Are Stocks Illegal on AR Pistols?
The debate about the legality of stocks on AR pistols has been a topic of contention among firearms enthusiasts and experts. In this article, we will delve into the world of AR pistols, explore the history of stocks, and provide a comprehensive answer to the question: Are stocks illegal on AR pistols?
What is an AR Pistol?
Before we dive into the legality of stocks on AR pistols, let’s first define what an AR pistol is. An AR pistol is a firearm that is designed to resemble a rifle, but is configured as a pistol. This means it has a barrel length of less than 16 inches and is typically chambered in a popular caliber such as 5.56x45mm NATO or.40 S&W.
History of Stocks on AR Pistols
The history of stocks on AR pistols dates back to the 1960s when the AR-15 rifle was first introduced. The AR-15 was designed to be a versatile firearm that could be configured for both civilian and military use. The original design included a collapsible stock that allowed the user to adjust the length of the firearm to suit their preferences.
In the 1990s, the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) was enacted, which introduced the term "pistol" and defined it as a firearm that is not designed to be fired while braced against the shoulder. This led to the development of shorter-barreled firearms, including AR pistols.
The ATF’s Definition of a Pistol
In 2015, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) issued a ruling that further clarified the definition of a pistol. According to the ATF, a pistol is defined as a firearm that is designed to be fired with one hand**. This definition was designed to distinguish between pistols and rifles, which are typically designed to be fired with both hands.
Are Stocks Illegal on AR Pistols?
So, are stocks illegal on AR pistols? The answer is no. Stocks are not inherently illegal on AR pistols. However, there are some caveats.
Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs)
If you plan to attach a stock to your AR pistol, you will need to check if the firearm is legal in your state. The National Firearms Act (NFA) defines a short-barreled rifle (SBR) as a rifle with a barrel length of less than 16 inches. If your AR pistol has a barrel length of less than 16 inches, it may be considered an SBR, which is heavily regulated.
The ATF’s Definition of a Stock
The ATF defines a stock as a device designed to be used as a shoulder stock for a firearm. If you plan to attach a stock to your AR pistol, you will need to ensure that it meets this definition.
Legal Considerations
Before attaching a stock to your AR pistol, you should consider the following legal issues:
- Federal law: The National Firearms Act (NFA) regulates the possession and transfer of SBRs. If your AR pistol has a barrel length of less than 16 inches, you may need to register it with the ATF.
- State law: Some states have laws that prohibit the possession or transfer of SBRs. Check your state’s laws before attaching a stock to your AR pistol.
- Local law: Some local jurisdictions may have laws that prohibit the possession or transfer of SBRs. Check with your local authorities before attaching a stock to your AR pistol.
Alternatives to Stocks
If you are looking for an alternative to a traditional stock, there are several options available:
- Braces: A buffer tube and a pistol buffer tube collar can be used to attach a pistol-length stock to your AR pistol.
- Pistol stabilizing braces: Some manufacturers offer pistol stabilizing braces that can be attached to your AR pistol.
- Handguards: Some manufacturers offer handguards that can be attached to your AR pistol.
Conclusion
In conclusion, stocks are not inherently illegal on AR pistols. However, there are some legal considerations that you should take into account before attaching a stock to your AR pistol. If you plan to attach a stock to your AR pistol, you should check if the firearm is legal in your state and ensure that the stock meets the ATF’s definition of a stock.