What the ATF's New Rules on Unfinished Frames and Receivers Really Means to You...

Published on August 31, 2022
Duration: 14:49

William Kirk, President of Washington Gun Law, provides an expert legal interpretation of the ATF's Final Rule 2021R-05F concerning unfinished frames and receivers. The rule clarifies definitions, designates specific components requiring serialization, and impacts the sale and possession of 80% lowers and Personally Made Firearms (PMFs), particularly concerning FFL inventory and new kit sales. Existing privately owned PMFs are largely unaffected unless transferred through an FFL.

Quick Summary

The ATF's Final Rule 2021R-05F clarifies that only traditional frames (handguns) and receivers (long guns) require serialization, not all components. Kits with unfinished frames, jigs, and tools are now regulated firearms requiring background checks. Existing privately owned 'ghost guns' (PMFs) do not need federal serialization, but FFLs have strict deadlines to serialize PMFs in their inventory.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to New ATF Rules
  2. 00:52ATF Final Rule 2021R-05F Overview
  3. 01:29What the Rule Doesn't Do
  4. 02:53Frame vs. Receiver Definitions
  5. 03:10Unfinished Frames and 80% Lowers
  6. 05:21The 'Readily Converted' Test for Kits
  7. 07:48Changes to 80% Lower Purchases
  8. 08:56Personally Made Firearms (PMF) Regulations
  9. 10:32FFL Requirements for PMFs
  10. 12:56Summary of the Rule's Impact

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the ATF's Final Rule 2021R-05F mean for unfinished frames and receivers?

The rule clarifies definitions, designating specific components like frames (handguns) and receivers (long guns) that require serialization. Kits containing unfinished frames, jigs, and tools are now regulated firearms, necessitating background checks upon purchase.

Do I need to serialize my existing 'ghost gun' (PMF) under the new ATF rule?

No, the ATF's Final Rule 2021R-05F does not federally require individuals to serialize Personally Made Firearms (PMFs) they currently own. Existing privately held PMFs are generally exempt unless they enter an FFL's inventory.

How do the new ATF rules affect FFLs regarding unfinished frames and receivers?

FFLs must serialize any PMF entering their inventory. Existing PMF inventory must be serialized within 60 days of the rule's effective date, while newly acquired PMFs must be serialized within 7 days.

Are '80% lowers' still legal to purchase after the ATF's new rule?

Yes, but with significant changes. Kits containing an unfinished frame, jig, and drill bits are now considered regulated firearms, meaning their purchase requires a background check via ATF Form 4473 and may be subject to state waiting periods.

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