80 Lower Guide | When Are Serial Numbers Necessary
80 lower builds gained popularity in the firearm world primarily because they were a way to get rifles and pistols without the need for registration. Buyers can order them online and complete their 80 lowers with many different tiers of tools. But for those who have just come into the 80 lower build scene, understanding why and when an 80 lower does not need a serial can be a fuzzy area. So here we are to clear up some of the fog about serial number’s and other regulations in relation to 80 lowers.
ATF and NFA
The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) is the federal power that regulates firearms. According to ATF, the part of the rifle which controls shooting, or the fire control group, must be under 80% complete to not be considered a firearm. This gives birth to the name 80% lower, as the fire control group is in the lower receiver of the AR-15.
If the receiver is under 80% complete, then it cannot be under regulation under the ATF, meaning no serial numbers are required.
However, some states, like California and New Jersey have tried to crack down on 80% lowers. The Dept. of Justice of California has issued AB 857, a law that forces legal gun owners to register any lawfully unserialized firearm with a state issued serial number.
The best way to be sure about whether your rights are protected in the state you are in, is to research and take actions with a legal attorney.
The National Firearms Act prevents unserialized firearms from containing destructive or explosive ammo. If the firearm is fully automatic, the firearm must also be serialized.
Exchanging
Purchasing an 80 lower is all fine and good if you intend to keep it. However, if you plan to sell your 80 lower built firearm to someone else, you could be in violation of the law. 80 lowers are strictly prohibited from being bought with intent to sell. In a court, it is usually harder to justify selling or exchanging these firearms.
However, if you do wish to sell your rifle, or any rifle for that matter, do so with an attorney, and make sure it is registered. Any firearm that is made to sell must be registered according to the law.
Hopefully this gave some insight into the nature of serialization and registration in relation to 80 lower firearms. We at Thunder Tactical understand the importance of protecting individual rights.
We are dedicated to providing our customers, and all who fight fight to preserve their rights, with parts, guides, and information to help them in all their endeavors. And what trouble is there if you’re having fun doing it? Visit our website for more information, and premium store for the best parts around!
How Far We Have Come | AR 15 History
The AR has come a long way since its conception in the late 1950’s. In these more modern times, the AR has made a name for itself as sparking one of the most controversial topics around gun rights. Many misconceptions have made these civilian rifles a topic for disdain, but we are here to shed some truth on the history of the AR 15.
Early Years
The AR in AR 15 stands for ArmaLite. That is the company that created the rifle. In 1959, the rights to the AR 15 were sold to Colt who modified it into the military variant called the M16. When it was adopted by the military, the rifle was successful in many ways, so Colt decided to start new development on the same rifle for civilian use. This became the modern AR 15.
AR-15 VS M-16
In external appearance the AR -15 and the M16 are almost identical. However, the inner mechanisms, like the fire control group are milled and set up differently. The AR-15 is only set to go between safety and semi automatic modes while the M16 uses interchangeable parts that allow it to be made into a fully auto and semi auto firearm.
America’s Most Famous
For reasons of customization, easy milling, reliability, adaptability, the AR-15 has become America’s favorite firearm. The ability to personally modify the AR caliber, barrel length and optics make it highly sought after by civilians and professional sports shooters alike.
Needless to say, a culture has formed around the AR-15. The AR history has perpetuated its growth from its high military reliability as the M16 variant, to its civilian counterpart, boasting immense personalization in its modular design.
Here at Thunder Tactical we are dedicated to carrying on the legacy of the AR by selling our 80% lower receivers at great prices to anyone with an inkling for their individual rights. Come by our shop today or visit our blog where post helpful information and guides to expand our customer’s knowledge and passion for the AR.
Make AR history today at Thunder Tactical
