building semi auto rifles from parts kits

[kevin]

I was wondering if you guys could tell me what you think about the following.

I have a semi auto parts kit that i would like to build, the middle receiver section is missing- i could fabricate a section to weld in and then weld plates the full length of the receiver. it is closed bolt. i would then move the points the grip attach (similar to a mg42 grip frame) so the origial full auto one couldnt be attached. I would also install an ar-15 or ak47 semi auto trigger set. I would also limit the mag capacities to 10 rd and remove any parts that make it full auto and machine the parts off the bolt allowing full auto use. With 10rd capacity or less i wouldnt need 922r parts correct?

Would this be legal for personal use? Its my understanding only manufacturers etc can send a sample to the atf for approval of a design. I just want one for myself.

[turbothis]

well, what does it look like?
any 2 or more evil/fun features opens up the 922 count.
the atf told me a home built or new style firearm does not need any approval. this is a huge gray area. the ak has no full auto blocking anything..........

[19Charlie_84]

Its easier to beg fogiveness than ask permission. Caution: I accept no legal responsibility for this message.

You can make your own guns from scratch, just not manufacture for sale.

[hunter_la5]

Its easier to beg fogiveness than ask permission.

Not when it comes to the BATFE :icon_confused: :nonono:

[mitchstoner]

I rate the ATF way higher than even the IRS, in terms of how bad they can "eff-up" your life.

Don't bend the rules, or "assume."



Kevin, just what kind of gun you are considering building? More specific info will get you more specific answers. Also, are you thinking of building your kit as a rifle, an SBR (short-barrel rifle), or as a pistol? The pistol vs. rifle decision has a bearing on whether 922(r) applies. And SBR option (or a pistol retaining means of attaching a buttstock or foregrip) has its own set or requirements.

922(r) basically says you may not assemble a copy or replica of "a semiautomatic rifle or any shotgun... if the assembled firearm is prohibited from importation under section 925(d)(3) as not being particularly suitable or readily adaptable to sporting purposes..." UNLESS you assemble it using 10 or fewer of the imported parts from the 922(r) list. AND eliminate any of the full-auto parts or provision for those.

So the key is, is the firearm you want to build included in the list of firearms banned from importation in 925(d)(3)? I don't have 925(d)(3) at hand but it is available on the net, I'm sure. This ban covered certain military and non-military firearms with certain "non-sporting features" such as ability to accept a detachable magazine (without regard to capacity), folding/telescoping stocks, separate pistol grips, and the ability to accept a bayonet, flash suppressor, bipod, grenade launcher, night sights, etc. Since there are on the market such things as universal bipods and night sights, it is obvious the BATFE has a lot of wiggle room in interpretation. I'm not sure if there has ever been an actual standard of how many of the "non-sporting" features a firearm can have before it is considered "not suitable for sporting purposes."

Considering you have been here a while and posted way more than I, I am sure you know all this. I am not trying to insult your knowledge, just clarifying.