Legal question

25 August 2001, 17:57

HenryC470

Legal question

Legally, can I build a gun from scratch for my own use? Does the gun's legal status change if I legitimately decide at a later date that I want to sell it simply because I no longer want it? Do I need a license for any of this?

Thanks,

H.C.

25 August 2001, 23:55

<Don G>

I don't know the answer, but I'd like to!

Don

26 August 2001, 00:04

<mike357>

im not 100 percent sure but i think you can build your own rifle with no legal problems,it would be a good idea to go ahead and serialize it unless you are planning on using an pre built receiver, then it should already be serialized and there would be no problems at all. if you have a ffl then that opens a whole new can of worms. i have the paper work to get a ffl and there is a license for manufacturing. but building for your own use there shouldnt be a problem. the best advice i can give is call your friendly local ATF field office and ask them.

26 August 2001, 04:36

Robert D. Lyons

Do you mean from parts you have already bought, or do you mean actually making the receiver, barrel, etc. and then putting it together?

26 August 2001, 04:55

HenryC470

I mean make something that I'd need an FFL to order, from parts I would not need an FFL to order; e. g. a rifle reciever or an autopistol frame from bar stock.

26 August 2001, 05:09

GeorgeS

Yes, you can manufacture a rifle for your OWN use (.50 cal or smaller). You cannot sell it or give it away, however.
The rules are on the ATF website.
http://www.atf.treas.gov

George

------------------
Shoot straight, shoot often, but by all means, use enough gun!

26 August 2001, 06:19

HenryC470

Thanks for the advice and link.

H.C.

26 August 2001, 13:38

<yorick>

You can build your own and you can sell them (or pass them on to you heirs)

What you cannot do (without the appropriate licensing) is "manufacture with intent to sell"

This has been discussed thoroughly over on AR15.com where several people are selling 80% cast lower receivers (not a gun, requires no paper-trail) for people to finish themselves.

Finishing techniques range from Bridgeport mills to Dremels and drills.

Whether or not you have to serialize your own creation is open to debate, but since law enforcement tends to get exited about "sterile" weapons I suspect that it would be a good idea.