Are AR15 Pistol Braces Illegal?
As firearm enthusiasts and law-abiding citizens, it is crucial to stay informed about changes in gun laws and regulations. One topic that has gained significant attention recently is the legality of AR15 pistol braces. In this article, we will directly answer the question "Are AR15 pistol braces illegal?" and explore the surrounding controversy.
Contents
What is a Pistol Brace?
A pistol brace, also known as a Sig Sauer SBX K5 or a Harris BRAK, is an optional accessory designed to aid users in stabilizing their short-barreled rifle or pistol. It attaches to the rear of the grip and provides additional support when firing. The concept behind the pistol brace is simple: to allow individuals who may have difficulty stabilizing a firearm due to length or mobility issues to engage in shooting activities comfortably and safely.
Pistol Braces Under Prior Firearms Regulations
Prior to 2020, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) did not consider pistol braces to be a stocks. As a result, firearm manufacturers and enthusiasts could add them to their weapons without worrying about violating any specific regulations. The ATF simply viewed pistol braces as grip aids, which are widely accepted as legal and reasonable.
Regulatory Changes and Confusion
The landscape changed in May 2020 when the ATF issued a letter reinterpreting the definition of a "firearm" to include pistol braces that contain a "stabilizing component." This clarification had significant implications for pistol braces, as it suddenly thrust them into the realm of regulated firearms. Suddenly, pistol braces were subject to much tighter laws, leading many in the shooting community to worry about the legality of using these devices.
At this point, the laws surrounding pistol braces can get confusing. Here is a summary of the main issues:
| Issue | Description | Legal Status |
|---|---|---|
| – | Stabilizing Component | Illegal |
| Buffer Tube | Optional tube that allows for easy grip adjustment | Legal, but may be affected by stabilizing component laws |
| Folding and Telescoping | Abilities to fold or telescope allowing for compact storage and carriage | Legal |
As you can see from this table, the key issue is whether or not the pistol brace’s stabilizing component can make it a regulated firearm under the National Firearms Act (NFA). Some braces contain a stabilizing component, while others do not. Those with a stabilizing component are illegal.
Legally Using Pistol Braces (For Now)
While the confusion about pistol braces is real, there are still legal options for those who wish to use these devices. Before we dive into these legal options, it’s important to note that this clarification is subject to change by the ATF or legal ruling. As of now, here are some legally permitted ways to use a pistol brace:
- | Buffer Tube-based Pistol Braces | | – | Some buffers tubes do not have stabilizing components, and under current regulations, they might be legal. |Legal, but may be subject to change|
- | **Non-Registered Pistol Braces ( No Stabilizing Component | | There are some pistol braces in the market that do not contain a stabilizing component. These are not governed by the NFA as they do not transform into a short-barreled rifle. | Legal|
