Are Vertical Foregrips Illegal?
Vertical foregrips, also known as VFGs, have become a popular accessory among firearm enthusiasts in recent years. These innovative grips aim to improve stability, accuracy, and controllability during rapid shooting. However, as with any new trend, concerns arise about their legality. So, are vertical foregrips illegal? Let’s dive into the details.
What is a Vertical Foregrip?
Before we answer the question of legality, it’s essential to understand what a vertical foregrip is. A vertical foregrip is an accessory attached to the bottom of a rifle or other firearm, usually between the pistol grip and the forearm. Its primary function is to provide a secondary grasping point, allowing users to secure their non-shooting hand while firing. VFGs are designed to improve overall grip, stability, and accuracy during rapid or dynamic shooting situations.
Legal Landscape
The legal status of vertical foregrips is governed by individual state laws, federal laws, and international regulations. In the United States, the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) provides guidelines for compliance with federal regulations.
- The Gun Control Act (GCA) 1968: The GCA regulates the sale and possession of firearms, but it does not specifically address vertical foregrips. However, it does ban the attachment of certain accessory devices to certain firearms.
- The National Firearms Act (NFA) 1934: The NFA regulates the manufacturing, possession, and transfer of certain firearms, such as short-barreled shotguns, silencers, and machine guns.
- State Laws: Some states, like California, Maryland, and Connecticut, have implemented their own regulations and restrictions on VFGs.
ATF Guidance
In 2008, the ATF released a formal ruling (HTS 9303.00.60) classifying VFGs as a part of the "furniture" of a firearm. According to this ruling:
- Any vertical foregrip is considered part of the permanent modification of a firearm, and therefore, cannot be transferred as a stand-alone item.
- Any rifle with a vertical foregrip is considered to be an AOW (Any Other Weapon) and subject to NFA requirements, such as registration, tax, and background check.
Recent Developments
In 2020, the ATF issued an updated policy, clarifying the status of VFGs and other accessories attached to rifles. The agency emphasized that VFGs are subject to strict regulations and can be categorized as firearms themselves under certain circumstances.
Classification and Registration
The key issue with VFGs is their potential classification as a short-barreled rifle (SBR). The ATF requires registration, tax, and background check for SBRs, making them legally equivalent to a machine gun. In practice, this means that if a vertical foregrip is installed on a rifle, the firearm is reclassified as an SBR, even if it doesn’t otherwise meet the legal definition.
Tax-Exempt and ATF-Approved Solutions
Some manufacturers have designed VFGs that do not constitute a permanent modification to the firearm. These solutions aim to avoid ATF classification and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations. Look for tax-exempt and ATF-approved VFGs, which are often designed to be easily removed and installed, without changing the overall configuration of the firearm.
Key Takeaways
Before investing in a vertical foregrip or modifying your rifle, consider the following key points:
| Type of VFG | Legal Classification | Registration | Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tax-exempt, ATF-approved VFGs | Not considered part of the permanent modification | No | No |
| Any Other Weapon (AOW) | SBR (Short-Barreled Rifle) | Required | Required |
Are Vertical Foregrips Illegal?
In conclusion, vertical foregrips are not illegal per se, but their legality is subject to specific regulations, classification, and registration. To avoid legal issues and ensure compliance with federal and state laws, it is essential to choose a VFG that meets ATF guidelines and is properly registered.
While some manufacturers and enthusiasts claim that certain VFGs are 100% legal, the complexity of US firearms regulations demands a closer look at each specific solution. By understanding the legal landscape, classification, and registration requirements, you can make an informed decision about adding a vertical foregrip to your rifle.
Ultimately, it is crucial to consult with a qualified legal professional, a firearms expert, or a reputable firearms dealer to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
Stay informed, stay legal.
