Is It Legal to Order and Assemble All Gun Parts Without Registration in the US?

The legality of ordering and assembling all gun parts without registering the weapon varies significantly depending on the state and federal laws of the United States. This article will clarify the legal status of gun part assembly and the role of registration in different regions of the country.

Federal Laws and Gun Parts

At the federal level, the National Firearms Act (NFA) regulates certain parts of guns, including the frame or receiver. However, if you produce your firearm without a frame or receiver, there are no federal restrictions on the parts.
According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), as of 2023, an 80% metal frame, also known as an 80% lower, which has been traditionally non-regulated, is now being reclassified as a frame for firearms. This reclassification has significant implications, and it's crucial to stay updated with the latest legal updates.

State-Specific Regulations

States with no gun registry laws.

In many 'free states' where there is no need to register firearms, you have the freedom to assemble a gun without registration. For instance, in the state of California, you must still undergo a background check and ensure the receiver/frame is sent to an FFL (Firearm Federal Licensee) holder. However, registration is not required in this case.

For federal law, there are no specific restrictions on assembling components as long as the assembled firearm meets the criteria for legal possession. If you assemble the firearm for personal use, there are no federal registration requirements. However, if you plan to sell or gift the firearm, you must obtain a serial number, which is essentially a form of registration.

States with Gun Registration Laws

Not all states have open access to gun part assembly. Some states have specific regulations and registration laws for certain firearms. Here's a breakdown of some states:

New York (NY) New Jersey (NJ) Connecticut (CT) Massachusetts (MA) Illinois (IL) California (CA) Hawaii (HI)

In states with these laws, you are required to register the gun, and the local law enforcement can access your records to verify the ownership and legality of the firearm. For example, in New York, you may need to register both handguns and certain types of long guns.

Background Checks and FFL Holders

Even in states with no registration requirements, you must undergo a background check when purchasing or receiving a firearm. Additionally, if you own an 80% lower, you must send the receiver to an FFL holder to complete the build. The FFL holder will conduct the necessary background check and complete the final assembly.

Building vs. Buying: What's the Difference?

Building a gun from parts is not the same as purchasing a fully assembled firearm. When you purchase a hand-built firearm, it must go through the same background checks and registration processes as any other gun. However, if you are building your firearm, you do not need to register the parts themselves.

Receiver Retention and Destruction

When you are done with an 80% lower, it must be retained by the possessor (you) and ultimately destroyed upon your death. Regulations vary depending on the state, so it's crucial to adhere to local laws.

Conclusion

While building a firearm from parts is generally legal in many states, the process and requirements can vary widely. It's essential to research and understand the specific laws in your state, as well as federal regulations. Additionally, maintaining compliance with background checks and FFL requirements is crucial, as is ensuring the appropriate handling and disposal of firearm components.

Keywords: gun parts assembly, gun registration, federal gun laws, state gun regulations