Does anyone know if a destructive device can have any barrel length since its already stamped? Kind of like how on machine guns you can have short barrels without also registering as short barrel rifle for example. Specifically, I am thinking about a Street Sweeper currently with 18" barrel and what it would take to legally reduce the barrel length to under 18". Thanks for any knowledgeable replies.
Suppressors NFA Question - Technical
- Thread starter bamawrx
- Start date
Re: NFA Question - Technical
Im not 100% sure but I believe the laws state thats one its been registered in a set configuration you cannot change that without reclassifying the item with the NFA.
You can call their specialist to inquire about such questions
304-616-4500
Im not 100% sure but I believe the laws state thats one its been registered in a set configuration you cannot change that without reclassifying the item with the NFA.
You can call their specialist to inquire about such questions
304-616-4500
Re: NFA Question - Technical
I believe that since it is registered as a destructive device you don't need to register it also as a short barreled shotgun or rifle. A street sweeper can have any barrel length. I've seen them in barrel lengths from 6" up to 18" and no difference in paperwork. The idea that you cannot change things without getting permission is incorrect. You can legally change the barrel length on a machinegun, short barreled rifle or shotgun, AOW or DD without notifying anyone or getting permission. The regs on NFA clearly state that if you make permanent changes to cal, barrel length, or overall length they request that you notify them so they can keep the registry updated. It helps in subsequent transfers also because a change in the figures will delay a transfer til the reason is explained to ATF.
Hope that helps
Frank
I believe that since it is registered as a destructive device you don't need to register it also as a short barreled shotgun or rifle. A street sweeper can have any barrel length. I've seen them in barrel lengths from 6" up to 18" and no difference in paperwork. The idea that you cannot change things without getting permission is incorrect. You can legally change the barrel length on a machinegun, short barreled rifle or shotgun, AOW or DD without notifying anyone or getting permission. The regs on NFA clearly state that if you make permanent changes to cal, barrel length, or overall length they request that you notify them so they can keep the registry updated. It helps in subsequent transfers also because a change in the figures will delay a transfer til the reason is explained to ATF.
Hope that helps
Frank
Re: NFA Question - Technical
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: biffj</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I believe that since it is registered as a destructive device you don't need to register it also as a short barreled shotgun or rifle. A street sweeper can have any barrel length. I've seen them in barrel lengths from 6" up to 18" and no difference in paperwork. The idea that you cannot change things without getting permission is incorrect. You can legally change the barrel length on a machinegun, short barreled rifle or shotgun, AOW or DD without notifying anyone or getting permission. The regs on NFA clearly state that if you make permanent changes to cal, barrel length, or overall length they request that you notify them so they can keep the registry updated. It helps in subsequent transfers also because a change in the figures will delay a transfer til the reason is explained to ATF.
Hope that helps
Frank </div></div>
Thanks Frank. This is what I was thinking/hoping. Form 4 instructions do mention updating the ATF about changes to the item. It figures that would be the process, but until I get a senior person on the phone at NFA I won't be 100% sure. I've called them on this several times, but no one knows. I may have to write a letter...
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: biffj</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I believe that since it is registered as a destructive device you don't need to register it also as a short barreled shotgun or rifle. A street sweeper can have any barrel length. I've seen them in barrel lengths from 6" up to 18" and no difference in paperwork. The idea that you cannot change things without getting permission is incorrect. You can legally change the barrel length on a machinegun, short barreled rifle or shotgun, AOW or DD without notifying anyone or getting permission. The regs on NFA clearly state that if you make permanent changes to cal, barrel length, or overall length they request that you notify them so they can keep the registry updated. It helps in subsequent transfers also because a change in the figures will delay a transfer til the reason is explained to ATF.
Hope that helps
Frank </div></div>
Thanks Frank. This is what I was thinking/hoping. Form 4 instructions do mention updating the ATF about changes to the item. It figures that would be the process, but until I get a senior person on the phone at NFA I won't be 100% sure. I've called them on this several times, but no one knows. I may have to write a letter...
Re: NFA Question - Technical
I can tell you from experience and also from speaking with one of the ATF/NFA branch attorney's that any advice you get over the phone is worthless. If its not in writing its questionable and with the ATF even if it is in writing its questionable. Look at the Akins accelerator ruling.....or the maxim sideplate issue. Lots of conflicting information all coming from the source of regulation.
Read the regs and try to determine for yourself before you write a letter to tech branch asking for clarification. It helps to have a common basis for discussion.
Frank
I can tell you from experience and also from speaking with one of the ATF/NFA branch attorney's that any advice you get over the phone is worthless. If its not in writing its questionable and with the ATF even if it is in writing its questionable. Look at the Akins accelerator ruling.....or the maxim sideplate issue. Lots of conflicting information all coming from the source of regulation.
Read the regs and try to determine for yourself before you write a letter to tech branch asking for clarification. It helps to have a common basis for discussion.
Frank
