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 breakdown of the ATF's Final Rule 2021R-05F concerning unfinished frames and receivers. The rule clarifies definitions, designates the serialized component, and reclassifies unfinished kits as regulated firearms requiring serialization and background checks. Existing privately made firearms (PMFs) are largely unaffected unless handled by a licensed dealer.

Quick Summary

The ATF's Final Rule 2021R-05F reclassifies unfinished frames and receivers, including 80% lower receiver kits, as regulated firearms. This mandates serialization and background checks for new purchases. Existing privately made firearms (PMFs) do not require serialization by individuals, but FFLs must serialize any PMFs entering their inventory.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to New ATF Rules on Frames & Receivers
  2. 00:52ATF Final Rule 2021R-05F Overview
  3. 01:29What the ATF Rule Does NOT Require
  4. 02:53Frame vs. Receiver Definitions Clarified
  5. 03:10Unfinished Frames and 80% Lowers Explained
  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 is the ATF's Final Rule 2021R-05F regarding unfinished frames and receivers?

The ATF's Final Rule 2021R-05F clarifies definitions for frames and receivers, identifies the serialized component, and reclassifies unfinished kits as regulated firearms. This means items like 80% lower receivers, when sold with jigs and instructions, now require serialization and background checks.

Do I need to serialize my existing 'ghost gun' under the new ATF rules?

No, there is no federal requirement for individuals to serialize Personally Made Firearms (PMFs) that they currently own. The ATF is not demanding serialization of existing privately held 'ghost guns'.

How do the new ATF rules affect the purchase of 80% lowers?

Previously unregulated 80% lower receivers, especially when sold as kits with jigs and instructions, are now considered regulated firearms. This means they will likely require a Form 4473 background check and may be subject to state-specific waiting periods upon purchase.

What happens if a Personally Made Firearm (PMF) goes to a licensed dealer (FFL)?

If a PMF enters an FFL's inventory, such as for repair or transfer, the FFL is required to serialize it. PMFs already in an FFL's possession before the rule change had 60 days to be serialized, while newly acquired PMFs must be serialized within 7 days.

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