When Will the ATF Require Me to Serialize My Homemade Firearm?

Published on September 4, 2022
Duration: 11:34

This video clarifies the ATF's new rules regarding privately made firearms (PMFs), often referred to as 'ghost guns.' It explains that while individuals can still manufacture PMFs, unfinished frames or receivers purchased after the rule's enactment will require serialization and background checks. Crucially, the rule does not mandate individuals to serialize existing PMFs they possess, but FFLs are required to serialize any PMF that enters their inventory, with specific timelines for compliance.

Quick Summary

The ATF's new rules do not require individuals to serialize existing privately made firearms (PMFs) they possess. However, any new PMF manufactured or any unfinished frame/receiver purchased after the rule's enactment must be serialized. Licensed FFLs are required to serialize any PMF that enters their inventory, with specific timelines for compliance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to ATF's New Rules
  2. 00:36When Will ATF Require Firearm Serialization?
  3. 00:52Sponsor: Legal Heat Concealed Carry Classes
  4. 01:49ATF Final Rule 2021 R-05F Overview
  5. 02:05Unfinished Frames and Receivers (80% Lowers)
  6. 02:47Definition of Privately Made Firearm (PMF)
  7. 03:50What the Rule Does vs. What it Doesn't Do
  8. 04:36Key Definitions in the New Rule
  9. 05:08FFL Responsibilities with PMFs
  10. 05:35What the Rule Does NOT Do
  11. 06:18No Mandate to Mark Existing PMFs
  12. 06:49Rule Exclusions (Pre-1968 Firearms)
  13. 07:18How PMF Serialization Works
  14. 07:32FFL Inventory and Serialization Requirement
  15. 08:38Firearms Ending Up in FFL Inventory
  16. 09:00Same-Day Repair Exception
  17. 09:30Summary for Private Gun Owners
  18. 10:24Timeline for FFLs
  19. 10:59Contact Washington Gun Law

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to serialize my homemade firearm under the new ATF rules?

Under the new ATF rules, you are not required to serialize existing privately made firearms (PMFs) that you already possess. However, if you manufacture a new PMF, it will need to be serialized, and unfinished frames or receivers purchased after the rule's enactment will also require serialization and a background check.

What is a Privately Made Firearm (PMF) according to the ATF?

A Privately Made Firearm (PMF) is defined by the ATF as any firearm, including its frame or receiver, that is made by someone other than a licensed manufacturer and does not have a serial number affixed by a licensed manufacturer at the time of its creation.

When does an FFL have to serialize a privately made firearm?

An FFL is mandated to serialize any privately made firearm (PMF) that enters their inventory. This includes firearms sold back to them, used in transfers, or held for gunsmithing or repair services, unless the firearm is returned to its owner on the same day it was received.

Are there any exceptions to the ATF's serialization rules for homemade firearms?

Yes, the ATF's new rules do not apply to firearms manufactured before October 22, 1968. Additionally, individuals are not required to serialize existing PMFs they already own, but FFLs must serialize any PMF that enters their inventory.

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