulose is a key component in smokeless powders. The ATF classifies it as a high explosive if it contains 12.6% or greater nitrogen content, requiring specific storage in Type 1 or Type 2 magazines, not firearm magazines.

Did the ATF ban ammunition or gunpowder due to the nitrocellulose newsletter?

No, the ATF did not ban ammunition or gunpowder. A newsletter discussing nitrocellulose classification caused widespread panic due to misinterpretation, but the ATF later clarified that existing practices would continue.

What are the different types of smokeless powder?

Smokeless powders are categorized by their base composition: single-base (nitrocellulose only), double-base (nitrocellulose and nitroglycerin), and triple-base (nitrocellulose, nitroglycerin, and nitroguanidine), with the latter used for heavy military munitions.

How does the Department of Transportation regulate wetted nitrocellulose?

The DOT may classify wetted nitrocellulose as non-explosive for transport to mitigate risks during accidents. However, this classification is temporary, as the material reverts to its explosive state when dry.

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