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Are pistol braces legal in Washington state?

Are Pistol Braces Legal in Washington State?

Washington state is known for its strong gun laws and regulations, and pistol braces are no exception. A pistol brace is a strap or device that is designed to make a pistol easier to handle and more accurate. However, the legal status of pistol braces in Washington state is complex and has changed over time. In this article, we will explore the current state of the law and answer the question: are pistol braces legal in Washington state?

The Current Law

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Prior to 2020, pistol braces were regulated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATFE) as a National Firearms Act (NFA) item. This meant that individuals who wanted to purchase and own a pistol brace had to undergo a background check, pay a tax stamp, and obtain permission from the BATFE.

The 2020 BATFE Ruling

In 2020, the BATFE issued a ruling that changed the regulatory status of pistol braces. The agency determined that pistol braces are not considered NFA items and are therefore legal to purchase and own under federal law. This ruling effectively deregulated pistol braces and made them more widely available.

Washington State Law

Washington state has its own set of gun laws, which are separate from federal laws. The state legislature has passed several laws related to firearms, including restrictions on certain types of rifles and shotguns.

In 2019, Washington state passed a law that prohibits the sale and manufacture of certain types of firearm accessories, including pistol grips and collapsible stocks. However, this law did not specifically address pistol braces.

Are Pistol Braces Legal in Washington State?

Given the changing regulatory landscape, it can be difficult to determine the legal status of pistol braces in Washington state. However, based on the information available, it appears that pistol braces are legal in Washington state, as long as they are used as intended and do not modify the pistol in a way that makes it more similar to a rifle.

Here are some key points to consider:

  • BATFE Ruling: Pistol braces are not considered NFA items and are legal to purchase and own under federal law.
  • Washington State Law: While Washington state has laws that regulate certain types of firearms and accessories, there is no specific law that bans pistol braces.
  • Use and Modification: To be legal in Washington state, pistol braces must be used as intended and cannot modify the pistol in a way that makes it more similar to a rifle.

Consequences of Illegally Possessing a Pistol Brace

It is important to note that even if pistol braces are legal in Washington state, possessing one illegally can result in serious consequences. If you are found to be in possession of an illegal pistol brace, you could face fines and up to 5 years in prison.

Pistol Braces vs. Pistol Grips

There is an important distinction to be made between pistol grips and pistol braces. While both are designed to enhance the handling and accuracy of a pistol, they have different legal implications.

Pistol grips are typically permanently attached to the pistol and are considered a part of the firearm. In Washington state, pistol grips are legal and are not considered a modification that makes a pistol more similar to a rifle.

Pistol braces, on the other hand, are designed to be removable and are not permanently attached to the pistol. While they are legal in Washington state, they can still be subject to various regulations and restrictions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pistol braces are legal in Washington state, as long as they are used as intended and do not modify the pistol in a way that makes it more similar to a rifle. However, it is important to understand the complex legal landscape and to be aware of the potential consequences of illegally possessing a pistol brace.

Table: Pistol Braces vs. Pistol Grips

Pistol GripsPistol Braces
Permanently attachedYesNo
Legal statusLegal in WA stateLegal in WA state
ModificationPart of the firearmCan modify the pistol

Bullets Summary

• Pistol braces are legal in Washington state under federal law.
• Pistol braces are not considered NFA items and do not require a tax stamp.
• Pistol braces must be used as intended and cannot modify the pistol in a way that makes it more similar to a rifle.
• Possessing an illegally modified pistol can result in serious consequences, including fines and up to 5 years in prison.
• It is important to understand the legal implications of owning and using a pistol brace.

By understanding the legal landscape and taking the necessary steps to ensure compliance, pistol enthusiasts can enjoy the benefits of these innovative devices while still following the law.

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