Is It Legal to Finish an 80 Percent Lower Receiver for an AR-15?

When it comes to firearms, the legal landscape can be complex. This article aims to clarify the legality of finishing an 80 percent lower receiver for an AR-15, a popular semi-automatic rifle. Let's break down the regulations and provide some clarity.

Overview of the Legal Status

No, it is not illegal to finish an 80 percent lower receiver for your personal use as long as you are not a prohibited person. In the United States, whether it's legal to finish a lower receiver depends on federal and state laws, with most states aligning with federal guidelines.

Federal and State Regulations

As long as you are not a prohibited person (such as a felon, undocumented immigrant, someone who has renounced their U.S. citizenship, or a mental health patient under certain circumstances), it is 100 percent legal federally and in most states to finish an 80 percent lower receiver. However, this is subject to the interpretation and implementation of state laws.

For example, in the majority of U.S. states, it is not illegal to finish an 80 percent lower for personal use. However, selling or distributing these unfinished receivers as a business would require the proper ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) licenses, which can be quite stringent.

Common Misconceptions

Another common misconception is that merely possessing an 80 percent lower receiver is illegal. This is not true. However, if you choose to finish the receiver, you must do so knowing the legal implications. A 2016 bill, the AR Component Sales Act, allowed individuals to complete their AR-15 lower receivers but also stipulated that the manufacturing company must inform the buyer of the legal requirements.

While it might be tempting to follow advice you find online, particularly on platforms like Quora, it's always best to consult a legal expert or a trusted firearms dealer. Here's a humorous take: 'Oh somebody on the internet misled you. Well then, I’m dismissing all charges against you.' — Said NO JUDGE EVER. . .' This statement is a playful jab at the misinformation and legal practices surrounding firearms in the United States.

Conclusion

In summary, it is legal to finish an 80 percent lower receiver for your personal use if you are not a prohibited person. However, the legality of selling or distributing unfinished receivers as a business is more stringent and requires special licenses. Always seek accurate legal guidance to ensure compliance with federal and state laws.

Keywords

80 percent lower, finishing lower receiver, legal firearm assembly