Machining AR Lowers

[fast_project]

I did a search and couldn't find anything on this so I hope I'm not repeating a question. I have my own CNC Mill and drew up the cad files for a lower AR receiver and am planning on machining my own lower. My question is since I'm not a dealer and the lower is whats considered the rifle, am I breaking any laws by making this? Again, I hope this hasn't been covered, just don't want to break any laws.

 

[japartridge]

yes, you will be breaking some laws...
you have to be an FFL to manufacture lowers.... can't remember , but I think it's a class 1.

 

[sloughfoot]

What you are considering doing is totally, absolutely, illegal. Unless you have the proper licenses.

Do not even think about doing it. The penalties are severe and inescapable.

I hope this helps.

 

[fast_project]

well, crap. Thanks guys, this is why I posted before cutting.....

 

[Mr.JAG]

Weird... because I thought making your own receiver was total fine and dandy providing it was in legal configuration when complete and it was for personal use - not for selling or making a profit.

Seems the AK builders do it all the time starting with a piece of sheet metal.

 

[Cwood]

If you are making one for your own use and not to sell you can legally make it. You can not make them to be sold without obtaining a 07 FFL.

 

[leftsock]

Weird... because I thought making your own receiver was total fine and dandy providing it was in legal configuration when complete and it was for personal use - not for selling or making a profit.

Seems the AK builders do it all the time starting with a piece of sheet metal.

I'm with you. I thought it is legal to make a firearm for personal, just like folding a piece of sheet metal into an AK receiver.

 

[japartridge]

well, crap. Thanks guys, this is why I posted before cutting.....

No problem.... to be honest if you get your FFL you could probably sell quite a few custom cut AR15 lowers.

 

[fast_project]

I thought it could go either way and I put a lot of hours into that drawing. Glad I didn't turn a nice piece of 7075 aluminum into a paper weight. It sucks to have all the tools to make something but the law gets in the way.

 

[superjoe76]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Drkh0YLF8rI

 

[fast_project]

I didn't have any intentions of selling and knew I would need license for that, just wanted to make something I could shoot on my own.

 

[Cwood]

I didn't have any intentions of selling and knew I would need license for that, just wanted to make something I could shoot on my own.

Then you can machine your own personal lower receiver.

 

[ZbornacSVT]

Make it, keep it, and enjoy it. Don't sell it.

 

[Mr.JAG]

You are not paying attention to the CORRECT answers that have been given.

Make it, keep it, and enjoy it. Don't sell it.

The guys saying it's legal for personal use are Site Sponsors... I.E. They know their stuff because they are in the game.

 

[fast_project]

Well then, Its time to make some chips......... Thanks a bunch.

 

[leftsock]

Post an awesome DIY review too, with plenty of pics and video! My interests have officially been piqued!

 

[Cwood]

From the ATF FAQ

ATF Online - Firearms - Frequently Asked Questions - General

Q: Does the GCA prohibit anyone from making a handgun, shotgun or rifle?

With certain exceptions a firearm may be made by a non-licensee provided it is not for sale and the maker is not prohibited from possessing firearms. However, a person is prohibited from assembling a non-sporting semi-automatic rifle or non-sporting shotgun from imported parts. In addition, the making of an NFA firearm requires a tax payment and approval by ATF. An application to make a machine gun will not be approved unless documentation is submitted showing that the firearm is being made for a Federal or State agency.
[18 U.S.C. 922(o) and (r), 26 U.S.C. 5822, 27 CFR 478.39, 479.62 and 479.105]

 

[fast_project]

will do.

 

[jd4320t]

Maybe a year or so ago another member had a thread about this. He machined his own lower. I will try to find it.

Wow I found it fast

https://www.indianagunowners.com/forums/long_guns/146484-ar_lower_machined_my_own_now_what.html

 

[the1kidd03]

I was under the impression that as long as you NEVER sell the weapon...you build any type of non NFA weapon you wish....however if it is your intent to sell it EVER....then you're breaking the law and must be a properly licensed FFL...but if it's solely for personal use you're clear