Is a P80 a Ghost Gun?
The terms "ghost gun" and "P80" have been widely debated in the firearms community in recent years. The terms are often used interchangeably, but are they the same thing? In this article, we will dive into the definition of a ghost gun, and determine whether a P80 pistol falls under this category.
What is a Ghost Gun?
A ghost gun is an unserialized, homemade, or illegally modified firearm that lacks the standard identification markings typically found on commercial firearms. This includes serial numbers, identification stamps, and other characteristics that would allow authorities to trace the weapon back to its manufacturer or origin.
Ghost guns are often used to skirt around existing firearm laws, which may regulate the possession, sale, or use of certain weapons. The defining characteristics of a ghost gun include:
• No serialized serial number
• Lack of manufacturer identification or labeling
• Homemade or improvised construction
• Often without background checks or age verifications
• Can be modified or assembled from scratch
What is a P80?
The P80 is a 80% lower receiver manufactured by Polish company PIW-BŁY, designed for enthusiasts of the Kalashnikov rifle system. The company offers various models of lowers, which can be converted into complete firearms with additional parts. A key characteristic of a P80 is:
• A partially machined 80% receiver, which requires further processing to become a fully functional firearm.
The Line between Ghost Guns and P80s
So, is a P80 considered a ghost gun? In most cases, a P80 is not considered a ghost gun for several reasons:
• The P80 is manufactured by a legitimate company and often sold with accompanying parts
• P80 receivers can be converted into complete firearms with legal and regulated sales
• The receiver, although partially machined, still has a manufactured origin
Ghost guns, on the other hand, are often defined by their lack of any origin, serial number, or legitimate manufacturer. While a P80 may resemble a ghost gun due to its unserialized status, it is still a legal product designed for recreational or competitive purposes.
P80 Laws and Regulations
There are several laws and regulations surrounding the sale and use of P80 receivers and other parts. Here’s a brief overview of US laws:
• 80% lowers, such as the P80, are exempt from federal laws as long as they are sold in their unserialized form and not used to build an untraceable weapon.
• However, states can impose their own regulations or restrictions on the sale of 80% lowers. Some states, like New York and California, consider them firearms and subject to the same laws.
• Federal laws require the serialized and serialized parts of an AR-15 style weapon to undergo a background check before transfer.
P80 Safety Considerations
When dealing with any partially machined receiver, such as the P80, it is essential to keep in mind the potential for improper or unfinished assembly. Failing to properly complete a P80 can result in safety concerns, such as:
• Unstable or weak joints
• Inadequate clearance or interference between moving parts
• Insufficient material to withstand stresses during use
Conclusion
In summary, while both ghost guns and P80s are unserialized weapons, a P80 is not considered a ghost gun due to its legitimate manufacturing origin, commercial availability, and regulation-friendly design. Ghost guns, on the other hand, are often created illegally and intentionally evade tracing and detection by authorities.
When handling any partially machined receiver, it is crucial to ensure the weapon is properly completed, inspected, and safe to use. Always consult relevant laws, regulations, and manufacturer guidelines when dealing with such products.
